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Yuri scores late and Flamengo wins the Under-20 Guanabara Cup

Mais Querido beat Botafogo and secured the second title of the year

By - in
Two finals and two titles. For the Garotos do Ninho, the 2018 season started off on the right foot. On Saturday afternoon (3), at the Nilton Santos stadium, Flamengo beat Botafogo 1-0 with a goal from Yuri in the 43rd minute of the second half, securing the Taça Guanabara Sub-20 trophy and shouting "we are champions" once again.

Balance and good chances
The first half began with both teams focused. On one side, Botafogo tried to force saves from goalkeeper Gabriel Batista and pressure the red-and-blacks' ball out. On the other, Flamengo relied on the speed of Wendel, Pepê, and Bill for quick plays down the wings.

The first good chance came from Pepê, who received the ball at the edge of the box and took a powerful shot that was deflected by the opponent. Shortly after, it was Lucas Silva's turn to speed down the left and shoot just wide of the Botafogo post.

With more mobility and good opportunities, Flamengo didn't have any major scares during the first 45 minutes and managed a good performance, showing that they would fight for the title from start to finish.

Goal at the end and another cup to the account

The pace didn't change in the second half. Between good chances created and fine saves by Gabriel Batista, Flamengo nearly opened the scoring with two great chances from Pepê and Wendel. Pressing and battling for the title, the Mais Querido dominated possession in the final stretch.

In the 43rd minute, Flamengo managed to break into the box with a quick move through Michael, who found Yuri inside the box. The youngster simply deflected the ball and took the opposing goalkeeper out of the play, putting the ball in the back of the net and making it 1-0.

With little time left on the clock, Botafogo tried to put pressure on the Rubro-Negro, but saw Batista and the defenders squander their chances. Thus, at the final whistle, the Rubro-Negro players and coaching staff rushed to celebrate another victory in 2018.

And now?
After the title, the Garotos do Ninho now turn their attention to the start of the Taça Rio. Away from home, Flamengo faces Goytacaz next Wednesday (7).