Flamengo's U-18 team has been preparing for a month and will now make its debut in the Campeonato Carioca in the category. On the afternoon of next Saturday (28), the Meninas da Gávea will face Duque de Caxias, at 13 pm, at CEFAN. As with the professional team's games, entry for fans is free.

In Group A of the competition, along with Botafogo, Barra da Tijuca, and Duque, the Mais Querido has a record of six wins, one draw, and two losses this season. In total, they have scored 37 goals and conceded 13. Maria Peck, with 12, is the top scorer. 

Coach Marcos Gaspar spoke about the expectations for the match: 

"Every opening game is different, as the emotional aspect is heightened. Our opponent, Duque de Caxias, has a tradition in women's soccer and will be motivated to play against us. We hope to play well, deliver a performance, and achieve a positive result."

Dispute format

Eight teams are divided into two groups, with the top two advancing to the semifinal stage, a home-and-away match. Those who qualify advance to the final, a date yet to be set. 

Related list

Marcela and Yasmin; Kemilly, Stefany, Samara and Ana Clara; Beatriz, Bianca, Carol and Mariana; Larissa, Luisa, Nilis, Yasmin Santos and Mariana Fernandes; Juliana, Talita, Maria Peck and Vitória. 

Social media coverage

You can follow the match live on Flamengo's official social media channels using the hashtag #MeninasDaGávea. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and like our page on Facebook.