Mengão beat Corinthians 1-0 in the first leg of the U-20 Women's Brasileirão semi-final
Brendha scores a penalty, the team plays with a lot of spirit and returns to Rio depending on itself to reach the final.
By Rafael Rezende - in
It was based on grit and dedication. It had the Flamengo feel.
On Wednesday night (13), the Meninas da Gávea beat Corinthians 1-0 at the Bruno José Daniel Stadium and took the lead in the semi-final of the Brazilian Women's Under-20 Championship. The goal was scored by striker Brendha and now Rubro-Negro depends on a simple draw to reach the competition's final for the second consecutive year.
The game
The match started evenly, with both teams sizing each other up. Mais Querido's first good opportunity came in the 13th minute: Isabela Nunes took a corner kick, and Kaylane Vieira headed wide. Two minutes later, Isabela crossed again, and Carol Martins nearly opened the scoring. In the 27th minute, Brendha spun in the box and was brought down. The referee awarded a penalty, and the number 9 skillfully dispatched the goalkeeper: 1-0. The goal kept the match calm until halftime.
In the second half, Corinthians tried to press but ran into Flamengo's strong defense. Bibi was called upon several times and delivered. The goalkeeper—one of the team's technical leaders—was instrumental in maintaining the score with excellent runs and solid actions. Another standout performer was Duda Mattos. Imposing, the defender didn't miss a single challenge, commanded the ball in the air, and was precise in almost every tackle. Her impeccable performance had an important component: her parents were in the stands and gave their daughter a standing ovation. Isabela Nunes also played a key role. Intelligent, the left-back managed to win the battles and maintain her composure.
The final stretch was a pure triumph for the athletes, who gave their all on the field for the result and secured an excellent victory. With this advantage, the team returns to Rio focused on advancing to another final.
Next appointment
Before Thursday's (21) clash against Corinthians, Mengão faces Fluminense on Sunday (17), at 10 am, at the Marcelo Vieira Stadium, for Carioca.
Flamengo lineup
Bibi; Bruna (Sofia), Duda Mattos, Carol Martins (Camila) and Isabela Nunes; Cerqueira, Nicoli (Anna Luiza), Emilly and Kaylane Vieira; Leane (Maria Fernanda) and Brendha (Alice).
Coach: Filipe Torres.
Technical sheet
Corinthians 0x1 Flamengo - Semifinal of the Brazilian Women's Under-20 Championship | First leg
Location: Bruno José Daniel Stadium
Date and time: August 13th at 08pm
Goal: Brendha (29'1st half).