After the end of the first phase of the Rio de Janeiro Women's Football Championship, coach Ricardo Abrantes evaluated the performance of Flamengo/Marinha, who finished in the lead and undefeated, and projected the next challenges.

"It was a good championship for Rio de Janeiro's level. In previous editions, there were several WOs, so this one was a bit more organized. More teams showed up, girls from communities, players with futures. We were able to observe athletes who could end up playing here or for other big clubs. Of course, we still need investment and help, whether from the CBF or the Federation, to improve women's soccer in Rio. This year there were seven teams; if the costs were lower, we would have 15, 20 for sure. It's important to make the sport viable, because if this is encouraged, many new possibilities emerge," Ricardo reflected. 

This Saturday (21), Duque de Caxias and América open the second phase of Carioca. In 2017, FERJ determined that the title would be defined with a final triangular involving the three best placed in the competition.

"We came first in this initial phase and now the final against América and Duque de Caxias will begin. We will rest this Saturday (21) and next week we will be on the field to fight for this second championship. It is not easy, as everyone gives their best to beat Flamengo. We will go after this title", concluded the coach.

The Most Beloved debuts in the second phase of the competition on Saturday (28), at 16 pm, at the Ênio Teixeira Stadium, in Sapucaia, against Duque de Caxias. It is also worth remembering that Flamengo starts this journey with a one-point advantage, achieved by first place in the initial phase.