Volta Redonda (RJ) – With five points in three games, Flamengo is very close to securing its early qualification for the semifinals of the U-23 Cup. To do so, it needs to beat rival Vasco da Gama, this Thursday (07.10), at 18:30 pm, in a game that will be the preliminary between Flamengo and Atlético Goianiense, for the Brazilian Championship, at the Raulino de Oliveira stadium, in Volta Redonda.

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And the fact that the match takes place just a few hours before the main team's game excites the young red-and-blacks. After all, they'll have the opportunity to prove themselves to the new coaching staff and also to the fans, who want to learn more about their talent.

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"It's always good to play against Vasco, especially with the fans watching, in the preliminary round of the professional tournament. It's going to be a very important match, and we know that. We have to go out there with a lot of desire to come away with the victory and, God willing, qualification for the next stage," said defender China.

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The Gávea team is banking on the talent of its youth academy for this Thursday's derby. Coach Renato Trindade is not expected to field any players over the age of 23 (the regulations allow for three). Not even Leo Medeiros, the team's number 10 and captain, will play due to injury. The surprise is the debut of newly signed left back Uendel.

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"It's an important opportunity for us. We have to show our worth. We know it's a different game against Vasco, and that it could give us a spot in the semifinals depending on a combination of results. That's what we're going after. Everyone knows each other well, they play together at the youth level, and we hope to get this victory," said Henrique, who will partner China in defense.

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Flamengo should go to the field with Paulo Victor, Alex, Henrique, China and Uendel; Luiz Antônio, João Vitor, Antônio and Saba; Peanut and Borja.

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