In the 22nd minute, Paulo César Carpegiani called on Vinicius Junior. Flamengo was racing against time, trailing 1-0 despite playing better at the George Campwell Stadium in Guayaquil. It was the 17-year-old's debut in a CONMEBOL Libertadores. The first match that would forever be etched not only in his memory, but in the memory of the entire nation.

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On Wednesday night (14), the "Garoto do Ninho" needed eleven minutes to set the game on fire. In the 33rd minute, Vinicius created a masterpiece with his left foot. He dribbled past one player, got past another, burst into the box and sent a powerful shot into the back of the net. Shortly after, he passed to Diego at the edge of the box, received the ball back and, without thinking twice, finished to turn the game around and make the nation explode with joy. Final score: 2-1 and a show from the number 20.

"I'm just continuing what I was already doing at the youth level in the professional ranks. A lot of people were criticizing me, criticizing me, but I always work with my head held high and remain calm. With the help of everyone at Flamengo, today I was able to decide the match and score two goals," said Vinicius Junior.

The club's top scorer this season with six goals, the youngster celebrated the milestone and the support of the squad. "I didn't expect it, but I've been working hard. Everyone here has been helping me stay calm, which I had today to decide the match," he added.

Back in Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo continues its preparation for the challenges of the Taça Rio, as it will have another trip at the weekend to face Portuguesa on Sunday (18), at the Kléber Andrade stadium, in Cariacica, at 16 pm.