News

It's the fourth time! Flamengo wins the 2018 São Paulo Cup

With an early goal and a solid performance, Mais Querido beats São Paulo 1-0 and takes the cup

By - in
It's an old story: Flamengo excels at home. And, for the fourth time, the Most Beloved won the most important youth football title in the country. The majority of the opponents in the stands was just another obstacle overcome in the path of young warriors and, this Thursday (25), the 1-0 victory over São Paulo sealed the title.

The first goal came before either team was even thinking about the game. Two minutes into the match, Pepê took a corner kick with precision, and Wendel headed it into the side of the net for the only goal.

São Paulo sought victory and intensified their efforts in the second half, but were thwarted by the red-black team's tactical ability and some beautiful saves from Yago.

The advantage didn't change Flamengo's style of play. With plenty of passing and escapes down the flanks, Flamengo didn't let their opponent dominate and managed to create strong plays even under the most pressure.

Pepê delivered a beautiful pass in the 19th minute, and Lucas Silva received the ball but shot wide. The assister also did well in the 23rd minute, dribbling down the right and firing a cross-shot into the net from the outside.

The Tricolor pressure eased in the second half, but Mais Querido didn't lose their playing style and, even with less possession, didn't give the opponent any space to finish.

The price of nine games in 22 days was charged and Pepê, Bernardo and Bill felt physical difficulties, being replaced by Patrick, Aderlan and Yuri during the second half.

The red-and-black team's concentration was crucial to maintaining the score, and at the final whistle, their tenacious streak culminated with a well-deserved celebration from the World's Biggest Fanbase. The youth academy is on track for a fourth consecutive victory.

The 2018 title adds to the achievements of 1990, 2011 and 2016