Flamengo returned to the field practically qualified for the final match of the first phase of the São Paulo Junior Football Cup. Despite a 3-2 loss to XV de Piracicaba at Barão de Serra Negra Stadium, the red-and-black team qualified as the first-place team in Group N. Flamengo faces Goiás in the next phase.

On the field, the Gávea team started the game in a subdued state. Just seven minutes in, XV de Piracicaba striker Marlon crossed to Evando, who volleyed in the ball to make it 1-0 for the São Paulo team.

Two minutes later, the red-black goalkeeper Marcelo came out of goal badly, and defender Cleberson took advantage to extend the score for XV de Piracicaba: 2-0.

Flamengo then woke up to the game, and in the 20th minute, center forward Pedro Beda pulled one back for the team from Gávea. The number nine received a beautiful pass from Renan and finished into the opposing goalkeeper's corner.

In the 29th minute, Erick Flores made a beautiful play and passed to Renan, who wasted a good opportunity, shooting straight at the goalkeeper.

The first half ended with Flamengo putting pressure on XV de Piracicaba. The red-and-black team dominated the game but wasted scoring chances.

The second half began with a setback for Flamengo, as defender Fabrício received his second yellow card of the match in the 13th minute, resulting in him being sent off. Flamengo coach Rogério Lourenço made three changes to his team, taking off midfielders Erick Flores and Renan and forward Paulo Sérgio, and bringing on Rafael, Juninho, and Bruno Paulo.

In the 26th minute, XV de Piracicaba scored their third goal after Flamengo's defense mishandled a corner kick, leaving the ball clear for striker Marlon to extend the lead. Five minutes later, Bruno Paulo pulled one back for Flamengo. The striker finished off a beautiful cross from full-back Michel. Flamengo continued to press but couldn't find the equalizer.

Flamengo entered the field with Marcelo, Michel, Michel, Fabrício and Jobson; Wellinton, Guilherme Camacho, Erick Flores (Bruno Paulo) and Renan (Juninho); Paulo Sérgio (Rafael) and Pedro Beda

photo: globoesporte.com