With a hat trick from Pedro Leão, Flamengo thrashes Portuguesa in the Copa Rio Sub-20

Photo: Rafael Silva

Flamengo's undisputed victory in the Rio U-20 Cup. In their second match of the competition, the "Garotos do Ninho" defeated Portuguesa 5-0 this Saturday at Ilha do Governador. Pedro Leão, who had already scored four goals in his debut, scored his hat trick in today's match and is the sole top scorer with seven goals. Camargo and Fred also scored for Mengão.

The game also marked the return of defender Yago to the field, after being out for six months recovering from an injury.

The team's next match in the Copa Rio will be on March 31st, against Madureira.

"I'm very happy to be back on the pitch. I had a serious injury that kept me away from what I love most, which is playing football, for six months. Those minutes I played in the second half were very important for me to gain confidence and be available to the group," said defender Yago.

The goals:

At 36, the red-and-black goal. A cross from the right, for striker Pedro Leão, who touched the ball into the back of the net: 1-0.

Two minutes later, he, always him, Pedro Leão scored the second. A loose ball from the opposing defense, the number nine took advantage and with a light touch made it 2-0.

In the second half, Fred nearly scored the third with a low shot into the goalkeeper's left corner. Minutes later, Pedro Leão scored his third of the game. This is his seventh in the Copa Rio.

"These goals I've been scoring are the result of a lot of hard work at the beginning of this season. I'm very confident in this position and I hope to be able to help my teammates achieve even greater victories," commented Pedro Leão.

At 37, it was Camargo's turn to leave his mark: 4-0. To end the inspired afternoon, at 40, Fred, from the penalty spot, closed the score.

Starting lineup:

Eduardo Jung; Wanderson; Johnny, Pedro Lemos and Italo; Luis Aucélio, Christian and Rafael Couto; Fred, Alan Santos and Pedro Leão.

Entered: Daniel Rogério, Camargo, Iago, Camargo, Giovanni. 

Coach: Leo Ramos

Under-20 Rio Cup

2nd Round - Initial Phase

Portuguese 0 x 5 Flamengo

Location: Luso Brasileiro stadium (Governor Island)

Time: 15h

Goal: Pedro Leão in the 36th and 40th minutes of the first half. Pedro Leão in the 34th, Camargo in the 37th and Fred in the 40th minute of the second half.