Messi Cup 2026 provides international experience for Flamengo U-15

Flamengo completed their Messi Cup 2026 campaign on Sunday in Fort Lauderdale, United States. Represented by their U-15 side, the Rubro-Negro faced clubs from different football academies, were observed by Lionel Messi throughout the competition and had the opportunity to watch the Argentine star in action for Inter Miami.

Over the course of the tournament, Flamengo played five matches, scoring 12 goals and conceding six. Deivid topped the scoring charts with three goals, while he and Brayan shared the assist lead with two apiece.

Head coach João Marcos believes exposure to different playing styles broadens the team's tactical understanding.

"It helps the boys experience in practice the different ways of playing and developing as athletes, increasing their understanding of the game. They face matches with greater intensity, against some of the world's leading academies, which creates new challenges and difficulties", he said.

In the group stage, Flamengo drew 1-1 with Cornellà, defeated Manchester City 4-2 and drew 1-1 with Boca Juniors. Subsequently, they were beaten 2-1 by River Plate. In the fifth-to-eighth place play-off, the academy side claimed a 6-1 victory over Barcelona.

The match to determine fifth and sixth place on Sunday against Boca Juniors was not played due to adverse weather conditions.