Flamengo starlet eager for Libertadores debut after national duty | OneFootball

João Vitor Couto is on Flamengo's list of 20 players for the Under-20 Libertadores

By: Rodrigo Lima and Mônica Alves

A standout in Flamengo's youth categories, João Vitor Couto continues to gain international experience. The 17-year-old forward recently returned from the Brazilian Under-17 National Team and is already preparing for Mengão's debut in the Under-20 Libertadores, this Saturday (07), at 9 PM (Brasília time), against Estudiantes de Mérida (VEN), at the Atahualpa Olympic Stadium in Quito.

Back at Flamengo, João Vitor Couto is now focusing on the Under-20 Libertadores, a competition he considers essential for the club's development and goals. "I am motivated for this debut and want to contribute as much as possible to the team, whether by scoring goals or supporting the team in all actions on the field," stated the forward in contact with the Coluna do Fla report.

EXPERIENCE WITH THE NATIONAL TEAM?

Recently called up to the Brazilian Under-17 National Team, João Vitor Couto participated in the preparation period in Colombia, playing two friendlies against the hosts, with a 3-1 victory and a 1-1 draw. The forward took the field in the second match, showing personality and the ability to adapt to the international level.

"It was a very important experience for me. Wearing the National Team jersey is always a great responsibility, always striving to give my best on the field. I leave even more motivated to continue evolving," highlighted the player.

WHAT ARE JOÃO COUTO'S EXPECTATIONS FOR THE LIBERTADORES?

Flamengo debuts in Group A, which also includes Bolívar (BOL) and Independiente Medellín (COL). Regarding the tournament, João Vitor Couto commented: "It's a very big competition that every player dreams of playing. We will face strong teams, but Flamengo always enters to fight for titles."

IS FLAMENGO AIMING FOR THE THIRD CHAMPIONSHIP?

Two-time champions of the Under-20 Libertadores, Flamengo begins the quest for the third championship this Saturday (07) against Estudiantes de Mérida. The red-black team arrived in Quito last Monday (02) and has since conducted four training sessions under coach Bruno Pivetti. Finally, the last activity took place on the afternoon of this Friday (06) at Aucas' training center in Ecuador.

WHERE TO WATCH FLAMENGO'S DEBUT MATCH IN THE UNDER-20 LIBERTADORES?

The match will be broadcast on Flamengo TV, starting at 9 PM (Brasília time). Additionally, as usual, Coluna do Fla will follow the match with results and highlights on the website and social media, ensuring complete coverage of the Garotos do Ninho's debut in the continental competition.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.