The 2026 Campeonato Carioca action continues this Saturday as Volta Redonda hosts Flamengo at the Estádio Raulino de Oliveira. This match, part of the second round of the Taça Guanabara, pits a determined Volta Redonda side against a youthful Flamengo squad looking for their first victory of the tournament.
Match Preview: Volta Redonda Seeks Momentum Against Young Flamengo
Volta Redonda enters this fixture buoyed by a successful start to the season, having secured a victory in their opening match against Boavista. They will be aiming for a second consecutive win to solidify their position early in the competition. However, they face a challenge, as they will be without forward Marquinhos due to suspension following his expulsion in the previous game.
Flamengo, conversely, is navigating the early stages of the Carioca championship with their U-20 squad. The young Rubro-Negros have struggled so far, registering a draw against Portuguesa and a subsequent loss to Bangu. This match against Volta Redonda represents a crucial opportunity for the developing talents under coach Bruno Pivetti to find their rhythm.
Broadcast Information and How to Watch Live
Football enthusiasts eager to catch the action can tune in via official broadcasters. Both sportv and Premiere will provide live coverage of the match. For those preferring digital access, the game will also be available on ge.globo and Globoplay. Additionally, the ge platform will offer real-time updates and exclusive video highlights throughout the game.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 9:30 PM (Brasília time) on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Estádio Raulino de Oliveira.
Team News and Probable Lineups
Volta Redonda: Adjustments Needed
Coach Rodrigo Santana is expected to maintain the core of the team that performed well in the first round, with the notable exception of the suspended Marquinhos. The team's attacking structure will need a slight reshuffle to compensate for his absence. Volta Redonda's medical department also reports ongoing issues with Du Fernandes, Fabricio, and Juninho, keeping them out of contention.
Probable Volta Redonda Lineup: Avelino; Wellington Silva, Rafael Castro, Lucas Adell, Jean Victor; Dener, Bruno Barra, PK; Ygor Catatau, Blanco, and MV.
Flamengo: Youth Under Scrutiny
Flamengo’s U-20 side faces further personnel changes. Key absences include Johnny, who is recovering from left shoulder surgery, and Wallace Yan, recently transferred to Red Bull Bragantino. Coach Bruno Pivetti must address the left-back and forward positions. Gusttavo and David Viana are the leading candidates for the starting spots, while Alan Santos is also in contention for an attacking role.
This fixture is anticipated to be the final outing for the U-20 group before professional players potentially reinforce the squad in subsequent rounds. The young side is desperate for a win to build confidence.
Probable Flamengo Lineup: Léo Nannetti; Daniel Salles, Iago, João Victor, Gusttavo; Pablo Lúcio, Lucas Vieira, Guilherme Gomes; Douglas Telles, Joshua, and David Viana (Alan Santos).
Refereeing Appointments
The officiating team for this crucial Carioca encounter has been confirmed. Yuri Elino Ferreira da Cruz will take charge as the main referee, assisted by Thiago Filemon Soares Pinto and Gustavo Mota Correia. Carlos Eduardo Nunes Braga is assigned to the VAR booth, ensuring oversight for key decisions.
Carioca Context: A Developing League
The early stages of the 2026 Campeonato Carioca have been marked by tactical experimentation and the integration of younger players by major clubs like Flamengo and Botafogo. While established giants like Fluminense and Vasco secured opening victories, the performances of the developing squads provide early insights into the depth of talent within Rio de Janeiro's football ecosystem. Volta Redonda’s strong start serves as a reminder that the competition remains fiercely contested, even when facing powerhouse rivals fielding developmental squads.
Fans will be watching closely to see if Flamengo's U-20 unit can overcome their early hurdles or if Volta Redonda can capitalize on their opponent's inexperience to secure another valuable three points in the Taça Guanabara race.
