Atlético Mineiro’s youth academy prepares for a high-stakes doubleheader this Saturday, with both the Under-13 and Under-14 squads facing off against arch-rivals Cruzeiro in the first legs of the Campeonato Mineiro finals. The matches are scheduled for 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. at Toca da Raposa I, marking a critical juncture for the Black and Whites as they seek to extend their dominance in the state capital’s youth derbies.
Unbeaten U13s aim for third straight derby win as young stars Abner and Ayslan shine
The U13 squad, led by coach Cayo Victor, enters the final with a flawless record of 19 wins in 19 matches, boasting the competition’s most potent attack with 73 goals and the strongest defense. This recent form follows a commanding 2-0 victory over Cruzeiro on March 1, where forward Ryan Ayslan and center-back Samuel Arcebispo found the net. Meanwhile, the U14s secured the Copa União IMEF title on March 27 with a 3-0 rout, powered by a brace from Abner and another goal from Ayslan, who has emerged as a key figure in these 2026 derby encounters.
Atlético’s youth teams have consistently outperformed their rivals in recent months, including a 3-1 win in the fourth round of the state championship earlier this year. With Abner and Ayslan continuing to deliver decisive performances, the academy looks poised to secure another significant trophy, reinforcing Atlético’s reputation for producing elite junior talent in the competitive landscape of Minas Gerais football.
Source: Yahoo Sports
