Pacifier analyzes Flamengo's chances in the South American League
Coach believes in balanced competition and trusts in harmony with the fans to seek the second title
By From the official website team - inFlamengo has already taken the first step toward its second South American Basketball League title. After winning the Argentine championship, beating Quimsa in Santiago del Estero in the 2009 season, the Rubro-Negro will have the opportunity to host the final hexagonal of the tournament this year. At the end of the month, the HSBC Arena will host the decisive stage of the competition, and Paulo Chupeta, Flamengo's coach since 2005, is confident of a strong campaign.
The team from Gávea is in Group A of the League, alongside Franca and Boca Juniors, and will face the Argentines in the competition's debut, on Thursday (25.11), at 21 pm. A classic in all sports, with the traditional rivalry between Brazil and Argentina, and which Paulo Chupeta predicts will be a fundamental duel for the campaign.
"It's a classic, especially considering the fans, who are passionate and support their teams in all sports. But we're prepared for how to play against the Argentines. We had experience against Corrientes, where everything happened. We played Quimsa and won there, and we've also played against Boca... But we know we have to be very focused in this first game, which is crucial. If Boca loses to Franca, we only need to win our debut to qualify. Our players are mature and strong for this competition. We've strengthened our positions near the basket, with Bábby and Átila, so we're prepared to face whatever lies ahead," said the coach, who believes the competition is unpredictable.
"All six teams have the potential to win the competition, but the choice was a consensus. I hope we made the right choice and we're going after this second championship. Here at Flamengo, we only think about winning," he noted.
Chupeta also spoke about the wear and tear the team has been going through this season, competing in the State Championship, the NBB and the South American League at the same time, but highlighted the investment that was made in good preparation so that the team is in full condition to compete for all the titles.
"Living with three competitions is a bit complicated, especially due to the physical and emotional strain. They're competitions with different balls, and the travel... But our coaching staff is well-organized, we had a good preseason, and the team is managing well. Of course, there are setbacks, like injuries, but we have to overcome them," he added.
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