Clipp January 10 - Flamengo

Clipp January 10th

Flamengo news in the media

By - in 10/01/2008 às 11:07

Sports Journal

Obina, the favorite companion

Souza heaps praise on the striker and says he already has the ideal partner, taking a dig at Diego Tardelli.

Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel

Praised by Souza, striker Obina laughs heartily during training at Granja Comary.

Coach Joel Santana has not yet decided who will be Flamengo's attacking duo in 2008, partly because he is still waiting for at least one more signing for that position, but if it depends on Souza, his attacking partner already has a name and is a familiar face to the fans.

Yesterday, after the morning physical training session at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, the striker said that if it were up to him, his teammate would be Obina.

"Last year I played with Maxi, but if I had a chance to choose my attacking partner this season, it would be Obina. It would definitely work. We've played together a few times and always scored goals," the striker opined.

Flattered, Obina returned the compliments: "Souza is fantastic, I'm very happy. We're friends and of course we can play together," he stated. Souza also took the opportunity to send a message to Diego Tardelli. He seemed offended by the São Paulo player's statement that he dreamed of playing alongside Ronaldo.

"He (Diego Tardelli) forgets that we have Souza and Obina here, who already have a small history in football. I've never seen Tardelli be the top scorer in the Brazilian Championship. You have to come here, fight, and sweat for the shirt. I was the top scorer in the Brazilian Championship when I arrived, but I had to earn my place," he said, before adding.

"The only one with a guaranteed spot would be Ronaldo. Tardelli doesn't even know if he'll get on the field. Maybe he'll be on the bench," Souza added.

Upon learning of the Flamengo striker's statements, Diego Tardelli tried to downplay the situation, but ended up adding fuel to the fire.

"I didn't mean to disrespect anyone. I didn't say I would be a starter, just that it was a dream to play on the same team as Ronaldo. It would be strange if I said I dreamed of playing alongside Souza," Tardelli replied.

Souza complains about statements made by Diego Tardelli.

Tardelli talked too much and Souza didn't like it.

Tensions rose this Wednesday at Granja Comary, where Flamengo is holding its pre-season training camp. Souza, the Flamengo striker, disliked the statements made by Diego Tardelli, a player the club is interested in, where he insinuated he would like to join Flamengo to form a striking partnership with Ronaldo, a dream signing for the club this season. According to Souza, the São Paulo striker disrespected the professionals present.

"I heard a statement that he would like to play with him, but only Ronaldo would be a starter. He would have to compete for a spot with me and Obina, and he would have to run and sweat a lot, because I have a history in the Brazilian Championship. I wasn't the top scorer of the championship for nothing," the Flamengo number 9 exclaimed.

The Flamengo striker took the opportunity to reveal his desire to play alongside Obina, a fan favorite last year. Souza emphasized that the striker has similar characteristics to his own, but he is certain that the two would make a duo that would give opposing defenses a hard time.

"Last year I played with Maxi. I didn't team up with Paulo (Sérgio), but if I had the chance I wanted to play with Obina. We made a good team and I'm sure that if I play alongside him it will work out. He's a great player and I'll be very happy if he plays alongside me," revealed Souza.

Diego Tardelli has been sidelined more than once by São Paulo due to disciplinary problems. He has already been loaned to clubs abroad, such as PSV in the Netherlands and Real Betis in Spain, and yet he still can't seem to mature. Sought after by Flamengo's management as a reinforcement, he hasn't even arrived yet and is already causing trouble within the squad.

Discussion doesn't deter Tardelli

Despite the public spats between strikers Souza and Diego Tardelli, the vice president of football, Kléber Leite, confirmed yesterday to JORNAL DOS SPORTS that the courtship between Flamengo and the São Paulo striker remains strong.

The manager made it clear that he will do everything to smooth things over between the two strikers, even stating that they will share the same room during training camps throughout the season.

"This incident will in no way jeopardize the signing of Tardelli. He remains a priority for Flamengo. I insist on putting him and Souza in suite number 1 of the hotel's training camp. Giuliano Bertolucci (the striker's agent) is in São Paulo sorting out the player's release," said Kleber Leite.

Negotiations between Flamengo and Diego Tardelli have been dragging on for weeks. Initially, a deal seemed very likely, but after Palmeiras and Santos also showed interest in the player, Kléber Leite even stated that the situation was becoming complicated. However, after a conversation between the director and Giuliano Bertolucci, negotiations have progressed again, and the striker may be announced soon.

Partnership with Nike falters.

In addition to negotiating sponsorship values with Petrobras, Flamengo's board is trying to resolve another outstanding issue. Although still in effect, the commitment to supply sporting goods with Nike, worth approximately R$ 7 million per year, no longer satisfies the club's leadership.

In 2007, the partnership suffered a setback when the American company delayed the delivery of the uniforms. An example of the crisis occurred when Nike manufactured a new shirt, but after three matches with the new uniform, which had modified numbering, the company failed to send the updated number format, forcing the club to use the numbers from the old uniform. The vice-president of marketing, Ricardo Hinrichsen, expressed his impatience with the supplier's disregard for the club.

"The contract needs to be torn up and a new one drawn up. We've already received better offers than Nike's, we've made a proposal and we're waiting for their response," explained the vice president of marketing.

Acting President Delair Dumbrosck, however, preferred to downplay the potential crisis in the relationship.

"We want to readjust the values based on the projections we had in 2007. We have to respect the current agreement, but it's fair that it be renegotiated. We might even reach a new agreement and sign the renewal soon," he added.

Board demands more money from Petrobras.

Without a doubt, 2007 was the year that brought the greatest return to Flamengo in the last decade. With the support of more than a million fans who went to the games at the Maracanã, the club became Carioca champion and secured a place in the Copa Libertadores. Now, the board is trying to reach an agreement to renegotiate the contract with Petrobras, Flamengo's exclusive sponsor.

The contract, which yielded R$ 14 million annually, expired at the end of last year. The two parties are already negotiating, and the initial offer made by the sponsor is an increase to R$ 15,7 million. This increase is far from what the directors are aiming for. They are basing their offer on the new contracts that Palmeiras (R$ 19 million) and Corinthians (R$ 16,5 million) closed with Fiat and Medial Saúde, respectively. The acting president, Delair Dumbrosck, explained the status of the negotiations.

"Since the contract with Petrobras expired at the end of the year, and Flamengo grants exclusivity to the brand on its jersey, we want to reach an agreement in light of the media exposure the club received in 2007. We are in discussions, and things are progressing positively. Flamengo only wants what seems fair for the return it provided last year," declared Delair Dumbrosck.

If the figures from the expired contract are taken into account, Flamengo would have the fifth largest sponsorship in the country, behind the two São Paulo clubs already mentioned, São Paulo (R$ 15 million) and Fluminense (R$ 14,7 million) — see the table below. Under the new agreement proposed by the state-owned company, Flamengo would have the third largest sponsorship in Brazil. The vice president of marketing, Ricardo Hinrichsen, was direct and clarified what the club aims for:

"We've been in the race for 15 days and we want a decision. The club is seeking the biggest sponsorship in Brazil and believes this is the right time for it," the director stated.

Flamengo shows no mercy to Ypiranga and delivers a historic thrashing.

Flamengo crushed Ypiranga, from Amapá, on Wednesday night, with a score of 11-1, at the Barão da Serra Negra stadium in Piracicaba. The star of the show was striker Paulo Sérgio, a player from the professional team, who scored five goals in the match. With this result, Flamengo secured its qualification for the second phase of the competition. The Urubu (Flamengo's nickname) leads the group with six points and a goal difference of 13.

The rout began in the first half, where Flamengo's youngsters scored a resounding 7-1 victory. Paulo Sérgio opened the scoring in the 11th minute. After that, it was a goal fest: Pedro Beda in the 19th minute; Michel in the 22nd; and Paulo Sérgio again, three times consecutively, in the 28th, 33rd, and 36th minutes. Ypiranga managed a goal through Thiego in the 38th minute, but shortly after, Jobson found the back of the net again.

In the second half, Flamengo eased off the gas and their momentum waned. Even so, Paulo Sérgio added another goal to his tally, scoring again in the 18th minute. As if Ypiranga's difficulties weren't enough, defensive midfielder Bismarque handled the ball, received his second yellow card, and was sent off. Despite slowing down, Flamengo continued to attack relentlessly. Juninho scored two more goals, and Érick Flores, the team's star player, sealed the victory with a spectacular goal, beating three defenders.

The strength of the red-and-black team

Flamengo's reserve team makes the difference in the Men's National Basketball Championship.

Pedro Ivo Almeida

Center Wagner has been having great performances in the Men's National Championship.

With two excellent victories in the first games of the National Basketball Championship, Flamengo is living up to expectations and has proven itself one of the favorites for the title. Tomorrow, the team faces Cetaf at the Gávea gymnasium at 20 pm.

After winning the 2007 State Championship, coach Paulo Chupeta's team has shown greater improvement in technical aspects, a better cohesion within the group that has been playing together since September, unlike their opponents, and also benefits from the excellent form of forward Marcelinho, the competition's top scorer with an average of 28 points.

Another factor that has been drawing attention to the Flamengo team is the importance of the players who have come off the bench and delivered great performances. In the team's debut last Sunday, Amiel, Duda, and Wagner didn't start, but when they entered the court they rose to the occasion and greatly contributed to the victory. In the second game of the competition, another victory, and once again the players who came off the bench contributed significantly, and along with Marcelinho, were the highlights of Flamengo's win.

Center Wagner, who has been coming off the bench, spoke about the importance of everyone being prepared for any moment during the game.

"Of course it's important to start playing, but when you're on the bench you have a better idea of the game, where the opponent's weaknesses are, and you go in knowing what you have to do to improve. And everyone has to be prepared to always give their best, and know that despite being on the bench, everyone is important. With more pressure on Marcelinho, it ends up creating more space for the other players as well," he said.

Double Round

Flamengo's director, Arnaldo Szpiro, confirmed the agreement with Iguaçu for the team's games next weekend to be held at the Flamengo gymnasium. The team from Baixada Fluminense will play the preliminary game before Flamengo's matches.

Tomorrow the games will be at 18 PM and 20 PM, Sunday the matches are in the morning. At 10 AM Iguaçu takes the court, at 12 PM it will be Fla's turn.

Weekend Games

Tomorrow: Iguaçu BC vs. Saldanha da Gama - 18 PM - Gávea; Flamengo/Petrobras vs. CETAF/Garoto/UVV - 20 PM - Gávea

Sunday: Iguaçu BC vs. CETAF/Garoto/UVV - 10 AM - Gávea; Flamengo/Petrobras vs. Saldanha da Gama - 12 PM - Gávea

Maria Helena Braun

By Letter

Will there be payback?

Maria Helena Braun mbraun@jsports.com.br

The 2007 Brazilian Championship wasn't even halfway through when I wrote here about a very risky bet between two friends, Rogerinho and Nereu. Nereu, a Flamengo supporter, bet that Flamengo, in the relegation zone, would finish the competition ahead of Botafogo, the undisputed leader in the standings and considered one of the candidates for the 2007 title.

Meanwhile, Flamengo, under Ney Franco, was a punching bag, barely managing draws and accumulating defeats, a very serious candidate for relegation to Série B in 2008.

Rogerinho could already taste the victory of a bet. It was a piece of cake! How much did they bet? Ten thousand reais!

Time passed, the rounds unfolded, Botafogo went into freefall, and Flamengo began to soar, light, motivated by their recovery. Then the difference, which was, I don't know, twenty points or more, began to shrink... Flamengo kept closing in, and passed them by. Witnessing this crazy bet, I followed the agony of the Botafogo fan who would meet me in the corridors and curse: "You're a jinx! It was only after you wrote in the column that things changed!" – he said, grinding his teeth and thinking about how he would pay the bet. His wife's carnival costume suddenly slipped through his fingers. The Christmas full of presents remained only in his imagination. I, who don't know Nereu personally, can only imagine his satisfaction with each point Flamengo gained and each of the many lost by Botafogo. Those were certainly days of great anticipation.

The confirmation came: in the final stretch, Flamengo could no longer be overtaken by Botafogo. The settling of accounts took place in the bar where it all began.

"Hey, buddy? I'm in the Libertadores Cup. Where did Botafogo finish?" he mocked.

Rogerinho didn't lose his composure.

"It happens. Haven't you ever heard that football is full of surprises? I brought the money to pay you, it's right here, cash. I'm not the kind of man to cheat. Match money is sacred."

Happy and with his pockets full, Nereu sent another one: "I bet ten bucks on Flamengo winning the Libertadores Cup. Want to take it?" Rogerinho said he'd think about it.

O Dia

Flamengo: Souza questions Tardelli: 'Obina and I are here. You have to respect that.'

TERESÓPOLIS - The signing of Diego Tardelli hasn't even been finalized yet, and the São Paulo player has already provoked outrage from a potential teammate at Flamengo. Striker Souza reacted yesterday to Tardelli's statement that it would be a dream to play alongside Ronaldo at Gávea, and even chose Obina as his preferred partner in Flamengo's attack.

“He forgets that Souza and Obina are here, players who already have a small history in football. I've never seen Tardelli be the top scorer in the Brazilian Championship,” Souza responded yesterday at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis. “You have to come here, fight, and sweat for the shirt. I was the national top scorer when I arrived here, but that's in the past. I had to run and earn my place,” the striker added.

Tardelli, in turn, didn't hold back and countered Souza's statements. "I didn't mean to disrespect anyone. I didn't say I'd be a starter or that I'd partner with Ronaldo. I just said it was a dream to play on the same team as him," said the São Paulo player, before ironically adding to the Flamengo player's statement: "It would be strange if I said my dream was to play alongside Souza."

Souza assured that he's not bothered by the fact that Flamengo is still looking for a striker. "The only one with a guaranteed spot is Ronaldo. Tardelli doesn't even know if he'll get on the field. Maybe he'll just sit back and watch from the bench," he added.

Besides criticizing Tardelli, Souza took the opportunity to choose his favorite among Maxi, Éder, Renato Augusto, Paulo Sérgio, and Obina: "I would be very happy if Obina played with me. It would definitely work out. We played together a few times in the last State Championship and always scored goals."

Obina, in turn, returned his teammate's praise. "Souza is fantastic, and I'm very happy. We're friends, and of course we can play together," he said.

Resource to free Gavilán from the hook

Signed by Flamengo, Gavilán has 37 more days of suspension to serve, still due to the aggression against Valdívia in the Brazilian Championship. Yesterday, however, the club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, filed an appeal with the STJD (Superior Court of Sports Justice) to convert the remaining penalty into the distribution of basic food baskets.

The decision will be made in the coming days. The lawyer's fight is to ensure Gavilán can play in the State Championship opener on the 20th against Boavista. Even if the suspension is upheld, the midfielder can still play in the Libertadores Cup. Meanwhile, coach Joel Santana is putting Gavilán on the reserve team.

In the first practice match of the year, held yesterday, the main team, consisting of Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson and Toró; Renato Augusto and Souza, defeated the reserves 2-0, with goals from Souza and Renato Augusto. Tomorrow, at 16 pm, the team will face the Nicaraguan national team.

Flamengo wins 11-1 in the São Paulo Junior Cup

São Paulo - Flamengo dominated Ypiranga-AP, delivering an 11-1 thrashing last night in the São Paulo Junior Football Cup. The star of the show was striker Paulo Sérgio, who scored five times. The other goals were scored by Pedro Beda, Michel, Jorbison, Juninho (2), and Erick Flores. With this result, Flamengo takes sole possession of first place in Group N with six points, practically guaranteeing their place in the next phase of the tournament. Flamengo's next opponent will be XV de Piracicaba on Saturday.

Sports Gazette

Flamengo scores 11 points and is very close to qualifying.

Piracicaba (SP) - Flamengo easily defeated Ypiranga-AP with a remarkable 11-1 victory in the second round of Group N of the São Paulo Junior Cup. With this result, Flamengo is close to qualifying, needing only a draw against XV de Piracicaba on Sunday at 18:10 PM.

Playing at the Barão de Serra Negra stadium in Piracicaba, the Rio de Janeiro team gave no chance to the unknown Amapá team and featured striker Paulo Sérgio, who scored five of the 11 goals. The other goals for the red-and-black team were scored by Juninho (2), Pedro Beda, Michel, Jorbison and Erick. Ypiranga's only goal was scored by Thiego.

The result was the second-highest score of the current edition, surpassed only by Grêmio's 12-1 victory over Ypiranga, but that was in the Pernambuco state championship, in the first round.

In the other match of the group, Nacional-AM defeated XV de Piracicaba with a solitary goal from Raí, at 29 minutes of the first half. Despite still having chances, both Nacional, who play Ipiranga on Sunday at 16:10 PM, and XV de Piracicaba, depend on a miracle to secure first place in the group, since they could equal Flamengo in points, but lose on goal difference (the Rio de Janeiro team has a goal difference of 14).

Flamengo files appeal to reduce Gavilán's sentence (Gazeta Press)

Teresópolis (RJ) - This Wednesday, Flamengo's legal department filed an appeal with the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) to convert the remaining 37 days of Gavilán's suspension into food baskets. The Paraguayan midfielder is serving a sentence for assaulting Valdivia of Palmeiras in the last Brazilian Championship. Flamengo hopes to have the player available for the opening game of the State Championship. The first game is scheduled for January 20th against Boavista at the Maracanã.

Even if the suspension is not lifted, the midfielder will be able to play normally in the Copa Libertadores. Flamengo's first match in the tournament is on February 13th, when they face Coronel Bolognesi of Peru.

Joel maintains the 2007 base in the first team practice of the year. (Gazeta Press)

Teresópolis (RJ) - Coach Joel Santana began 2008 by showing his support for the Flamengo starting lineup from last year's Brazilian Championship. In the first preseason training session, at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, Joel repeated the lineup from Tuesday afternoon's training. The starters played the first training session of the year with: Bruno; Léo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson and Toró; Renato Augusto and Souza.

The red-and-black attacking duo was the highlight of the activity, which lasted about 40 minutes. Renato Augusto and Souza shone on the field, providing passes and scoring the goals for the starting team, which won 2-0.

Joel's only change to the team came midway through training. The manager took off midfielder Toró and replaced Obina with the starting lineup. Renato Augusto was moved to midfield, with Souza forming the attack alongside Obina.

Joel is expected to maintain this formation for tomorrow's friendly match at 16 PM against the Nicaraguan national team.

PeléNet

Renato Augusto is annoyed at being "used" by Flamengo.

Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\

With the sale of portions of the economic rights of midfielder Renato Augusto, Flamengo's board has been trying to resolve outstanding financial issues in two negotiations: the renewal of goalkeeper Bruno's contract for another five years and the signing of a contract, for the same period, with defensive midfielder Kleberson.

However, Flamengo's directors forgot to consult the person most interested in the matter: Renato himself, who makes no secret of his discomfort with the situation.

"Flamengo has every right to do what it wants. Especially since the club isn't in a very good financial situation and has to find other solutions. But this bothers me a lot, of course, because I wanted to be one hundred percent Flamengo. Besides, I only found out about this through the press. Nobody here tells me anything," declared the midfielder, making clear his dissatisfaction with the Flamengo leadership.

In both cases, Bruno's and Kleberson's, the board is negotiating to cede 20% of Renato's economic rights for approximately 1,5 million euros (around R$ 3,9 million) to a group of investors. This way, Flamengo would only hold 60% of the player's rights. Renato's release clause, whose contract runs until the end of 2012, is 30 million euros (around R$ 80 million).

The transaction involving the goalkeeper, however, is a bit more delicate, since Flamengo has committed to paying the first installment (700 euros - approximately R$ 1,8 million) to the MSI investment group, which holds Bruno's economic rights, by the end of the week. The total value of the deal is 3 million euros (approximately R$ 8 million).

To ensure Kleberson's long stay at Flamengo, the figures are lower. The fine imposed by FIFA on the midfielder, accused of unilaterally breaking his contract with Besiktas-TUR, was reduced by half, falling to 1,5 million euros (R$ 3,9 million).

Flamengo's starting players win their first training session of 2008.

Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\

Coach Joel Santana led Flamengo's first full team training session of 2008 on Wednesday afternoon. The starting lineup defeated the reserves 2-0 at Granja Comary, in a match that lasted 37 minutes. Renato Augusto scored in the 23rd minute and Souza in the 36th minute.

Involved in controversy with Tardelli, Souza trains with Flamengo's starting team.

SOUZA VS. TARDELLI: BARBS | READ MORE ABOUT THE CLUB | The starting lineup began in a 4-5-1 formation, as it had finished the previous season, with Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelin, and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Toró, and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza. The reserves played with Diego, Luizinho, Rodrigo, Rodrigo Arroz, and Egídio; Gavilán, Kléberson, Jônatas, and Marcinho; Éder and Obina.

When the starting lineup was winning 1-0, Joel made a change to the team, bringing on Obina in place of Toró, switching the formation to 4-4-2. Obina, in fact, was the protagonist of an incredible play during training. In the 37th minute, he missed an unbelievable goal on the goal line, with no goalkeeper, shooting wide.

Flamengo will play two friendly matches in the coming days. This Thursday, against the Nicaraguan national team, at 16 pm (Brasilia time), and on Sunday, against Huracán-URU, at 9 am, both on the main field at Granja Comary.

Souza chooses Obina as his ideal teammate at Flamengo.

Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\

Souza abandoned the classic political discourse of the football world and chose, without reservation, his attacking partner at Flamengo for 2008: Obina. According to the striker, fielding the Flamengo darling alongside him would be the best decision coach Joel Santana could have made.

"Personally, I would be very happy to partner with Obina. Whenever we've played together, we've done well. I'm sure this partnership will work out," said the forward, who is confident he will remain a regular starter for the team.

"Considering everything I did last year, this is what I expect. I may not have scored as many goals, but I was important in providing decisive passes and also helping in defense," he emphasized.

Souza also highlighted the fact that Joel Santana maintained the core of the team that finished last season in the first training session with the ball, held this Tuesday. In that session, the coach did not use any of the recently signed players among the starters.

"I'm very happy about this, as it's recognition from the coach for everything we did last year," he said, adding, "But we have to remember that great reinforcements have arrived, and anyone who slips up could lose their place."

Flamengo is expected to start the friendly match against the Nicaraguan national team with the following lineup this Thursday at 15 pm (Brasilia time) at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, where the pre-season is being held: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.

In the second half of the training session, the expectation is that Joel will completely change the team to evaluate, above all, the performance of the newly signed players Rodrigo (defender), Jônatas (defensive midfielder), and Marcinho (midfielder). Another player to be tested is defensive midfielder Kleberson, who has been with the club since last year, but who can only make his debut at the end of January, when the fine imposed by FIFA for unilateral breach of contract with Besiktas-TUR expires.

Jailton is not surprised to have been kept as a starter for Flamengo.

Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\

Flamengo has signed two top-quality defensive midfielders for the 2008 season: Jônatas and Gavilán. In addition to them, Joel Santana will be able to count on Kleberson, who will be free from his FIFA suspension at the end of January. But despite this, the quiet and relatively unknown Jaílton was kept among the starters in the first training session of the year, held this Wednesday at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, the location of Flamengo's pre-season training camp.

"I'm not surprised by that, because last year I performed well on the field. I gave a positive response and knew how to take advantage of the opportunity," the defensive midfielder assessed.

Like Jaílton, the rest of the 2007 team was retained. In Wednesday's training session, Joel fielded the same lineup responsible for the successful campaign in the last Brazilian Championship, in which Flamengo finished in third place.

The starting lineup consisted of: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.

This lineup is expected to be repeated in Thursday's training match against the Nicaraguan national team at 16 pm (Brasilia time) at Granja Comary.

BalloonSport

Copinha: 11 times Flamengo

Flamengo shows no mercy and delivers an 11-1 thrashing to Ypiranga from Amapá.

Paulo Sérgio celebrates one of his five goals scored in the rout. In a crushing victory, Flamengo showed no mercy to Ypiranga, from Amapá, inflicting an 11-1 defeat in the second round of Group N of the São Paulo Junior Football Cup, held in Piracicaba. The result propelled Flamengo to the sole lead of the group with six points, as Nacional-AM defeated XV de Piracicaba 1-0 in the preliminary match.

One of coach Joel Santana's big bets for the season, striker Paulo Sérgio justified his release to play in the Copinha and scored five goals, two of them true masterpieces, with a long-range shot and a backheel flick. Michel, Jorbison, Pedro Beda, Erick Flores and Juninho (2) completed the rout. Ypiranga's consolation goal was scored by Thiego, taking advantage of a rebound from goalkeeper Marcelo.

"The lads deserve congratulations. They maintained their rhythm for most of the time, didn't lose their seriousness, and could even have done more. It was good, we've qualified," says coach Rogério Lourenço.

Next Sunday, the Rio de Janeiro team will conclude their participation in the first phase against XV de Piracicaba at 18:10 PM, while Nacional-AM and Ypiranga-AP will play the preliminary match.

Fla has its giant in Granja.

Defender Nilton, 20, intimidates teammates with his physical strength.

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis (RJ)

Nilton is Flamengo's giant in Teresópolis. Who will face him?

His feet dangle off the edge of the small beds at Granja Comary. When showering, his head almost hits the showerhead. But, standing at 1,95m tall and weighing 97kg, defender Nilton, or Niltão as he's known by his teammates, has become Flamengo's "laid-back giant" in Teresópolis.

Born and raised in Duque de Caxias, in the Baixada Fluminense region, the defender wasn't huge as a child. But from the age of 16, he started to grow considerably, both vertically and horizontally, a result of hours of weight training.

"But I never took any of those products. Just the other day, I was doing a pull-up and I hit the weights hard. The other players didn't miss the opportunity to mock me and tell me to put all the weight on or I'd break the machine," he says.

Since his time in Flamengo's youth divisions, Niltão has been compared to Júnior Baiano. Physically, the two share some similarities. But their personalities are quite different. Unlike the former Flamengo defender, the young man, now 20 years old, doesn't want anything to do with trouble.

"I'm really laid-back. I keep to myself most of the time. I think I only look like him because of my technique. When I was in the youth team, the fans would even comment: 'I'm going to watch that kid who looks like Júnior Baiano.' I always liked that," says the player, who had a stint at Tupi-MG in 2007.

Nilton's teammates know he's strong. So much so that during physical training exercises involving pulling each other up with an elastic band, the giant is "forgotten." Everyone avoids the tallest and strongest player on the team. Last time, it was goalkeeper Bruno who suffered. And he even managed to withstand the defender's strength.

Renato Augusto, the sliced-up star

Player has part of his rights sold: 'This could hinder me in the future'

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis (RJ)

Renato Augusto at Flamengo training

Flamengo has stated several times that it only intends to sell Renato Augusto for €30 million, the value of the termination clause stipulated in his contract. However, in less than a month, the club has relinquished 40% of the player's economic rights.

And for a much more modest amount than the termination clause suggests. To secure Rodrigo's loan and keep Kléberson until 2012, the club raised €1,5 million from a sports marketing company, which then acquired another 20% of the midfielder's rights.

Now, to secure payment of the first installment for Bruno's purchase, Flamengo would sell approximately 20% of his transfer rights for the same amount. If this continues, Renato Augusto would leave Gávea for €7,5 million. However, the vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, does not confirm the deal and says it is an internal club matter.

But the negotiation of "credit" is not illegal in any way. Quite the contrary. It's a trend in the global market and a way to anticipate revenue. But when it comes time to sell, who decides the amount received?

"All of this is defined in the contract. For example, it may be written that an official offer of 20 million euros must be accepted by all parties. An offer of ten million euros would require consultation with all parties. In most cases, there is a pre-established minimum value," explains lawyer Marcos Motta.

Obina: 'Souza and I can play together'

The striker is flattered by his teammate's praise. Joel can take advantage of the partnership.

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis (RJ)

Ibson, Cristian and Obina run in training.

Surrounded by dozens of fans, Obina received numerous congratulations for his humility. However, on Wednesday, the praise that most excited him came from Souza. Earlier, the striker said that, if he could choose, the player from Bahia would be his attacking partner.

Souza is fantastic and I'm very happy. We're friends and of course we can play together.

In the initial training sessions, coach Joel Santana opted to put Renato Augusto and Souza up front. But, towards the end of the practice match, the coach granted Souza's wish and put them both together. However, Obina missed an incredible goal almost on the goal line.

"These things happen," says Joel Santana.

Flamengo wants Souza and Tardelli together.

The board says it will resolve the petty squabble by putting the two in the same room.

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis (RJ)

ASSEMBLY - Souza vs. Diego Tardelli: Flamengo doesn't want premature controversy between them. Flamengo activated its diplomatic team to extinguish the fire started by Souza and fueled by Diego Tardelli. On Wednesday, the two clashed in the press, and the Flamengo board tried to downplay the episode.

Although Tardelli hasn't been signed yet, Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, jokingly warned that he would reserve suite 101 for the two of them to stay and sort things out.

There was also a quick conversation with Souza to avoid further controversy. In a press conference, the striker showed his complete displeasure with Diego Tardelli's stance. Last week, the São Paulo player stated that it would be a dream to play for Flamengo with Ronaldo.

The current number 9 at Flamengo didn't like it and responded by stating that his potential teammate would have to work very hard to avoid being benched. Souza added that he had never seen Diego Tardelli be the top scorer in the Brazilian Championship.

The barbs didn't go unanswered. Diego Tardelli responded sarcastically, saying it would be strange if he dreamed of playing with Souza and not Ronaldo.

This Thursday, Kléber Leite hopes to finalize the signing of the São Paulo player and put an end to the premature controversy.

Flamengo wants to renegotiate its contract with the supplier.

Board of directors meets with executive from American company and proposes a new agreement.

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis (RJ)

Flamengo and Nike have been at odds for some time. And to avoid a unilateral break, the two boards met last weekend to smooth things over.

The vice-president of marketing for the Rio de Janeiro club, Ricardo Heinrichsen, presented the executive director of the American company, Ricardo Colombini, with a proposal to completely renegotiate the current contract, which is valid until mid-2009.

"We have to tear up this agreement and make another one. We have offers that are far superior to Nike's, and we're facing some problems. We made an offer, and they were supposed to get back to us," says the Flamengo director.

Under the current agreement, Flamengo receives R$ 7,5 million per year, including sports equipment and cash. In 2007, Nike angered Flamengo due to the poor quality of the uniform deliveries.

Corinthians makes Flamengo reconsider sponsorship.

Flamengo's board admits the possibility of breaking with the club's current sponsor.

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis (RJ)

Either Petrobras increases its offer or the contract with Flamengo will hardly be renewed. The Flamengo board is not satisfied with the readjustment proposed by the state-owned company - from R$ 14 million to R$ 15,7 million - and is listening to offers from other interested parties.

The alarm was raised with the disclosure of the sponsorship contract values for Corinthians. Even relegated to the Second Division, the São Paulo club will receive almost R$ 20 million this year to display the brand of a healthcare company on its jersey (R$ 16,5 million for the jersey plus R$ 3 million for the sleeve advertising).

"Nothing is decided yet. We are in the market and we want to make a decision in 15 days. Flamengo is aiming to have the biggest sponsorship deal in Brazilian football and we are in a good position to do so," says the club's vice-president of marketing, Ricardo Heinrichsen.

Flamengo and Petrobras have had a 23-year relationship. However, in recent years, the club has had difficulties receiving the funds. This is because, as the company is state-owned, the money could only be transferred if Flamengo obtained a Certificate of No Debt (CND). In 2007, for example, all the annual sponsorship funds were only released at the end of the year.

Throw

Renato Augusto: 'I'm leaving little by little'

Supporter says he is saddened by the sale of part of his economic rights.

Renato Augusto will have 20% of his rights put up for sale.

LANCEPRESS!

Renato Augusto is being "torn apart" by the board. The economic rights to the midfielder are no longer 100% owned by Flamengo, and he is upset about it. As LANCE! anticipated in Wednesday's edition, the main prospect from Gávea will have another 20% of his rights sold, this time in a deal to buy Bruno.

"I'm leaving little by little," said the supporter, very upset.

The number 10 player complained about not being consulted regarding the sale of part of his rights.

– They didn't ask me anything. This could have been discussed beforehand. I found out through my agent (Carlos Leite) and the press after everything had already happened. If I could choose, I wouldn't want it to be this way – said the young player, 20 years old.

The athlete's agent was contacted for comment, but he is in Portugal and declined to give an interview.

He already had 20% of his rights sold to Traffic for 1,5 million euros (approximately R$ 3,9 million), which was used to buy Kleberson (approximately R$ 3,1 million from Besiktas, Turkey) and pay off Rodrigo's loan (close to R$ 781 from Dynamo Kyiv, Ukraine). The board is carrying out an identical operation to pay half of the three million euros to have Bruno for five years.

Even though he was upset, the Flamengo supporter reassured fans that he will continue to dedicate himself fully to the club.

"I will remain the same, and my affection for the fans and the club remains unchanged," he concluded.

Tardelli tries to calm things down and sees Flamengo far away.

The striker doesn't respond to Souza's provocations and says the fight complicates his move to Flamengo.

Strikers traded barbs throughout the week via the press (Credit: LANCE! montage)

Luiz Fernando Cardoso, São Paulo

The war of words between Flamengo striker Souza and São Paulo striker Diego Tardelli is set to end. At least that's what the São Paulo player claims, who, in an interview with LANCENET!, said he prefers not to discuss the matter further. The consequences of the conflict involving the players are likely to be detrimental to Flamengo.

The club, which was very interested in signing Tardelli and was even negotiating with São Paulo, will likely no longer have the player. Diego expressed great sadness about the whole situation and practically ruled out the possibility of transferring to Flamengo.

"With all this fighting, the possibility of me going to Flamengo is minimal. To arrive at a club in this state, after a dispute, I prefer to stay here at São Paulo and fight for my place," he assured, by phone.

The feud between Souza and Diego Tardelli began last week when the São Paulo player reportedly said he wanted to go to Flamengo and play alongside Ronaldo, the Milan striker, with whom the Rio de Janeiro team was also in negotiations.

The São Paulo player's statement irritated Souza. The striker said that Tardelli would have to fight hard for a place in Flamengo's attack if he arrived, since the starting duo would already be defined, with him and Obina.

"I never said I would arrive at Flamengo to be a starter. Everyone knows how difficult it is when a player changes clubs, because he needs to fight for his place. I never spoke with Souza, I'm very surprised by all this," Tardelli assured.

Despite admitting that the possibility of transferring to the Rio de Janeiro team is almost nil, Diego Tardelli confirmed that he received a phone call from Flamengo's vice-president, Kléber Leite, on Wednesday afternoon. The director tried to calm the dispute and said he would call back.

"Kléber Leite called me and said he would call back to see if the deal was finalized. I'm waiting and leaving it in the hands of my manager," he concluded.

Flamengo's youth team crushes Ypiranga-AP.

Flamengo wins 11-1 and is close to the final phase.

Besides the goals, Flamengo also missed many chances.

Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO

Flamengo crushed Ypiranga-AP on Wednesday night, winning 11-1 in Group N of the São Paulo Junior Football Cup, practically guaranteeing their place in the round of 16 of the competition. The game was played at the Barão da Serra Negra Stadium in Piracicaba.

With the resounding victory, Flamengo took sole possession of first place in the group with six points and will only be eliminated with an improbable combination of results in the next round. Flamengo will face XV de Piracicaba, who lost 1-0 to Nacional-AM on Wednesday.

The standout player of the match was striker Paulo Sérgio, who scored five times and took the lead in Flamengo's top scorer ranking in the competition. Pedro Beda, Michel, Jorbison, Juninho (two) and Erick Flores scored the other goals for Flamengo. Thiego scored a consolation goal for the Amapá team when the score was 6-0.

The player who scored the goal that sealed the rout, midfielder Erick Flores, remained humble despite Flamengo's resounding victory.

"We came here to win the three points and we achieved this resounding victory. It's important, but we already have to think about the next match," declared the Flamengo prospect.

Check out the goal times: Paulo Sérgio, 11'/1st half (0-1); Pedro Beda, 20'/1st half (0-2); Michel, 23'/1st half (0-3); Paulo Sérgio, 28'/1st half (0-4); Paulo Sérgio, 33'/1st half (0-5); Paulo Sérgio, 36'/1st half (0-6); Thiego, 38'/1st half (1-6); Jorbison, 42'/1st half (1-7); Paulo Sérgio, 18'/2nd half (1-8); Juninho, 33'/2nd half (1-9); Juninho, 39'/2nd half (1-10); Erick Flores, 43'/2nd half (1-11).

Joel approves of Flamengo's training.

Flamengo's coach praised the players' commitment at Granja Comary\ LANCEPRESS!\

Flamengo coach Joel Santana analyzed the team's first training session with the ball at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis. According to the coach, the activity was very productive as the players showed commitment at all times.

Joel, who says he is very satisfied with the group that Flamengo has assembled for the season, explained why he hasn't used the new signings in the starting lineup.

Radio L! - All the players who arrived have some kind of problem with their documentation. When everything is resolved, the competition for positions will begin. In the meantime, I'm working with those who are already with us - he says. (Click and listen)

Jaílton is full of self-confidence for the season.

Midfielder says starting position is a result of good performance in 2007 | LANCEPRESS!

Kept in the starting lineup at the beginning of pre-season training for 2008, midfielder Jaílton assures that he didn't earn this privilege by chance. According to the player, his performance in 2007, when he finished the year playing, gave coach Joel Santana confidence in his abilities.

"It's no surprise that I'm starting the year as a starter because of everything we did in 2007. I knew how to take advantage of my opportunities, and that's why Joel trusts me. Now I have to work hard to stay in the team," he said.

Renato Augusto wanted to be completely Flamengo's.

Part of the player's rights were sold by the club.

LANCEPRESS!

The fact that 20% of his federative rights were sold for around 1,5 million euros (approximately R$ 3,9 million), as anticipated by LANCE!, left midfielder Renato Augusto somewhat upset. For the player, the ideal situation would be for Flamengo to hold all of his rights.

Furthermore, Renato Augusto learned about this negotiation through news published in the press. Nothing was said to him beforehand by the Flamengo board.

"Of course I'm upset about this situation. I wouldn't want it to be like this. Especially since I found out about it through the press. I would prefer Flamengo to own 100% of my rights," he declared.

Junior Baiano's disciple seeks his place.

Nílton, 20, says he is inspired by the controversial defender.

LANCEPRESS!

Having been officially incorporated into the professional team this year, 20-year-old defender Nílton eagerly awaits an opportunity. Standing at 1.95m and weighing 97kg, he says he draws inspiration from former Flamengo player Júnior Baiano, but only from the controversial player's positive aspects.

"I'm learning from the most experienced players. If an opportunity arises, I'll seize it with both hands. I look up to Júnior Baiano for his technical skill, not for his controversies," he assured.

After participating in the state junior championship last year, Nílton was loaned to Tupi-MG in the second half of the year.

Renato Augusto and Souza sharp in the collective.

With one goal each, the starters beat the reserves 2-0.

In a good indication that Flamengo may not necessarily need Ronaldo in its attack for the start of 2008, Renato Augusto and Souza, who formed the offensive duo in the first training session of the year, were decisive and demonstrated encouraging chemistry this Wednesday.

In a 40-minute match, the starting players beat the reserves 2-0, with one goal from each of the forwards. Interestingly, Renato Augusto's goal came from a pass by Souza and vice-versa.

Joel kept the same team that started Tuesday's training session: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson and Toró; Renato Augusto and Souza. Midway through the practice match, Toró was replaced by Obina and Renato Augusto was moved back to midfield.