THE GLOBE
A goalscoring defender's afternoon at Maracanã
With two goals from Thiago Sales, Flamengo's mixed team beat Americano 3-1 and achieved their second victory in the Rio Cup. Renato Augusto returns from surgery and provides an assist.
Photo caption: THIAGO SALES, ahead of Souza, heads in to score Flamengo's third goal, their second in the 3-1 victory over Americano, at Maracanã
Photo caption: MAXI TOUCHES, almost without an angle, to score Flamengo's second goal: the Argentine striker fought hard in yesterday's game and was rewarded
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Few people will have as fond memories of yesterday afternoon as defender Thiago Sales. His two goals, besides securing Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano and breaking the monotony of much of the match, helped cement his reputation as a goalscoring defender, built since the youth ranks.
Raised in Copacabana and the son of a middle-class family, Thiago Sales always saw soccer as more than a necessity, it was a dream. And he had to persevere. Until he was 17, he had only played futsal for Flamengo. He began a trial period on the field and waited a year and a half before being accepted. In two years of playing soccer, he's already made history. In 2007, he was second in the top scorer list in the State Junior Championship. Yesterday, in his eighth professional game, he reached four goals.
"My job is, first, to clear the ball. I'm looking for space and my goal is to be a starter," said Thiago, crediting his good time with the ball to playing footvolley on Copacabana Beach.
Renato Augusto returns after almost two months
The trauma of the Libertadores defeat and the presence of only three starters drove away the fans. Only 8.821 paid for tickets, the lowest attendance for Flamengo at Maracanã since May 2007, in the Brazilian Championship loss to Palmeiras. On the field, Flamengo was sleepy, and Americano was harmless. Until, in the 20th minute, Egídio took a free kick, and Thiago Sales tried twice to open the scoring.
Without a man in the box, the duo of Marcinho and Maxi struggled to penetrate the area. The Argentine, who struggled the most, was rewarded in the 22nd minute. Marcinho crossed a ball that seemed dead. Maxi beat goalkeeper Wender to it and made it 2-0.
It was the signal for Flamengo to slow down again. The game was, in fact, a reflection of the enormous gap between the big and small teams in the State Championship. When they pressed, Flamengo's reserves created. Six minutes into the second half, Maxi received a good pass from Jônatas, made a beautiful play, and almost extended the lead. As the goalkeeper came out, he shot wide.
It was Flamengo's turn to give their opponents life. In the 24th minute, Jaílton attempted to clear a cross-box ball with a long kick, but it hit Jessé, who accidentally beat Bruno. It was up to Thiago Sales to be decisive again, this time with the help of Renato Augusto, who returned after 50 days recovering from facial surgery. The midfielder delivered a perfect free kick for Thiago, who headed in the third and made it three goals in three state championship games.
The game soon slowed down again. Even the referee seemed distant. In the 50th minute, he realized he hadn't signaled stoppage time. He made the number five with his hands, apologized, and blew the final whistle.
Yellow cards: Leonardo, Egidio, Jonathan, Toro, Ciro, Izaiah, Leandro Matera and Pirão.
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: Not very demanding, he made two good saves and made a mistake when leaving the goal. 5,5.
LEONARDO MOURA: One of the few starters on the field, he rarely managed to create attacking plays on the right. He struggled with his defense. 5. He was replaced by LUIZINHO, who only lasted a few minutes on the field. No rating.
LEONARDO: Still trying to find his rhythm. Not much pressure from the Americano attack, he played confidently. 6.
THIAGO SALES: He played well defensively and also went on the attack to score two goals that secured the victory. 8,5.
EGÍDIO: He insisted on individual plays and was disarmed in many of them. He participated in the first goal. 5,5.
GAVILÁN: Still lacking rhythm, he wasn't good, giving space in some plays. 5.
JAÍLTON: He had little to do in the match until he made the serious error that resulted in Americano's goal. 4. He was replaced by RENATO AUGUSTO, who showed great enthusiasm upon his return after surgery. He took the free kick accurately for the third goal. 7.
JÔNATAS: He improved in the second half, playing further forward. He created good plays but, at times, lacked in the final pass. 6,5.
TORO: One of the most committed players in the game, he tried to run the entire field and made several tackles. He was rarely seen in the creative field. 5,5.
MARCINHO: Overwhelmed by the marking, he didn't play well. He created the chance for Maxi's goal. 5,5. SOUZA came on and had few chances. 5.
MAXI: He fought the whole time and was rewarded with a goal in which he had the merit of believing in a ball that was almost lost. 7,5.
AMERICANO
Striker Jessé, who scored the goal, stood out for his fighting style. Rondinelli came on and created danger with his free kicks.
ARBITRATION
The game didn't pose any difficulties for Leonardo Cavaleiro, who lost concentration at the end, not signaling stoppage time.
TIMEMANIA
In the second Timemania drawing, held on Saturday in São Paulo, the following numbers were drawn, in order: 77, 18, 31, 25, 20, 63, and 50. São Paulo was the club drawn for the "Favorite Team" prize. Caixa Econômica Federal did not disclose the prize amount. In the first drawing, the prize was R$1.894.953,44.
Fernando Calazans
In Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano, the highlight was also a young defender, Tiago Sales, who scored two goals, one with his foot, the other with his head, a promising defender and goalscorer for Flamengo.
Flamengo's midfield—or rather, any midfield with Jaílton, Gavilán, Jônatas, and Toró—is a miserable one, unproductive, arid, and infertile. But Jônatas, at least, improved his performance, created some plays, Maxi was sharp and quick, scored a classy goal from almost no angle, and Flamengo delivered. They did their homework, since they only play at home, at the Maracanã. Playing away is hard, isn't it?
Americano's goal was caused by a primary error by Jaílton, in the small area, because playing Jaílton can only lead to that.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Joel pleased with the performance of some reserves
Roberto Murad and Nathan de Lima
Joel Santana was quite pleased with his team's performance against Americano. He approved of the development of some players currently on the bench and believes these Rio Cup matches will be crucial for getting their game rhythm underway.
"Gavilan hadn't played for a long time, I put him in the position he likes to play and he performed well," said the manager about the defensive midfielder.
The red-black midfield had Jônatas as its main playmaker, the player played further forward than he had in recent matches and alternated between good and bad moments.
"Jônatas played more freely, as he usually does best. He just needs more rhythm and movement," he analyzed.
Joel wants to see in Jônatas the same player he was in the 2006 Copa do Brasil victory.
“He’s a player that, because of everything he’s done, we have to believe in him”
Another player who hadn't been getting many chances was Argentine Maxi. However, in this match, the striker was crucial with his appearances on all flanks and his constant battle with and without the ball, which ultimately paid off with a goal. The coach also commented on his qualities.
"Maxi played a very good game. He troubled the opposing defense the entire game. He's very smart," commented Joel.
Thiago is thrilled and returns to the reserves
When he arrived at Flamengo at age 15, defender Thiago Salles perhaps never imagined he would become one of Flamengo's top scorers in the Campeonato Carioca. Now just 20, although he's not a starter, he always makes his mark. In yesterday's match against Americano, he found the net twice more.
"Thank God I was able to come in well and help Flamengo. I know I still have a lot of work to do to find my place. My goal is to be a starter for Flamengo, but I know they have great defenders here," he said.
Despite having played a great game, the chances of the defender playing on Wednesday against Mesquita are remote, as it is very likely that coach Joel Santana will field the starting team against the team from Baixada Fluminense.
"I'm meeting tomorrow (today) with my coaching staff to discuss the upcoming games. The tendency is to include the players who spent Sunday at home in the next game. Initially, I'll face the upcoming games at full strength," Joel warned. (NL)
'It was a magnificent return'
After almost two months away, Renato Augusto returns and excites coach Joel Santana
Nathan de Lima
Ursula Nery/JS
Renato Augusto returned to play for Flamengo after 49 days away from the field
The 10.047 fans who turned out at Maracanã yesterday to see Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano had an extra reason to smile. Supporter Renato Augusto, who underwent facial surgery after his cheekbone was sunken in during the Guanabara Cup match against Boavista, returned to the field and, as coach Joel Santana himself put it, "it was a magnificent return."
Renato Augusto replaced midfielder Marcinho and crossed the ball for the team's third goal in his first play. After the game, he explained that he's not yet at his peak, but he knows he'll gradually regain his confidence and rhythm.
"It's always good to be back. I felt good on the field, but at times I still feel a lack of rhythm. I'll continue working midweek to get back to 100%," said Renato Augusto.
team spirit
Joel Santana took advantage of most of the press conference, held after the match, to praise the player.
"I really liked Renato. He had a great game. We've been using a winning game plan, and the good observers have already noticed that in the decisive matches this year (Botafogo and Vasco), we returned to that same system. We tested two players in place of Renato Augusto, Marcinho and Tardelli, and they were good. In today's game (yesterday), Renato only came on at the end, but it seemed like he was starting the game. He and Toró are two players who change with the team's spirit," said Joel, who wants to prepare the player for the return match against Nacional, from Uruguay, on the 19th, in the Copa Libertadores.
Game Character: Thiago Sales
Thiago Salles is making the most of his opportunities in the starting lineup, particularly thanks to his excellent ability to connect with crosses into the box. His goal sparked the team's comeback against Resende in the first round of the Taça Rio. Yesterday, he was once again instrumental in Flamengo's victory, scoring two of their three goals against Americano. In the first, just 20 minutes into the first half, he relied on luck, a hallmark of top scorers, to stay unmarked and open the scoring. In the second half, he honored Renato Augusto's return by perfectly heading in his teammate's well-placed free kick.
Happy with his good form, the defender promised that he will continue trying to leave his mark to help Flamengo.
"I work on this in training. Whenever an attacking opportunity arises, I try to position myself well to score. For me, the most important thing is to do my job of defending from the back, because I've always been a defender and I like that. But when there's a set piece, I'll continue to try to score goals with my head," he said.
Flamengo comfortably defeats Americano
The team shows just enough to beat Campos' team
Roberto Murad rloureiro@jsports.com.br
Thiago Sales celebrates one of his goals
Playing with a few reserves, Flamengo defeated Americano on an afternoon at an empty Maracanã stadium. Defender Thiago Sales scored twice, and Maxi completed the scoring; Jessé pulled one back for Americano. Renato Augusto returned to the team after a long layoff and showed signs of physical fitness. The team from Gávea remains undefeated in the Taça Rio, with two wins in as many games.
A first half with few opportunities and a low level of skill. Flamengo struggled to create chances, while Americano limited itself to defense.
The first goal for the red-and-black team only came in the twentieth minute, following a blunder by the Campos team's defense. Egídio lifted the ball into the box from a free kick, and after a rebound, Thiago Sales scored under the crossbar.
Flamengo capitalized on their opponent's slumber and quickly scored their second. Marcinho went to the baseline and crossed; the ball hit the defender and fell to Maxi, who beat the goalkeeper and, from almost no angle, managed to finish well.
Flamengo's combative midfield didn't let Americano play, but it also didn't support the attack, leaving Marcinho and Maxi distant from the rest of the team.
After the break, the game remained tight. Flamengo had Maxi as the only player fighting for plays and trying to create offensive opportunities.
Just five minutes in, Maxi nearly extended the lead. Jônatas found the Argentine well inside the box, who, with one touch, got away from his marker and shot just wide of the post.
Americano reduced the score with Jessé, the striker took advantage of Jaílton's mistake, inside the area, and pushed it into the net.
The match improved a lot when coach Joel Santana brought on Renato Augusto and Souza.
The red-black's superiority in aerial balls was confirmed when Thiago Sales, once again, rose higher than the Americano defense and headed the ball well, scoring his third goal in the competition.
THE DAY
Thiago Sales scores twice and Fla beats Americano
Genilson Junior
Rio - Flamengo defeated Americano 2-1 at Maracanã Stadium in a second-round match of the Taça Rio. The match marked the return of Renato Augusto, who came on in the 30th minute of the second half, to the field after facial surgery, which sidelined him for 50 days. Defender Thiago Sales, who scored twice, and Argentine Maxi Biancuchi scored for the Flamengo team. Forward Jessé scored for the Campos club.
Click here and check out the goals
In the first half, Flamengo needed just two minutes to score. In the 20th minute, Egídio took a free kick, which he himself won on the left side of the Flamengo attack, and Thiago Sales had to try twice before tapping it in with his left foot to open the scoring.
Two minutes later, Argentine Maxi was quicker than goalkeeper Wender, got ahead of Americano's number 1 and, from an angle, shot low to make it 2-0 on the scoreboard for the Biggest in the World.
Americano only threatened Bruno's goal in the 25th minute, with a header from striker Jessé and a free kick taken by midfielder Leandro Matera in the 32nd minute.
Flamengo returned for the second half with an inspired Jônatas. The red-and-black number 5 was the team's main playmaker.
Goalkeeper Bruno had nothing to do with Americano except long-range shots. Until the 23rd minute, Jessé made a run down the right, the ball spun, Jailton made a mistake trying to play it out, and the Campos team's number 9 managed to reduce the score to 2-1.
Thirty minutes into the match, coach Joel Santana decided to make a change. Renato Augusto and Souza came on for Jaílton and Marcinho. And the Flamengo's number 30, who was returning to action after recovering from facial surgery, responded. Renato Augusto took a free kick from the left, near the edge of the box, and Thiago Sales rose to score his second goal of the match, the team's third: 10-3 Flamengo.
Striker Souza still had time to miss two excellent scoring opportunities for the Red-Blacks, in the 35th and 38th minutes of the second half. Rondinelli, in the 49th minute, wasted Americano's last chance to reduce the deficit.
Flamengo now faces Mesquita next Wednesday in the third round of the Taça Rio. Americano faces Cardoso Moreira in Campos.
Starters should return on Wednesday
Janir Junior
Rio - Winning the Rio Cup, and the State Championship as a bonus, without the need for the finals, and adjusting the team for the Libertadores match on the 19th against Nacional. With these ideas in mind, Joel Santana considered the possibility of fielding the starting lineup against Mesquita on Wednesday at the Maracanã. Renato Augusto, who returned yesterday after 48 days out due to facial surgery, is expected to start.
"Initially, I'll go all-out. I'll still have a conversation with the coaching staff to decide. I don't want to rush into things. Flamengo is aiming for the title in every competition, and the Rio Cup will be no different," said the coach.
After receiving a childish red card against Nacional, Toró is in the hot seat and is expected to lose his starting spot. Yesterday, he was named in the starting lineup; he's expected to face Mesquita on Wednesday and Botafogo on Sunday.
"He's the team's worker, the one who carries the piano for the others to play. What happened is over," Joel said.
Thiago Sales, who scored two goals in yesterday's victory, was overjoyed. Since his youth career, the defender has been a regular at finding the net. "I always score my little goals. I'm going to fight to be a starter," the player said.
Today, before the return match, the players will visit the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, the saint of impossible causes and the club's patron saint.
Fans want a reduction in ticket prices
José Luiz de Pinho
Rio - Flamengo fans cried yesterday at Maracanã, but not to mock their opponent, who was even black and white, but rather to persuade Flamengo's directors to lower ticket prices for the match against Nacional, on the 19th, at Maracanã, when Flamengo will decide its fate in the Libertadores.
Sebastião Anacleto, 53, from Espírito Santo and a resident of Ramos, improvised a small screen and called the vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, begging for a reduction from R$40 to a maximum of R$25, the price of the grandstand.
"The team will need the support of the fans. But at this price, it's not possible," complained the unemployed refrigeration technician, wanting to get the red-and-blacks out of trouble.
Flamengo has already played 12 games this year at Maracanã: 11 in the State Championship and one in the Libertadores. With an average ticket price of R$30, fans who attended all of them spent R$360 on ticket sales alone.
Plus R$10 for snacks per game and R$4,20 round-trip bus fares, the total cost comes to R$530,40—well above the R$415 minimum wage, which comes into effect in April. Yesterday, the Maracanã stadium had a paying crowd of 8.821.
The financial outcry from the red-and-blacks reached street vendors and scalpers, desperate due to the stagnation at Maracanã and the losses.\ Even the number of incidents was insignificant, with one scalper arrested, and 12 people being treated at the Maracanã medical center for low blood pressure or headaches.\
Even the legendary Charanga Rubro-Negra and its 12 members, led by Seu Guigui, changed their habits: they left the empty stands for the common seats to be closer to the team.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Top scorer, Thiago Salles celebrates two more goals
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Defender Thiago Salles was Flamengo's standout performer in their 3-1 victory over Americano this Sunday with two goals, keeping the Red-Black team's record in the Taça Rio. After the match, the defender celebrated his goals but ruled out becoming an option up front. "I always try to do my job at the back, and when I can, I come up front and help out where I can. I leave the field with my mission accomplished," the player celebrated. In the first goal, he capitalized on a cross from Egídio and a defensive error to open the scoring. In the second, he accurately deflected a ball lifted by Renato Augusto. "I always stood out in the youth teams for my goals," he recalled.
With two goals, Thiago Salles became Flamengo's top scorer in the Rio Cup with three goals, and shares second place in the team's scoring charts in both rounds with Juan and Souza. Ibson, Obina, and Tardelli lead the way with four goals.
Flamengo beats Americano in training rhythm\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In a game in which it rested most of its starters, Flamengo had no major difficulties in beating Americano 3-1 on Sunday afternoon at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro, in the second round of the Taça Rio, the second half of the Campeonato Carioca. Thiago Sales (2) and Maxi Biancucchi scored the goals for the Rubro-negro, which has six points in group A. The team from Campos, which had its goal scored by Jessé, remained with four points in the overall standings (which takes into account the sum of the two half-years) and remains in the relegation zone.
The first half was played at a very slow pace. Flamengo was visibly missing some starters, rested due to the marathon of matches the team has been facing. Meanwhile, Americano once again felt the lack of quality in its squad. To make matters worse, the match was played most of the time under a blazing sun.
Even playing at training pace, the Red-Blacks displayed their superior technical quality, so much so that they were the first to threaten just three minutes in, when Léo Moura made a beautiful individual move and crossed. Leandro Matera tried to clear it and nearly scored an own goal. Luckily for him, goalkeeper Wender was alert and saved.
But the Americano's number 1 couldn't prevent Flamengo from taking the lead, which happened in the 20th minute. Egídio took a free kick from the left, Thiago Sales fought the ball with the defense and collected the rebound to shoot into the back of the net.
The play left Americano dazed, and Rubro-Negro took advantage to extend their lead two minutes later. Marcinho crossed from the right, the goalkeeper missed, Maxi Biancucchi stole the ball and, with great skill, rolled it into the net.
Flamengo's advantage further slowed the pace of the game, as the team began to manage the result. Americano struggled to create chances and only threatened from set pieces, such as in the 29th minute, when Pirão took a powerful free kick and Bruno saved.
The second half began with the same rhythm as the first. Flamengo had its first chance to score in the fifth minute, when Maxi received the ball from Jônatas in the box, shook off the defense, and tried to displace the goalkeeper, but the ball went wide. Flamengo's response came four minutes later, with a shot from outside the box by Leandro Leite, which Bruno saved.
The game was enough to lull even the most enthusiastic fan in the stands to sleep. Americano tried to launch an attack, but their efforts were easily neutralized by the Flamengo defense. Flamengo's fans, meanwhile, gradually slowed the game, waiting for the clock to run out.
In this scenario, a goal would only come from an individual play or a defensive error. This combination allowed Americano to pull one back in the 24th minute. Jessé burst into the box, weaving through Flamengo's defense, challenged Jaílton, who failed to make the move, and slotted the ball into the back of the net.
But Flamengo showed that when they wanted to, they could easily penetrate Americano's defense. Joel Santana brought on Souza and Renato Augusto, who hadn't played since the State Championship debut, recovering from a facial injury. In the 32nd minute, Renato Augusto himself had a hand in Flamengo's third goal. He took a free kick from the left, and Thiago Sales headed it in for his second goal of the match. After that, Flamengo controlled the result until the final whistle.
The two teams return to action next Wednesday. Flamengo hosts Mesquita at 19:30 p.m. (Brasília time) at Maracanã Stadium, while Americano takes on Cardoso Moreira at 15 p.m. in Campos.
PELENET
Flamengo recovers from the Libertadores effect and wins Americano
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo recovered from their loss to Nacional-URU in the Copa Libertadores by beating Americano 3-1 this Sunday at the Maracanã. Defender Thiago Salles (2), the standout performer, and forward Maxi Biancucchi scored for the red-and-black team, which reached six points in Group A of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. The Campos team, which reduced its lead with Jessé, remains with zero in the other group.
Both teams return to action next Wednesday. While the Gávea team hosts Mesquita at 19:30 PM at Maracanã, Valter Ferreira's team faces Cardoso Moreira at 15 PM in Campos. The matches are for the third round.
GB Cup champion builds victory in two minutes
Flamengo started the match sluggishly and failed to threaten Wender's goal. However, with their first real chance, 20 minutes into the first half, Flamengo opened the scoring through defender Thiago Salles.
Two minutes later, due to a lapse in the visiting defense, the team from Gávea extended their lead on a move that striker Maxi Biancucchi believed was a seemingly lost play. In the 27th minute, Americano almost reduced the deficit through Ivan.
With the goals, Flamengo began to dominate the action, and Americano barely had a glimpse of Bruno's goal. Restrained by the intense heat, Flamengo exchanged passes and simply waited for the first half to end.
Despite the home team's advantage, defender Thiago Salles called for seriousness from the team in the final stage: "I'm happy with the goal scored and now we have to be completely focused to consolidate the result," he said.
Thiago Salles celebrates the red-black triumph
Just five minutes into the second half, Maxi Biancucchi made a beautiful play, but his shot went wide. Leonardo Moura, Toró, and Marcinho were barely involved in the game. Flamengo's negligence was punished in the 23rd minute, when Jessé pulled one back for Americano.
Trying to change the game's outlook, coach Joel Santana brought on Renato Augusto, who was returning to the team after a 49-day absence, and Souza, replacing Jaílton and Marcinho, respectively.
The substitution paid off in the 32nd minute, when Renato Augusto lifted the ball into the box and Thiago Salles headed it in. Before the end of the game, Souza and Rondinelli each missed a chance for their teams.
Renato Augusto celebrates his return and thanks Flamengo fans
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
After another month and a half of inactivity, midfielder Renato Augusto returned to Flamengo and played a decisive role. He provided the assist for the team's third goal in the 3-1 victory over Americano in the second round of the Taça Rio, this Sunday at Maracanã.
The player took a free kick from the left side of the penalty area to the head of defender Thiago Salles, who displaced goalkeeper Wender, in the 31st minute of the second half.
"It's difficult to come back after so long. I felt a bit out of rhythm, but I felt good and was able to help the team win. I thank the fans for their support," he said.
Renato Augusto is only 19 years old and is treated like a rare gem by Flamengo's board. The midfielder played a key role in winning the state title last year and qualifying for the Copa Libertadores da América.
The playmaker has recovered from a fracture in the zygomatic bone (malar), suffered in Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Boavista on January 20th, in the Rubro-Negro's debut in the Taça Guanabara.
Flamengo star Thiago Salles is already the team's top scorer in the Rio Cup
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Thiago Salles was the hero of Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano on Sunday afternoon at Maracanã. The defender scored twice and also had a solid defensive performance in the Taça Rio match, the second round of the State Championship.
"I always try to do my job from the back, and when possible, I try to get up front and help out in any way I can. Today, I leave the field with my mission accomplished," he said.
In the first half, the defender headed in a cross from Egídio, the ball grazed the defense, and, on the rebound, he pushed it into the net. In the second half, Renato Augusto's cross was perfectly placed for the defender to tap into Wender's right corner. Late in the match, he prevented a goal from being scored on the goal line due to a mistake by goalkeeper Bruno.
A standout player in the mixed team selected by coach Joel Santana for the Rio Cup, Thiago Salles has already scored three goals in two games.
Along with Souza and Juan, he is one of the team's second-highest scorers in both rounds of the State Championship so far and has found the net the most times this season. Ibson, Obina, and Tardelli have all scored four times.
GLOBOESPORTE
Renato Augusto's return excites Joel\ Coach says the player will be crucial for the red-black team in the Copa Libertadores\
Caio Barbosa From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro
The red-black victory over Americano, 3-1, this Sunday, at Maracanã, did not mean much to Joel Santana, as the opponent's weakness was great, but the fact that Renato Augusto returned to play after almost two months made the coach leave the stadium satisfied.
In a press conference after the match, the Fla coach acknowledged, among other things, that Renato Augusto will be very important in the team's fight in the Libertadores.
Check out Joel's main ideas:
The game
Flamengo played a calm first half, as their opponents came out with the intention of pressing hard and waiting for set pieces to decide the game. They didn't bother us, and we quickly scored two goals. I thought they'd come on strong after that, but that wasn't the case. The second half was similar. There was a move with Maxi early on that, if he'd scored, I'd have brought on Renato Augusto and Luizinho. Then, we conceded that ridiculous goal, and I decided to heat up the game, since Souza would only really come on in that situation if we needed him. I'm not going to say they're a bad team, as they're a good defender, but we scored the third goal right away, and their sand castle fell.
Tests
Gavillan hadn't played in a long time, but he played a calm game, didn't expose himself, knows how to play, and is experienced. So, I let Jônatas play more freely, but he was well-marked at times. Maxi also played well, opening up space for our victory. He's a smart player who picked up a loose ball and scored a goal. Thiaguinho is a good guy, with good timing, and he played very well once again. He had an excellent match. And Renato came on with his usual grit and a great performance. He came on as if the game was just beginning.
Return of the starters
I have time to think, I want to talk to the trainers and physiologists to better evaluate, but the tendency, to use a word you like, is to return with those who stayed home this Sunday resting.
Jonathan starter
We have a squad with too many players in some positions, like the right flank, and too few in others, like the left flank, where only Cristian and Toró, our laborer and piano carrier, play. Jônatas arrived at Flamengo after two or three months without playing. He's still getting back into top form.
Renato augusto
I'm thinking about what I'm going to do. I want to see how he'll perform after these fifteen minutes today. Maybe he'll start on Wednesday, and if he does well, he'll start the game against Nacional, because he's an energetic player like Toró, who sets the fans on fire, who's the one who ignites the match from above when things get weird down here.
Bull
Is this topic ever going to end? It's already over. Anyone who knows Toró knows he's absolutely right. He could be my son. I'm saying this because of his age, but he's already married. Let's not dwell on this topic; it's already the last straw.
Thiago Sales shows again that he is a top scorer
Defender celebrates two goals, but remembers that his main role is to mark opponents
Top scorer in Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano with two goals, defender Thiago Sales assured that finding the back of the net is not uncommon in his career.
- I always stood out in the youth divisions, scoring a lot of goals.
In the last title won in Fla's youth divisions - the Octávio Pinto Guimarães Tournament, in 2007 -, Thiago scored one of the goals in the 5-0 victory over Fluminense, in the first game of the final.
When asked if he could be an alternative to the red-black attack in Libertadores games - the team only scored two goals in three games, Thiago Sales dodged the question.
- No, my priority is back there. I'll be able to perform on set pieces, just like I did today (Sunday).
The young Flamengo player hasn't forgotten his idol, Juan, who now plays for Roma in Italy.
- I've always looked up to Juan, who has a similar story to mine. He also started at Flamengo and gradually got to where he is today.
Renato Augusto reassures Dodô
Flamengo midfielder reveals he called the Flu striker, who is hospitalized
With a smile that reflected his satisfaction at being able to return to action after 47 days, Renato Augusto, from Flamengo, showed his solidarity with Dodô, from Fluminense, after the red-black team's 3-1 victory over Americano, this Sunday, at Maracanã.
The Tricolor striker fractured the frontal bone of his face, a problem similar to that suffered by the Flamengo attacking midfielder - who fractured his malar and zygomatic arch bones in January.
"Before coming to Maracanã, I called him and told him it's not such a big deal, even though it's serious. With faith, he'll get through it all," says Renato.
When asked about his return to the field (he hadn't played since January 20), Renato Augusto acknowledged that he lacked match rhythm.
- At times, I lost my rhythm with the ball. I'll only recover that by playing.
Fla wins on Thiago Sales' afternoon
Defender scores twice, and Renato Augusto returns in the team's victory over Americano
Flamengo, despite playing a largely reserve team, easily defeated Americano 3-1 this Sunday afternoon at Maracanã in the second round of the Taça Rio. With the victory, Flamengo remains atop Group A, alongside Fluminense, both with six points from two games. Americano remains bottom of Group B, without a single point, and in the relegation zone, with just four points in the competition. América, with two, is last.
First time
With a team full of reserves—only Bruno, Leo Moura, and Toró starting—Flamengo had a good chance after just three minutes, when Leo Moura made a good run down the right, got to the byline, and sent in a low cross. Flamengo's defense nearly scored an own goal, but Wender prevented the worst.
With Maxi playing wide on the wings, Flamengo gradually chipped away at Campinas' defense and soon scored two goals, one after the other. The first came in the 20th minute, from defender Thiago Sales, who headed in a free kick from the right by Egídio. The ball hit Anderson and bounced back for Thiago to score. Two minutes later, it was Maxi's turn to put the ball in after surprising Wender in a play that started with Leo Moura on the right.
lukewarm game
Thiago Salles celebrates Flamengo's first goal
In the 27th minute, Thiago Sales nearly scored for the second time, turning in a cross from Egídio. A minute later, Americano created its best chance, through Bruninho, who forced goalkeeper Bruno into a great save, sending the ball out for a corner with his fingertips.
With victory seemingly assured, Flamengo began to pass the ball around and kill time. In the 35th minute, Egídio made another good run down the left and crossed to Marcinho, but the Campinas defense was there first to clear it. And in the 43rd minute, Maxi used up the last of the first half with an unsuccessful solo run down the right.
Second time
If the first half ended at a slow pace, the second started even slower, with the Red-Blacks only building momentum in the middle. During one of these passing exchanges, the ball reached Americano's box and fell to Maxi, but the Argentine, instead of shooting with his left foot, shot with his right foot, missing Wender's goal. The ball skimmed the goalkeeper's left post.
Seeing that they would have no trouble winning the match, Flamengo completely lost interest. Thus, Americano, even without pressing, ended up reducing the deficit in the 23rd minute, on a play in which Jailton failed and Jessé passed it to the goal.
The return of the darling
Coach Joel Santana then decided to ignite the game and the fans by bringing on Souza and Renato Augusto, who returned to the field after a month and a half recovering from a facial fracture. The response was immediate: Renato Augusto headed the ball to Thiago Sales from a free kick on the left flank of the Flamengo attack. The goal-scoring defender tested his momentum and scored Flamengo's third goal.
A minute later, Renato Augusto made another good play, dribbling past two players and winning a corner. Thiago Sales deflected the shot at the near post, and Souza nearly extended the lead. But it was enough. Flamengo demonstrated its strength and the ability to win the game whenever it wanted, and decided to save its efforts to focus on the Libertadores.
THROW
Defender guarantees Flamengo's victory over Americano
Thiago Salles scores twice and Mengão remains 100% in the Rio Cup
Thiago Salles celebrates his first goal of the game (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)
LANCEPRESS!\ With Renato Augusto back after not playing since January 20, Flamengo defeated Americano 3-1. Defender Thiago Sales was the game's top scorer with two goals - Maxi scored the other and Jessé scored the only goal for the Campos team. The match, held this Sunday at Maracanã, was part of the second round of the Taça Rio.\
With the victory, Rubro-Negro maintained its 100% success rate in the second round and reached six points, the same number as Fluminense, which leads due to its superior goal difference (five against four).
The two main villains in Flamengo's 3-0 defeat to Nacional, Toró and Léo Moura, created Flamengo's first dangerous chance: in the third minute, the midfielder released the right-back. With a masterful dribble, the latter shook off an opponent, took off, and crossed into the middle of the box. Wender, alert, got ahead of Maxi and prevented Flamengo's first goal, slotting home safely.
Flamengo only threatened again right after the goal. Egídio advanced down the left flank of Flamengo's attack and was brought down by Isaías. The number 6 himself took the free kick, but Thiago Sales won the ball in the air and finished with his left foot, taking advantage of Wender's mistake, which took too long to leave the goal.
Wender missed again two minutes later, leading to the red-and-black's second goal. Marcinho, on a loose ball, shot into the middle of the box, and the Americano goalkeeper was extremely unresponsive. The ball fell to Maxi, who, from a tight angle, fired a left-footed shot, extending the red-and-black's lead.
The first half was limited to these three plays. Americano barely showed up, only having chances from free kicks, with Leandro Matera and Pirão. These two opportunities, however, posed no threat to the red-and-black goal.
Flamengo came out of the break at breakneck speed, looking like they would easily win. Just five minutes in, Maxi missed an incredible chance, finishing off a play that originated from a triangulation between the Argentine, Egídio, and Jônatas.
In the 24th minute, the game, which seemed decided for Flamengo, became more exciting due to a ridiculous mistake by Jaílton. Jessé was out-muscling several Flamengo players, but let the ball slip away. Jaílton, however, clumsily kicked the ball against Jessé's foot, and it ended up in Bruno's net.
Renato Augusto, who had not played since Flamengo's season opener (against Boavista) due to a fractured facial bone, replaced the clumsy Jaílton in the 30th minute.
Two minutes after his introduction, Renato Augusto made his mark. With a perfect free kick, the attacking midfielder put the ball on the head of Thiago Sales, who made no mistake: Flamengo 3-1. With the goal, Thiago became the second-highest scorer for Flamengo in the State Championship, with three goals.
Scoring goals is nothing new for Thiago Sales
Defender scored twice in Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano\ LANCEPRESS!\
Defender Thiago Sales, who scored twice in Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano, asserted that finding the back of the net isn't uncommon in his career. As a professional, the 20-year-old has four goals in eight matches.
- I always stood out in the youth divisions, always scoring a lot of goals - assured the defender, who in his last title won in the youth divisions of Fla - the Octávio Pinto Guimarães Tournament, in 2007 -, scored one of the goals in the 5-0 victory over Fluminense, in the first game of the final.
When asked if he could be an alternative to the red-black attack in Libertadores games - the team only scored two goals in three games, Thiago Sales dodged the question.
- No, my priority is back there. I'll be able to perform on set pieces, just like I did today (Sunday) - he concluded.
Strong sun punishes players at Maracanã
Midfielder Jônatas was one of those who felt the effects of the heat the most\ LANCEPRESS!\
The intense heat in Rio de Janeiro punished Flamengo and Americano players this Sunday at Maracanã. Despite the 3-1 victory over the Campos team, midfielder Jônatas felt the effects of the sun.
- The heat is intense and it really bothers you - said the number 5.
The temperature at Maracanã was around 35ºC.
Joel is satisfied with the tests he did
Coach put Leonardo, Jônatas, Gavilán and Maxi on the field against Americano\ LANCEPRESS!\
Joel Santana assessed the inclusion of Leonardo, Jônatas, Gavilán, and Maxi in the starting lineup in the 3-1 victory over Americano as positive. Against Mesquita, he will be without Jônatas, who received his third yellow card, but Obina returns from suspension.
radio l! – Gavilán didn't expose himself and performed well in his own half of the field. Jônatas played more freely, in his preferred position, where he needs movement, but he's not yet in peak physical shape. Maxi had a good game, creating spaces for the win. He's smart: he saw the ball wasn't lost and scored. And Leonardo (defender) is getting into rhythm," he explained. (Click and hear more)
With mixed teams on the field in the State Championship, Flamengo won two games (against Resende and Americano) and lost to Fluminense.
Joel: 'Toró is a very polite and kind lady'
Coach guarantees that midfielder is forgiven for expulsion against Nacional\ LANCEPRESS!\
After Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Americano, coach Joel Santana showed concern in praising a player: Toró, who was heavily criticized for his childish expulsion in the game against Nacional, in which he pushed one of the ball boys.
That (the sending-off against Nacional-URU) is over. He's already paid for what he did. Toró is a real lady and very respectable. We don't want to dwell on this any longer, because it's already the last straw," Joel joked.
Joel, who considers Toró to be the barometer of his team, highlighted the player's importance, ensuring that he will not lose his place in the group.
– Toró never turns off. He's the team's worker, the one who carries the piano for the others to play.