The Globe
Joel: 'This is a strategic game, to make few mistakes'
Márcio Tavares
A Friday of surprises and obvious confirmations in Gávea. The obvious came with the official announcement that tickets for the match against Santos are only available to scalpers: the 81.844 are sold out. The surprise came from coach Joel Santana, who, in a more than expected diversion, changed part of the starting lineup that started yesterday afternoon's training session. All this, admittedly, to avoid giving Vanderlei Luxemburgo any clues about how Flamengo will play tomorrow.
"I know which team will play... Anyone can draw their own conclusions. Vanderlei said back in Santos that he wouldn't say much so as not to give any clues. Why would I make things easier for him? They'll solve their problem with one point. We'll have a 70%, 80% chance of qualifying for the Libertadores with a win."
Of Joel's changes (Rodrigo Arroz replacing Thiago Sales, Roger replacing Jailton, and Maxi replacing Toró), with Renato Augusto in midfield, only the former is expected to start tomorrow. In the second half of training, Joel reassembled the team that had been playing, keeping Rodrigo Arroz in defense.
"This is a strategic game, so you don't make mistakes. And if you do, I have the right pieces to fix it," Joel said.
While fans were euphoric in Gávea and everyone was excited about the lineup, the board's focus was on the Superior Court of Sports Justice. The Superior Court of Justice (STJD) was ruling against Flamengo over a beer can and a mortar thrown at the refereeing team during halftime of the match against Grêmio.
Punished with the loss of home-field privileges and a R$10 fine, lawyer Michel Assef Filho will attempt to obtain a stay of execution from the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) president, allowing the club to serve its sentence in the 2008 Brazilian Championship. If the appeal is denied, the team will be without its main ally in the match against Atlético-PR on the 25th, as it will have to play at the Maracanã stadium behind closed doors. The problem is that by late Thursday afternoon, around four thousand tickets had been sold. And who has already bought them?
"You can go to court and demand your rights," said Kleber Leite, vice president of football. "There's going to be a flood of lawsuits. At home, there are two certain ones."
'Maracanã is magical'
Vanderlei talks about his respect for the stadium, for Fla, praises Joel, but bets on Santos
Coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, from Santos: "The fans' screams at Maracanã are impressive and intimidating"
Antonio Maria Filho
When it comes to Flamengo, the magic of Maracanã becomes stronger and more absolute. The fans' roar is impressive and intimidating. The pressure becomes total. Those who aren't psychologically prepared suffer and can succumb. Vanderlei Luxemburgo, born and raised in Gávea, knows this perfectly. Over the phone, the coach stated that, throughout the week, he spoke extensively with his players, showing them how Santos will need to behave to avoid being intimidated by the strength of the red-and-black number 12 (the fans). And he's confident that his team has enough virtues to overcome all obstacles tomorrow.
MARACANÃ: "The Maracanã is indeed magical. A big Flamengo game day is impressive. The arrival at the stadium, with the streets packed with people and the traffic at a standstill. The celebration in the stands, when the fans sing their chants, is also impressive; as is the spectacle the teams put on on the field, in a big game like this Flamengo-Santos match. All of this is memorable for the fans, for the players, and even for the people selling popsicles. I've experienced great moments at the Maracanã and could list a number of them, as a Flamengo player, as a coach, and even when I went there as a fan."
PREPARATION: "I've been talking to my players about everything they'll face and how to react. They're used to facing all kinds of pressure. Today's football is different, and more experienced teams don't flinch under pressure. But it's important to talk to them and listen to what they have to say. The important thing is to show what we intend from the start. When the ball rolls, we have to forget all the celebrations and play with determination. Only then can we get a good result."
SHIRT #12: "I know the Flamengo fans perfectly. I grew up a Flamengo fan and was practically raised there. The fans' roar is important for any team, and the enthusiasm of the red-and-black crowd is impressive. But at the same time, the fans are relentless, especially the Flamengo fans. If they applaud, they also know how to demand it. The fans can unbalance the game if everything goes right. Otherwise, if the opposing team threatens more and shows itself to be better, the ones who end up suffering are the Flamengo team itself."
SANTOS: "Our team is experienced, and I have complete confidence in our potential. Of course, there are young players. But their youthfulness doesn't worry me. Our defender Marcelo is one of those who have emerged recently: he has shown efficiency, personality, and plays like a veteran. I consider Santos a mature and experienced team. Our goalkeeper is Fábio Costa, who is used to big games, as are Maldonado, Rodrigo Souto, Pedrinho, and Kléber Pereira, among others."
STUMBLINGS: "I admit we had a few setbacks in the Brazilian Championship, and because of them, we're not in a position to fight for the title today. Just look: we lost to América de Natal (3-2) playing at home, in front of our fans. And the same thing happened against Náutico (2-1), also at Vila Belmiro. Then, we beat those teams when we played them on their home field. Another result that couldn't have happened was the loss to Goiás. We missed those nine points. Another thing that ended up benefiting São Paulo was its premature elimination from the Copa Libertadores. We're still in the Copa Libertadores, and other teams have been worn out because of the Copa do Brasil. It may not seem like it, but these things do have an impact."
FLAMENGO: "Your team may not be made up of big stars, but it's spot-on. Everyone knows how to play and takes the field aware of what they need to achieve. The new reality of Brazilian football causes this: a player with good potential emerges and, in a short time, ends up transferring abroad. Flamengo isn't the only one suffering. The purchasing power of Europeans is significant. Unlike in the past, players leave very early and aren't signed only by big, traditional clubs. Therefore, we have to work seriously, know how to plan and meet all the established goals."
JOEL SANTANA: "For me, he's one of the greatest coaches in Brazilian football, and it's undeniable that Flamengo has taken off since Joel took over. I even consider him unfairly treated, as many people don't consider that he's won state titles with all the major clubs in Rio. That's undeniable. His critics prefer to talk about the clipboard he uses to jot down his observations. Everyone works the way they think is best. I have the greatest admiration for Joel Santana."
FIFTH CHAMPIONSHIP: "This is not my business and this discussion is going nowhere. My business is winning titles while the ball is rolling."
Ancelmo Gois Column
Fla wins ISL
Remember that ISL, the Swiss company that sponsored Flamengo with rivers of dollars and then went bankrupt?
Flamengo has just won a lawsuit in Switzerland against the administrators of the bankrupt company's estate, who were demanding a refund. The case was won by the Bastos-Tigre law firm.
Fla on the net
Since everyone complains about the discomfort in line, Flamengo did a test and put tickets for this Sunday's Fla x Santos game at Maracanã on sale online.
Of the 81 thousand sold, only 288 were purchased by the network.
Ronaldo's scooter
Ronaldo, in Milan, cultivates two hobbies: riding a scooter and singing the new chant of the Flamengo fans, his favorite team: "You are a team of tradition/With race, love and passion/Oh my Mengô...".
In fact, the star still dreams of playing for Flamengo and is looking for someone to help him make his dream come true.
Sports Journal
Joel makes changes in collective
Joel does not reveal the team that will face Santos on Sunday
Flamengo coach Joel Santana surprised everyone during Friday's training session, the last before Sunday's match against Santos at Maracanã. The coach made three changes to the team.
In defense, Thiago Sales, who hasn't performed well in recent matches, is expected to be replaced by Rodrigo Arroz. Midfielder Roger was given another chance in midfield in place of Jaílton, and Toró was replaced by Maxi Biancuchi. The Argentine trained alongside striker Souza, and Renato Augusto played in midfield.
Flamengo began activities this Friday with: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Arroz, Juan; Cristian, Ibson, Roger and Renato Augusto; Maxi and Souza.
“We have options, even you may have been surprised, but I put two different teams and both options trained very well,” Joel Santana told Rádio Tupi.
The Flamengo manager prefers not to publicize the red-black team, as Santos coach Luxemburgo uses this tactic.
"Of course, we already know what we're going to do. We have options; many players have trained well. It depends on how he returns from there to decide what we'll do here," he stated.
In good form, Toró should be a starter
Virtually confirmed as a starter, midfielder Toró is enjoying a good run at Gávea. In yesterday's training session, he participated in the second half of the training session in place of Maxi and played much more than the Argentine. Criticized at the beginning of the year, the young midfielder attributed his improved performance to coach Joel Santana.
"We were in a very bad situation, and with Joel Santana's arrival, we improved a lot. He was very important to me, especially because when he arrived, I was kind of lacking prestige, and he talked to me and gave me a chance, not to mention putting me in a position I like more," said Toró, who commented on the record broken by the red-and-black fans, who sold out all the tickets for the game against Santos.
"The fans have already bought everything. We'll respond to the affection they're giving us," he said.
Toró Clothing
After yesterday's training session, some fans were asking for autographs from the players as they left Gávea Stadium. And as Toró, the supporter, was leaving, midfielder Ibson saw the white shorts Toró was wearing and started shouting:
“Toró looks like he has a cast on his leg, tomorrow they’ll put in the newspapers that he had to be in a cast,” joked Ibson.
Souza overcomes tendon pain
Souza had a long-standing Achilles tendon problem, but recovered
After missing the entire week due to an Achilles tendon injury in his right leg, striker Souza returned to training with the group yesterday. He showed excellent movement and was rewarded with a beautiful goal, dribbling past goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba and finishing with class. This ensured his place in the starting lineup for tomorrow.
"I've been doing physical therapy all week, and even though I'm still in pain, I'll play. At this point, all the sacrifices are worth it, because it's the game of the year. I played when the team was in the relegation zone and withstood the pressure. I wouldn't want to be out at the best of times, when we're close to achieving a feat that was unimaginable just a few months ago," said Souza, who admitted he doesn't have a preference for his attacking partner, whether Renato Augusto or Maxi.
“Maxi is fast and Renato is stronger, but they are very high-quality players and whoever comes in will help us a lot.”
FlaZine will be launched
Gease-FLA, the Special Group for Joy and Safety in Stadiums, will launch a communication vehicle for Brazil's largest fan base during the Flamengo-Santos match. The magazine will be distributed free of charge at Maracanã and will feature eight color pages with information on fan services. An electronic version will also be available on the website: www.gease-fla.com.br.
Rodrigo is the red-black party rice
Coach Joel Santana declined to confirm the lineup that will face Santos tomorrow at 18:10 p.m. at Maracanã in the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship, but the duel between defenders Thiago Sales and Rodrigo Arroz appears to be decided. In yesterday's training session, Arroz participated in the entire training session among the starters and is unlikely to not start the match.
Accustomed to playing decisive games, Rodrigo wants to prove that he doesn't back down in big matches.
Just like in last year's Copa do Brasil final, when he came on and played a good game, Arroz returns to the field to take part in another celebration.
Coach Joel Santana explained that despite not being left-footed, the young player has the ability to play as both a central defender and a fourth defender.
"It's a matter of choice. Rodrigo Arroz has played in that role three times, and we won all three, including against Corinthians, where he performed very well," said Joel Santana.
Angelim returns to training\ Defender Ronaldo Angelim has been cleared by the club's medical department and has now returned to training.\
The player, who had felt very unwell in the match against Corinthians, when he was substituted in the first half, was in Gávea yesterday, spoke with the group and worked on his physical condition in the club's gym.
Club doctor Serafim Borges explained the situation.
"Ronaldo Angelim is cleared. He can work normally. He had complained of a cardiovascular problem, but the tests showed nothing," he said.
Cauldron ready to fry the fish
Fans break another attendance record in the Brazilian Championship and Joel promises to attack to catch Santos
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Another proof of love in red and black. The fanatical Nação Rubro-Negra once again breaks the Championship attendance record.
Brazilian. A crowd of 81.844 will pack the Maracanã stadium and endure all their heat, ensuring Santos is thrashed on the field. Joel's men will be very close to the coveted spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores.
Because of this, anything goes to secure a historic victory. With this in mind, coach Joel maintains an air of mystery at Gávea, but the question that lingered over the team's tactical formation to face Santos tomorrow at Maracanã is beginning to be resolved. In yesterday's training session, the coach began with a midfield with two defenders (Roger and Renato Augusto), the same formation he used to finish Thursday's. Once again, Joel left the field thrilled with what he saw, as the starters thrashed the reserves 4-0, and Renato Augusto put in a stellar performance.
The midfielder scored three goals, two in the first half of training, when he played in midfield, and one in the second, when Joel Santana used the same formation he'd been using in recent games and moved the young player up front. Souza completed the rout. Joel tried to deflect the attack, but the team expected to take the field is the more offensive one.
"A draw isn't good for us. Let's attack," said Joel, who praised Renato's performance in the training session. "Renato Augusto scored a goal playing both up front and in the middle. He trained very well today (yesterday)," he stated.
Joel did not confirm the selection of Roger in place of Jaílton nor the presence of Arroz, who trained yesterday as a starter and seems to have won the place in place of the vetoed Angelim.
But it seems the team is determined.
"We have two options, one to start with and one to use during the game. I already know what I'm going to do, but I'll use this strategy. Luxembourg won't give me anything beforehand," said Joel.
A hard blow for the Nation
Flamengo loses home field advantage and may have to return tickets sold for the match against Atlético-PR.
Thiago Bokel
Fans have been present at Flamengo's games in the Brazilian Championship for a long time, but they may miss out on the club's last game in the competition.
Tomorrow's game against Santos could be Flamengo's last at Maracanã. The Superior Court of Sports Justice yesterday punished the club by forfeiting home-field privileges for one game and fined R$10. Since the team would only play in Rio once after this match, against Atlético-PR, it's highly likely they won't play in the state again this year. This is a blow to fans, who sold out the 81.844 tickets that went on sale yesterday for the match against Santos.
The biggest problem in this whole situation is that tickets for the game against Atlético-PR were already being sold. In total, 32.730 were earmarked for Nestlé's promotion, which has already been paid for. In addition, 4 had already been sold. As a result, the Rubro-Negro will have to reimburse fans who already purchased their tickets. However, there is still hope.
"Flamengo is very saddened by this decision. The club can't possibly put a babysitter in the care of each of the 80 fans who attend the stadium. We ask that the fans understand what this means so it doesn't happen again. We will appeal this punishment and request a stay of execution on Monday. The funny thing is that on Thursday we were unanimously acquitted under the same article," said the club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho.
Fan is also punished
And the biggest victim of this whole affair was the very fan who had been attending and playing his part at every game at the Maracanã. Besides holding the attendance record, Flamengo has nine of the ten highest attendances in this Brazilian Championship. Michel Assef still hopes the nation will pay for the mistake of just one fan.
"Unfortunately, I'm not the one making that decision. I'll show our evidence. I hope the president of the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) understands the situation and delivers justice. It depends on when he receives the appeal, and I hope it's before the holiday," he said.
The only good news from the court was that Argentine midfielder Hugo Colace, sent off in the derby against Vasco on October 18, was given a one-game suspension, which has already been served. He is therefore free to play the rest of the championship, if coach Joel Santana so wishes.
With a real chance of securing a place in the Libertadores, which was only possible thanks to the excellent red-black campaign playing at home, the imminent loss of home advantage in the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship was a hard and unexpected blow for a team that had been making the games at Maracanã a true spectacle.
Mozer: 'Flamengo's campaign was very difficult'
Flamengo defender Mozer played for the club in the 80s, when the red-and-black team won numerous titles. The former player, who now coaches Interclube in Angola, praised Flamengo's strong performance in the Brazilian Championship.
"Flamengo's campaign was very difficult. They had a difficult period in the relegation zone, but today they are in an excellent position," Mozer told Rádio Brasil.
Mozer believes that with unity between the fans and the Rubro-Negro team, Flamengo will be able to beat Santos, on Sunday, at 18:10 pm, at Maracanã, in the 36th round of the Brasileirão.
"This is the result of work and unity between the fans and the team. There needs to be a connection between the fans and the team for the celebration to be complete," he said.
Emperor Julius Caesar visits Gávea
Former player Júlio Cesar Imperador—Brazilian champion in 1992 with Flamengo—visited Gávea this Thursday. He came to Rio to seek partnerships for Anapolina from Anápolis, in the Goiás First Division, where he currently serves as football manager.
Julio Cesar worked with football manager Isaias Tinoco in the 1993 season.
Flamengo x Vasco is the attraction of the next stage of the State Championship
Six matches were played in the final round of the State Futsal Championship. The only match for one of the four spots in the next round was between Canto do Rio and CSSE. The Niterói team prevailed, finishing fourth in Group A. The round also confirmed the Vasco derby against Flamengo in the quarterfinals, with the first match taking place on Thursday in Vassouras.
The new phase begins with América and Petrópolis, on Wednesday.
Canto do Rio ignored the Army Club's difficulties and won 8-4, with goals from Chumbinho (2), Catatau (2), Marquinho (2), Leleco and Guilherme. The team opened up a 6-0 lead, and when CSSE attempted a comeback, it was too late. The Army team was discouraged after losing points in the game against Teresópolis, when they were late and lost by a loss.
"Their team started well, but we were patient and scored two goals in the first half. In the second half, we opened up a good lead, which they were unable to threaten," said Celso, Canto do Rio's coach.
Flamengo went to Cabo Frio and beat Drogaria, 8-4. The red-black goals were scored by Charles, Élcio (2), Marcelinho, Gabriel (2) and Antony. For Drogaria: Rafael, Anderson (2) and Douglas.
"We opened up a good lead in the first half (4-1), and managed the result for the rest of the match. The court is small, which didn't help our performance much," said Cid Escarlate, Flamengo's coach.
Vasco managed to end Petrópolis' unbeaten streak, winning 4-3. Teresópolis defeated bottom-placed Montanha 11-1. Cabo Frio beat Piedade 4-0 at home. And Macaé beat América 5-2.
O Dia
Fla: Joel pulls his ace out of his sleeve
Renato Augusto is the coach's weapon to surprise and beat Vanderlei's Santos
Martha Esteves
Rio - It's clear that Renato Augusto is coach Joel Santana's man to surprise Vanderlei Luxemburgo tomorrow against Santos. At yesterday's training session, it was clear that Joel wants to give his rival a hard time.
The midfielder put on a show at Gávea. In the first half of the training session, he played in midfield, assisting Maxi and Souza, and scored two beautiful goals. In the second half, he moved up front. Souza scored the other goal in the victory over the reserves.
The coach made other changes to the Gávea team. In defense, Rodrigo Arroz trained in place of Thiago Sales, who was tested on Thursday. Roger was given a chance in midfield, replacing Jaílton, and Toró made way for Maxi Biancuchi up front.
All signs point to Renato Augusto starting up front alongside Souza. Joel is betting on an aggressive offensive team, but he doesn't want to give his rival any tips.
"I'm not here to give Vanderlei weapons. This match is decisive and will be played based on strategy. We have to win to achieve a 70%, 80% chance of qualifying for the Libertadores. At home, with the support of the fans, there's no other way to act than to win," he explains.
The coach was pleased to see Renato Augusto in both positions, praised everyone's efforts, and showed no signs of satisfaction. But he didn't reveal any clues about the team's final lineup.
ANGELIM IS FINE
The medical department has received all the results of Ronaldo Angelim's tests. None of them revealed any abnormalities in the athlete's heart, which caused him to experience palpitations. The defender is cleared to return to training.
"We ran a series of tests because the player complained of palpitations. We tried to look for any signs of inflammation, but the tests all came back normal," diagnosed Dr. Serafim Borges.
Due to ten days of inactivity, the defender is out of tomorrow's match against Santos. The central defense is expected to consist of captain Fábio Luciano and Rodrigo Arroz.
The important thing is to play
For Cristian, being a first or second midfielder doesn't matter. He really wants to get on the field and help the team secure victory tomorrow. Preferably by performing well. The player makes no secret of his focus on proving his worth and securing his stay at Flamengo next year.
Like most, Cristian knows the match against Santos will be very difficult and that a victory will shorten the path to the Copa Libertadores. For him, there's a kind of silent pact to strive for victory tomorrow night.
"If we beat Santos, the games against Atlético-PR and Náutico will be less pressured. The sooner we secure our spot in the Libertadores, the better."
He can already imagine the emotion he'll feel when the fans chant his name once again at the Maracanã. "It's impossible to explain. It's such a beautiful thing."
TEAM IS WITHOUT ITS 'STAR' AGAINST ATLÉTICO-PR
In the roar of the fans, who have set records in this Brazilian Championship, Flamengo found its strength. Tomorrow, more than 90 people will likely be at Maracanã, playing the role of 12th man. The 81.844 seats on sale were sold out, setting a record attendance for the tournament.
The club has set aside 12 free tickets for seniors, people with disabilities, and children up to 90 years old. Adding to the usual carpoolers, it's certain that more than XNUMX fans will be at the 'biggest in the world.'
But the Gávea team could lose its 12th player for the match against Atlético-PR. In yesterday's trial at the Superior Court of Sports Justice, the club was punished with the loss of home-field advantage for one game and a fine of R$10, due to two fans who threw a beer can and a mortar at the refereeing team during the halftime showdown of the match against Grêmio at Maracanã on the 21st.
If the result stands, the red-and-black team will have to face Atlético-PR on the 25th, behind closed doors, at Maracanã. The problem is that more than 36 tickets have already been sold for the game, which is part of a promotion by a food company.
But lawyer Michel Assef Filho announced yesterday that he will attempt a suspensive effect so that the club only serves the STJD's sentence in the 2008 Brazilian Championship.
"Flamengo can't be punished. No club can stop a fan from throwing something onto the field. Furthermore, it's Suderj's responsibility to sell drinks in the stadium," he complained.
Fla: Souza warns: he will play even if he is in pain
Martha Esteves
Rio - To beat Santos and bring joy to the more than 90 fans at Maracanã Stadium, and a 'nation' of nearly 35 million, Souza is capable of any sacrifice. Even playing with pain in the Achilles tendon in his right heel.
Yesterday, he still felt some discomfort in the area affected by inflammation, but he didn't bother. He asked the doctors for a vote of confidence and took the field. Even though he guarantees he'll play in the match, the striker will undergo physical therapy today and tomorrow.
"The important thing is to beat Santos and bring joy to the fans. A packed Maracanã is a good pain reliever. This is the time to make any sacrifice for the team, because the Santos game is like a final for us," Souza says.
The striker liked the team's attacking style in yesterday's training session. He believes this is the ideal strategy to suffocate Santos' defense. Valuing possession is another tip.
"Vanderlei is one of the best coaches in Brazil and can even devise a defensive strategy, but always exploiting counterattacks. And we must be vigilant so as not to be surprised," he warns.
Souza, who has been excelling after learning to move better on the field, also asks everyone to help him score. He believes that if the team shows fight and dedication, they'll have the support of the fans. If not... "The pressure shifts and starts to hurt us. But I'm certain that the red-and-black fans will always be with us," he concludes.
Sports Gazette
Joel hopes to repeat his good football against Peixe\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - This Sunday, Santos will face Santos in a head-to-head match for a spot in the next Copa Libertadores, as Santos is currently in second place, two spots ahead of the Rio de Janeiro team. Aware of the challenges ahead, coach Joel Santana hopes his players can replicate the fine form they demonstrated in some of their victories at Maracanã. "If we repeat our performances against São Paulo, Vasco, and Atlético-MG, we have a good chance of coming out victorious. The important thing is to keep fighting and running on the field, because then the results will come. And a win on Sunday will put us in a very comfortable position, as we would have decided our Libertadores spot at home against Atlético-PR," commented the Santos coach.
Flamengo concludes its training camp this Saturday afternoon, when Joel Santana leads a training session at Gávea. Flamengo has 55 points and is currently in fourth place in the Brazilian league.
Tribute - On the 15th, Flamengo will celebrate its 112th anniversary. To celebrate, the Rio de Janeiro City Council plans to honor the club with a ceremony next Tuesday evening. The initiative came from Patrícia Amorim, a Flamengo councilwoman and advisor, who was also a swimmer for the club.
Flamengo loses home field advantage due to objects thrown onto the pitch
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In a trial lasting more than two hours, the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) decided to punish Flamengo for the poor behavior of some of its fans in the match against Grêmio. This Friday, the Fourth Disciplinary Committee stripped the club of home-field privileges for one match and fined it R$10. The team from Gávea was tried for throwing a firecracker and a beer can at the refereeing team on October 21. On that occasion, Flamengo beat Grêmio 2-0 at Maracanã.
Because of this, Rubro-negro was reported under article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing and repressing disorders in its sports arena), which provides for a fine of up to R$200, in addition to the loss of home field advantage for a maximum of ten matches.
Due to the suspension, Flamengo will play Atlético Paranaense on November 25th without the support of their fans at Maracanã, a factor that, according to the players and coaching staff, has been crucial to the team's recovery in the Brazilian Championship. Against Santos, the Rio de Janeiro team will be able to play without restrictions.
Bets by Joel, Thiago Salles and Renato Augusto celebrate chance\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - For this Sunday's match against Santos at the Maracanã, coach Joel Santana will rely on two young players to maintain Falmington's chances of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores: defender Thiago Salles and midfielder Renato Augusto. For Thiago Salles, the opportunity is nothing new. Ronaldo Angelim is still awaiting the results of his tests, so the defender remains in the starting lineup. Despite his lack of experience, Thiago says he is ready for the match against Santos.
"Santos is a very good team and has a very experienced coach. It's no coincidence that they're in second place. But we have to impose our rhythm to seek victory," said the defender.
To help him in his mission to stop Santos' attack, Thiago Salles knows he can count on the strength of Flamengo's fans, who have already broken the ticket sales record for this Sunday's game.
"We know the fans are incredibly powerful. When we were in the relegation zone, they came out and supported us. We knew this would be no different. It's always great to play in front of a packed Maracanã, and a player has to be prepared for that," said Thiago, who recalled his debut to reinforce his opinion.
"When I moved up to the professional team this year, my debut was against Sport, and it was a record attendance for the championship at the time. I scored a goal and did well. I hope that can happen again," the defender added.
Midfielder Renato Augusto, who earned a spot in attack for the match against Santos, is relieved about his recovery. He spent a long time trying to overcome a series of injuries. Starting for the first time since becoming available, he admits to having suffered greatly during his time on the sidelines.
"It's easier on the field. It's much harder in the crowd. I suffered a lot watching the games at Maracanã. Now on the field, I hope to help the team achieve victories," commented the Flamengo midfielder.
Judged by the STJD, Colace can face Santos
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo and Vasco received good news from the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). In a quick trial held this Friday, Flamengo's Colace and Vasco's Marcelinho were granted playing time for the next round of the Brazilian Championship.\ Both athletes were sent off in the classic on October 18, when the Gigante da Colina was defeated by the team from Gávea 2-1. At the time, the referee for the game was Evandro Roman from Paraná.\
Marcelinho was charged under Article 250 of the CBJD (committing an unfair or inappropriate act) and was unanimously acquitted. This means he will be eligible to play against Figueirense this Sunday.
Colace, however, was in a more complicated situation. Charged under Article 254 of the CBJD (violent play), he could have been suspended for up to six matches. However, his case was downgraded to Article 250, where he received a one-match suspension. However, since he served an automatic suspension, the Argentine can be included in the squad for the direct clash against Santos.
PeléNet
Record attendance is the ideal scenario for Fla x Santos number 100
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
In addition to breaking the attendance record for the current edition of the Brazilian Championship (70.905 tickets were sold in advance until the end of the afternoon this Thursday), Flamengo and Santos will reach another historic milestone in Sunday's classic, at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), for the 36th round of the competition. It will be the 100th time that the two teams will face each other.
Flamengo fans celebrated victory over São Paulo with Zico's flag
Santos leads the statistics: 41 wins, 33 losses, and 25 draws, 159 goals scored and 136 conceded. In the last duel, Santos won comfortably 3-0 at Vila Belmiro on August 5th, with goals from Pedrinho, Marcos Aurélio, and Kléber.
This result put the Black and White team at the top of the all-time rankings in the Brazilian Championship. In 43 games, they recorded 16 wins, 15 losses, and 12 draws, with 49 goals scored and 43 conceded.
The two teams played in the final of the competition in 1983. On May 29 of that year, Rubro-Negro beat Peixe 3-0 and won the Brazilian championship for the third time, at Maracanã, packed with 155.523 fans, the largest crowd in the competition of all time.
Santos had won 2-1 at Morumbi Stadium and were looking for a draw, but Zico, Leandro, and Adílio scored for the Rio de Janeiro team, which played with Raul, Leandro, Marinho, Figueiredo, and Júnior; Vítor, Adílio, Élder, and Zico; Baltazar (Robertinho), and Júlio César (Ademar). Carlos Alberto Torres was the coach.
Santos played with Marolla, Toninho Oliveira, Joãozinho, Toninho Carlos and Gilberto; Toninho Silva (Serginho II), Paulo Isidoro and Pita; Camargo (Paulinho Batistote), Serginho and João Paulo, under the command of Formiga.
Santos won the first duel between the teams, in a friendly, on July 4, 1920: 6-0, at Vila Belmiro, goals by Castelhano (2), Ary (2), Haroldo and Constantino, from a penalty.
Fla is punished and will have to face Atlético-PR without its fans
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo suffered a setback this Friday. The Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) ruled that the Rubro-Negro would lose a home-field advantage (behind closed doors) and fined them R$10. The penalty will be served in the match on the 25th against Atlético-PR at Maracanã Stadium, in the 37th and penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship.
Despite the initial defeat, Flamengo's legal department has not yet given up. The club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, has announced that he will appeal the ruling.
"It's against Atlético-PR, but we're going to appeal the decision. We're going to request a stay of execution, and I'm sure the president of the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) will grant it. It's impossible for the club to prevent an object from being thrown onto the pitch, especially during a match with 70 fans," he said.
If Flamengo is indeed punished, the club will face another problem. This is because approximately 36.730 tickets from Nestlé's "Torcer Faz Bem" promotion for the match against Atlético-PR have already been sold in advance.
Flamengo's punishment came as a result of the match against Grêmio (a 2-0 victory for the red-black team) on October 21st at Maracanã, in the 32nd round. The referee of the match, Sálvio Spínola Fagundes Filho, noted in the report that a rocket was thrown onto the field, as well as a full beer can, aimed at assistant referee Carlos Augusto Nogueira Junior.
Flamengo vs Santos: tickets are sold out
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
All 81.844 tickets for the Flamengo-Santos match on Sunday at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time) at Maracanã, for the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship, are sold out. The last 10.939 tickets were sold this Friday. With this, the attendance record for this championship, which was held by São Paulo vs. América-RN (69.874), has already been completely surpassed.
Rubro-Negro has the best average attendance of fans as home team in the Brazilian Championship (34.195) and eight of the ten best attendances in the competition, including the game against Santos: Flamengo 2-0 Grêmio (63.189), Flamengo 2-1 Corinthians (62.026), Flamengo 0-2 Fluminense (61.042), Flamengo 1-0 São Paulo (59.098), Flamengo 1-1 Sport (51.552), Flamengo 1-0 Fluminense (49.828) and Flamengo 1-1 Vasco (49.495).
With 55 points, in fourth place, Flamengo is directly fighting for a place in the next Copa Libertadores da América with Santos (second, with 59), Cruzeiro (third, with 57), Palmeiras (fifth, with 55) and Grêmio (seventh, with 54).
Fluminense, in sixth place with 55 points, has already qualified for the Copa Libertadores. Fluminense secured their spot in June by winning the Copa do Brasil.
Flamengo warns that Ronaldo Angelim does not have a heart problem
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Ronaldo Angelim received some exciting news this Friday. Flamengo's medical department announced that the defender has no heart problems. Therefore, the player will return to training as usual next week.
"Everything was normal. We did all the tests and none of them showed any kind of irregularity," said the doctor Serafim Borges, during training, in Gávea.
Ronaldo Angelim felt unwell during Flamengo's 2-1 victory over Corinthians on October 31st at Maracanã Stadium, in the 34th round of the Brazilian Championship. In the following match, a 3-1 loss to Cruzeiro at Mineirão Stadium, the defender was ruled out and replaced by Thiago Sales.
For the match against Santos, this Sunday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, for the 36th round, coach Joel Santana has not yet decided who will be Fábio Luciano's partner: Thiago Sales or Rodrigo Arroz. The tendency is that the latter will be chosen.
BalloonSport
Cristian: 'If I score, I'll throw myself in the ditch'
Very happy, midfielder surrenders to Flamengo fans and calls them the best in the world
Eduardo Peixoto
Forty-five minutes into the second half, the ball is loose, and Cristian scores the winning goal for Flamengo against Santos. This is the player's dream for this Sunday's match at the Maracanã (watch Cristian's goal against Atlético-MG).
But if it becomes reality, the feat could cause him harm. The midfielder devises an unusual way to celebrate.
"Oh, I wanted to throw myself into the crowd. If I score, I'll definitely fall into the ditch at Maracanã. That would be awesome," he says.
Signed midway through this year, Cristian has won over coach Joel Santana and the fans. The feeling is mutual.
- There's nothing more beautiful than Flamengo's fans. They're the best in the world, without a doubt. I've never seen anything like it.
So far, the midfielder has scored once for the Red-Blacks. In the 1-0 victory over Atlético-MG at Maracanã. On that occasion, he ran toward the fans and cheered. But he didn't jump into the pit. Still...
Fla x Santos: tickets sold out
No one else can take the Rubro-Negro's attendance record in this Brasileirão: 81.844
Flamengo fans weren't satisfied with breaking the Brasileirão attendance record with 70.905 tickets sold on Thursday, and decided to immediately secure the record until the end of the competition. This Friday, the remaining tickets sold out, setting the mark of 81.844 tickets sold for the match against Santos, on Sunday at 18:10 p.m., for the 36th round of the Brasileirão. The former record holder, São Paulo, will have to settle for second place, as Morumbi Stadium's maximum capacity is 72 spectators.
Flamengo plays 'final' against Santos
In front of more than 81 thousand paying spectators at Maracanã, clubs fight for the dream of the Libertadores
On October 17, 76.567 people paid for tickets to see Ronaldinho, Kaká, and company play for Brazil at Maracanã. This Sunday, however, Ibson's Flamengo faces Santos at the same venue and has already secured the largest attendance in Brazilian football in 2007. The duel between the fourth- and second-place teams in the Brazilian Championship has already secured 81.844 tickets sold in advance. Adding those who paid, the estimate is that the match, which starts at 18:10 p.m., will attract over 90 people to the stadium.
And it couldn't be any different. After a run that took them from second-to-last place, the Rubro-Negro has a real chance of securing a spot in the Copa Libertadores. A victory over the São Paulo team is a fundamental part of this project.
"We'll be playing in front of our fans, our people. A draw would be very bad because it would force us to win our last two games (Atlético-PR and Náutico) anyway. A win gives us an 80% chance of reaching the Libertadores," says coach Joel Santana.
In his fourth stint at Gávea, he made his debut against Santos. And the result wasn't the best: a 3-0 defeat.
Luxemburgo and Joel are friends, but they are fighting a separate duel in this Sunday's game.
After 35 rounds, Flamengo has 55 points, four fewer than Santos. Vanderlei Luxemburgo's team is prepared to face intense pressure from Flamengo fans.
"Anyone who's afraid of playing in a packed Maracanã doesn't even need to continue their career. It's football's greatest stage," declares the black and white coach.
This stage guaranteed Flamengo the highest average attendance in this Brazilian Championship, with nearly 40 paying spectators. However, this Sunday's match could mark the end of the Flamengo celebrations. On Friday, the club was ordered to forfeit a home-field advantage due to incidents in the match against Grêmio. The board is still trying to appeal.
If the penalty is confirmed, Flamengo vs. Santos will have the largest attendance of this Brazilian Championship. This is "normal" for a matchup between the two teams. Of all the competition's editions, the record also belongs to a duel between the two: in 1983, Flamengo won the final at the Maracanã in front of 155.253 paying fans. But Santos has already prevailed in front of the Flamengo fans. In the 1997 Rio-São Paulo match, the São Paulo team drew 2-2 and silenced the stadium (watch the stories of both games in the videos below).
Chess game
For this Sunday's "championship final," Joel Santana worked hard on the team's collective side. His main bet is Renato Augusto. The player trained very well during the week and secured his return to the starting lineup. He will likely play in Maxi's place.
Although they tried a very attacking formation, with Roger and Maxi in the starting lineup, the tendency is for Flamengo to keep the midfield cautious, with Jaílton and Toró alongside Cristian and Ibson.
"We'll see. This is like a game of chess. You have to be patient. Let's see how Santos behaves," the coach declared.
In defense, Ronaldo Angelim was cleared by doctors of a suspected heart problem. Even so, he's unfit and out. Rodrigo Arroz is expected to start.
With three defensive midfielders, Peixe can confirm the spot
Despite mathematically securing a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores if they beat Flamengo and Palmeiras and Grêmio fail to win their matches, Santos will take to the Maracanã pitch with a cautious lineup. With Maldonado back from injury, Vanderlei Luxemburgo will field three defensive midfielders, with Rodrigo Souto and Adriano joining the Chilean, and only Pedrinho playing the playmaking role. Pet was ruled out. Accustomed to playing at Maracanã, the number 10, who came through the ranks at Vasco da Gama, recognizes his rival's strength at home.
"It's difficult to play against Flamengo when they're in a good phase, with the fans pushing them. Santos is experienced and can't be discouraged by any form of pressure. We hope to play well and leave the Libertadores with this title already," says Pedrinho.
Another new addition to the black and white team is the addition of Rodrigo Tabata to the attack, alongside Kléber Pereira. Marcos Aurélio is an option on the bench, as is Fábio Costa, who did not train this week due to back pain.
Fla loses home field advantage
STJD punishes the club, which will attempt a suspensive effect, to serve the sentence only in 2008
The actions of two Flamengo fans, who threw a beer can and a mortar at the refereeing team during the halftime break of the match against Grêmio at Maracanã on October 21st, cost the club dearly. In a trial that lasted more than two hours this Friday at the Superior Court of Sports Justice, the club was punished with the loss of home field advantage and a fine of R$10.
Lawyer Michel Assef Filho has already announced that he will attempt a suspension of the sentence so that the club only serves the sentence in the 2008 Brazilian Championship.
"Flamengo can't be punished. No club can stop a fan from throwing anything onto the field. Furthermore, Suderj is responsible for selling drinks at the stadium. We can't do anything if a can was thrown onto the field," he said in an interview with the website "justicadesportiva.com.br."
If the result stands, the red-and-black team will have to face Atlético-PR on the 25th, behind closed doors, at Maracanã. The problem is that by the end of Thursday afternoon, 36.730 tickets had already been sold for this match, part of a promotion by a food company.
For those who bought tickets for the game against Santos this Sunday, there is no problem, as the penalty is only valid for the penultimate round.
Fla remains silent about the loss of command
Kléber Leite says he will only touch on the subject after the match against Santos
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléber Leite says he only thinks about Santos
The Flamengo soccer leadership is only thinking about Santos. Not even the news that Flamengo was sentenced to the loss of home-field advantage in the match against Atlético-PR changed their minds.
Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, received information about the conviction while cycling on an exercise bike in Gávea.
"I'm only thinking about the match against Santos. This matter will only be discussed on Monday," he says, via press office.
The legal department will file a request for a stay of execution so that the sentence will only be served in 2008. For now, the more than 5 fans who purchased advance tickets are advised to wait. If the penalty cannot be transferred, Flamengo will reimburse those who had already secured seats for the game against Atlético-PR.
Renato Augusto puts on a show in training
Player starts as a supporter, moves to the middle and scores three goals in the activity
Eduardo Peixoto
On Thursday, Joel Santana declared that Renato Augusto had had the best training session under his command. The following day, the Flamengo player performed even better. In Friday's training session, he put on a show, scoring three goals, two of them beautiful.
Renato started the game in midfield, assisting Maxi and Souza. In less than ten minutes, he scored two stunning goals. In the second half, Joel brought him up front. Souza scored the third, and Renato Augusto once again provided the finishing touch for the team.
The tendency is for Joel to play him as a striker.
"Football is a matter of taste. I don't please everyone. He scored goals in both positions, and what matters is that he trained very well," declares the red-and-black commander.
Joel changes 'half the team' in collective
Coach surprises and tests offensive team with Renato Augusto, Roger, Maxi and Souza
Eduardo Peixoto
Renato Augusto trained well again this Friday, this time in midfield
Joel Santana surprised everyone in Friday's training session, the last before the match against Santos on Sunday. The Flamengo coach made three changes to the team that trained in recent days.
In defense, Rodrigo Arroz trained in Thiago Sales' place. Roger earned a spot in midfield in Jaílton's place, and Toró was replaced by Maxi Biancuchhi. The Argentine formed an attacking partnership with Souza, and Renato Augusto was moved to midfield. Once again in midfield, he scored a beautiful goal early in the session.
The attacking formation is new this week. In previous training sessions, Joel had left Maxi out to bring on Renato Augusto. The change is surprising because in Thursday's training session, the coach was highly complimentary of the team's performance. However, the defensive lineup Santos tested, with three defensive midfielders, may have changed the red-and-black manager's thinking.
Flamengo started training this Friday with: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Arroz, Juan; Cristian, Ibson, Roger and Renato Augusto; Maxi and Souza.
Throw
Published on 9/11/2007 at 19:07
Fla will have closed doors against Atlético-PR
STJD punishes the club due to incidents at Maracanã
The red-blacks will have to stay outside
The game in which Flamengo has already broken the attendance record for this Brasileirão—next Sunday at the Maracanã against Santos—could be the last opportunity for the red-and-blacks to push the team at home this year. The Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) ruled this Friday that Flamengo will have to play without fans against Atlético-PR on the 25th, also at the Maracanã.
Flamengo was judged because of a beer can thrown at an assistant referee and a mortar thrown onto the pitch, in the victory (2-0) over Grêmio, on October 21, at the Biggest in the World.
In addition to banning spectators from playing against Atlético-PR, the club was fined R$10. However, the club promises to appeal, as Friday's trial was held at the Fourth Disciplinary Committee of the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) - the first instance court.
Another problem is that the match against Furacão is part of a Nestlé promotion. As of Thursday afternoon, Flamengo had announced that more than 34 tickets had already been sold.
Tickets for Fla x Santos are sold out
More than 80 thousand fans will push the team towards Peixe
The Maraca will be packed
Flavio Trindade
Flamengo fans are constantly setting attendance records in this Brasileirão. The Flamengo fans sold out tickets for the match against Santos on Sunday at the Maracanã stadium this Friday.
At least 81.844 paying spectators will fill the Maracanã for a match in which three places in the 2008 Copa Libertadores are at stake.
With this attendance, Flamengo surpasses São Paulo's record and sets a mark that will no longer be achieved by the São Paulo team, since Morumbi has a maximum capacity of 72 fans.
The game will feature a special policing scheme, commanded by the Special Stadium Policing Group (Gepe). According to Gepe commander Major Marcelo Pessoa, the same personnel will be used as in the October 17th match between Brazil and Ecuador, which was part of the 2010 World Cup qualifiers.
Fans will also benefit from special transportation arrangements. Metro, Supervia, and Rio Ônibus have all committed to providing extra vehicles to ensure comfort and safety on the way to and from Maracanã.
In order not to compromise security, the possibility of adding an extra load of tickets, as had been mentioned last Thursday, was ruled out.
Adílio highlights Zico's performance in the 83 title
The midfielder scored the goal that sealed the 3-0 victory over Santos.
As the hundredth game between Flamengo and Santos approaches, which takes place this Sunday at Maracanã, Adílio remembers the 1983 Brazilian final. That year, Rubro-Negro won its third national title after beating Peixe 3-0.
Star player Adílio, who scored the last goal, recounted the game and highlighted the importance of Zico, who went into the match having already been negotiated with Udinese, in Italy:
"The early goal was important; it gave us peace of mind. And mine ended their chances. Santos threw themselves into attack, and if they'd scored, we'd have gone to extra time."
Adílio and Andrade recall the 1983 show
Fla beat Peixe 3-0 that year in front of 155.523 people
Adilio scored the goal that sealed the 3-0 victory over Santos in 83
Cassius Leitao\ Hugo Perruso\ Guilherme de Paula\
Now it's certain: Flamengo holds the attendance record for this Brazilian Championship. With 70.905 tickets sold for Sunday's match against Santos, the Red-Black team returns to the lead (overtaking São Paulo vs. América-RN, with 69.874). And the match against Santos is a perfect fit for that record.
The all-time attendance record for the Brazilian Championship is set by a match between Flamengo and Santos at the Maracanã. In the 1983 championship final, 155.523 people witnessed the Red-Blacks' 3-0 victory (goals by Zico, Leandro, and Adílio).
Despite a 2-1 defeat in the first leg of that final, the Flamengo fans remained undaunted and saw a spectacular performance from Flamengo. Adílio, one of the team's standout players, said he always remembers that day and praised the fans' attitude during the game:
- She encouraged us from start to finish. That day, there was no way any team could beat us.
Another player on the team, but who was unable to participate in the final, was Andrade, who was recovering from surgery and was in the stands.
"The fans were wonderful, and I could feel it up close. The goals are still vivid in my memory," he said.
For Sunday, only 10.939 tickets remain for the field seats (Flamengo increased the total number to 81.844). This Thursday, scalpers were already operating freely, selling tickets for double the price.
Fla x Santos has the largest audience of Brazilians
155.523 people watched the 1983 Grand Final
Diego Rodrigues RIO DE JANEIRO
This Sunday, Flamengo and Santos face off in a crucial Brazilian Championship match at the Maracanã: the 2008th between the teams, who are still fighting for a spot in the 55 Copa Libertadores. Flamengo is fourth in the competition with XNUMX points, four behind second-place Santos, and is motivated by breaking the Brasileirão's record for paying attendance. But this won't be the first time the teams from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo have faced off in a decisive match in Brazil's top competition.
On March 29, 1983, Flamengo and Santos, in front of 155.523 fans, the largest crowd in the competition to date, played one of the most exciting classics in the history of the confrontation. Flamengo, led by Zico, Adílio, Júnior and Co., defeated their rivals 3-0 and won their third national title and their second championship - in 1982 they beat Grêmio. The main player was Quintino's Galinho, who scored one and assisted another.
The celebration in the stands was contagious, and perhaps that's why Zico, picking up a rebound from Júnior's shot, scored 50 seconds into the match, to the delight of the Flamengo fans who were still arriving at Maraca. Then it was Galinho's turn, in the 39th minute of the first half, taking a free kick from the right, to put the ball on the head of right-back Leandro, who found Marolla's net. The result gave the Red-Blacks a sense of calm heading into the second half.
In the 44th minute of the second half, Adílio was in charge of giving the final numbers to the red-black rout by 3-0. With a header, he headed in a cross from the right and decreed Flamengo's third Brazilian title.
However, not everything was festive in the grand final. When Arnaldo César Coelho blew the final whistle, a general scuffle broke out between Santos players and some journalists on the pitch at the World's Biggest Stadium. Despite the scuffle, nothing stopped Flamengo from lifting another trophy.
Renato Augusto scores three times in a collective
Player appears fully recovered and will face Santos
Flamengo midfielder Renato Augusto was the standout performer during Friday's training session at Gávea. Playing partly in midfield and partly in attack, he scored all three goals in the training session, in which the starters defeated the reserves 3-0.
Coach Joel Santana made changes to the team, leaving some questions in the minds of those who watched the training session. In the first half, Joel fielded a more attacking formation, with Cristian, Ibson, Roger, and Renato Augusto in midfield and Souza and Maxi up front. With this formation, the starters took a 2-0 lead.
In the second half of practice, Joel took off Maxi and Roger, bringing on Jailton and Toró, and pushing Renato Augusto forward. The team retreated, and Toró missed several opportunities before Renato Augusto sealed the victory.
After practice, coach Joel Santana tried to mislead reporters when asked which formation he would field. For the coach, football is a matter of taste, and he's the one who decides who plays and who doesn't.
"Football is a matter of taste. It's the only sport that doesn't please everyone. I'll build the team my way, whatever I think is best. Renato played from the back and scored, and up front and scored," he stated.
Ronaldo Angelim is released by doctors
Defender expected to return to the team for the match against Atlético-PR
After missing Flamengo's match against Cruzeiro, defender Ronaldo Angelim trained normally this Friday, after undergoing a medical evaluation.
According to doctor Serafim Borges, Angelim underwent a rigorous series of tests, which revealed no problems. The suspicion of cardiac arrhythmia, which had been previously considered, was ruled out.
According to the doctor, next week the red-and-black squad will begin to undergo clinical medical examinations for the 2008 season. The players will undergo a series of tests that include cardiology, ergometry, ophthalmology and otorhinolaryngology, among others.
An attacking lineup in training
Joel selects Cristian, Ibson, Renato Augusto and Roger in midfield
Joel Santana surprised everyone when he fielded a starting lineup in training with Cristian, Ibson, Renato Augusto, and Roger forming the midfield and Souza and Maxi Biancucchi in attack. The attacking team delivered and within less than 20 minutes of training already had a two-goal lead over the reserves.
Joel soon returned to the original formation, taking out Roger and Maxi and putting in Jaílton and Toró, but it was up in the air whether that more offensive formation could be used in the game against Santos, on Sunday, but Joel Santana preferred to keep the mystery.
"We have a lot of options. Souza and Roger have coached well. There's no doubt that I already have the team in mind, but Vanderlei is a strategic and experienced coach. I need to know how he's doing so far so I can organize my team here," the coach told Rádio Tupi.
Fla will release DVD of its latest achievements
Fans will be able to remember the Copa do Brasil and State titles
Flamengo is producing a DVD about its 2006 Copa do Brasil and 2007 Carioca championship victories. The production company has already started recording testimonials from players, coaching staff and board members who participated in both campaigns in Gávea.
The intention is to launch it this year or in the first months of 2008.