THE GLOBE

Fla: patience with Obina \ Cuca preserves player to have him in good condition against Botafogo \ OBINA DOMINATES the ball during Flamengo training: the striker is being prepared to face Botafogo on Sunday \ One player is being given the utmost care at Gávea. It's striker Obina. The striker struggled a bit after failing to score in the first five games of the year. To protect him, coach Cuca is using a lot of conversation, patience, and training, aiming to see him calm and capable of making a difference in the match against Botafogo on Sunday. \ In addition to putting in a strong physical effort, Obina is being challenged in his finishing. Everything is done with great care and attention, ensuring that the striker makes his presence felt in the box and scores goals at the right time. \ Obina started the year in better physical shape than in the previous three years. He returned overweight, but much less so than in previous years. In training, he showed dedication. In games, however, despite his efforts, the goal still failed to come. All of this weighs heavily on the striker's mind. But there is some consolation. \ "Of course, a striker thrives on goals. I'm trying hard, helping my teammates, but I know mine hasn't come yet. As has happened a few times, in the decisive moment, when a title is at stake, I usually score. I hope this start of the year is no different. Flamengo is heading towards the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, and I want to make my mark," says Obina. \ While he struggles to recover Obina, Cuca is giving opportunities to other attackers, such as Josiel and Maxi, and is pleased with the performance of both players. \ "Josiel is always present in the box and has had good performances. When Maxi comes on, he adds pace to the attack and creates good chances. These are options that present themselves," says Cuca. \ Márcio Braga will undergo surgery on Monday \ Flamengo's retired president, Márcio Braga, underwent a catheterization yesterday to unblock his heart arteries. The Flamengo director will also undergo surgery for two coronary bypasses on Monday. \ Cardiologist Claudio Domênico is treating the president. Doctor Ricardo Miguel will be in charge of the surgery. Braga is doing well after the catheterization and will only be released on the 23rd. \ Flamengo managed to get a court to immediately suspend the sale of Flamengo-branded products from Fla Shopping Comércio de Artigos Esportivos and RM Representações Ltda. The stores had been selling club-branded products without paying royalties. \

Fla relaxes and only draws \ The team draws 2-2 with Boavista but still leads Group B. \ Photo caption: FÁBIO LUCIANO celebrates Flamengo's second goal. The captain had a reasonable performance in the draw with Boavista at Maracanã. \ Playing at training pace, Flamengo was held to a 2-2 draw yesterday against Boavista at the Maracanã, and no longer has a 100% record in the Campeonato Carioca. Flamengo reached 16 points and still leads Group B, four points ahead of Botafogo, who plays today. The two teams face off on Sunday in the final round of the Taça Guanabara. \ "We could have decided the game in the first half. We didn't take advantage of the opportunity and ended up being surprised. But at least we didn't lose," said Zé Roberto, who had a lackluster performance and, this time, didn't score a goal, as he had in his first two matches for Flamengo. \ With only four starters on the field—Bruno, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Zé Roberto—Flamengo started the game slowly, passing the ball around without much pretense. Even so, they could have opened the scoring in the 10th minute, when Jônatas played a one-two with Kleberson and passed to Josiel. The striker fired a first-time shot, scaring goalkeeper Vinícius. In the 16th minute, Everton Silva collected a rebound at the edge of the box and struck powerfully. Boavista's goalkeeper held on firmly, in the center of the goal. \ Cuca makes a bad move and the team's production drops. \ Without any effort, Flamengo imposed itself on the field, led by Jônatas, who dictated the pace of the game. In the 25th minute, the ball was lifted into the Boavista box and fell to Josiel. Alert, the striker struck first time and opened the scoring. It was Josiel's second goal in the Carioca Championship – starter Obina has yet to score. \ Excessively deep, Boavista only created any danger in the red-and-black box in the 32nd minute. Leandro Cruz went to the byline and crossed for Roberto Santos, who slotted into the six-yard box, with Bruno already beaten. Six minutes later, luck saved Flamengo. On a long ball, Toró got mixed up with Bruno, and Leandro Cruz tapped it in. The ball went just wide of the post. In the 42nd minute, Boavista equalized. Tony's shot deflected off Toró, and Bruno could only palm it away. Roberto Santos slotted the ball into the net from the rebound. Shortly thereafter, the referee ended the first half, and for the sixth consecutive time in the 2009 Carioca Championship, Flamengo went into halftime tied. \ Coach Cuca took off Douglas and Jônatas at halftime and brought on Aírton and Egídio. But Boavista came out with the most focus. Three minutes in, Tony lifted the ball into the red-and-black box, and Santiago headed it in, making it 2-1. \ A minute later, Bruno Moreno's free kick hit the crossbar. Flamengo recovered and equalized in the 13th minute, with Fábio Luciano heading in a free kick from Kleberson. Boavista tired and retreated. In the 32nd minute, in a confusing play in the team's penalty area, the ball fell to Kleberson, who fired a powerful shot that goalkeeper Vinícius made an excellent save. \ Although not very eager, Flamengo pressed in the final minutes. But they insisted on high balls, making things easier for Boavista. In the end, angered by the draw, a group of Flamengo fans cursed coach Cuca. \ Yellow cards: Douglas, Roberto Santos, Toro, Leandro Cruz, Fernando, Thiaguinho. Revenue: R$61.622. Paying attendance: 6.257. \

FLAMENGO \ BRUNO: Made some good saves. Not to blame for Boavista's goals. 6. \ DOUGLAS: Bureaucratic performance, he composed the defense without complicating, but also without standing out. 5. AÍRTON came on at halftime to help with the marking. 4. \ FÁBIO LUCIANO: He was getting tangled up in fast plays. He made a terrible mistake on Santiago's goal and then redeemed himself, scoring the second goal for the red-and-black team. 5. \ RONALDO ANGELIM: He also struggled with his opponent's counterattacks, taking balls to the back. 4. \ EVERTON SILVA: Had a good first half, supporting the attack. He dropped off along with the team. 4,5. \ TORÓ: It wasn't his night. He nearly gave away the gold medal with a move that scared the fans, kicked an opponent, deserving of a red card, and got in Bruno's way during Boavista's equalizer. And he also received an undeserved yellow card. 2. \ JÔNATAS: He led the team with good passes and constant movement through the middle. His departure brought Flamengo down. 7. EGÍDIO came in to find the plays on the left and, once again, was unable to do so. 3. \ KLEBERSON: He missed every shot he attempted. He had the virtue of never giving up, running the entire game. 5. \ EVERTON: Had space to attack, but was not objective, wasting several chances on the left. 4. PAULO SÉRGIO came on late. No rating. \ ZÉ ROBERTO: Distracted, he had a disappointing first half. In the second, he didn't improve. 4. \ JOSIEL: He was caught in most of the plays, but scored a goal opportunistically. Even so, he was booed on some plays. 6. \ CUCA: He wore a light shirt in the first half, changed it to a black one in the second and the team was unable to play well, irritating the fans. 4. \ GOOD VIEW \ In Júlio Marinho's modest team, the attack, led by Bruno Moreno and Leandro Cruz, performed well. The opportunistic Roberto Santos stood out. \ ARBITRATION \ Wagner Magalhães made two mistakes involving Toró. In the first half, he should have sent off Toró for foul play, and in the second, he unfairly showed him a yellow card. He ignored a clear penalty by Aírton in Flamengo's penalty area. \

SPORTS JOURNAL

Playing poorly, Flamengo draws with Boavista at Maraca and loses its 100% record

The red-black team came close to conceding the lead, but managed to equalize with a goal from Fábio Luciano.

Rodrigo Paradella - rparadella@jsports.com.br

Rio de Janeiro - Playing with a mixed team and playing uninspired football, Flamengo drew 2-2 with Boavista at Maracanã Stadium and missed the chance to maintain its 100% record in this sixth round of Group B of the Taça Guanabara. Flamengo opened the scoring through Josiel, but was eventually dominated and conceded the comeback to their opponent from the Lagos Region, who couldn't hold on to the victory and allowed Flamengo to equalize through Fábio Luciano.\ The draw doesn't change much in Flamengo's situation. With 16 points, the team remains undefeated in the Campeonato Carioca, but will only secure first place in Group B if they beat Botafogo, who have 12 points, in Sunday's derby or if the Alvinegro team is defeated by Friburguense this Thursday. For Boavista, the situation remains similar. In fifth place in the group, the Bacaxá team already had no ambitions at the start of the round, but at least they will have in their favor the fact that they achieved a good result away from home and avoided possible relegation.\ In the seventh and final round of this stage of the Guanabara Cup, the Gávea team will have the classic against Botafogo at Maracanã this Sunday, at 16 pm, which should decide who will have the right to face the second-placed team in group A. At the same time, Boavista faces Bangu, in Saquarema.\ Rubro-Negro takes the lead, but relaxes and concedes a draw in the first half\ In a lively but uneventful first half, Flamengo started the match better. The Gávea team's first real threat came from Kléberson's fine pass to Josiel in the ninth minute, but the striker's shot was a bit off target.\ Despite their slight technical superiority, Flamengo was slow to create any real danger. The delay, however, would be rewarded with Josiel's second goal of the Campeonato Carioca in the 24th minute. Zé Roberto crossed the ball into the Boavista box from the right; defender Santiago made a poor clearance, and Josiel capitalized on the rebound to fire home and open the scoring for Flamengo.\ Josiel scores to open the scoring for Fla\ With the lead, Flamengo showed signs that it wouldn't take long to build a more comfortable lead. A few minutes after the goal, full-back Everton Silva entered the box from the right and shot hard, but Vinicius made a good save in two attempts.\ However, despite the red-and-black goal, Boavista gradually showed that they were not to be trifled with at the Maracanã. In the 32nd minute, after a good low cross from Leandro Cruz from the left, striker Roberto Santos got ahead of the red-and-black defense, but only grazed the ball, which went straight toward the opposite sideline. Six minutes after Roberto's missed chance, Leandro Cruz almost capitalized on a mix-up between Toró and Bruno, but the Boavista midfielder's deflection was not enough to put the ball in the net.\ With a few missed chances, Bacaxá's team was already in the lead in the 41st minute, when Tony's shot was deflected by Toró, deceiving goalkeeper Bruno, who could only palm it away at Roberto Santos' feet. The striker out-raced Fábio Luciano and, with a sliding tackle, bulged the Maracanã net.\ Roberto Santos scores and ties the match \ Without some of its key players, Flamengo controlled the pace of the match in the first 30 minutes, but after opening the scoring, it ended up slowing down its play and giving space to Boavista, who took advantage to equalize the score before the end of the first half.\ Club from the Lagos Region manages to turn the score around, but can't hold on to the result\ Buoyed by their strong performance at the end of the first half, the Bacaxá team went all out against the Rubro-Negro. Within minutes of the match, Boavista's then-villain had his chance to become a hero. Just three minutes in, Tony lifted a free kick from the left and placed the ball on Santiago's head, who simply deflected it in to completely change the course of the match. From being the villain responsible for the defeat, Santiago became the hero of the potential comeback victory.\ The goal turned the match into a drama for Flamengo fans. Until midway through the first half, Flamengo played calmly, giving Boavista plenty of chances and opening the scoring with Josiel. After 30 minutes of the first half, however, the game began to be dominated by the team from the Lagos Region. Undaunted by their opponent, the Bacaxá team equalized, came from behind, and almost extended their lead two minutes after the goal, when Bruno Moreno, on a free kick in the halfway line, unleashed a rocket that exploded against the Flamengo goalkeeper's crossbar. \ Boavista's dominance increased as the Red-Blacks grew more desperate, but another set piece gave Flamengo their first breath of air in the second half. In the 13th minute, Kléberson sent a corner kick to Fábio Luciano, who headed it in to level the score again.\ After the goal, Urubu turned to pressure, while Boavista prepared to try to capitalize on the red-and-black's momentum with counterattacks. In the 26th minute, Fábio Luciano managed to delight the home crowd, but the goal was correctly disallowed by the match referee, who saw that the red-and-black captain's control was achieved with the help of his right arm.\ The team from the Lakes Region defended well, giving Urubu little space. The team tried to create good plays but struggled with predictability at times. In the 39th minute, Everton Silva crossed to Egídio, who failed to capitalize on the opportunity and headed the ball straight at Vinicius. The Rubro-Negro would still try to turn the match around, but their disorganized and unfocused pressure proved futile. \

Flamengo president to undergo heart surgery

Rio de Janeiro - According to Flamengo's press office, president Márcio Braga, who is on leave from the club for a month, underwent a catheterization today to unblock the arteries in his heart and next Monday, February 16, he will undergo surgery to place two or three bypasses.

Flamengo's "strong man" is being treated by cardiologist Claudio Domênico and will be operated on by surgeon Ricardo Miguel. The president is in good health and will remain hospitalized until Monday, the 23rd. Visits to Márcio Braga are prohibited.

A vote of confidence to the board

Part of the base that won the state championship last year remains at Fla in 2009

Marco Larosa and Pedro Ivo Almeida

Rio de Janeiro - A meeting last Monday night sealed the continuation of Flamengo's futsal project this season. Facing a severe financial crisis, the club has not yet guaranteed salaries for 2009, especially since it still owes money to the players who were part of last year's state championship squad. Even so, some of the squad that enjoyed its moments of glory in 2008 will remain at Gávea. \ Flamengo's futsal board acknowledged its debt to the players and promised to continue making every effort to fulfill the team's outstanding commitments. Of the six months in the second half of 2008, the squad didn't receive their salaries for five. This topic was on the agenda at Monday's meeting, and the players decided to give the club a vote of confidence in the club's futsal project. \ After the departure of athletes considered key players for coach Cid Escarlate's team, such as goalkeeper Breno, defender and captain Dudu, wingers Arthur, Silva, Michel Marques, Diego Panázio and pivot Sixel, a part of the group confirmed their interest in returning to defend Flamengo in 2009. Among them, goalkeeper Rafael Pazos, one of the heroes of the 2008 state title. \ "Given everything we've experienced and achieved here at Flamengo, and knowing we're dealing with serious people, we've decided to give the board this vote of confidence. We listened to their proposal, discussed what happened in 2008, and believe everything will be resolved in the best possible way," says Rafael. \ In addition to Rafael, centers Gabriel and Jaxwel are also expected to remain at Gávea. The same is true for forward Franklin. Defender Pedro, forward Saulo, and center Diego are others who have already confirmed they will stay with the Red-Blacks this year. \ Coach Cid Escarlate and futsal supervisor Tito are already working to sign athletes who can complete this group and try to maintain the high level of last season. \ "I believe the foundation we've left is very good, and we'll still have some reinforcements to try to make the group as strong, if not stronger, than last year. We know that Cid is already pursuing some names, and those who have been considered are all very high-quality and can help us have a year as good as last year," adds Rafael.\

THE DAY

Fla draws and loses 100% success rate

Janir Junior

Rio - The team was mixed, the football was cold, and this time there was no goal at the end to warm things up. With only four starters — Bruno, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Zé Roberto — the Flamengo drew 2-2 with Boavista this Wednesday at Maracanã. The team lost its 100% record in the State Championship, but remains top of Group B of the GB Cup with 16 points, four more than Botafogo, their opponent on Sunday, when Cuca will once again field a full-strength squad. \ With the ball in gameFlamengo tried to regain some organization, but suffered from a lack of coordination. In the 9th minute, Jônatas and Kléberson exchanged passes and the ball ended up with Josiel, who shot dangerously. The few Flamengo fans in the stadium cheered in the 24th minute. Everton Silva crossed from the right, defender Santiago headed back and gifted Josiel, who made it 1-0. With two goals In the State Championship, the striker begins to overshadow Obina, who has not scored in five games. \ Boavista threatened from the outset. Everton Silva had a good chance, but the team slowed down soon after. In the 38th minute, Bruno was given a scare after a touch from Toró. \ Boavista equalized in the 42nd minute. Toni shot from distance, the ball deflected off Toró and made it difficult for Bruno to save, who rebounded. Roberto Santos just pushed it in: 1-1. At halftime, Cuca changed shirts and also took off Douglas and Jônatas — one of the best on the field — bringing on Aírton and Egídio. team. \ In the third minute, Boavista turned the game around. After a free kick, Santiago, who had provided a gift for Josiel's goal, despite being marked by Fábio Luciano, headed in well: 2-1. Bruno Moreno then hit the crossbar with a free kick.\ As some fans booed Cuca, Kléberson took a free kick into the box, and Fábio Luciano headed it in to equalize: 2-2. The Red-Blacks surged forward in an attempt to win. In the 32nd minute, Kléberson shot from close range, but Vinícius made a great save. \ It was raining at Maracanã, and this time there was no late goal to warm up the result. Even with a mixed team, the fans were unforgiving, booing the players and even coach Cuca.\

Report issues warning for finances \ Rio - The pressure that Marcelinho Paraíba The effort to receive approximately R$800 in back wages is just the tip of the iceberg that Flamengo has been experiencing in 2009. Analyzing the Management Report produced by former finance vice president José Carlos Dias, it is possible to see some positive points, but certain warning signs are raising red flags in Gávea. \ The report states that caution is needed regarding the numerous civil and labor lawsuits. Regarding civil lawsuits, José Carlos Dias highlights the cases involving Consórcio Plaza, Segil, PSP, Petkovic, and Atlético de Madrid, which total R$50 million and require further discussion and negotiation. \ The debt of the Olympic sports quickly snowballed. In December, the debts, estimated at R$800, were increased by penalties for a contractual fine of R$1,62 million. \ To alleviate the financial suffocation, contracts with the sports equipment supplier and sponsor of the shirt, box office revenue, and the sale of player rights must be taken forward. If successful, R$28 million will need to be advanced for cash flow. \ José Carlos emphasizes that in the case of sports equipment, the goal is to obtain, starting in July, R$20 million/year (Olympikus). The problem is that the legal battle with Nike should not be concluded before December. \

Márcio Braga undergoes heart surgery

Rio - Flamengo president Márcio Braga underwent heart surgery this Wednesday morning. The director underwent a catheterization to unblock his heart arteries. According to the club's press office, his health is stable.

Next Monday, Márcio Braga will undergo another surgery. This time, however, it will be for a coronary bypass. Medical responsible for the procedures are: cardiologist Claudio Domenico and the surgeon Ricardo Miguel. The president of the club, who is on leave from his position, is not expected to be released until the 23rd.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Cuca on the classic against Botafogo: 'It's time for us to play a great game'

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)

Flamengo and Botafogo will face each other next Sunday in the final derby of the first phase of the Guanabara Cup. Flamengo coach Cuca says this is the perfect opportunity for his team to play convincing football.

"Against Botafogo, it's time for us to play a great game. We've played well so far, but it's time to improve," said Cuca, who expected a more convincing performance from the mixed team he fielded on Wednesday and only drew 2-2 with Boavista.

"We're always looking for a win. In any case, today (Wednesday), even with a team considered a reserve, we could have played better. Let this result serve as an example. Now it's time for the team to strengthen and go for the title," analyzed the red-black coach.

If Botafogo is defeated this Thursday by Friburguense, Flamengo will secure first place in Group B. However, Cuca guarantees that he will not hope for a slip-up from his former team.

"I'm not rooting against anyone. I'm just rooting for myself and my team to win the title," Cuca assured.

Flamengo's mixed team loses 100% against Boavista

Gazeta Press \ Rio de Janeiro - RJ) \

Coach Cuca's decision to rest several starters cost Flamengo a 100% record in Group A of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the Campeonato Carioca. Playing Wednesday night at the Maracanã, the mixed team drew 2-2 with Boavista in the penultimate round of the qualifying phase.

Already guaranteed a spot in the semifinals, Flamengo, whose goals came from Josiel and Fábio Luciano, reached 16 points. This could secure them first place in the group this Thursday if Botafogo, second with 12 points and also qualified, is defeated away by Friburguense. Roberto Santos and Santiago scored for Boavista, which has seven points.

Flamengo's start to the match was surprising. The team seemed more in sync than when playing with its starters. Just four minutes in, Flamengo showed its calling card. Éverton took a corner kick, and Ronaldo Angelim headed it, but goalkeeper Vinícius made a good save.

Zé Roberto and Josiel moved extensively up front, while Jônatas and Kléberson pressed against the attackers to create space, confusing Boavista's defense. A clear example of this occurred in the ninth minute, when Jônatas advanced through the middle, Zé Roberto pulled the defense, and Josiel received the ball in the box to shoot over the goal.

Boavista, on the other hand, struggled to create chances and overused individual plays, which were often neutralized by the red-and-black defense. So much so that the Saquarema team only threatened for the first time with a free kick in the 16th minute, when Leandro Cruz sent the ball wide.

Flamengo, more present in the attacking half, opened the scoring in the 24th minute. Everton Silva crossed from the right, Santiago mis-cut the ball back, and the ball fell to Josiel, who bulged the net with a powerful shot. Vinícius was helpless.

After the goal, Flamengo retreated, giving Boavista the field. The visiting team nearly equalized in the 39th minute, following a defensive lapse. Thiaguinho passed the ball to Leandro Cruz, but Toró tried to block it but missed. The striker managed to dislodge Bruno, but the ball capriciously grazed the post.

However, in the 42nd minute, Boavista finally equalized. Tony's shot from outside the box deflected off Toró, Bruno rebounded, and Roberto Santos capitalized to level the score.

The second half had barely begun when Boavista turned the score around in the second minute. Tony took a free kick from the left, and Santiago headed it back to deceive Bruno. With that, the defender redeemed himself for the mistake that led to Josiel's goal.

The move left Flamengo stunned, and the visitors narrowly avoided extending their lead two minutes later. Bruno Moreno's free kick hit the Flamengo crossbar.

Despite appearing to be outmatched on the field, Flamengo equalized in the 13th minute, following a set piece. Kléberson took a free kick from the left, and Fábio Luciano headed it into the back of the net.

Flamengo launched an attack, but largely based on aerial play, which was neutralized by Boavista's defense. The Saquarema team was dangerous on the counterattack, as in the 25th minute, when Roberto Santos challenged Bruno in the box and Everton Silva sent the ball out for a corner.

Flamengo narrowly avoided a comeback in the 32nd minute. After a corner kick, the ball bounced into the box for Ronaldo Angelim to fire home. Vinícius performed a miracle.

Seven minutes later, Everton Silva crossed and Paulo Sérgio headed the ball, but the goalkeeper saved. After that, Boavista managed to contain Flamengo's momentum and controlled the result until the end.

The two teams will play again next Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time). Flamengo will play the round's derby against Botafogo at Maracanã, while Boavista will host Bangu in Saquarema.

Márcio Braga undergoes catheterization and will undergo heart surgery

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)

Flamengo president Márcio Braga underwent a catheterization this Wednesday morning, a surgical procedure in which a catheter-like probe is inserted into a vein and guided to the heart to diagnose or correct arterial problems. The director will undergo further heart surgery on Monday.

Having been relieved of his duties, Márcio Braga is expected to remain hospitalized until February 23, Carnival Monday. The leader will receive two or three bypass grafts—a system of plastic tubes that facilitate blood flow through partially replaced veins or arteries.

According to Flamengo's official website, the general condition of the Flamengo leader is good and, during his hospitalization, visitors will be prohibited.

PELENET

Fla stumbles against Boavista, remains undefeated, but loses 100%

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Relaxed, with a mixed team and already qualified in advance for one of the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the Rio de Janeiro State Championship, Flamengo lost its 100% record in the competition after drawing 2-2 with Boavista this Wednesday at Maracanã, in the sixth round of the competition. However, the only hope for the red-and-blacks is maintaining their unbeaten run in the state championship. For the home team, Josiel and Fábio Luciano scored, one in each half, while Roberto Santos and Santiago, also in different halves, scored for the visitors.

After five matches and five wins, Flamengo remains the clear leader in Group B with 16 points. This Thursday, second-place Botafogo can close the gap to just one point between the two clubs with a win over Friburguense in Friburgo. Next Sunday, at 16 pm, at the Maracanã stadium, the team from Gávea will play the final round's derby against Botafogo. The match will determine the group's top spot.\ For Boavista, the result kept them in fourth place with seven points. The team's next match will be in Saquarema, also at 16 pm, against Bangu, who secured their first victory in the competition this Wednesday, beating Volta Redonda 2-0.\ "It was worth the effort. If we had been a little more calm and composed, we would have been able to win," said Zé Roberto, who did not have a good performance in this round.\ The game:\ The first half of the match was only less lukewarm due to the two goals, one for each team. Due to the red-and-blacks' obvious lack of cohesion, the team misplaced some easy passes in midfield, and the absence of a natural left-back forced most of the attacking plays to be made down the right wing. Despite these difficulties, Flamengo consistently took the initiative. Boavista was left to position themselves well defensively and use counterattacks in an attempt to surprise the home side.\ Despite its lively pace, the first half lacked many dangerous chances. While the Saquarema team sought its goal through a few aerial plays, Flamengo opted for long-range shots to break through the opponent's wall in front of their own box. Jônatas and Kleberson attempted these shots the most, but their aim was poor. Another problem for Cuca's men was the poor performance of Zé Roberto, who rarely played any role in creating plays.\ However, in the 24th minute, Josiel made his presence felt. After a cross from the right, defender Santiago jumped and hesitated, deflecting the ball right to where the center forward was positioned. He adjusted his body and beat goalkeeper Vinícius. From then on, mainly due to the fans' support, the Red-Blacks came out more involved. But this opened up spaces in the defense and allowed Boavista's counterattacks to become more frequent and dangerous.\ And the visitors' pressure paid off. In the 42nd minute, Leandro Cruz took a shot from outside the box; the ball deflected off Douglas, and goalkeeper Bruno managed to save it on reflex. On the rebound, almost unmarked, Roberto Santos slid in a sliding tackle to equalize. With Zé Roberto and Josiel still hidden on the field, the first half ended with Flamengo being booed by the fans.\ Zebra:\ Aware of his team's difficulties creating effective plays down the left flank, coach Cuca withdrew midfielder Jônatas and brought on specialist Egídio, as well as Aírton in Douglas's place. However, what was supposed to improve only got worse. Just three minutes in, after Tony took a free kick from Boavista's attacking left, defender Santiago headed home the equalizer. The curious thing about the play was that the player managed to score with his back to the opponent and under the marking of Fábio Luciano, who even grabbed him by the shirt.\ Flamengo fans' patience ran out when their rival hit Bruno's crossbar two minutes later. The most furious fans chanted for Cuca to return to Botafogo. With Josiel far more preoccupied with fixing his headband, Fábio Luciano came out of defense to settle the matter up front. In the 13th minute, Kleberson crossed from the left, and the defender, with a header, rose higher than Santigo to equalize. \ Flamengo's draw allowed the team from the Lagos Region to demonstrate that the result was satisfactory. The players began to reposition themselves in an attempt to catch the Flamengo defense off guard. Flamengo tried hard to secure the victory and nearly did so on two consecutive plays. In the 31st and 32nd minutes, goalkeeper Vinícius prevented the tiebreaker with plays by Everton Silva and Kleberson, respectively. But the match ended with the score tied and the Flamengo fans somewhat dissatisfied.\

Cuca says that even with reserves Fla could have played well

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo drew 2-2 with Boavista this Wednesday at Maracanã in the sixth round of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the Rio State Championship. Flamengo played with a mixed lineup because they're already qualified for the semifinals. Even so, the coach believes his team could have put in a strong performance.

"Even with a reserve team, my team could have played better. We'll talk internally to find out what happened. Sometimes it's good to get this kind of result. This Wednesday, we drew a game we could have. In the next few matches, we can't afford to perform poorly. We'll build strength and move towards the title," the coach assessed.\ Cuca believes his team started the game well, but after failing to score, they were forced to face a defensive defense. He recalled that by taking off Jônatas and bringing on Egídio at halftime, he wanted to improve the team's pace. However, Boavista's goal just three minutes into the second half changed the complexion of the match.\ "We didn't play a great game. We had better control, but we weren't fast. I tried to improve that in the second half with Egídio coming on. However, we conceded a goal early in the second half and they closed up," said Cuca, adding.\ "With Egídio coming on, we could have improved our speed, but after conceding the goal, they closed up. In that case, Jônatas' pass could have made the difference. However, these things can't be predicted," he concluded. \ Even after the draw against Boavista, Flamengo remains top of Group B of the Guanabara Cup with 16 points. Botafogo, in second place, has 12. The two teams face each other this Sunday at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium in the final round of the first round. \

Zé Roberto thinks Fla lacked composure to win

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo's 2-2 draw with Boavista this Wednesday at the Maracanã in the sixth round of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the Rio State Championship, was not well received by the Flamengo players. For midfielder Zé Roberto, his team lacked the composure to leave the field victorious. \ "In the first half, we could have killed the game, but we conceded the equalizer. In the second half, we conceded an early goal, and that hurt us. We didn't have the confidence to score and win," Zé Roberto assessed.\ Flamengo's squad was primarily made up of players seeking a starting spot. This is because the Red-Blacks have already qualified for the first-round semifinals. For the midfielder, coach Cuca made the right decision despite the draw at Maracanã.\ "Cuca is trying to implement his scheme and get to know the players better. We didn't play the way the fans expected, but we'll get it right. I'm sure of it," he said.\ Midfielder Toró, who started tonight's match, stated that regardless of which team takes the field, Flamengo must always play to win. The player noted that his team struggled because Boavista had been playing together longer. \ "They're a great team and have played together for a long time. When we wear the Flamengo shirt, we always need to win, but this team hasn't played together before," the midfielder assessed.\ Even after the draw against Boavista, Flamengo remains top of Group B of the Guanabara Cup with 16 points. Botafogo, in second place, has 12. The two teams face each other this Sunday at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium in the final round of the first round. \

GLOBOESPORTE

With seven reserves, Fla draws with Boavista and loses the first points

Rubro-negro even takes the lead, but can't maintain the advantage

Thiago Lavinas Rio de Janeiro

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In the final round of the Guanabara Cup, Flamengo will face Botafogo in a derby on Sunday at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium. Boavista will face Bangu at home on the same day and time.

Josiel opens the scoring

Flamengo took the field with a team made up of seven players considered reserves. With qualification for the semifinals assured, in addition to the absence of Juan, who was injured, and Ibson and Willians, who were suspended, Cuca decided to rest Leo Moura, Airton, Marcelinho Paraíba, and Obina. Of the starters, only goalkeeper Bruno, defenders Ronaldo Angelim and Fábio Luciano, and midfielder Zé Roberto were included. And at first, they seemed to be undeterred by the lack of chemistry. Jônatas was a good choice to finish from the edge of the box. Éverton was a good option on the right. And Josiel was giving Boavista's defenders a hard time.

Check out the standings and the complete table of the Campeonato Carioca

Kléberson twice nearly scored with shots from outside the box. Both attempts were saved by goalkeeper Vinícius. Flamengo opened the scoring in the 24th minute. After Éverton's cross into the box, defender Santiago headed the ball clear and gifted it to Josiel. The ball fell to the striker in the box, who unleashed a left-footed shot past the goalkeeper. A powerful shot, leaving Vinícius no chance. And he was sent into a hug. It was Josiel's second goal of the Campeonato Carioca.

Josiel celebrates his first goal at Maracanã

Boavista managed to get the ball around midfield, but struggled under heavy marking and couldn't advance. In the 38th minute, the red-and-black defense made a huge mistake. A massive breakdown ensued. After a pass to Leandro Cruz, Toró and Bruno joined the play, but remained hesitant and stared at each other. The Boavista midfielder arrived, and in the confusion, the ball ended up calmly heading toward the goal. Luckily, it went very close to the right corner.

The move galvanized Boavista, who began attacking more and equalized in the 42nd minute. Tony fired a low shot from outside the box, but the ball deflected off Toró. Bruno still managed a difficult save in the left corner, but it went wide. Roberto Santos appeared and tapped the ball into the goal to tie the game: 1-1.

After the goal, some fans in the blue seats began shouting at coach Cuca, demanding changes to the lineup. They wanted Vandinho to come on. Politely, the coach turned and asked for calm. And the first half ended in a draw.

Boavista turns things around at the start of the second half

Flamengo returned with two changes for the second half. Jônatas and Douglas left off, making way for Egídio and Aírton. But the team started the second half in a sluggish mood.

Boavista turned the game around in just three minutes. A free kick from the left. After the kick, defender Santiago, despite being marked by Fábio Luciano, headed the ball. The ball went into the right corner, but Bruno barely reacted to make a save: 2-1 Boavista.

Soon after, another scare for the red-and-black fans. Toró fouled him in the halfway line. Bruno Moreno unleashed a rocket, and the ball exploded against goalkeeper Bruno's crossbar.

On the sidelines, the superstitious Cuca, who once again swapped his gray jersey for black at halftime, tried to get the team's positioning right. But the team only calmed down after Fábio Luciano's equalizer, using the team's time-honored aerial play. After Kléberson's free kick from the left, the captain headed the ball into the corner past Vinícius, who couldn't reach the ball. The score was even: 2-2. It was Fábio Luciano's first goal of the season.

After the goal, Flamengo began to press. But it was not very effective. In the 26th minute, Fábio Luciano scored again. However, the goal was rightly disallowed by referee Wagner do Nascimento Magalhães because the defender handled the ball before shooting.

Boavista attempted a few counterattacks, but to no avail. In one of them, Leandro Cruz attempted a shot, but the ball went completely wide. Coach Julio Marinho grabbed his head and decided to take the midfielder off the field.

Flamengo's best chance to break the tie came in the 32nd minute. After a corner kick, the ball fell to Kléberson at the penalty spot, and he fired a powerful shot. Goalkeeper Vinícius fell to the right corner and saved.

Players lament stumble at Maraca

The team will now hope for a Botafogo slip-up to secure first place in Group B in advance.

Thiago Lavinas Rio de Janeiro

Kleberson fights for the ball with Boavista players

The red-black players lamented this Wednesday the 2-2 draw with Boavista, at Maracanã, in the sixth round of the Guanabara Cup. Josiel and Fábio Luciano scored the goals for the team, which has already qualified for the semifinals and entered the field with seven substitutes. With the result, Flamengo lost 100% of the competition's success. \ Toró, who had a lot of work to do at times during the match to combat Boavista's attack, lamented the team's lack of cohesion on the field. \ "Boavista has been playing together for a long time. I know Flamengo always has an obligation to win. But it's been a while since this team that took the field played. The important thing is that we've already qualified for the Guanabara Cup semifinals, and we have another game on Sunday (the derby against Botafogo)," he said. \ Captain Fábio Luciano, who scored Flamengo's equalizer in the second half, recalled that the team will now hope for a stumble from Botafogo to guarantee first place in Group B in advance. Alvinegro faces Friburguense away from home this Thursday and is four points behind Rubro-negro in the standings. \ - Let's wait for Botafogo's result and see what will happen - said the defender.\

Cuca: 'It was a calculated risk'

Coach admits team didn't play well, but defends observations from draw with Boavista this Wednesday

Thiago Lavinas Rio de Janeiro

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Cuca explained why he took Jônatas off at half-time despite the player having had a good first half. \ "He took advantage of the opportunity. It's a more complicated process. Jônatas hadn't played for a few months. When I made the switch, I thought we'd have more pace on the field. And I think we would have if we hadn't conceded a goal in the third minute. Because then the opponent closed in, and it became more difficult. Jônatas' passing started to be missed then. But I never could have imagined we'd concede a goal in the third minute." \

Cuca awaits Botafogo's result to decide the lineup for the classic

If he has first place guaranteed, the coach may rest some starters again.

Thiago Lavinas Rio de Janeiro

Cuca says he will not give up on seeking leadership in Group B of the Guanabara Cup

after the 2-2 draw with Boavista, in which he selected seven reserves, coach Cuca still doesn't know if he will rest some starters again in the last round of the Guanabara Cup. The coach will wait for the result of the match between Friburguense and Botafogo to decide. The two clubs face each other this Thursday, and the Red-Black team is hoping for a slip-up from their rival to secure first place in Group B in advance.

If Botafogo draws or wins, the coach will go at full strength for Sunday's derby, where Flamengo will need a draw to stay in first place. But if Botafogo loses, Cuca is likely to rest some starters again, as the lead will be assured.

"The Botafogo game could decide who will be placed first or second in the group," Cuca said. "We'll wait and see what happens."

One player, however, is already out of the derby. Regardless of the result, left-back Juan is still recovering from an injury and will be unfit to play.

With the goalless draw of Vasco, Group A is tight, and Americano has a chance of finishing first, with Time da Colina in second. Cuca is aware of this possibility, but assures that he won't give up the lead in Group B to avoid a potential classic in the semifinals.

- My schedule hasn't changed at all. But it does in the other group. We'll always want to be first. I'm not in favor of choosing opponents and all that. But it has changed there, yes. The classic may not happen on Saturday (between Vasco and Botafogo if Flamengo confirms first place). But on Ash Wednesday (between Vasco and Flamengo).

Flamengo strolls past São José and remains the undefeated leader of the NBB

Marcelinho scores 24 points and leads easy victory away from home

GLOBOESPORTE.COM Sao Jose dos Campos, SP

Baby takes a free throw against São José

Flamengo maintained its routine in the Novo Basquete Brasil this Wednesday: another away game, another victory. The team visited São José at the Lineu de Moura gymnasium and, with a strong fourth quarter, easily won 90-72. The Rio de Janeiro team remains atop the championship with four wins in four road games.

Brasília and Franca, the tournament's two other undefeated teams, did not play on Wednesday. Franca is off this round, and Brasília faces Araraquara on Thursday.\ Veteran Marcelinho returned to lead the team in São José dos Campos. He scored 24 points, hitting four shots from three-point range, and also grabbed eight rebounds. \ "We managed to maintain a strong defense, and this victory was important, away from home, against a good team. Tactically, the team performed very well; we marked well, worked the ball, and played intelligently," Marcelinho said immediately after the match.\

The fans packed the gym on Wednesday

Thiagão was São José's top scorer with 17, and Paulão grabbed nine rebounds. Di didn't play in the second half after leaving injured in the second quarter. Nevertheless, coach Régis Marrelli was pleased with the team's performance in the third quarter:

"We played very poorly in the first quarter. In the third, we overcame ourselves and ended up just two points behind them. We couldn't let them open up that much of a lead at the end, but it was a very strong technical game. It's a huge responsibility to play against the Brazilian champions."

On Friday, Flamengo concludes its NBB opening tour. The team travels to the interior of São Paulo to face Limeira, the current São Paulo state champion. On Wednesday, Limeira lost at home to Minas Gerais, 79-85. \ Check out this Wednesday's results in the NBB: \ Sao Jose 72 x 90 Flamengo \ Joinville 70 x 65 Vila Velha \ Limeira 79 x 85 Minas \ Assis 68 x 73 Paulistano \ Bauru 88 x 82 Pines \ Paving 77 x 80 Saldanha da Gama \ The round ends this Thursday, at 18:30 pm, with Araraquara x Brasília.\

Fla launches 'My red-black blood' campaign

Club launches video to encourage fans to donate blood in February

GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro

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Marcio Braga will undergo heart surgery next Monday

The president of the red-black group needs to have two or three bypasses

GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro

Marcio Braga is on leave from the presidency

Licensed from the position of president of FlamengoMarcio Braga underwent a catheterization this Wednesday to unblock his heart arteries. The club's director will undergo surgery for two or three bypasses next Monday. Meanwhile, Delair Dumbrosky continues to manage the club. \ Flamengo's press office reports that cardiologist Claudio Domênico is treating the president, and Dr. Ricardo Miguel will be responsible for the surgery next week. Braga is doing well after the catheterization and will only be released on January 23rd. Visitors are prohibited.\

Grêmio tries to avoid paying debt to Flamengo

The legal issue is in relation to the transaction of midfielder Rodrigo Mendes

Zero Hour Porto Alegre

Rodrigo Mendes landing for Grêmio

In the coming days, the legal vice president of Grêmio, Alberto Guerra, will try to prevent the club from having around R$7 million in TV fees and game revenues passed on to the Flamengo. Due to a debt from 2002, related to Rodrigo Mendes' transaction with the Rio de Janeiro club, the club lost an old appeal in court, and the process is already in the execution phase. \ Guerra, who took office just a month ago, may allege a defect in the Rio residents' request to avoid judicial execution.\

THROW

Meeting will define Marcelinho Paraíba's future

Fla did not meet the deadline to pay off debts and the player could leave

Marcelinho was rested from Wednesday's match

LANCEPRESS!

Just over two weeks ago, Flamengo promised to pay part of its debts owed to Marcelinho Paraíba within 15 days. The deadline has expired, and the club has yet to fulfill its obligations under the agreement.

A new meeting between the club's board and the player's agents is expected to take place this Thursday. If the issues aren't ironed out as Marcelinho hopes, he may leave the club. However, his intention is to remain at Gávea.

Asked about Flamengo's situation with Paraíba, football director Plínio Serpa Pinto generalized.\ – His situation is the same as everyone else's - declared the leader.\

Last week, Palmeiras' interest in the player was rumored, but the Alviverde board denied the veracity of this information.

With a draw, Fla did not guarantee first place

A better campaign gives the club more time to prepare if they reach the final.

LANCEPRESS!

Had they beaten Boavista at Maracanã, Flamengo could have even secured first place in Group B if Botafogo slipped up against Friburguense this Thursday. Now, Flamengo will have to wait until the end of the round to find out if Sunday's derby will determine the two clubs' standings.

Since only Flamengo and Botafogo can finish the group stage with the best record, the two will be aiming for first place in Group B to qualify for the semifinal on Saturday, February 21st. The Rubro-Negro's goal is to have a week to prepare if they reach the final (the other semifinal will be on the 25th).

– We still have this opportunity and we will fight for it until the last round – said Ronaldo Angelim.

Cuca analyzes Fla's reserves who played

Coach hasn't decided yet whether to go with full strength on Sunday

LANCEPRESS!

The 2-2 draw with Boavista served as an opportunity for Cuca to make observations about some Flamengo players who hadn't been getting many chances. Despite the draw, the coach said he drew positive conclusions, but also some negative ones.

But the experience may not be repeated. For Sunday's match against Botafogo, the coach hasn't yet decided whether he'll field a full-strength squad. Cuca will wait for his opponent's match this Thursday. If the Alvinegro wins, Flamengo will need a draw in the derby to secure first place in the group.

"We didn't play a great game. Let it serve as an example. Tomorrow, we can't afford to play poorly. Egídio came on well, as did Paulo Sérgio. Josiel played well and scored a goal. I liked Everton. Douglas struggled, and Jônatas is still gradually improving. Everton Silva also did very well. We have a youngster who's capable of replacing Léo Moura," Cuca analyzed.

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Mistão cools down and Fla draws with Boavista

The team starts well, gets complacent and loses its 100% performance.

Jônatas tries to get past the marking

Hugo Perruso RIO DE JANEIRO

It could have been easy. But Flamengo's mixed team messed up and ended up drawing 2-2 with Boavista at Maracanã. The high-profile friendly gave coach Cuca confidence that he could count on the bench, but it left the decision for first place in Group B until the final round.

The match might not have been worth much to the already qualified Flamengo. But the reserves who started did everything they could to prove themselves. So much so that Flamengo dominated from the start. Kleberson and Jônatas maintained the midfield's level playing style, Everton Silva debuted with personality, and Toró didn't make things difficult. Josiel seized the opportunity and, opportunistically, scored the team's first goal after a cross from Zé Roberto in the 24th minute. The only ones who were out of step were Douglas and Everton, who played poorly.

The game was so easy that Flamengo settled down. After two scares, Flamengo was eventually punished, and Boavista equalized late in the first half. On a counterattack, Tony shot from outside the box; the ball deflected off the defense, Bruno palmed it away, and Roberto Santos scored.

To give the team more pace, Cuca took off Jônatas at halftime and brought on Egídio, shifting Everton to attack. But Flamengo was caught off guard after just three minutes. Tony crossed into the box, Santiago headed the ball past Fábio Luciano, and the game turned. The coach's change proved to be a misstep. Even so, Flamengo managed to equalize.

Unable to find a shot, Flamengo equalized with a header from Fábio Luciano after a free kick from Kleberson. It seemed like a matter of time before the comeback. But it never came. Flamengo even tried, in a disorganized fashion, to score a third, but this time it was impossible to secure the victory in the final minutes. Boavista settled for the draw and held on.

In the next round, Flamengo faces Botafogo in a derby. If Flamengo loses to Friburguense this Thursday, Flamengo will secure first place in Group B. If the result is different, Sunday's match will determine the two clubs' standings. Boavista, meanwhile, will play against Bangu.

Zé Roberto praises the team's determination

Number 10 admits there was a lack of organization, but praises the effort

LANCEPRESS!

With six reserves on the team, Flamengo felt a bit out of sync. Still searching for match rhythm, Zé Roberto was one of the starters in the 2-2 draw with Boavista and admitted that the players didn't gel at times.

Even so, Flamengo's number 10 praised the team's fighting spirit, which was not discouraged by the comeback early in the second half and went in search of a positive result, which ended up not coming.

– We know we could have done better, but it was worth the effort. The team fought, ran, and was able to recover from the goal conceded early in the second half. At certain moments, they lacked organization and composure, but