THE GLOBE

New chance to avoid controversy

A self-proclaimed supporter of the Red-Black movement, Souza is gradually winning over the fans.

Carlos Eduardo Mansur

When it was decided that Botafogo would be Flamengo's opponent in the semifinals, all eyes turned to Souza. New provocations, catchphrases, and the irreverent manner that has become the red-and-black striker's trademark were expected. However, the imminent clash with his rival proved to be an opportunity for Souza to prove that his promise of transformation is being fulfilled.

A measured Souza emerged, surely stung by the backlash from his goal celebration against Cienciano, in which he faked tears, inciting the ire of the Black and White fans. Days later, he publicly sparred with Túlio. Now, the striker says he regrets his actions.

- That shouldn't have happened - he says.

At Gávea, there's a consensus among those who know the player. His habit of speaking his mind, combined with his large physique, gives Souza an image that's inconsistent with his work ethic. He's seen, rather, as a heir to habits that, in yesterday's football, were considered commonplace.

"When he makes jokes, it's actually a young man's mischief, a healthy thing. It's not meant to belittle anyone," says psychologist Paulo Ribeiro. "Souza has above-average sensitivity. He's gotten used to having a family around him that depends on him, people who expect things from him. He's ended up assimilating the problems of those around him."

A fan who enters the field

From his presentation at Gávea to the day he entered the front lines of the controversy with Botafogo, Souza truly displayed all these traits of his personality. Upon arriving, he revealed himself to be an old-school player: he provoked Vasco, where he had previously played, and openly admitted to being a Flamengo fan. When he faked tears and provoked Botafogo, the striker was reacting to the challenges to Flamengo's Guanabara Cup title.

Today, Souza says he feels at home at the club.

"I fight for victories, not because I'm against Botafogo or any other club. I don't want to provoke anyone. I have the Flamengo fans behind me. And I'm very happy with what I've been able to achieve at the club, to the point of receiving a flag in my honor. I have to satisfy these people and my coaching staff," says the striker.

Concentration before the classic

The speech gives the impression that, at 26, Souza has matured. On the field, the impression is the same. Coach Joel Santana sees him today as a key player, one who isn't limited to playing the role of a typical center forward tucked between the defenders. In fact, Souza has scored six goals in 17 games this season. Since joining Flamengo, he has scored 21 times in 58 matches. However, in games like the one in Cuzco against Cienciano, he has been instrumental in creating plays outside the box. In tense matches like the one in Montevideo, in which two Flamengo players were sent off, he lamented that his new form wasn't being recognized outside the club, both technically and behaviorally.

- I wasn't involved in any of the confusion, but no one commented on that - he told members of the technical committee at the time.

Some days, Souza arrives at the club with a grim expression. Other days, he's a natural jokester. This is typical of someone who absorbs problems outside the club, but also recognizes the importance of certain matches. On Friday, at Gávea, he was serious throughout his press conference. He seems to be preparing specifically for today's semifinal.

"If we don't win, we'll hear a lot of nonsense. I wouldn't say that Flamengo vs. Botafogo is currently the most evenly matched derby. I think it's actually the game everyone's looking forward to, everyone wants to see. Given everything that's happened in the last few matches, there's a rivalry. But it should stay in the stands," says the striker. "Botafogo has the advantage. We're tired after the trip to Peru. But we have to overcome everything."

Fla and Botafogo promise to make excitement the main attraction

After controversy, rivals meet again for a place in the Rio Cup final

Photo caption: WELLINGTON PAULISTA jokes with Jorge Henrique during Botafogo training: the black and whites went to Teresópolis to prepare for the semifinal

Photo caption: IBSON AND LEONARDO Moura in Gávea: the exhaustion of the trip to Cuzco is the concern of an excited Flamengo after the victory in the Libertadores

Carlos Eduardo Mansur\ and Rogério Daflon\

Recent meetings between Flamengo and Botafogo have been as rich in controversy as they are in goals. In 2008 alone, they scored eight goals in two games. In the Guanabara Cup final, the Flamengo victory was marked by red-and-black players, fights, and the intensification of a rivalry. In the Rio Cup, the Black-and-White victory featured the same elements. Today, at 16 p.m., at the Maracanã, the rematch is worth a spot in the second-round final.

This time, the red-and-blacks and whites promise to make goals and dramatic moments the main attraction. On both sides, the message is focused on peace and the high quality of recent classics.

"Has anyone seen a dull Flamengo vs. Botafogo game lately? Did fans leave early in any of these games?" says coach Cuca, who has coached Botafogo against Flamengo eight times and won only once.

Ronaldo goes to Maracanã to support Flamengo

The black-and-white coach remembers that, since 2007, the rivals have faced each other seven times. In these games, 28 goals were scored. Only two of these matches ended in a winner: Flamengo won one, Botafogo the other.

"We're facing a quality opponent, led by a coach who is one of the best of the current crop. Some criticize him for not winning any titles. But Cuca will win, today or tomorrow. I, who have already won so much, live with a beating," says Joel Santana.

Flamengo will have striker Ronaldo as its most famous fan at Maracanã. He will go to the stadium wearing a red-and-black jersey, a gift from club president Márcio Braga, who, however, rules out negotiating a contract with the star player now, noting that Ronaldo will only return to play in 2009. The player has the door open to begin his recovery at Gávea.

Flamengo is expected to field the same lineup that beat Cienciano in Cuzco. Despite the fatigue, the victory at altitude means they've regained strength for the decisive derby. Botafogo also sought high-flying fuel: after beating River in the Copa do Brasil, the team traveled to Teresópolis to prepare.

- It was the best thing we did - guarantees Cuca.

"The game in Cuzco won't hurt Flamengo. Winning gives us a boost," says Lúcio Flávio.

Referee: Pericles Bassols.

TRANSMISSION: Rede Globo, Premiere and Rádios Globo and CBN

In good form, Fla faces team from Bahia in the National

The red-and-black basketball team fights to maintain its lead in the championship

FLA's HÉLIO (5) outperforms Boca's Funes (8) in the League. The red-and-black player asks the team not to relax.

Claudio Nogueira

Finalist of the South American League and the undisputed leader of the National Men's Basketball Championship, Flamengo hosts FTC EAD (BA) today at 11 a.m. in Gávea. In the first leg, in Salvador, Flamengo won 93 to 68.

In first place in the championship, with 33 points, the result of its 16 wins and only one loss, the red-black team wants to guarantee the best campaign in the qualifying phase and have the home court advantage in the playoffs.

Consubasquet suspends\ South American League finals\

According to point guard Marcelinho, who turned 33 yesterday, the priority is Nacional, after a lot of wear and tear in the 2-1 defeat of Boca Juniors in the League semi-final.

- We have to go in strong, because our objective in this first phase is to finish first to have home court advantage in the playoffs, an important advantage - said the championship's top scorer with 394 points (24,6 per game).

Another standout for Flamengo in the league is point guard Hélio. Regarding today's opponent, he notes that Flamengo prevailed in Salvador, but offers a word of caution.

"We can't afford to be complacent, lest we suffer a defeat that hurts us in the playoffs. We want to finish first overall," he said, highlighting Jefferson and Gilsinho as his opponents.

On Friday night, as Flamengo was preparing to travel to Corrientes (ARG) for the South American League finals against Regatas Corrientes, it was surprised by the South American Basketball Confederation's (Consubasquet) decision to postpone the games of the 15th and 16th in Argentina, likely to the 22nd and 23rd. The two games in Rio were scheduled for the following week. According to Consubasquet, the postponement was necessary because, since the semifinals (against Universo/Brasília), Corrientes had been unable to obtain visas for American forwards Clarence Robinson and Ramzee Stanton from the Brazilian Embassy in Buenos Aires.

Also today, at 11 a.m., Uberlândia hosts Ulbra/Rio Claro/ABCD Bandeirantes. At 18 p.m., Ciser/Univille/Joinville and Saldanha da Gama play.

JADE COMES IN SECOND

Gymnast Jade Barbosa placed second in the vault final at the Cottbus World Cup. The Rio native achieved a score of 14.512, finishing behind Germany's Oksana Chusovitina, who took the title (15.150). Jade also competed on the uneven bars but finished sixth. Today, she and Daiane dos Santos will compete in the floor finals. The competition starts at 9:XNUMX am and will be broadcast on Sportv.

Fernando Calazans

Men and flowers

More than just a good game, as it has every potential to be, what we expect from this Botafogo-Flamengo match is a civilized performance by the players, something that hasn't happened in recent encounters between these two rivals. Let's hope that players like Cristian, Toró, Túlio, Diguinho, and goalkeeper Castillo, among others, behave within the limits of grit and determination.

Race and determination are essential in sports competitions, and even in other sports competitions that we have in life, but what misguided players in clubs have been doing for some time is confusing those two characteristics with violence and disloyalty.

The citizens mentioned above and others, judging by statements from the Flamengo crowd, still repeat outdated clichés like "football is for men", "Flamengo's team is not for women", and other rude things that reveal the abject and obtuse distinction they still make between human beings like men and women.

The fact that it is a match played by men - any match of any modality - does not mean that we can disregard the minimum rules of civility and sportsmanship, a term in which the concept of sport is explicitly expressed.

Toró and Cristian, who delivered those sexist remarks, should be reminded that they don't need to stop being men, that they can—and should—play with bravery, virility, fighting spirit, and everything else. No one will demand that they mark their opponents with bouquets of flowers.

Even boxing, which raises debates about its nature as a sport but is certainly a fight, a combat, encompasses values ​​and standards of conduct. The sport is experiencing a period of decline, but it once had its heyday in every corner, notably in the United States.

It has been followed, revered, analyzed, and even practiced by the likes of Hemingway and Norman Mailer. Speaking of intellectuals, there's a writer—a woman, mind you—also American Joyce Carol Oates, an aficionado who has published essays and even a book—"On Boxing"—describing the sport, or fighting, as you will. It features testimonies and quotes not only from the aforementioned colleagues, but even from William Faulkner and Martin Luther King.

A woman—see, fellow soccer players? Woman or man, soccer or boxing, what matters is establishing a line between fighting spirit, between combative spirit and savagery.

It seems that, in the last two clashes to date, tempers between Flamengo and Botafogo have calmed down. This is a sign of a great game. Flamengo defeated Cienciano and the harshness of the altitude with a fine performance. Botafogo has excelled in collective play.

Anyway, the expectations today are even better than those of other games.

Good People

Flatibetan

Flamengo fans will carry a 20m x 5m flag to Maracanã today with the inscription "Tibet can be saved." Meanwhile, outside, an athlete will be circling the stadium carrying the Tibetan Olympic Torch.

Renato Mauricio Prado

Chilling

Flamengo and Botafogo have everything they need to put on a thrilling match this afternoon at the Maracanã. Responsible for the last two finals in Rio (2007 State Championship and 2008 GB Cup), both teams arrive at this semifinal especially motivated - whether by their respective qualifications in the Libertadores and Copa do Brasil, or by the heated and controversial atmosphere of their recent clashes.

If it weren't for the red-black team's spectacular victory over Cienciano, up there in the mountains, I would even say that Glorioso would step onto the pitch this afternoon as a certain favorite.

But the feat of Joel Santana's team was so great that motivation may have been able to make them overcome the fatigue, due to the performance at altitude and the long journey.

Team by team, Fla and Botafogo have proven to be evenly matched at the start of the season - Cuca's team playing more attractive football, but, in return, Joel's squad proving to be more complete.

For all these reasons, this new duel serves as a kind of tiebreaker - which could have a rejoinder, if Botafogo wins the Taça Rio and meets Flamengo again, in the final of the State Championship.

Great game ahead! But please, no confusion or fighting. And I'll cry, this time, only for joy...

SPORTS JOURNAL

Get ready, goalkeepers!

In the last seven games between Botafogo and Flamengo, the average has been four goals. And today there's more!

Gabriel Branco

Much has been said about the expected chaos in the match between Botafogo and Flamengo, today at 16 pm, for the Taça Rio semifinal at Maracanã, due to recent clashes. However, the most important point has been overlooked. Amid these problems, what was also frequently seen were goalkeepers reaching for balls in the back of the net. In the last seven matches, this has occurred 28 times, an average of four per game.

Besides the sheer number of goals, another factor has been drawing attention to this classic: the even score. In the seven times they've met, the games ended in a draw five times, and the other two ended in a win for each side. To top it all off, each team has scored and conceded 14 goals.

These numbers mean that the expectation for today is that the top scorers will shine once again and put on a great show on the field, with lots of emotion and goals.

Heavy artillery\ On the black and white side, the fans can be encouraged, as their starting lineup includes three Flamengo tormentors. Jorge Henrique and Lucio Flavio were each responsible for three goals in these games. Wellington Paulista also scored twice, but played only two matches.\

And while Botafogo has a few top scorers to focus their attention on, the Red-Blacks can take pride in sharing the responsibility and confusing Cuca, who will need to mark the entire Flamengo squad. Of the last 14 goals scored by Joel's team, only Souza has found the net twice, with the other twelve goals scored by different players.

Celebration in the stands\ Given recent history, today's spectacle won't just be on the field. Off the field, fans are promising a grand celebration, just like the 2007 Campeonato Carioca final and this year's Taça Guanabara final.\

After the scare with his father, Ibson is full of joy

Every soccer player's dream is to compete in the finals. They prepare all year long for this, sometimes eating the bread the devil kneaded to savor the filet mignon. However, for one player in particular, it was a tough week, and not because Flamengo had two important games—against Cienciano in Cusco and Botafogo. Ibson had a scare in the last few days.

Last Friday, his father, Laís, was hospitalized with a heart problem. After undergoing surgery to unblock an artery, he was discharged last Tuesday. As the number 7 himself confirmed, the victory against the Peruvians was a tribute to his father. Now, to bring him even more joy, a victory today would be perfect.

"We discovered this problem last week and that he had to have surgery. But now everything is fine. My father will be re-evaluated on Monday (tomorrow) to see if he can return to exercising," said Ibson, who also guaranteed that the problem will not affect him in the classic: "I'm calm, focused on the game. I want to be champion soon. I already dedicated the victory against Cienciano to him, now I want to do the same tomorrow (today)," he stated.

Another reason for the supporter to celebrate was the strong performance in Cusco. Having been heavily criticized in recent matches, he now wants to definitively return to his good form.

"I was happy because my good football skills returned. I hope to continue helping Flamengo achieve victories," he celebrated.

Jade Barbosa wins the silver medal

Brazilian Jade Barbosa won the silver medal in the vaulting event yesterday at the Cottbus, Germany, World Cup. She averaged 14.512 points across both jumps, trailing only Uzbek-born German Oksana Chusovitina, who averaged 15.150. Swiss Areilla Kaslin took the bronze medal with 14.287.

Jade Barbosa also competed on the uneven bars. In an event that isn't her specialty, Jade repeated her qualifying finish (sixth).

The other final Jade will compete in is the floor exercise. The Brazilian qualified second and has a good chance of a medal. In today's final, Jade Barbosa will be joined by Daiane dos Santos, who, despite not achieving a significant jump in the qualifying rounds, secured her place in the final with eighth place overall.

The competitions serve as training for the Beijing Olympics.

Bahian zebra in the path of Fla

Rubro-Negro faces FTC EAD today, in Gávea, in the National Men's Basketball Championship

On his birthday yesterday, star Marcelinho had a private party at the Hélio Maurício gymnasium in Gávea: eggs and flour, but everything served to lighten the mood at Flamengo. Today, at 11 a.m., the opponent will be Bahia's FTC EAD in another round of the National Men's Basketball Championship.

"This positive atmosphere and team unity are making a difference for Flamengo in the competitions," said Marcelinho. Flamengo is leading the National Championship and wants a victory to secure first place and gain an advantage in the playoffs.

"Beating FTC is crucial in our fight to finish first in the standings. We have to impose our playing style, especially at home, with the support of the red-and-black fans. We're confident in the strength of our team to achieve another victory in the competition," said point guard Hélio, in a speech similar to that of center Maicon:

"We're all very motivated and we know how important this title is for the club, but first we have to think about Nacional. We have an important game against the team from Bahia and we need a win to maintain first place."

Flamengo has never been Brazilian champion, and to date, its best results have been two runner-up finishes in 2000-04. Coach Paulo Chupeta, the strategist, is confident of this possibility: "With the support of our fans and the hard work of this group, we can indeed win the National and South American Leagues."

Flamengo's success is due to its "Chupeta" style: aggressive defense, speed in the defense-to-attack transition, and patience when finishing. "This balance is what leads us to victory," he teaches.

The dates for the South American Basketball League final against Argentina's Regatas Corrientes have not yet been set. Everything will depend on whether the Americans on the Argentine team will be allowed into Brazil.

Flamengo: Marcelinho, Duda (Helio), Amiel, Alírio and Coloneze\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\

FTC EAD: Henrique, Darlan, Perez, Gilson and Newson\ Technician: Daniel Waftty\

Location: Hélio Maurício Gymnasium, in Gávea\ Time: 11am\

THE DAY

Botafogo and Flamengo talk about peace

Martha Esteves and Rodrigo Lima

Rio - The no-cries rivalry will once again be put to the test on Brazilian football's biggest stage when Flamengo and Botafogo take to the Maracanã pitch today at 16 p.m. for the Rio Cup semifinal. The last clashes between the two rivals were filled with grit, love, and passion, and no one remained silent—but tempers flared, and the classics didn't end on the field.

Provocations and hostility from both sides, and even aggression between players, with expulsions and punishments in the Sports Justice Court, were part of the recent history of the match.

However, as with every time they faced each other, the peace talk was rehearsed all week. "I don't believe the game will devolve into violence. The reason is that both teams would be at a disadvantage if sent off or suspended, since someone will be in the Taça Rio final in a week," emphasized the club's coach, Cuca.

The red-black captain, Fábio Luciano, agrees with the opposing coach.

"We've already agreed that we'll only celebrate with our fans. I even told Souza, and he's aware that we shouldn't provoke anyone. It only hurts us," said the defender, recalling the forward's tears during the celebration, a provocation to the black and white fans.

Botafogo sought out the Serra air and the good vibes of Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, at the Brazilian national team training center, to avoid being left on the beach again by their rivals. "This game means much more to us. We have the responsibility to win, as they're already guaranteed a spot in the State final," said the club's maestro, Lúcio Flávio, aware of the fans' lack of titles.

The Gávea team is riding high off an epic 3-0 victory over Cienciano at 3.360 meters above sea level in Cuzco, Peru, which sent Flamengo into the next round of the Copa Libertadores. However, today's focus will be elsewhere. "We're two steps away from the state title. If we beat Botafogo, we'll have 75% of the trophy in our hands," emphasized coach Joel Santana.

Zico thanks the statue, but avoids giving opinions

Martha Esteves

Rio - From Turkey, Zico doesn't miss a Flamengo game. On TV, he'll be rooting for a victory over Botafogo. But today, he'll be in Styrofoam and paper at Maracanã. A statue will be brought to the stadium, and a petition will be delivered as a form of protest to Sports Secretary Eduardo Paes, demanding a bronze statue of Galinho at Maracanã.

The eternal idol appreciated the news and expressed his gratitude for the gesture, but he's at a loss for words to comment on the fans' attitude. "Any tribute, especially from the fans, touches me deeply. But I think I should be the last to speak on the subject. It's not appropriate for me to offer opinions on a tribute to myself. But I appreciate the initiative," said Galinho.

The four-meter-tall statue is made of Styrofoam, covered with paper, canvas, and a wire frame, and is receiving the finishing touches at the Salgueiro shed.

Craftsman Itamar Cordeiro placed a replica of the polka-dot cup in the hands of Zico, who is standing on a globe. "From what I saw on the O DIA newspaper website, the statue is pretty cool," said Zico.

Bruno: 'I work hard to always win'

Martha Esteves

Rio - From the stands, a scream rises that sends shivers down goalkeeper Bruno's spine. A rhyming expletive announces that he is the best goalkeeper in Brazil. Modesty prevents the goalkeeper from agreeing with the fans, but Bruno is certain of one thing: he works day and night to continue hearing the praise.

But it's only in this moment of connection with the fans that Bruno's usual coolness gives way to emotion. Today, he's only thinking about beating Botafogo and shortening his path to the state title.

"I've dreamed of this since I was a kid: deciding titles while defending the jersey of a major club. On Sunday, I'll take the field more focused than ever," he says.

The owner of shirt number 1

Being the idol of Brazil's biggest fan base wearing the No. 1 jersey seemed like an impossible task. But when he arrived at Gávea last year, Bruno decided to take on the challenge. He earned the trust of Flamengo's fans and staff, signed a five-year contract, and hopes to make history by surpassing even former goalkeepers Raul and Júlio César.

"I work hard to always win. I'm a perfectionist, I always want to do my best, and I only step onto the field to win. Being an idol at Flamengo and winning many titles is a dream come true," says Bruno.

If it depends on Bruno, the fans will continue to shout out loud that 'he is the best goalkeeper in Brazil'.

Toró celebrates 22 years and his comeback

Martha Esteves

Rio - The sky was the limit for Toró. But a barrage of problems and criticism descended upon him. Today, on his 22nd birthday, he finally understood that after the storm, the weather always gets better. The goal scored in Cuzco sealed the beginning of a new phase. And to leave all the recent past of mistakes and sadness behind, Toró will apologize to the black and white goalkeeper Castillo.

In the last match against Botafogo, the supporter kicked the goalkeeper in the face, and has been harboring remorse ever since. Therefore, he wants to clear his record once and for all, not only with the goalkeeper, but also with all the people who criticized him for the unfortunate incident.

"I have the humility to acknowledge my mistakes and apologize. I'm a good person; I've never fought with anyone. I have friends at Botafogo, like Diguinho, who have certainly already told Castillo this."

The drama he experienced at home, which caused the player to lose his temper on the field (to the point of attacking a Uruguayan ball boy), is also behind him. When Toró was trying to become a father, his wife, Luana, was told by doctors that he suspected uterine cancer. After much prayer, he learned that Luana's health was fine.

"I learned a lot. I suffered a lot, afraid of losing someone I loved. We're so young and don't know how to deal with the possibility of such a horrible disease. I'm so happy that I'm no longer in a rush to be a father," says Toró.

On Wednesday, he scored an important goal at an altitude of over 3 meters. His wife's reaction to learning the goal was in her honor was a thrilling experience. Luana cried profusely and told her husband about her enormous hope for ever better days.

Toró feels the same way as his wife. He's more confident, has the courage to take risks, and the strength to accept criticism. Today, he wants victory as a birthday present. But he knows his greatest victory is regaining his peace of mind. "I'm back to being the happy little Toró I always was," he celebrates.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Botafogo and Flamengo meet again in another heated game\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Last year, there were five clashes. All ended in draws, with Flamengo prevailing on penalties in the most important of them, winning the Campeonato Carioca. In 2008, there were two meetings. Flamengo won 2-1 in the final of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the State Championship, and Botafogo won 3-2 in the second round, the Taça Rio. Both recent clashes featured numerous red cards, fights on and off the field, and exchanges of accusations. With this history, Botafogo and Flamengo meet again this Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro for the semifinals of the Taça Rio. Nerves will be on edge, especially since, if the score is tied at the end of the ninety minutes, the winner will be decided by penalty kicks.

Both sides have been making statements that attempt to ease the pressure on those involved, easing the warlike atmosphere that has developed in the derby, currently the biggest rivalry in Rio de Janeiro football. For Botafogo coach Cuca, the last game served to improve the situation.

"There was a lot of pressure because Botafogo hadn't beaten Flamengo in four years, and that, in a way, created a bad atmosphere. But with Botafogo's victory in the last game, I believe in a more relaxed match this Sunday. Of course, a decision is always very tense, but I believe everything will happen within the limits of common sense. Botafogo will take the field prepared to play football, that's all," said Cuca. His Flamengo teammate, Joel Santana, also tried to calm his players so that this Sunday's match wouldn't become another pitched battle.

"Flamengo also takes the field thinking about playing football. I told my players not to get caught up in the atmosphere created during the week of the final. They need to focus on Botafogo, which is a tough opponent and will require us to be on top form to defeat them," analyzed Joel.

The players, however, don't hide the fact that Sunday's match has a special meaning for them. Midfielder Túlio, Botafogo's captain and one of the most experienced players on the squad, didn't deny that the matchup affects him.

"Facing Flamengo recently has always been a special game, given everything that's been happening since last year. But we're just looking for good football on the field, and for the team that manages to be superior in every aspect to win. Hopefully, nothing gets in the way of this game and that the players can give their best on the field. Botafogo is ready to win," said Túlio.

Flamengo midfielder Ibson believes that the negative atmosphere created in recent matches has taken the shine off the classic and that the players will need to display exemplary behavior on the field.

"What happened in the last games was very annoying, as it spoiled the spectacle and wasn't worthy of a meeting between two top Brazilian football teams. So I hope everyone can contribute to a great show on Sunday, especially since only the coolest-headed team will win," said Ibson.

Regarding the teams that will take to the field, the two coaches are keeping things a secret, however, with full strength, both should maintain the formations that played in the middle of the week, when Glorioso beat Ríver-PI 2-0 and qualified for the round of 3 of the Copa do Brasil, the same stage reached by Rubro-Negro in the Copa Libertadores with the 0-XNUMX victory over Cienciano in the altitude of Cusco, in Peru.

Souza avoids controversy with Túlio and Castillo\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - On the eve of his return to Botafogo, scheduled for this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã Stadium in the Rio Cup semifinals, Souza set the controversy aside. Guided by Flamengo's coaching staff, the player adopted a balanced approach when discussing his rivals: goalkeeper Castillo and midfielder Túlio. In the Guanabara Cup final, won 2-1 by Flamengo, the striker argued and fought with the opposing goalkeeper while trying to dispossess the goalkeeper after Flamengo's equalizer. The incident led to the striker's ejection. In the following match, in the Copa Libertadores against Peruvian side Cienciano, Souza celebrated his goal by miming tears, a provocation against Flamengo's players and management. Túlio was angered by the incident, and the two exchanged insults in the press.

"That's all in the past. I don't want to fight with Castillo. He keeps the ball, and I'll take whatever is out of bounds. There was a very bad situation with Túlio, but that's now behind us, and I hope he succeeds in his profession. I want to take the field this Sunday thinking only of respecting the opponent and giving my all for Flamengo to win," said Souza.

Regarding the team that will take to the field, coach Joel Santana avoided confirming, but will repeat the formation that beat Cienciano 3-0 in the middle of the week: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Kléberson, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza

PELENET

Toró celebrates his birthday on Sunday and asks for a place in the final as a gift

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Sunday will be a day of celebration at Maracanã, especially for Toró, who celebrates his birthday. The player will turn 22 and hopes to receive the gift of Flamengo's victory over Botafogo, which will take the Red-Blacks to the final of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship.

Toró celebrates his birthday this Sunday and hopes for a victory over Botafogo as a gift

"I'll fight hard and I know my teammates will help me have a wonderful birthday. Winning and reaching the final will be the best gift I could receive," said Toró, who recently overcame family problems.

The good form off the field also reflected on it, when, last Wednesday, Flamengo beat Cienciano 3-0 in the high-altitude city of Cusco, Peru, in the Copa Libertadores. Toró scored the second goal of the game and warned that the trip could be tiring.

"We're tired, but our coaching staff is competent and knew how to recover. And, whoever wears the Flamengo shirt in a packed Maracanã, overcomes anything and only thinks about winning," highlighted the player, who received the traditional early "ovada" from his teammates.

A product of Fluminense's youth academy, Toró joined Flamengo in 2006. During this time, he played 71 matches and scored just four goals. This season, he has already scored two.

Bruno asks for a focused Flamengo to defeat Botafogo

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Football folklore dictates that a classic is won in the details. A fan of this idea, goalkeeper Bruno urged Flamengo to concentrate on their match this Sunday against Botafogo at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium, in the semifinals of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship.

Bruno believes that concentration will determine the winner of the classic. "It's a decisive game, a game that never ends 0-0. There are always goals. Whoever is more focused will win. Our board has been providing all the necessary comfort. Botafogo, however, thought it best to shift focus and went to Granja Comary, which is a very good place," he emphasized.

This Saturday, in Gávea, Flamengo's players, especially the starters, only did light work, still feeling tired from the trip to Cusco, Peru.

However, according to coach Joel Santana, this can't be used as an excuse. "There's no such thing as them (Botafogo) having an advantage because we're tired. Forget about that. Anyone who wants to be a champion can't complain about these things," he declared.

The red-black commander has not yet defined the team, but Flamengo should face Botafogo with the following formation: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Kléberson, Cristian, Ibson and Toró; Renato Augusto and Souza.

Botafogo x Fla: same objectives, but with different situations

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Botafogo and Flamengo promise a tense and competitive derby this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium in the semifinals of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. The winner will face Fluminense, who defeated Vasco da Gama, in the second-round final.

For Botafogo, the victory, in addition to securing a spot in the Taça Rio final, also serves to keep the flame alive for the State Championship final, against Flamengo, champion of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the competition.

Striker Wellington Paulista is one of the hopes of the Botafogo team

For Flamengo, the victory over Alvinegro puts Rubro-Negro just 90 minutes away from winning the state championship for the second time, its 30th title in history, equaling Fluminense.

In addition to all these ingredients, Botafogo and Flamengo have provided heated classics in the last two games: in the final of the Guanabara Cup (red-black triumph by 2 to 1) and in the classification phase of the Rio Cup (black-and-white victory by 3 to 2).

In both duels, there was a lot of confusion, with players being sent off and being judged by the Rio de Janeiro Sports Court (TJD-RJ), complaints about the refereeing and "exchange of compliments" from both sides.

"There's going to be a little more spice in this game, because of everything that happened. But we need to leave that off the field and go out there and play football, that's all," warned striker Souza, one of the main players in these clashes.

At General Severiano, Cuca appears to be fine. Midfielder Lúcio Flávio, with a thigh injury, did not participate in training on Friday and Saturday. However, according to the club's coaching staff, the player will be on the field as normal.

To escape the hoopla of a final, Botafogo has been at Granja Comary in Teresópolis since Thursday. For the black and white players, the time away from Rio de Janeiro was worthwhile.

"This work at Granja Comary was good. We've rested and are ready to face Flamengo. It's going to be a normal classic, with no revenge or fighting," said striker Jorge Henrique.

Souza forgets previous problems and expects a classic without fights and confusion

In Gávea, Joel Santana's goal was to "rest" the starting players from training after returning from Cusco, Peru, in the early hours of Thursday into Friday. Last Wednesday, Flamengo defeated Cienciano 3-0 in the Copa Libertadores, qualifying for the round of XNUMX.

However, according to the Flamengo coach, fatigue is a forbidden word at Flamengo. "There's no such thing as them (Botafogo) having an advantage because we're tired. Forget about that. Anyone who wants to be a champion can't complain about these things," he declared.

The Maracanã will also feature the illustrious presence of striker Ronaldo, of Milan-ITA. Last Tuesday, in an interview with the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, the player revealed his desire to play for Flamengo. The Phenomenon, as expected, will be rooting for the red-and-black team.

GLOBO ESPORTE

Mobilization for Zico's statue at Maracanã

Fans will march with a replica before the match against Botafogo to raise awareness for Suderj

Cahê Mota

Fans improvised a statue to ask for a bronze one at Maracanã

While Botafogo fans and officials are considering moving the bust of Mané Garrincha from the Maracanã stadium to the Engenhão stadium, with the approval of Suderj president Eduardo Paes, the red-and-blacks have wasted no time in planning a move to have Zico replace the Glorioso's eternal idol at the "Greatest in the World." The first step in this project takes place this Sunday, the day Flamengo and Botafogo face off in the Taça Rio semifinal.

A group of fans of the Gávea team will take a statue of Quintino's Little Rooster to the front of the Maracanã stadium, made in the Salgueiro warehouse in the same style as the Bellini statue located at the stadium's main entrance. In the image, Zico also holds the controversial trophy with the little balls, also the target of protests by the same group.

The goal of the red-and-blacks is to present a petition to Eduardo Paes, who, according to fans, has already shown receptiveness to the idea. So far, the document has 20 signatures collected online.

GLOBOESPORTE.COM was unable to contact Suderj this Saturday.

Birthday boy, Marcelinho seeks triumph

Finalist in the South American League, Flamengo returns to play this Sunday for the National

Now 33 years old, Marcelinho plays this Sunday against Salvador

Finalist of the South American League, Flamengo returns to play in the National Men's Basketball Championship this Sunday at 11 am (Brasília time) against Salvador, in Gávea, Rio de Janeiro. The team has 16 wins in 17 games and needs to win three of its remaining five matches to finish top of the standings and secure home court status in the playoffs. One of its weapons will be Marcelinho, who turned 33 this Saturday.

"Now our focus is solely on the Brazilian Championship. This was a very physically and emotionally taxing week, but also a very happy one for all of us, because it was a reward for our hard work. But our concern now is the National Championship. We have to come out strong against the Bahians, because our goal in this first phase is to finish first and have home-court advantage in the playoffs, which is a significant advantage. To achieve that, we need to win; we'll go for that result at home," he says.

The Flamengo delegation will head to Corrientes (Argentina) on the morning of next Monday, the 14th, where they will face Regatas Corrientes in the best-of-five series of the South American League finals.

Other games of the round:

Already qualified for the quarterfinals, Uberlândia hosts São Bernardo at 11 a.m. The Minas Gerais team sits in sixth place with a 57.9% record in 19 matches (11 wins and eight losses). The goal is to win its final three matches and hope for losses for Joinville and São Bernardo to finish in the top four. In the first leg in Rio Claro, Uberlândia prevailed, 87 to 78.

Joinville plays at home at 20 p.m. against Vitória in a head-to-head matchup for the best first-round seeding. The Santa Catarina team defeated the Espírito Santo team 76-74 in the first leg in Vitória.

Order at Fla is to forget that it is already in the final

Defender and coach want to win the title early to crown their work

Cahê Mota

Joel Santana wants to reap the fruits of the work he began in 2007

The Guanabara Cup title and qualification for the State Championship final will mean Flamengo will enter the field more relaxed than Botafogo in the Rio Cup semifinal, right? Wrong! The talk at Gávea is unanimous: now is the time to forget the privilege gained in the first round and enter the field on Sunday as if the match against Glorioso were the last in the competition. Team captain Fábio Luciano was the first to contradict Lucio Flavio's words, shifting all responsibility for victory to Alvinegro.

"We can't think like that. We have to consider that this game could put us in the Championship final; the mindset is as if we don't have that spot. It's important to win and have an early final, which will give us two new dates to better plan for the future. We have two games to decide the championship. We don't know if it will happen, but only we have this chance, and we will fight to achieve it."

The defender's words echo Joel Santana's thinking. The coach says he won't accept any other approach than wanting to quickly end the championship and points out that the time has come to begin to crown a work that began when the team was still in the relegation zone of last year's Brasileirão.

"Things at our club are difficult. We came from a difficult situation and today we're competing for titles. Some disagree, but there's a plan. For eight months, we've been providing answers and more answers. When we said goodbye last year, we said, 'Today we're celebrating qualification, tomorrow we'll focus on titles.' And now is the time to prove it. A good player has to be a champion, otherwise they're worthless.

Fábio Luciano recalled episodes that occurred during the Rio Cup itself to show that even with qualification for the final, the team could be the target of criticism if it does not define the competition soon.

"The responsibility is equal. We saw that in the last few games against big teams, we played a rotation, the results weren't there, and the group was under pressure. Flamengo is a big team and is used to winning and winning titles. We really want to anticipate and celebrate this title."

THROW

Fans will take Zico's statue to Maracanã

A replica of the little rooster was made of styrofoam and is real size.

LANCEPRESS!

A group of Flamengo fans will pay tribute to their greatest idol during this Sunday's derby. A statue of Zico will be taken to the Maracanã stadium for the Taça Rio semifinal against Botafogo.

The statue is a life-size replica of Galinho, made of Styrofoam. Zico stands on a ball with the word 1981—referring to Flamengo's World Cup title—and holding the trophy for his greatest achievement.

Fans will take the replica to gate 18 of the Maracanã at 14 p.m. The game starts at 16 p.m., with live coverage on LANCENET!.

Bruno: 'My pleasure is to play for Fla'

Goalkeeper says he intends to stay at Rubro-Negro for a long time and become champion

LANCEPRESS!

After the rivalry between Botafogo and Flamengo grew due to the two clubs' repeated disputed decisions, Flamengo goalkeeper Bruno is yet another to praise his rival and ask that the players keep their provocations to the fans.

radio l! - Football is won on the pitch. There's no point in talking too much outside, because it's decided inside. There are competent players there, just like here. We need to forget about the rivalry between fans for a while. (Click and hear more)

Bruno, unlike most players, says he prefers to play under strong pressure from the fans, that he performs better under pressure and declares his love for the club.

radio l! - It's an added responsibility, for sure. Here at Flamengo, things happen very quickly. We win matches and the pressure builds. It's great to play for a club like this; my greatest pleasure is playing for Flamengo. (Click and hear more)

A complex negotiation at the end of last year secured the goalkeeper's contract renewal with Flamengo. Bruno doesn't hide his relief at this and says he intends to stay at Gávea for a long time.

radio l! - I don't see myself leaving Flamengo today. I'd rather stay here for a long time; my contract is long. This has given me extra peace of mind to continue training, working, and doing my best to help the club. (Click and listen more)

Botafogo vs Flamengo: Sunday, Episode III

In the third duel of the year, teams seek a place in the final of the Rio Cup

LANCEPRESS!

Botafogo and Flamengo face off this Sunday at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium for a spot in the Taça Rio final. The teams are facing off for the third time this season, in what has been the most tense and intense derby in Rio de Janeiro this season.

The first chapter was the Guanabara Cup final. Flamengo defeated Botafogo 2-1, after the latter complained loudly about the refereeing, had two players sent off, and then had five players and coach Cuca suspended by the Rio de Janeiro Sports Court.

Later, in the Rio Cup, Flamengo fielded a mixed team. This time, the trouble involved the red-and-blacks, who had two players sent off and three suspended by the Rio de Janeiro Federation's TJD (Department of Justice of the District of Rio de Janeiro). They ended up losing the match 3-2, a result that didn't hinder their progress in the second round.

This time, the match at Maracanã promises to be even more exciting. On the black and white side, the coaching staff took the entire team to Granja Comary, the Brazilian National Team's training center, in Teresópolis, to prepare for the derby more calmly, without having their focus diverted by the fans in Rio de Janeiro.

There, coach Cuca was able to prepare his team with peace of mind, with only two absences: defender Ferrero, who traveled to Argentina to resolve personal issues—André Luis remains with the team—and Lucio Flavio, who was rested due to muscle pain. The midfielder, however, will play.

"Since Flamengo has already qualified for the State Championship final (they were champions of the Guanabara Cup), it's up to us to fight hard to face them in the final. It's an important game, and within that nature, a decisive one," said the captain, placing the responsibility on the Alvinegro.

On the red-and-black side, the 3-0 victory over Cienciano (PER) in Cuzco, at 3.400 meters above sea level, boosted the red-and-black team's motivation. Coach Joel Santana will have full strength for the match and is expected to field the same team that won in Peru.

The only problem was that the players had little time to train. The squad played in Peru on Wednesday, returned on Thursday, and did only recovery work on Friday. Now, the goal is to win the Rio Cup and dedicate the rest of their time to competing in the Copa Libertadores.

"It's another decision we have ahead of us. We can win the Rio de Janeiro title if we win the semifinal and the final. We only have two games left to be crowned champions, and we'll do everything we can to achieve that," said midfielder Ibson.

Léo Moura wants victory to win dates

The full-back guarantees that fatigue will not affect the match

LANCEPRESS!

Fresh from a grueling trip to Peru for the Copa Libertadores, Flamengo is already facing Botafogo in the Taça Rio semifinals this Sunday. Despite the fatigue, right-back Leonardo Moura guarantees that the Rubro-Negro will enter the match with maximum energy. In his opinion, a victory now will represent a break in the future.

radio l! - It will be important for us at Flamengo. Because we respect Botafogo, but we want to secure a spot in the final and try to win the title. Even for us to win two dates up ahead, which will be important in terms of the Libertadores. (Click and hear more)

Léo Moura's excitement is on par with the player's concern for the game to go off without any major problems or controversies, as occurred in the Guanabara Cup final. Because of this, the full-back made a plea:

- We want peace on and off the field - he wished.

Diego Hypolito races against time

Gymnast returns to training after recovering from knee surgery and dengue fever

LANCEPRESS!

Diego Hypolito has returned to training after undergoing a delicate knee surgery and being struck down by dengue fever. The gymnast spoke out about overcoming his problems and finding enough time to prepare for the 2008 Olympic Games.

Fla has five undefeated players in the State Championship

Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, Juan, Ibson and Souza have not yet lost in the Campeonato Carioca

Fábio Luciano, Souza and Ibson: three of the five undefeated players

Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO

Flamengo has a major asset for this Sunday's classic against Botafogo in the Taça Rio semifinal. Half of its starting lineup is unbeaten in this Carioca, and all of them are scheduled to face the Alvinegro.

Defenders Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim, left-back Juan, midfielder Ibson and striker Souza are undefeated in the competition and could end the State Championship this way if Flamengo also wins the second round.

Check out the games of the five undefeated red-blacks:

Ibson (11 wins and one draw)\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Boavista\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Cardoso Moreira - 1 goal\ Flamengo 5 x 1 Duque de Caxias - 2 goals\ Flamengo 1 x 0 Macaé\ Flamengo 4 x 0 América\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Volta Redonda\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Botafogo - 1 goal\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Mesquita\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Cabofriense\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Friburguense\ Flamengo 0 x 0 Madureira\

Ronaldo Angelim (10 wins and one draw)\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Boavista\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Cardoso Moreira\ Flamengo 5 x 1 Duque de Caxias\ Flamengo 1 x 0 Macaé\ Flamengo 4 x 0 América\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Volta Redonda\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco - 1 goal\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Botafogo\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Mesquita\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Friburguense\ Flamengo 0 x 0 Madureira\

Souza (12 wins)\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Boavista - 1 goal\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Cardoso Moreira - 1 goal\ Flamengo 5 x 1 Duque de Caxias - 1 goal\ Flamengo 1 x 0 Macaé\ Flamengo 4 x 0 América\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Volta Redonda\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Botafogo\ Flamengo 3 x 1 Americano\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Mesquita - 1 goal\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Cabofriense - 1 goal\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Friburguense\

Fabio Luciano (nine wins and one draw)\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Boavista - 1 goal\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Cardoso Moreira\ Flamengo 5 x 1 Duque de Caxias\ Flamengo 1 x 0 Macaé\ Flamengo 4 x 0 América\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco - 1 goal\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Botafogo\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Mesquita\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Friburguense\ Flamengo 0 x 0 Madureira\

Juan (11 wins and one draw)\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Boavista\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Cardoso Moreira - 1 goal\ Flamengo 5 x 1 Duque de Caxias\ Flamengo 1 x 0 Macaé\ Flamengo 4 x 0 América - 1 goal\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Volta Redonda - 1 goal\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Botafogo\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Mesquita\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Cabofriense\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Friburguense\ Flamengo 0 x 0 Madureira\