THE GLOBE
New age classic \ Fla and Vasco launch rivalry without rancor or violence \ Photo caption: ZICO AND ROBERTO DINAMITE meet: symbol of the more pleasant relations between the rivals \ Mauricio Fonseca \ Flamengo vs. Vasco today, at 18:10 p.m., at Maracanã, for the 11th round of the Brazilian Championship, is not just another classic between historic rivals. It's a game that marks the beginning of a new era in the relationship between Rio's biggest clubs. The presidents of Vasco and Flamengo will watch the game side by side in the Grandstand, still rivals, but respectful and even admiring of each other. The meeting between Marcio Braga and Roberto Dinamite will be one of the highlights of the classic that pits leaders Flamengo, with 23 points, against a rising Vasco, with 14. In a meeting earlier this week, Roberto and Zico advocated for a respectful rivalry, free from violence and provocation. \ After facing turbulence caused by the indiscipline of Marcinho, Diego Tardelli, and Bruno in Belo Horizonte, Flamengo is preparing to address the problems it faced in forming its lineup. For the derby, it will be without Toró and Kleberson, who are injured, and Jaílton, who is suspended. In compensation, Ibson and Cristian return to the team, which could have three defenders if coach Caio Júnior confirms his tendency to start Dininho. In attack, Souza could return to the starting lineup in place of Obina. \ Vasco also faced a crisis, albeit less serious, due to an argument between football manager Paulo Angioni and Miguel, assistant coach Antônio Lopes, after Thursday's game. Without time to train as he would like and in a tense atmosphere, Lopes is torn between the experienced Beto and the newcomer Alex Teixeira to replace Morais, who is suspended due to a yellow card. Lopes is expected to send Jonilson in to man-mark Marcinho. \ Flamengo: Bruno, Dininho, Fabio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim; Leonardo Moura, Cristian, Ibson, Jonathan and Juan; Marcinho and Souza. Vasco: Tiago, Rodrigo Antonio, Victor and Eduardo Luiz; Wagner Diniz, Jonilson, Beto (Alex Teixeira), Jean and Pablo; Edmundo and Leandro Amaral. Referee: Djalma Beltrami (FIFA-RJ). \ BROADCAST: Premiere and Rádios Globo and CBN \
FLA x VASCO: Opponents put animosity aside for duels to be limited to the Maracanã pitch \ Rivalry with respect, a new tone for the classic \ Roberto, president of Vasco, welcomes Zico to his home on the eve of a match that will go down in history \ Mauricio Fonseca \ Heads or tails. These were the first two words Zico and Roberto exchanged. They were still boys, but they already shone as captains of the Flamengo and Vasco youth teams. Always rivals, they became men, stars, idols. Never enemies. Naturally, they grew closer, and their vocabulary expanded considerably. Today, almost four decades later, they are friends who make a point of expressing their admiration for each other. \ - Hello Bob, my president - greeted Zico, upon arriving at Roberto's house on Wednesday morning, when the two met for the first time since Roberto was elected president of Vasco, defeating Eurico Miranda. \ "It's so nice to see you here. It's been a while, young man... Call Lidiane (Roberto's wife) inside and tell her Zico is here," Roberto said to his son Rodrigo, as he welcomed Zico into the garden of his house in Barra da Tijuca with an affectionate hug. \ The friendship and respect between two of the greatest idols of clubs that until recently considered each other enemies are a symbol of a new era that is dawning in Rio de Janeiro football, with the arrival of a former player like Roberto Dinamite as Vasco's president. And, if it's up to Roberto and Zico, the rivalry between Flamengo and Vasco will once again be confined to the sports field. Just like the days when the two drew crowds to the Maracanã stadium. \ It was thanks to the memorable duels between Zico and Roberto that Vasco vs. Flamengo became the most intense rivalry in Rio. Unfortunately, this rivalry has turned to hatred in recent years, often fueled by statements and provocations that have little to do with football, and nothing to do with respect or conscience. \ "Football reflects everyday life and vice versa. Joking is one thing; insulting and assaulting are another. You can't further encourage violence with bravado and provocations," said Flamengo's greatest idol, sitting next to Roberto on the sofa in the Vasco idol's living room. \ The countless arguments they had over nearly 20 years failed to drive a wedge between them. Quite the opposite. What emerged was a mixture of admiration and affection that transcended the realm and continues to this day. During Wednesday's conversation, each sought to praise and extol the other at every turn. Without demagoguery. \ Both Zico and Roberto defend their rivalry. But it's a healthy thing, with nothing to do with anger or violence. \ "We can't get things mixed up. Just because a club is Vasco's rival doesn't mean it's also an enemy. This applies to Vasco, Botafogo, Flamengo, and Fluminense. The big clubs have to work together for the good of Rio de Janeiro football," Roberto argued, looking for Zico's approval, which came immediately, along with a statement: \ - Players can't talk about opponents with a knife between their teeth, as is often seen today. Football is joy, celebration, competition. That's how it was in our time. \
IDOLS' PLAYOFFS \ RIVALRY \ ROBERTO: "This must remain confined exclusively to the playing field. On the field, rivalry will always exist, but without ever losing respect for the opponent, whoever they may be. We cannot encourage violence with absurd and offensive statements." \ ZICO: "Football cannot exist without rivalry, but a healthy rivalry that has nothing to do with fan fights, insults, or offenses. Today we see players speaking about their opponents with a knife between their teeth, as if they were enemies. That didn't exist in our playing days. It's not like that." \ RIO DE JANEIRO FOOTBALL \ ROBERTO: "We have to seize the moment and join forces to lift up Rio's football. That doesn't mean there won't be any more rivalry. Nothing like that. For example: I'm not saying I rooted for Fluminense in the Libertadores final, but if they had won, all of Rio's football would have benefited. I don't root against anyone. I root for Vasco." \ ZICO: "That's right. Teasing is a fan thing, it's part of football. I even think this teasing is cool, as long as it's not offensive. But a player, a manager, can't go down that path. A player can't humiliate an opponent. That only escalates the situation, which, as we all know, isn't the calmest." \ VASCO x FLAMENGO \ ROBERTO: "The fact that Vasco maintains a friendly relationship with its opponents, including Flamengo, doesn't mean it won't do everything it can to beat them on the field. This rivalry will never end, but I insist again: this idea that beating Flamengo is worth a championship is over. No, it's not. It's only worth three points. A title will only be worth it if it's in a final." \ ZICO: "With Roberto as president, Vasco will no longer have enemies, only adversaries, which is how other clubs should be viewed. I, for example, have never hidden my admiration for Vasco, even though I wanted to win them all. The club paid me a beautiful tribute when I said goodbye, and I was able to reciprocate when Vasco was in Japan to play the World Cup against Real Madrid. I opened the doors to Kashima and gave them my full support. It may seem like a joke, but there were some red-and-black fans who didn't like it." \ UNFORGETTABLE MOMENT \ ROBERTO: "I was the state champion against Flamengo in 1982, but the 1981 final was truly unforgettable. We had to beat them three times to be crowned champions. We won the first time 2-0, and the second time the game was 0-0 until the end. The Flamengo fans were already shouting 'we're champions' when I scored the winning goal. Then, we lost the title in the bricklayer's game. But that moment was very sweet. \ ZICO: "Rondinelli's goal in the 1978 final was a great moment in games against Vasco. And there were several. I remember taking the corner, something I didn't normally do, and Rondinelli jumped high to score the goal against Leão in the last minute of the final. Despite not being very tall, Rondinelli had an impressive leap." \ ROBERTO: "Okay, but Rondinelli only talks about this incident. He never mentions the 1976 Guanabara Cup final. We were playing a game in Flamengo's box and the ball went out over the goal line. During the goal kick, he passed me and elbowed me. I was inside the box and fell to the ground. The referee (Agomar Martins) saw it and awarded a penalty. I took it and scored. Later, we were champions in the penalty shootout." \ ZICO: "It's true. In the penalty shootout, I missed my shot and gave away the gold." \ IDOL PRESIDENT \ ROBERTO: "It's a huge challenge. After all, it's one thing to be an idol on the field, another to be a manager. When things don't work out, no one will remember your past as a player. I'm still getting to grips with the day-to-day running of the club, but I'm sure that with the support of the great Vasco fans, we'll lift Vasco up." \ ZICO: "Roberto's election is a historic event in international football. One thing, much easier, by the way, is to be elected president of a club in Europe. There, most clubs are only for football, and the shareholders decide everything. Not here. You have to negotiate with the people from basketball, swimming, volleyball, bocce... It's a lot of politics. Today, it wouldn't cross my mind to one day be president of Flamengo. But it wouldn't cross my mind to be a coach either..." \ RELATIONSHIP WITH THE FANS \ ROBERTO: "There's a lot of confusion in this relationship. The fans are important, and we have to join forces. Our situation doesn't allow us to give up any revenue, and that includes ticket sales. If you distribute two thousand tickets per match to the fans, you lose about R$30 in revenue. In a month, that's almost R$200. I asked the fans to understand the situation and help. But I don't know yet what the reaction will be. Whatever it is, I hope it will be peaceful." \ ZICO: "It's Bob, now things are really serious." \ FRIENDSHIP \ ROBERTO: "We've been playing against each other since we were kids, but it took a while for us to get closer. But even then, there was never a lack of respect. I remember our mothers going to games and always being together. It was the Brazilian national team that brought us together. Today, we're friends, our families get along. But the foundation of everything was the mutual respect we maintained throughout our careers, even though we always wanted to beat the other." \ ZICO: "Our relationship began with the coin toss before games, back in our youth teams. But since we each went to our own attacking teams afterward, we rarely crossed paths on the field. Over time, we grew closer and formed a beautiful friendship. I remember that my father, who was Portuguese and a goalkeeper, hated Vasco because of a Vasco boss who prevented him from trying out for Flamengo. When Edu went to Vasco to play with Roberto, we made fun of the old man, saying that there was no way out now, because he would have to support Vasco too." \ ADMIRATION \ ROBERTO: "Zico was a more complete player than me. He had more technique, more resources. When we were going to face Flamengo, there was always that concern about Zico, about what he could do." \ ZICO: "On our side, there was also concern about Roberto, a natural goalscorer who scored goals in every way. Over time, he began to show other characteristics. He perfected his free kicks and became an excellent passer. Mauricinho and Romário were tired of scoring goals from Roberto's passes. And I'm proud to say that it was my brother Edu who first realized that Roberto could play further back." \ FRUSTRATION \ ROBERTO: "Not having played in the 1982 World Cup. Brazil had a great team and I really wanted to have played in at least one game." \ ZICO: "I don't have any frustrations in football, maybe some sadness. One of them is not having played more often with Roberto. It worked out really well when we joined forces on the Brazilian national team." \ FUTURE \ ROBERTO: "More immediately, we need to restore Vasco's strength. It's a very powerful brand throughout Brazil. We have to restore its prestige on and off the field." \ ZICO: "I want to continue working as a coach, but I prefer the club to the national team. At the club, you live day-to-day, you're always in contact with the players. The satisfaction is greater because you play more and you have the satisfaction of seeing your work pay off immediately. With the national team, you gather the guys, play, and then everyone leaves. Speaking of which, Roberto, I'm unemployed..." \
Boca Juniors rules out Riquelme's departure \ BUENOS AIRES. Boca Juniors president Pedro Pompilio ruled out any possibility of Flamengo signing midfielder Riquelme. The Rio de Janeiro club is interested in the Argentine star, as Ancelmo Gois reported in his column yesterday. Riquelme would be an option for the Flamengo's number 10 jersey, which was vacated by the sale of Renato Augusto to Bayer Leverkusen. \ Pedro Pompilio's reaction was published in the online edition of the Argentine newspaper "Olé" yesterday. \ "There's no way around it. We want to enjoy the player for much longer. You can talk to him, take a picture, and he'll treat you with care. But he's not for sale," Pompilio stated. \ After Boca Juniors' elimination from the Copa Libertadores and the player's criticism for his performance against Fluminense, Riquelme's departure was considered, but it didn't materialize. The player, who previously played in European football, returned to Boca Juniors in the second half of last year. \ Yesterday, Flamengo's directors did not comment on their interest in the Argentine star. \
SPORTS JOURNAL
Day to fill Maracanã\ Flamengo and Vasco play the second regional classic in the Brazilian Championship and only victory matters\ Fabio Lacerda and Nathan Lima\
Flamengo and Vasco take the field today at 18:20 PM at Maracanã, ready to repeat memorable matches in front of a packed house. Flamengo, the league leader with 23 points, hopes to maintain its distance from its rivals on the long-awaited journey to the coveted national title, a title that hasn't been achieved since 1992, when the Red-Blacks made a final push against their current rival. Vasco, seventh with 14 points, is hoping to climb the standings, and a victory over Flamengo and then against Goiás would vault the club from São Januário into the top tier of the Brazilian Championship. \ If Eurico Miranda played 100 games since starting his job in 1986 as football director until 2008, his last year as president, it was now the club's greatest idol's turn to debut as president in the "Clássico dos Milhões." During his playing days, Roberto scored 27 times against Flamengo, the sixth club in the long list of victims that the "shirt with the smell of goals" has made net.\ The fines imposed on goalkeeper Bruno and forwards Diego Tardelli and Marcinho didn't cause any major disruptions at Gávea, except for the players' wallets. Flamengo is surrounded by doubts. Jaílton, suspended, may be replaced by Dininho, as the midfielder sometimes plays as a third defender. Toró and Kléberson, the midfielders, are injured and weren't even included in the squad for the match. In attack, Caio Júnior left Marcinho's teammate in the air. Obina and Souza had a separate duel yesterday during training. Léo Moura is assured of a return at right-back. He didn't play against Atlético at Mineirão.\ If there are mysteries at Gávea, São Januário is no exception. Antônio Lopes has already decided who will replace Morais, who is suspended for receiving his third yellow card. Alex Teixeira and Beto are competing for a spot in the derby. Vasco fans will only know who will start when the team takes the field to cheer on the right side of the radio booths. Balance is the best word to describe Flamengo and Vasco in their Brazilian Championship matches. \
Defender Juan visits Gávea and praises the defensive duo
Flamengo's central defense, formed by Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim, has been a standout this season. These experienced players are partly responsible for the team's strong performance in the Brazilian Championship. In the competition, the Red-Blacks have the third-best defense, conceding just nine goals in ten matches.\ The sector has been so important that even one of Brazil's best players in the position, Roma and Brazilian national team defender Juan, said yesterday that the Flamengo defense is a factor in Flamengo's unbalancing performances in this season's Brasileirão. The player also stated that Flamengo has what it takes to win the long-awaited sixth championship.\ "Flamengo has everything it takes to be champions. They just can't lose focus. They have to maintain this good rhythm for a long time. This team's strength comes from its defense, not just the two center-backs, who are very good, but the full-backs and midfielders also help with marking," said the defender.\ Juan, who is on vacation in Brazil, took advantage of Saturday morning to visit his former teammates in Gávea. The defender had fun watching the recreational training session, chatting with some of the players, posing for photos, and signing numerous autographs.\ When asked about Flamengo's defensive duo, Juan was full of praise for Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim.\ "They are two great defenders. Fábio Luciano is experienced and commands the defense well, and Ronaldo is fast and very good," analyzed the defender. \
THE DAY
Friends forever \ Roberto Dinamite opens São Januário for Zico. Galo laughs and thanks him: 'Look, I'm unemployed' \
Mauro Leão
Rio - Times have changed. The new spirit that has taken over Vasco, with the election of Roberto Dinamite, has even opened the doors of São Januário to the greatest star in Flamengo's history, Zico. During a lively chat at the new Vasco manager's house in Barra da Tijuca, a question was raised: Would Zico be the ideal coach to one day take over the Vasco team? Roberto responded immediately: "The doors are open. But Zico has reached another level, beyond coaching club teams. He's a national team coach," Dinamite said.\ Zico responded attentively. "Don't say that, Bob! I'm unemployed," Rooster replied with a hearty laugh.\ They traveled back in time and recounted how their friendship was born from the many coin tosses they played in the past, as they were captains of their teams. Today, they applaud healthy rivalry in football and condemn fan violence.\ The historic exchange between the two is the first since Roberto scored a stunning goal, taking over Vasco's destiny for the next three years, putting an end to a 'coronelismo' that had lasted decades at the club.\
THE ARRIVAL\ A strong hug and a joke from Zico marked the beginning of the conversation between the two old friends.\ "The easy way out is over. Now you'll have to wake up at dawn on Sundays to watch the regattas at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. You won't just enjoy Vasco's football. You're president of all sports," joked Galinho, noting that it's easier to be president in Europe. \
"There, the guy owns the club and only deals with football. Here, it's crazy; you have to deal with directors from all departments." \ Roberto killed the joke on his chest, admitted that he would wake up early for the good of the club and passed the ball: \ "And you, Zico? When will you be president of Flamengo? Do you have any plans to become a manager?"\ "I was bitten by the blue bug. I thought I wouldn't make it as a coach, but I did well and ended up liking it. I'm active and intend to continue in the profession for many years. Right now, I'm not thinking about being president. In the future..." Zico countered.\ ZICO AT VASCO\ "Zico is way beyond coaching teams. He's reached another level. He's a national team coach," Roberto explained.\ "Look, Bob. Don't say that, man! I'm unemployed (laughs)," replied Galinho, remembering that, when he was still in Flamengo's youth team, he almost moved to São Januário. \ "My father, Mr. Antunes, wanted to kick me out because the club wouldn't give me lunch. But George Helal paid for the food out of his own pocket."\ VIOLENCE IN THE FIELD\ "Today's players and fans get everything mixed up. Opponents are one thing; enemies are quite another. There may be rivalries in football, but never hatred," Roberto commented.\ "Football reflects the daily lives of a suffering people. Fans absorb everything from their idols. That's why professionals can't preach war. They have to preach peace. Today, everything is so insane," adds Zico.\ FLA X VASCO RIVALRY\ "The biggest lie in football is saying that if Vasco beats Flamengo, they'll win a title. Pure nonsense. To be a champion, you have to beat as many opponents as possible," Roberto denounces.\ "I'm not trying to be nostalgic, no. But back in our day, we'd bring 100 fans to the Maracanã. Everyone had fun, no fighting. We played memorable matches, with victories and titles for both sides. Today, they've turned it into a war," Zico recalls.\ RELATIONSHIP WITH THE FANS\ "Vasco's financial situation is very complicated. The club can no longer hand out free tickets. True Vasco fans, those who love Vasco, will have to go to the box office and buy tickets to help the club. We can't hand out R$30 worth of tickets. We'll go bankrupt if we continue acting like this. I don't want a dependent relationship with the fans, but rather unity among all," Dinamite urges.\ "Furthermore, organized fan groups already earn money from the clubs. They sell merchandise, jerseys, and even have memberships, paying monthly dues. The organized groups have their own fundraising. They have to help the clubs," adds the red-and-black fan. \ FRIENDS OF FAITH\ "We've known each other since our youth days. There's always been respect between us. Our mothers, Dona Neusa (Roberto) and Dona Matilde (Zico), would watch our games together and became friends. Later, as team captains, we flipped so many coins at the start of matches that we became friends. But when the ball rolled, the love ended," Dinamite jokes.\ "Mutual respect and a desire to win were important. Roberto lived on the island, and when he moved to Barra, the friendship grew even stronger. The call-ups to the Brazilian national team also brought us closer together," emphasizes Galo.\ GOOD MEMORIES\ "Mozer and Leandro were jerks and would tease me during the national team, jokingly touching my breasts and saying, 'Look, what pretty breasts.' In the first Fla and Vasco match, we greeted each other, and in the first few plays, Mozer hit me three times, once from behind. I complained, but he didn't care, but in the end, everything was fine. That's how it should be," recalls Roberto.\ "I'll never forget it. Vasco was the only club that honored me when I retired. Antônio Soares Calçada, its former president, went to Maracanã and presented me with a plaque thanking me for my services to football. It touched me," Zico says.\ ADVICE\ "Do whatever you want. Always follow your convictions. Even consult with the parties involved, listen to their opinions. But when the time comes, the decision has to be yours. Because they'll hold you accountable, the president responsible. Right or wrong, the decision has to be yours," teaches Zico, president of CFZ.\ "I appreciate it. It's impossible to run a club as big as Vasco alone. But the final decision is mine. The final word is the president's," Roberto thanks.\ ZICO AND ROBERTO\ "Zico was a star. He would end a game in the blink of an eye. He was a complete, skillful, and deadly player," praises Roberto.\ "Roberto has evolved a lot. He started as a center forward until he fell into the hands of my brother Edu, who coached Vasco. Edu taught Roberto how to position himself to make passes, targeting the sprinters Romário and Mauricinho. On top of that, he was an excellent header and a perfect free kick taker. He was a lot of work," says Galo.\ SORROWS\ "Flamengo screwed my son over. They didn't give him a chance. They messed with my feelings as a father, in a cheap persecution," Zico laments.\ "My pride as a father was hurt when the former president kicked me out of the São Januário social gatherings. I was with my 9-year-old son, who was shocked. At that moment, I decided to put an end to the abuses at the club," Dinamite recalls.\ FUNNY\ "Roberto still can't get over Rondinelli's goal. Bob should have scored it and he messed up," Zico teases.\ "Worse still, Rondinelli lives this to this day. Every time he sees me, he remembers the header. But he forgets that he lost a title because he elbowed me. He was just being silly and nervous. I walked past him laughing, he lost his temper, and we won the Guanabara Cup because of his mistake," Roberto counters, smiling.\ TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS\ "At Flamengo, Obina is the man. The fans love him. There's Bruno and the two full-backs," says Zico.\ "At Vasco, I really like Tiago, Edmundo, and Leandro Amaral," says the Vasco fan.\ LAST QUESTION\ From Zico to Roberto:\ “Which player would you like to see at Vasco?” \ “Cristiano Ronaldo”.\ From Roberto to Zico:\ “What do you prefer, being a national team coach or a club coach?”\ "At the club. With the national team, you can't do your job, there's no time."\
A generational conflict \ Antônio Lopes, the oldest coach in the Brasileirão, faces the 'young' Caio Júnior \
José Luiz de Pinho and Ricardo Mota
Rio - The classic between Flamengo and Vasco, this Sunday, at 18:10 pm, at Maracanã, will mark the duel between the most experienced 'professor' active in the Brazilian Championship and the rookie. The longest-serving coach in the country, Antônio Lopes, at 66, will have the challenge of overcoming the momentum of the leader Flamengo, led by the 'young' Caio Júnior, 43.\ "Despite his short coaching career, Caio Júnior has already demonstrated his competence. So much so that Flamengo is leading the Brasileirão," Lopes recalled, praising his colleague. \ When he still dreamed of becoming a soccer coach, Caio already listened to Antônio Lopes' advice. "I really respect Lopes' work. When I was taking a coaching course, I attended a lecture of his. We have to be very careful in this Sunday's game," emphasized the Paraná native from Cascavel.\ O Vasco breathes new air with Roberto Dinamite as president, comes from a 4-0 win over Sport, and Lopes is banking on the team's good spirits to break a taboo: winning the first state classic in 2008.\ Of the six matches played this year, Vasco drew three and lost three. In both matches against Flamengo, they lost 2-1 in the Guanabara Cup semifinal and drew 2-2 in the Rio Cup.\ "Flamengo is the leader and is having a great campaign, but Vasco is in high spirits. With a win, we'll take a big step toward staying within the Libertadores pack," emphasizes Antônio Lopes.\ It will also be Edmundo's chance to redeem himself for the penalty he missed against his archrival in the Guanabara Cup semifinal, which sealed Vasco's elimination. Meanwhile, suspended midfielder Morais will be replaced by veteran Beto, 33.\ Despite the problems after the match against Atlético-MG, when Bruno, Diego Tardelli, and Marcinho organized a party with prostitutes at the goalkeeper's farm, Caio Júnior says the mood is one of total concentration for the derby. The three were fined by the board and are confirmed for the derby: "Believe me, we're stronger. I'll field the same team I would have if this hadn't happened."\ The coach will be without Toró and Kléberson, who are injured. But he will have Leonardo Moura, Cristian, and Íbson back in the lineup.\
Obina, the starter in the hearts of the fans \ The fight with Souza is for the spot on the team, because for the fans, Anjo Negro has no rivals \
Ricardo Mota
Rio - In the battle for a spot in Flamengo's attack, Obina holds a special place in the fans' hearts. On the field, the striker is locked in a private battle with Souza for Caio Júnior's preference, but the coach cites the healthy competition for the starting spot as an example of harmony within the squad: "Against Náutico, I started with Obina, but then I brought in Souza. The fans applauded both of them, and they supported each other."
And the Black Angel gets even more excited when the opponent is the team from Colina. The striker has already scored decisive goals against the rival in the Copa do Brasil and the Taça Guanabara. \ "It's always difficult to face Vasco. We know it will be an important match for our team to maintain its lead in the Brazilian league. We have to be very focused to get a good result. I've already scored some decisive goals against Vasco, and I hope to get lucky again this Sunday," he said. \ But it was also against this opponent that Obina suffered a serious injury to the cruciate ligament in his left knee, in February 2007.\ Recovered and available for Caio Júnior, Obina believes he's enjoying one of the best moments of his career. But he knows that after the good performance against Náutico, he wasn't at his best in the 1-1 draw with Atlético Mineiro in Belo Horizonte: "Caio Júnior has always talked about the importance of picking up points at the opponent's home ground, and we were happy to have achieved that against Atlético Mineiro. It was a very close game from start to finish."\ For him, playing for Flamengo is already a source of joy. But if it's as a starter, even better. \ "I'm at a very happy point in my career. I'm very happy to be wearing the Flamengo jersey. I'll always strive to give my best. For me, returning to playing normally after the injury I suffered last year is already a huge pleasure. I'm very grateful for this time I've been at Gávea," he explained.\ During his time off, Obina overindulged on the food his mother cooked and gained a few extra pounds. The striker struggles with his weight every day. But now that he's back in shape, Obina doesn't want to be labeled a second-string player.\ He knows that only with a string of games will he be able to play his best football. "My best period at Flamengo was in the starting lineup. This reputation as a second-half player is exaggerated," he emphasized.\ The striker does not believe that the incident that occurred after the match against Atlético, when Bruno, Diego Tardelli and Marcinho organized a party with prostitutes at the goalkeeper's farm, could harm the Brazilian league leader's campaign.\ Obina stayed at the hotel after the game and returned to Rio de Janeiro with a clear head. Like the other players, he accepted his teammates' apologies.\ Although there are still many games left in the competition, he believes Flamengo has everything it takes to stay atop the table: "There's still a long way to go in the Brasileirão. Talking about winning the title is complicated. What we can promise our fans is that we'll give it our all in every game. We know the fans really want this title, and we'll fight to win it."\ Available, in shape, and eager to play, Obina leaves Caio Júnior satisfied and the fans hopeful of seeing the ball in the net this Sunday.\
Cristian returns to the classic and bets on a 'good-to-watch' game
Rio - In addition to Leonardo Moura, defensive midfielder Cristian is also fit again to face Vasco after serving a suspension against Atlético-MG. He believes that Flamengo's lead in the Brazilian league and Vasco's strong midweek victory make tomorrow's match even more appealing.
"In a classic, both teams come out with the same motivation. And the team that makes the fewest mistakes always wins. It won't be easy, but I'm sure it will be a good game to watch," he bets.
The possibility of Flamengo playing with three defenders, since Jailton is suspended, for Cristian will not change the team's positioning on the field at all.
"Jailton always plays the third defender role. The only difference is that whoever comes in will be a specialist in that position."
Léo Moura: 'They are still looking for the ideal formation'
Rio - Back in the team after serving a suspension against Atlético-MG, right-back Leonardo Moura showed excellent accuracy on free kicks after this morning's recreational training session in Gávea. The player emphasized the rivalry surrounding the derby, but made a special request.
"Despite the cordiality between the directors, rivalry will always exist. But it has to be on the field, with each team fighting hard to win. Aside from that, we need peace at Maracanã, among the fans too. Anyone wants to win a game like this; football gets a great spectacle this way, but there must be no violence," he warned.
Leonardo Moura doesn't believe in favoritism, but he believes that Flamengo can use its team spirit to emerge victorious.
"Vasco has quality players, but what we hear is that they're still looking for the ideal formation. Maybe this can help us because we have a base in place that already knows how to play."
Time is not set for the classic \ Rio - Caio Júnior has not confirmed Flamengo's squad for tomorrow's derby. Kléberson and Toró, injured, and Jaílton, suspended, will not play. However, Cristian, Leonardo Moura, and Íbson are back in the lineup.\ The coach can field three defenders: Dininho, Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim. \ "We have good players to fill in for those missing. Jônatas, Erick Flores, Aírton, and Dininho are great options. We'll study Vasco and then build the team around them," said the coach, who praised his opponent: "Edmundo is unbalanced with his passing ability. Leandro Amaral and Jean are also dangerous and fast. This will be a great game, with a full house, for sure." \
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo and Vasco play the 'Peace Classic' at Maracanã\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Separated by many points in the table, but united by a century-old rivalry, Flamengo and Vasco face off this Sunday, at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), in a match of the 11th round of the Brazilian Championship. The Rubro-Negro, which is coming off a draw with Atlético-MG, is having a superior campaign and leads the competition with 23 points. Meanwhile, Cruzmaltinos, buoyed by a rout over Sport, are still looking for consistency in the competition and have 14 points.
Flamengo's positive campaign was marred this week by the scandal involving some players and prostitutes in Belo Horizonte after last Wednesday's match against Atlético-MG. Despite this, the squad assures that the incident is behind them and the team won't feel the effects in the derby.
"They tarnished the club's reputation. But our work doesn't change; the group is united and focused on the title. Maybe this will further strengthen the team. I think they understand their misstep. We have a tough game against Vasco coming up," said the club's defender and captain, Fábio Luciano.
At São Januário, the Cruzmaltino players are also seeking peace, but through a string of good results. The Rio de Janeiro team has yet to win a game away from home in this Brazilian Championship and is struggling to get closer to the top four.
"We have to fix the team's areas so we can climb even higher in this Brazilian Championship. We could be a little higher in the table, but we've faltered in some games," commented Edmundo. Besides seeking peace of mind, the two rivals also share similar praise before the derby.
"Vasco is motivated after the rout over Sport. Furthermore, the new management has given them renewed energy. They have good players on the field. Edmundo is a disruptive player with his quality passing. Leandro Amaral and Jean are also very dangerous and fast. It's going to be a great game, with a full house and the fans who benefit from it," said Caio Júnior.
"O Flamengo "Vasco is doing well, going through a good phase, and they have a well-assembled team. But I don't see favoritism for either side. When it comes to Vasco and Flamengo, anything can happen," commented Antônio Lopes.
For Flamengo's derby, coach Caio Júnior will no longer be able to count on midfielder Renato Augusto, who left the club midweek to join Bayern Leverkusen. Meanwhile, Ibson renewed his loan and returns to the team, as do right-back Leonardo Moura and defensive midfielder Cristian, who served suspensions against Atlético-MG. Defensive midfielder Jaílton received his third yellow card and is out.
At Vasco, Antônio Lopes also has trouble selecting his team, starting with midfielder Morais, who is suspended with three yellow cards. Defender Jorge Luiz and midfielder Leandro Bomfim are still recovering from injuries.
And, unlike the turbulent atmosphere between the clubs in recent years, this time the derby promises peace between the boards. Presidents Márcio Braga and Roberto Dinamite will watch the game side by side, in the Maracanã's grandstand.
"Winning a derby is always great, but it's a rivalry that has to remain on the field. There's no such thing as a separate championship," commented Roberto, recently elected to Vasco's position. Márcio Braga, meanwhile, also adopts a friendly tone, preferring to heap praise on Roberto, Vasco's all-time leading scorer.
“I think it would be more complicated for us if Roberto was still on the field, marking those goals who always scored. But a classic between Flamengo and Vasco never has a favorite; it's a classic played by the masses," the president of Flamengo emphasized.
The hunt is open for a new number 10 at Flamengo.\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After losing Renato Augusto to German football, Flamengo is searching for a new number 10. And Felipe, who previously played for the club, is the first name on the list. This Friday, vice president of football Kléber Leite met with Reinaldo Pitta, the agent of midfielder Felipe, who is also wanted by Vasco.
But Felipe isn't the only name on the list. The list of candidates includes Renato Abreu, who had a successful stint with the red-black club and is currently playing in Arab football, and Danilo, a former São Paulo, who is in Japan, playing for Kashima Antlers.
The Gávea club would also be keeping an eye on Argentine football stars: midfielder D'Alessandro, currently at San Lorenzo and also wanted by Internacional, and Boca Juniors' number 10, Riquelme, who was once in the club's plans. Fluminense before the start of the Libertadores.
Juan visits Gávea and says: there is no better team than Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - This Saturday morning, defender Juan, currently with Roma in Italy, was in Gávea to see his old teammates. Juan greeted all the players and assured them that there is no better team than the Rubro-Negro in Brazilian football.
"Flamengo is having a great Championship, it has everything it needs to be Champion. I don't see a team in Brazil that is more cohesive than Flamengo," said the Brazilian national team defender.
During training, coach Caio Júnior confirmed the return of Cristian, Léo Moura, and Ibson to the team for the derby, which is buoyed by the victory over Sport. According to Caio Júnior, Vasco has good players who can make a difference, like Edmundo, a player who worked with the coach at Palmeiras. The coach said that Leandro Amaral and Jean are also very dangerous and fast.
PELENET
Riquelme could be Renato Augusto's replacement at Fla
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
DEshow('180x150',5,8); Dim hasPlayer, playerversionhasPlayer = falseplayerversion = 10Do While playerversion > 0On Error Resume NexthasPlayer = (IsObject(CreateObject("ShockwaveFlash.ShockwaveFlash." & playerversion)))If hasPlayer = true Then Exit Doplayerversion = playerversion - 1Loopis_FlashVersion = playerversionis_Flash = hasPlayer Riquelme may be one of the players Flamengo's board is negotiating with to fill the void left by Renato Augusto, recently sold to Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. This information was revealed by columnist Anselmo Gois of the newspaper O Globo. The columnist published that the Argentine midfielder is the big dream of the red-black board for the rest of the Brazilian Championship and also stated that contacts have already been initiated. \ Although it is a very complicated negotiation, it is not impossible, since Flamengo has a good amount of cash in hand, having earned around R$13 million with the departure of Renato Augusto. \ Other names being considered are Danilo, formerly of São Paulo and currently at Kashima Antlers (Japan) and Felipe, from Al Saad (Qatar). \
Caio Jr: "I've never seen a leader like Fábio Luciano" Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
GLOBOESPORTE
Boca says Fla can talk, take a photo with Riquelme, but not buy him President of the Argentine club, Pedro Pompilio, rules out negotiations between the Argentine midfielder and Rubro-Negro GLOBOESPORTE.COM In Rio de Janeiro
Riquelme will not be traded to Flamengo, says Boca Juniors president He had barely arrived in Argentina. the news of Flamengo's interest in signing Riquelme and Boca Juniors has already vehemently ruled out the possibility of negotiating its number 10. According to "O Globo" columnist Ancelmo Góis, Rubro-Negro would be willing to sign the Argentine to replace Renato Augusto, who was negotiated with Bayer Leverkusen. \ In its online edition, the Argentine newspaper 'Olé' says that "one of the most important clubs in Brazil is interested in Riquelme, but the Xeneize president, Pedro Pompilio, didn't even give the Cariocas time to dream." \ "There's no way around it. We want to enjoy the player for much longer. If you're looking for him, Román is in Ezeiza (where the team is doing preseason training). You can talk to him, take a photo, and he'll be there for you. But he's not for sale," says Pompilio. \ Flamengo's board, however, did not even comment on the matter publicly.\
Excited about his good form and leadership, Cristian predicts an exciting classic Just like what happened with right-back Leo Moura, midfielder Cristian reinforces Flamengo after serving an automatic suspension at Mineirão From GLOBOESPORTE.COM In Rio de Janeiro Cristian reinforces Flamengo against Vasco In addition to the return of right-back Leonardo Moura, the other new feature in Flamengo in the classic against Vasco, this Sunday, at Maracanã, for Brazilian Championship, is the defensive midfielder Cristian. He also reinforces the team after serving an automatic suspension against Athletic-MG, in Mineirão.
Excited about the good phase and the isolated leadership of the Brazilian, Cristian remembers that Vasco is coming off a thrashing against Sports, in São Januário. And for all this, the Flamengo fan believes that the classic will be even more attractive. "In a classic, both teams enter with the same motivation. And the team that makes the fewest mistakes always wins. It won't be easy, but I'm sure it will be a great game to watch," Cristian said in an interview with the official website. The possibility of Flamengo playing with three defenders, given Jailton's suspension, won't change the team's positioning on the field. At least that's what Cristian believes. "Jailton always plays as a third defender. The only difference is that whoever comes in will be a specialist in that position," he analyzes.
Leonardo Moura calls for peace in the classic Flamengo's right-back returns to the starting lineup after serving a suspension in the match against Atlético-MG, at Mineirão GLOBOESPORTE.COM In Rio de Janeiro Leonardo Moura (first, right) reinforces Flamengo in the classic Back in the starting lineup Flamengo, after serving a suspension against the Athletic-MG, last Sunday, at Mineirão, right-back Leonardo Moura is excited to be on the field in the classic against Vasco, this Sunday, at Maracanã, for Brazilian ChampionshipHe improved his aim on free kicks during training this Saturday at Gávea, and made a special request to the fans who go to the stadium.
"Despite the cordiality between the directors, rivalry will always exist. But it has to be on the field, with each team fighting hard to win. Aside from that, we need peace at Maracanã, among the fans too. Anyone can win the game, but there must be no violence," warns the Flamengo fullback.
Leonardo Moura doesn't believe in favoritism, but understands that Flamengo can use its team spirit to emerge victorious and remain comfortably at the top of the Brazilian Championship.
"Vasco has quality players, but what we hear is that they're still searching for the ideal formation. Perhaps this can help us because we have a base in place that already knows how to play," explains Leonardo Moura.
Souza hopes for a chance against Vasco The striker loses his starting spot to Obina, but promises to spare no effort to earn a new opportunity from coach Caio Júnior. From GLOBOESPORTE.COM In Rio de Janeiro Souza awaits a chance against his rival Striker Souza hasn't lost confidence. It's true that being on the bench has been unusual since he arrived at the club. Flamengo. But, despite having lost his position to Obina, he hopes to gain another opportunity during the classic against Vasco, this Sunday, at Maracanã, for Brazilian Championship.
"We learn over time that rebellion gets us nowhere. I really like Obina; we're friends off the field, too, and I respect him. He waited for his chance and never complained. In two years at Flamengo, I've never been a reserve, so I can't complain now. I root for him, and I know that if I start, Obina will root for me, as he always has. I just hope I get a chance in the derby," says Souza, in an interview with the official website.
Souza has yet to score for Flamengo in classic matches against Vasco. According to the number 9, coach Caio Júnior's decision was a natural one after Obina scored both goals in the victory over Sport while he was suspended.
"I'm calm and working to regain my place. Obina scored the goals in Recife and deserved to stay on the team. That's football, and my fight is to play and help Flamengo stay in the lead," says the Flamengo striker.
Vasco wants to transform a 'depressing spectacle' into a world-class event Vice President of Marketing confirms that Dinamite and Marcio Braga will watch this Sunday's classic together, just like in European football. Cahê Mota From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro Dinamite will be alongside Marcio Braga in this Sunday's classic at Maracanã After putting an end to the story that Vasco e Flamengo are fighting a 'separate championship,' Roberto Dinamite's goal is to transform the 'Clássico dos Milhões' into a spectacle on par with European football, both on and off the field. To this end, he has confirmed, through his board, that he will be present at the Maracanã alongside Marcio Braga, the club's president, this Sunday at 18:20 p.m. \ "This is part of Dinamite's policy. Strengthening ties with the presidents of other clubs is creating the civilized habit of knowing how to welcome and interact. I'm tired of seeing presidents watching games side by side in European championships and the Champions League, and that doesn't happen here in Brazil. This is partly due to the fault and irresponsibility of the other president (Eurico Miranda), who turned the games into wars," says Vasco's vice president of marketing, José Henrique Coelho. \ The leader reveals that the goal is for these meetings to become routine. \ "It's an act that reflects Vasco's history. We did it in Florianópolis, against Figueirense, against Sport, here in Rio, and we'll do it again on Sunday with Marcio Braga in the Maracanã Grandstand. It's important to highlight this kind of attitude, from both sides, especially since Marcio opened the doors when he attended Roberto's inauguration. Unfortunately, Vasco and Flamengo ended up becoming a depressing spectacle, and a possibility for change opens up when presidents show this intention. They contribute to disarmament." \ Vasco and Flamengo face each other in the 11th round of the Brasileirão and GLOBOESPORTE.COM will follow all the action in Real Time from 18:10 pm.\
Fla is just waiting for Ronaldo to recover before offering the striker a contract. The president of Flamengo says that there is already an understanding with the Fenômeno's agent that Flamengo will have 'priority' to have the player. Fred Huber From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro onaldo enjoys vacation with his girlfriend Maria Beatriz Antony, who is pregnant, in Spain It is not news to anyone that the Flamengo Ronaldo wants it, and the Phenomenon wants to wear the red-and-black jersey. The dream, which often seemed distant, seems to be getting closer every day. On June 30th, the striker faced an unprecedented situation in his career: his contract with Milan ended, leaving him without a contract with a club for the first time since turning professional. \ If it's up to Flamengo president Marcio Braga, Ronaldo can rest assured that this situation will only last as long as it takes him to recover from his knee surgery. The director says he already has an agreement with the Phenomenon's agent, Fabiano Farah, for the parties to sit down and discuss a contract as soon as he can return to playing. \ "We've made an agreement with Ronaldo's agent. Once he's recovered and ready to play, we'll sit down and discuss a contract. Runco will be monitoring his treatment," he says. \ At 31 years old, Ronaldo has been out of action since February, when he suffered a serious left knee injury. The forward expressed optimism about returning to running in mid-July and returning to the field by September. The player's treatment is being managed by physiotherapist Bruno Mazziotti and monitored by José Luiz Runco, the doctor for Flamengo and the Brazilian national team. In addition to the Rubro-Negro, Milan has already expressed interest in the player's return, but only if he loses weight. This Friday, it was the turn of PSV, Ronaldo's former club in the Netherlands, is considering the star for a possible transfer. \ In recent weeks, Ronaldo appears to have taken a break from recovery. While on vacation with his girlfriend Maria Beatriz Antony in Ibiza, Spain, the player was photographed with a cigarette in his hand and appeared to be overweight.\
THROW
Juan, ex-Fla: 'The team has everything to be champions' For defender, Rubro-Negro is the best in the Brazilian league LANCEPRESS! Defender Juan was in Gávea this Saturday morning to see his friends. Having come up through Flamengo's youth ranks, he greeted all the players and said, "There's no better team than the Rubro-Negro in Brazil." "Flamengo is having a great Championship, they have everything they need to be champions. I don't see a team in Brazil that's more cohesive than Flamengo," said the Brazilian National Team defender.
Flamengo vs Vasco: first of the post-Eurico Miranda era With Dinamite as president of the club, the classic will not be a separate championship, as the former president used to say.
Roberto Dinamite wants Vasco to face Fla like Botafogo and Fluminense
Diego Rodrigues RIO DE JANEIRO
Marcelo Bertoldo RIO DE JANEIRO \ \
Pedro Henrique Torre RIO DE JANEIRO
"Vasco vs. Flamengo is a league in itself." That's how former Vasco president Eurico Miranda defined the Clássico dos Milhões. Now, with Roberto Dinamite in power, things will be different starting this Sunday. The new president wants to put an end to this mindset on Vasco's side. "There's no such thing as a separate championship, it doesn't exist anymore. We have to beat Flamengo, as well as Fluminense and Botafogo, to win titles. And all of this has to be healthy," Dinamite often says. From the youth academy onwards, the boys were instructed to treat the match against their rival as if it were the game of their lives. This can have a psychological impact on the athletes. And, if we look at Vasco's record against Flamengo during Eurico's time at the club, the pressure weighed heavily on the negative side. Eurico has lost three championship finals since taking over as club president in 2001. That year, he finished as state runner-up, cementing Flamengo's third consecutive championship. Three years later, he suffered another defeat in the state championship. In 2006, two defeats (2-0 and 1-0) sealed the deal for his rival in the Copa do Brasil final. In addition to the pressure for a victory, the former president was known for promoting the Clássico dos Milhões (Millions Classic) with controversy. Who doesn't remember the following statement?: "I've already bought the beer. And I paid. I'm sure we'll be champions, because our team is much better than Flamengo. I rarely make mistakes." The phrase was uttered before the 2004 Campeonato Carioca title loss. The absence of statements and demands from the former president is already creating a climate of peace among the players. Midfielder Jonílson, for example, is already speaking more calmly: "Against Flamengo, it's a Brazilian football classic like any other. So, we can't go into it thinking we have to do this and have that happen. It's a game where we have to get the three points, nothing more." Now only time will tell if Dinamite's new management will lead Vasco back to winning ways. But at least the feeling is one of increased confidence at São Januário. if (!(partnerdomain)){OAS_AD('x10');}
Caio Júnior says that Edmundo is unbalanced But Flamengo's coach says Vasco is not just the striker LANCEPRESS! Caio Júnior, who managed Edmundo at Palmeiras last year, expressed concern for the Vasco player. The Flamengo manager praised some of the player's qualities. "Edmundo is a killer, with a pass or when he sees a teammate in a good position. I worked with him for a year at Palmeiras and I respect him a lot," said Caio Júnior. But he didn't dismiss the rest of Vasco's squad. On the contrary, he noted that the team is strengthened by the 4-0 rout of Sport and emphasized that the concern isn't limited to Edmundo. "Vasco isn't just about him. I really like Leandro Amaral and Jean, but they'll lose out without Morais," Caio concluded. if (!(partnerdomain)){OAS_AD('x10');}
Cristian hopes to be back in the starting lineup Steering wheel has already served an automatic suspension and is available LANCEPRESS! Midfielder Cristiano is very excited about the chance to play in the derby between Flamengo and Vasco. He had been a starter in recent matches, but missed the last one due to a suspension after receiving his third yellow card. He is available and hopes to start. "It's good to be back in a derby. Caio (Júnior, coach) hasn't decided who will start. But whoever plays will give their all for Flamengo. It's a tough game, and everyone wants to play," he said. The possibility of the team playing with three defenders does not change Cristian's style of play, according to him: "It doesn't change much. Jaílton plays as the third defender and doesn't really come out much. But they have Lopes, a coach who studies the opponent thoroughly."
Souza is not put off by the reservation Striker praises the moment experienced by Obina, Flamengo's current starter in attack
Souza does not question Caio Júnior's choice (Credit: Paulo Wrencher) LANCEPRESS! Having been out of Flamengo's starting lineup for three games, Souza seems calm about the situation. Since the match against Sport in the eighth round of the Brazilian Championship, the Flamengo number 9 has been an option on coach Caio Júnior's bench. In that match, Obina, who had been a reserve until then, came on for Souza, who was suspended, and scored two goals. Souza shows respect for his teammate in the competition for a starting spot. According to the striker, Obina is in great form and deserves every credit for being named in the starting lineup. In the match against Atlético-MG, last Wednesday, Souza didn't even get on the field, but the striker didn't let himself get down. radio l! "I'm not leaving the team because I'm playing poorly, now I have to keep working. Our team has a great squad, and I hope I can contribute," he says. (Click here to hear more) if (!(partnerdomain)){OAS_AD('x10');} |