THE GLOBE
A desert of emotions
Flamengo draws 0-0 with Coronel Bolognesi in their Libertadores debut
Photo caption: IN "BOLO", Souza tries to escape the marking of four rivals from Coronel Bolognesi in the debut in which Fla went blank
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
To begin its eighth Copa Libertadores appearance, Flamengo wore the same jersey with which it won its 1981 World Cup title. But instead of fueling its new victorious campaign, the team went blank, as its away kit, in a goalless draw with Coronel Bolognesi yesterday on the edge of the Atacama Desert. On Sunday, Flamengo faces Vasco in the semifinals of the Taça Guanabara. In Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores, the team plays again on the 27th against Cienciano at Maracanã. In Group 1, yesterday, Cruzeiro defeated Real Potosí 4-0 at Mineirão.
Unlike the usual scenario for Libertadores games, there was no trapdoor, nor was the home team trying to impose itself through the sheer force of the crowd, which, silently, filled less than half of Jorge Bassadre Stadium. In the stands, the only cheering banner was unfurled by employees of a tile factory owned by the club's president, known as "Bolo."
With Diego Tardelli up front alongside Souza, Flamengo intended to suffocate. But in practice, the strategy caused the team to lose midfield organization. Lacking offensive possession and support from the full-backs, Flamengo tried to outdo themselves through individual dedication. In the ninth minute of play, goalkeeper Penny had to step out into the middle to get ahead of Souza. In the following play, the home team was more dangerous: after a cross from the right, Gonzalez got ahead of Jaílton and fired a dangerous shot, which Bruno made a good save. On the other side, Penny worked well to palm away Leonardo Moura's corner kick in the 9th minute. From then on, Flamengo retreated from the attacking half and saw Coronel Bolgnesi come more into the game. In the 12th minute, Gonzalez Vigil beat Jaílton again and fired a dangerous cross shot.
Besides firepower, Flamengo lost energy after Toró took a blow to his right knee and was on the field for almost ten minutes waiting for Kleberson to come on in the 41st minute. Despite being injured, the midfielder was fouled, well taken by Juan, which Penny saved, and then fired a long-range shot that bounced and nearly fooled the goalkeeper. In the 44th minute, Jaílton made a foul that went unnoticed by the referee, but it clearly illustrated a first half full of fouls.
"The game is balanced, their marking is strong. We have to create a little more," said captain Fábio Luciano at halftime.
After the restart for the second half, coach Joel Santana urged the team not to be irritated by the violence and to believe in the opposing defense's mistakes. Before the second minute, Souza and Juan had already been fouled twice. Struggling to carry the ball, Flamengo exchanged passes and attempted long-range shots. In the 4th minute, Kleberson fired a first-time shot, which Penny saved. Then it was Tardelli's turn to fire a powerful, dangerous shot. In the 5th minute, Jônatas cut in from the right and sent a shot that Penny parried. On the return leg, Leonardo Moura fired a shot against the defense. In the 12th minute, Juan ran free in front of the goalkeeper, but the referee had already stopped the play, signaling offside, which was not the case.
Obina misses winning goal at the end
Then, it was Souza's turn to waste a good chance, shooting wide after receiving the rebound from a corner kick from the right. In the 25th minute, Tardelli played a good one-two with Ibson, who tried to chip the ball over the goalkeeper, but the shot went wide, and Souza arrived too late. Desperately, the team surged forward, and after a scuffle in the box, Fábio Luciano shot straight at the goalkeeper. In the 43rd minute, in Flamengo's best chance of the game, Penny rebounded Marcinho's shot, and Obina, in the six-yard box, missed, just as the "Bolo" defenders expected. This time, Joel fell victim to his own strategy.
Coronel Bolognesi: Penny, Revoredo, Ostersen, Balbin and Alvarez; Linares, Uribe, Vasquez and Ramirez (Novoa); Juniors Ross and Gonzalez Vigil (Mostto). Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jailton, Jonathan, Ibson and Toro (Kleberson); Diego Tardelli (Obina) and Souza (Marcinho). Referee: Mauricio Reinoso (Ecuador). Yellow cards: Revoredo, Juan, Ibson, Diego Tardelli.
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: Safe. A great save at 10, and then he had no trouble. 6.
LEONARDO MOURA: He is confident and easily reached the attack, always creating good plays. 7,5.
FÁBIO LUCIANO: Firm in marking and commanding the defense with confidence. 6,5.
RONALDO ANGELIM: In marking, he alternated between good and bad moments. 5.
JUAN: In the first half, he got mixed up in the middle. He improved in the second half when he created good plays. In marking, he left spaces. 5,5.
JAÍLTON: With the full-backs advancing, he had to double his marking and was left lost. He made too many hard tackles. 4.
JÔNATAS: Consistent marking but slow on the ball in the first half. In the second half, he played more time and improved his performance with good passes. 6.
IBSON: He sat back in the first half. He returned to the game with a more determined spirit and managed to create some good plays in midfield. 7.
TORÓ: In his 41 minutes on the field in the first half, he was determined. He felt pain in his right knee and was substituted. 6. KLEBERSON came in his place and gave the team more movement. 7.
DIEGO TARDELLI: At the beginning of the game, he tried some individual plays. He slowed down the pace and ended up being easily marked without causing any trouble. 5. OBINA came on in the 31st minute of the second half and missed badly with a shot in the 43rd minute. 4.
SOUZA: He was alone inside Coronel Bolognesi's box in the first half. In the second half, he was called upon more, taking chances with shots, but his aim wasn't good. 5,5. MARCINHO came in his place to close the midfield and pass the ball around. No rating.
JOEL SANTANA: He changed the team's structure, which ended up being very defensive in the first half. At halftime, he corrected the error and the team improved. 6.
COLONEL BOLOGNESI
Coronel Bolognesi's team plays the ball well but creates few goal opportunities. Goalkeeper Diego Penny showed his quality when required, making good saves, one of which was crucial in the 41st minute of the second half. Striker Gonzales Vigil took his chances with shots and caused trouble.
ARBITRATION
Ecuadorian Mauricio Reinoso followed the action closely and kept a low profile throughout the match. He was sparing with his cards and complacent about the frequent fouls committed by Jaílton and Revoredo.
Kleber offers club facilities to Ronaldo to recover from injury
Attempt to move game from Cusco angers players and locals
TACNA, Peru. Upon learning of Ronaldo's new injury, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, maintained his plan to have him at the club, now alongside Romário. Although their contributions on the field are uncertain, the director is betting on the duo's marketing potential.
"Ronaldo is another great Flamengo player, like Romário, and they could make a great duo," said the director, who offered the club's infrastructure for Ronaldo's recovery. "As soon as I return to Brazil, I'll get to grips with the problem, but whatever the severity, it won't kill the project. With the quality of Flamengo's doctors and facilities, I'm sure he'll recover again."
Flamengo's decision to avoid playing Cienciano in the high altitude of Cuzco could create a hostile atmosphere for the club in the Peruvian city. If its attempt to change the game's location is unsuccessful, Flamengo will have to face the antipathy it has generated among the population, considered the most parochial in Peru.
"The reception can be hostile, yes. The people here are very fond of their land and don't like this debate. It's a myth," says journalist Jose Carlos Sotomayor, from the Cuzco branch of the newspaper "La Republica."
The "Diário de Cuzco" described the red-black action as "ridiculous, something done by losers who don't want to commit to their commitment."
Cienciano's players and executives, however, prefer irony. For them, Flamengo is mobilizing around a closed issue.
Today, the team makes its debut in the Libertadores, in Cuzco, against Nacional, from Uruguay, at 19:30 pm (Brasília time).
"We're attentive and vigilant, but nothing can take away the game from Cuzco. What Flamengo is doing is a strategy to create a disturbance and change things in the future," said the club's vice president, Guido Farfán.
- We can no longer stand these arguments from Brazilians, Argentines and Uruguayans - said Manuel Asteche, public relations officer at Cienciano.
More provocative were the Cienciano players.
- It seems ridiculous and a little pathetic - said midfielder Julio Garcia. (CE M)
Obina regrets slip-up, but Joel sees progress and is satisfied with draw
Kleber opens Gávea for Ronaldo to undergo treatment and form a duo with Romário
TACNA, Peru. Flamengo coach Joel Santana relied on the attacking duo of Souza and Diego Tardelli, but it was Obina who had the chance to win yesterday's match in Tacna. A fan favorite, this time he ended up frustrating them by letting the ball slip between his legs.
"I had overshot the ball a bit, I slipped and missed the goal," said Obina, dissatisfied with himself and the draw in the opening match. "I lacked a bit of everything: calm and luck. The ball bounced before it reached me, and I slipped."
Even without goals, Joel saw improvement in his team, especially in the players who weren't there last year, like Jônatas, Kleberson and Diego Tardelli.
"I was more satisfied; the team was competitive and solid in their defense. They came out confidently on the attack, but, as it was their debut, we were a bit hasty," said the coach, also pleased with the result. "It wasn't excellent, but it was good. What we can't do is lose. That's how the Libertadores is; whoever comes to Tacna will have a tough time."
To prove the balance, he recalled that San Martín, playing in Lima yesterday in Group 5, beat River Plate 2-0. Goalkeeper Bruno thinks the same way:
- Away from home, the draw was a good result. We could have scored a goal at the end, but the important thing was not conceding.
Before the game, upon learning of Ronaldo's new injury, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, maintained his plan to have him at the club, now alongside Romário. Although their contributions on the field are uncertain, the director is betting on the duo.
"Ronaldo is another great Flamengo player, like Romário, and they could make a great duo," said the director, who offered the club's facilities for Ronaldo's recovery. "Regardless of the severity of the injury, it doesn't mean the project is dead. With the quality of Flamengo's doctors and facilities, I'm sure he'll recover again."
Flamengo's decision not to play Cienciano in the high altitude of Cuzco could create a hostile climate for the club in the Peruvian city. (Carlos Eduardo Mansur)
Rubro-negro will face hostility in Cuzco, in addition to the altitude and Cienciano
Attempt to move game out of town angers players and locals
PERUVIAN FANS surround the bus as the Flamengo delegation arrives at the hotel in Tacna
TACNA, Peru. Flamengo's decision to avoid playing Cienciano in the high altitude of Cuzco could create a hostile atmosphere for the club in the Peruvian city. If its attempt to change the game's location is unsuccessful, Flamengo will have to face the antipathy it has generated among the population, considered the most parochial in Peru.
"The reception can be hostile, yes. The people here are very fond of their land and don't like this debate. It's a myth," says journalist Jose Carlos Sotomayor, from the Cuzco branch of the newspaper "La Republica."
The "Cuzco Diary" described the red-and-black action as "ridiculous, the work of losers who don't want to commit to their commitment." The newspaper notes that in Brazil, some games are played in intense heat, with heavy rain and lightning that have already killed players.
Cienciano's players and executives, however, prefer irony. For them, Flamengo is mobilizing around a closed issue.
Players suggest Flamengo is scared
Today, the team makes its debut in the Libertadores, in Cuzco, against Nacional, from Uruguay, at 19:30 pm (Brasília time).
"We're attentive and vigilant, but nothing can take away the game from Cuzco. What Flamengo is doing is a strategy to create a disturbance and change things in the future," said the club's vice president, Guido Farfán.
"It's getting tiring. And the public can't stand these arguments from Brazilians, Argentines, and Uruguayans anymore," said Manuel Asteche, Cienciano's public relations officer.
More provocative were the Cienciano players.
"It seems ridiculous and a bit pathetic. Other big Brazilian clubs came here and had no problems. It's disrespectful to clubs from high-altitude cities. It seems Brazilians no longer feel so superior," said midfielder Julio Garcia.
"The Uruguayan Wanderers also complained here. They lost 1-0 and celebrated. We went to Uruguay and played on a terrible pitch without complaining and we qualified. It seems they feel like they're going to lose here," said forward Gustavo Vassallo.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Flamengo could only manage a draw in their debut
Roberto Murad rloureiro@jsports.com.br
Fabio Luciano competes for the ball with his head. The defender had a solid performance.
In a scoreless match, Flamengo managed to snatch a point in its debut. The match was played in Tacna, Peru, and showed that Joel will have a lot of work to do to improve the team's performance when playing away from home, something that hadn't happened before this year.
A first half without many dangerous plays for the goalkeepers was what marked the start of the game. The two teams began studying each other and breathing in the Libertadores air. Flamengo had the majority of possession but couldn't exchange passes near the opponent's box.
The first dangerous move came ten minutes in, after a ball was crossed into the red-and-black box. Gonzales finished with a good volley, but Bruno, well placed, saved.
Flamengo responded effectively. Ibson found Leonardo Moura on the right; the full-back fired a powerful shot, and goalkeeper Penny palmed it away for a corner.
The game was lost with many misplaced passes on both sides. Bolognesi's team overindulged in fouls, using them whenever possible. Flamengo had good chances from corners, but still failed to score their first free kick of the season.
The second half looked set to be different. Flamengo came back with more commitment, and Kléberson, who replaced Toró, tried a few shots from outside the box. Jônatas began to lead the creative play in midfield, but Bolognesi didn't give the Flamengo attackers many chances.
In the 20th minute of the game, Souza took advantage of a corner kick and missed a good chance, kicking the ball far away.
The best chance to score was missed by Leonardo Moura who invaded the area and, lacking confidence, shot weakly, which was saved by goalkeeper Penny.
At the end of the game, when the players were already resigned to a draw, Leonardo Moura went to the baseline and passed the ball to Marcinho, the defender missed a clear goal and, on the rebound, Obina arrived late and was unable to finish.
Bolognesi's team was able to contain the good plays of Flamengo's full-backs, showing that, unlike Joel, the Peruvian team's coach knows the strengths of the Gávea team well.
Game character: Jônatas
Facing a team lacking creativity, one of the few standouts of the match was midfielder Jônatas. The red-and-black number 5 displayed the usual technique and determination required in a Libertadores Cup.
Possessing incredible precision in his passes, both long and short, the player distributed the game with quality and from his feet came a play that almost resulted in a goal — if it weren't for Souza's offside position, Juan would have scored for Flamengo in the second half.
Coach Joel Santana was unsure whether to start Jônatas or Kleberson initially, but he appears to have made the right choice. The midfielder was initially uncomfortable with the Peruvian, but, more mature after his time in Spanish football, he didn't fall for the provocation. A good performance from a player who disarms and creates like few others.
Bruno regrets missed chance at the end of the game
With a greater volume of play but few scoring chances, the draw ended up being a good result, according to Flamengo's players. However, aware of the difficulties the team will face in this Copa Libertadores, goalkeeper Bruno lamented a fantastic chance missed by striker Obina late in the match, but still valued the draw.
"It wasn't what we wanted, but it was good. In a competition like this, we know we're only going to face tough games, with a lot of rushing, especially away from home. Our team had no shortage of grit and desire, and we have to appreciate that. We conceded a goal at the end, but we didn't concede either, which is very important," analyzed Flamengo's number 1.
Support - Flamengo, through its vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, expressed solidarity with striker Ronaldo, who suffered a complete rupture of the ligaments in his left knee yesterday, in the draw between Milan and Livorno.
"We are at his disposal. We have the national team's doctor to help with his recovery," the director stated.
Game marathon doesn't worry Joel
Overlooked in the Fla-Flu match, Toró doesn't want to know about rest anymore
Flamengo's marathon of matches at the start of the season has been worrying the coaching staff. Besides traveling to Libertadores matches, Joel Santana's team is in the decisive stage of the Taça Guanabara. Sunday's semifinal match against Vasco da Gama, despite the coach having already said it won't be on the agenda until at least this afternoon, is on everyone's mind at Gávea.
The red-black technical committee even considered the possibility of fielding a mixed team against Vasco, but members of the board and the coach himself ruled out this possibility, as it would be important for the team to already win the competition and be able to rest the athletes considered starters in the Taça Rio.
Other factors that made Joel forget about this possibility were the team's poor performance in the defeat against Fluminense and the week of training that the team will have after the match against Vasco, since if they win, Flamengo will only play again on the 24th.
Despite the concerns of some of the coaching staff, the players are enjoying this marathon of games.
Supporter Toró, for example, thinks that this sequence of matches is a reward for the good campaign achieved last season.
"It's the marathon every player hopes to have. That's what we wanted when we sought to qualify for the Copa Libertadores. We have a good squad and we're prepared for all these important games," said Toró.
The player's happiness has a reason. When Joel decided to rest his starters against Fluminense, the young midfielder wasn't included in the squad for the game.
Toró dedicated his good form to the fans, Joel Santana and the club's fitness coach, Ronaldo Torres.
"I'm happy with the morale that Joel and the fans have given me. I remember that when I arrived, I was down, but thanks to Ronaldo Torres and the coach, I grew. I'm giving my life for Flamengo and it has to always be like that when you wear this shirt," Toró added.
Remember is living
Leila returns to Flamengo in search of an Olympic spot in beach volleyball, alongside Sandra
Pedro Ivo Almeida
Jair Motta
Leila and Sandra hope to count on the support of the red-black nation towards the Olympics
Seven years after winning the National League title with Flamengo in a packed Maracanãzinho against Vasco, the left-footed Leila is back at the Gávea club, but this time the project is different. The former indoor volleyball player will team up on the sand with Sandra Pires, Olympic champion in Atlanta and bronze medalist in Sydney 2000, in pursuit of one of Brazil's allotted spots for the next Olympics in Beijing.
Both athletes are very excited about Flamengo's Olympic project. Leila and Sandra demonstrated their understanding of the importance of wearing a Flamengo jersey and demonstrated that despite their limited training time, they will strive to overcome it with a strong will and determination, which, as they themselves said, are the epitome of Flamengo.
"I'm very happy to be back at the club. It's a different time, I'm on the sand now, but the excitement of wearing this jersey is indescribable, whether on the court or here. We're not yet fully in sync; we've only been training for a short time, but we'll overcome this with a lot of determination and determination, which is typical of Flamengo and this wonderful fan base," said the left-footed Leila.
Her partner Sandra, who had never worn the red-and-black jersey before, was impressed by the crowd and hopes it will be a great ally in her quest for an Olympic spot. "At the Rainha (da Praia) event held earlier this year, where I played with the club's armband, I got a clear sense of what it's like to play for Flamengo. The fans were screaming, people on the street came up to me afterwards, it was incredibly moving. We'll see this across the country, and I really hope this support, this energy, will help us a lot, both on the Brazilian circuit and at the world level," said the Olympic medalist.
In Partnership with
Vice President of Olympic Sports Patrícia Amorim was also very pleased with the club's new signings. The former swimmer and current director spoke on behalf of the club's board about the club's Olympic project and the partnership with the athletes.
"This project has been in place since last year, when we brought Marcelinho into basketball. Despite the difficulties, we're doing everything we can to transform these so-called amateur sports into high-performance sports here at the club. We want to bring these stars here; after all, Flamengo is the home of champion athletes. What we have with Leila and Sandra isn't a sponsorship, but a partnership. The club will help with travel, accommodations, and all training facilities. We're here to help with anything you need," said the director.
The duo won't have an easy time on the Olympic path
Despite their three Olympic medals (two for Sandra on the sand, and one for Leila on the court), the duo will have to work hard to reach their coveted spot in Beijing. Both acknowledge that the challenges will be significant and that there are other duos ahead in the race for a spot in the Games.
In addition to Juliana/Larissa and Talita/Renata, the Olympic medalists will also compete point-by-point in the rankings for a spot with Shelda/Ana Paula. Because Sandra was out of the world circuit for two years, she couldn't accumulate points, meaning the duo will start from scratch while the other three pairs already have points. The duo is prepared for anything, and just like the soccer team in 2007, they will seek strength to climb out of the bottom of the rankings and qualify.
"Once again, I'm starting over. Just like on the court when I returned, I like to take on challenges, and this will be another one," said Leila.
Example of lawns
Sandra seeks inspiration in 2007, more specifically in football, to reach the position.
"Wasn't Flamengo in the relegation zone last year and ended up in the Libertadores? We'll get there too," he joked.
Maria Helena Braun
Extra motivation
Maria Helena Braun mbraun@jsports.com.br
For as long as I've been following the sport, stirring up a rival's spirit has been one of the most motivating factors. If we think back, we'll recall countless instances where the underdog overcame the odds, took the fight to the odds, and surprised the favorite. The slight acts as a shot of courage, grit, and resilience. You don't need to be a psychologist to know that if you step on our toes, we become beasts. Lack of technique takes a back seat, and the more limited give their all on the field, all because they touched their spirit.
It seems that many people who have been involved in the sport for years are still unaware of this old phenomenon. Master Nelson Rodrigues once wrote in one of his chronicles of a Campeonato Carioca that Flamengo, after being thrashed by América 5-2, had their hands on the trophy. The title would be decided in two matches. And for him, Nelson, América, by inflicting a humiliating defeat, had sealed their fate. For him, Flamengo would enter the second game full of bite and ready to exact revenge: it was no different. They won and took the trophy. What happened since the last Fla-Flu, when Flamengo lost by four, was a motivating display for the red-and-blacks. A player mocking on the field after scoring the goal, declaring that he prefers Flamengo in a possible final, "so it's more enjoyable." Betting everything on the title for the team from Laranjeiras. I don't know, huh? I've seen this film before and what struck me most happened in 1968 when Flamengo needed to draw with Bonsucesso to be champion and lost 2-0.
Look, if there's a Fla-Flu final, you can prepare for intense emotions on and off the field, given everything that was said after the game. Or do you have any doubt that Joel used his statements and provocations to stir up his players' pride? It's okay that along the way, there was the Libertadores debut. On the way back from the desert, life returns to normal, and the coach will certainly galvanize his players.
Flamengo may not beat Vasco, but they already have a psychological advantage, while Fluminense, thanks to these statements, already takes the field against Botafogo with the burden of winning. The statements had a triple effect: they mocked Flamengo and simultaneously belittled Vasco and Botafogo. And now, what will happen? Those who live will see.
THE DAY
With a missed goal at the end, Fla ends up in a 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi
Genilson Junior
Tacna - Flamengo drew 0-0 with Coronel Bolognesi in Tacna, Peru, in the team's Copa Libertadores debut. Their next match in the competition is scheduled for the 27th, against Cienciano of Peru, at the Maracanã stadium.
The first dangerous move didn't happen until the 10th minute, and it went Coronel Bolognesi's way. Bruno safely saved a shot from the edge of the box. The 12th minute saw the red-and-blacks' best chance of the first half. Ibson played in Léo Moura, who took a shot from outside the box, forcing goalkeeper Penny to make a great save, sending the ball out for a corner.
The match's biggest chances came in the second half. In the first half, the goalkeepers were rarely challenged. In the 18th minute, Flamengo's goalkeeper had his work cut out, but his opponent's cross-shot fortunately went wide of the left post. Peruvian Penny had his work cut out, parrying a dangerous free kick taken by Juan in the 39th minute. A minute later, the "Bolo" goalkeeper was nearly fooled by a long-range shot from Toró. The Flamengo midfield powerhouse, injured, was replaced shortly after by Kleberson.
The second half started with more action. Juan, within the first minute of play, made a beautiful individual play, reached the baseline, but missed the cross. Flamengo took control of the match, and before the seventh minute of the second half, they had already threatened Coronel Bolognesi twice.
And the game continued like that until the end. Souza, Juan, who was offside, Ibson, Jônatas, and Léo Moura all had good chances to open the scoring, but the most incredible one fell to Obina in the 43rd minute of the second half. Léo Moura received a pass, reached the byline, and passed to Marcinho, who shot straight at the Peruvian goalkeeper. On the rebound, Obina, unmarked, slipped and missed the shot.
It was the red-blacks' last chance in the match to start the Libertadores with three points won.
His game is with the ball
Rio - After tubs of ice cream, rounds and rounds of card games, and countless video game championships, Renato Augusto really wants to get back on the field. Recovering from surgery that involved titanium plates and screws to reconstruct a fractured facial bone, the player is expected to return to the field in a month and has already resumed training at Gávea.
On Sunday, Renato Augusto wants to watch Flamengo vs. Vasco from the stands. But his dream is bigger.
"I can't wait to get back to doing what I love most, which is playing soccer. The last few days have been filled with anxiety; I've done everything I could to make time fly by," said Renato Augusto, who still has a scar on the right side of his face.
In addition to the support of his teammates and Joel Santana, Renato Augusto is grateful for the affection of his mother, Salete, and the fans, who, he says, were very supportive. One of the most memorable moments of his recovery was when Renato Augusto saw on television the moment Rodrigo fractured his arm in the match against Volta Redonda last week. The defender also underwent surgery and will be out of action for three months.
"It was horrific, I was shocked. I know the pain and everything that went through his mind at that moment. The image was powerful. I stand by him for whatever he needs," the player said.
While he's been out recovering from surgery, the team hasn't worn the number 10 jersey out of respect for the player. But fans can expect:
“I want to wear it again soon.”
Obina: 'I passed the ball and slipped'
At the end of the game, Obina explained the move that could have given Flamengo the victory in their Libertadores debut.
"I had already passed the ball a little and ended up slipping. It took a little bit of everything to get the goal. It took calm, luck. The ball bounced. Next time we'll try to score," he highlighted.
Goalkeeper Bruno, who was not required much by the Peruvian attack, did not regret the draw away from home.
"Based on what we already know about the Libertadores, a draw away from home is fine. We took home a point and we know we can't make any more mistakes. That's what the Libertadores is all about. Fight, desire."
Rubro-Negro now faces Cienciano, also from Peru, at Maracanã, on the 27th.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo debuts with a draw in Peru\ Gazeta Press\
Tacna (Peru) - Despite dominating the match, Flamengo was held to a goalless draw by Coronel Bolognesi in a match played Wednesday night in Tacna, Peru, in the first round of Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. In their debut in the competition, the Flamengo players lacked inspiration in the few opportunities they created during the 90 minutes. For Coronel Bolognesi, the result was excellent, as the home team entered the match determined only to defend, without showing any attacking ambition. Flamengo will play again in the Libertadores on the 27th, against Cienciano. Now, the Flamengo team will focus on the semifinal of the first round of the Campeonato Carioca, as they face Vasco on Sunday at Maracanã. For the final, coach Joel Santana is unsure whether he will be able to count on midfielder Toró, who was injured in the first half.
The first half began with the Peruvian team passing the ball around with short passes, aiming to maintain control of the match, while Flamengo tried to press through full-backs Leonardo Moura and Juan. The first dangerous play occurred in the Flamengo box in the tenth minute. Revoredo controlled the ball on the right and crossed for Vigil to quickly enter, but Bruno stretched and made a good save. Flamengo responded in the 12th minute with a powerful shot from Leonardo Moura that goalkeeper Penny sent out for a corner.
Despite not playing well, Bolognesi created a second chance in the 18th minute, again through Vigil, who broke through from the left side of the box and sent a cross that threatened goalkeeper Bruno. The match was fast-paced but lacked technical skill, with both teams making numerous misplaced passes. From the 30th minute onward, the Rio de Janeiro team began to dominate the midfield but struggled to finish.
In the 40th minute, midfielder Toró, who would soon be substituted due to injury, caused the last emotion of the first half with a shot from outside the area that made goalkeeper Penny drop the ball and almost provided the rebound for Diego Tardelli.
Flamengo returned to the second half much more aggressively, pressing the opposing midfield tightly. They began creating successive dangerous plays for Penny's goal. Five minutes in, after a good exchange of passes, Jônatas cut in from the right and shot across goal, but goalkeeper Penny made a great save. Diego Tardelli fired the rebound wide.
After ten minutes, the home team leveled the match with a heavy defensive effort, but Flamengo continued to be more offensive, though they struggled to finish plays near the Peruvian box. With Juan having to focus heavily on marking, Flamengo's best option was Leonardo Moura.
In the 20th minute, after a good play by the full-back resulted in a corner, Souza wasted a good chance when he received the ball inside the box and shot clumsily. Bolognesi practically abandoned any offensive maneuvers, limiting themselves to concentrating on the edge of the box to try to shut down the Brazilian attack.
In the 25th minute, Flamengo missed another chance with Ibson, who was released into the penalty area and failed to chip the Peruvian goalkeeper. Bolognesi only troubled the red-and-black team again with a Vigil header that curled over Bruno's goal. Joel Santana brought on Obina for Tardelli to give Souza a steady partner in the box.
In the final minutes, Flamengo pressed, and Obina missed two incredible opportunities to decide the match, missing a free kick inside the six-yard box with the goalkeeper down. It was Flamengo's last chance to win the match.
It was a satisfactory result, says Joel after the draw
Tacna (Peru) - Flamengo's 0-0 draw against Coronel Bolognesi in their Copa Libertadores opener doesn't seem to have shaken Flamengo coach Joel Santana's confidence in his squad. According to him, the Rubro-Negro played a satisfactory match in Peru and remains fully capable of advancing in the competition. Calmly, the coach emphasized that the nerves of a tournament's first match hinder players' performance. "The game is very similar these days. A debut is really difficult, regardless of the team you're playing against. And since our team is very fast and very aggressive, we had some difficulties," he declared. "But that's how the Libertadores is. It wasn't excellent, but it was a satisfactory result."
Despite the draw, the manager still praised his team's performance, especially defensively. "The team gave me more confidence, with the players in better physical shape. Jonatan and Kleberson also played well. That's how the Libertadores is; you have to play against the odds," he stated.
Joel Santana also issued a warning to Nacional and Cienciano, other clubs in Group 4. "The game was tough, heated, and I think we had more chances. But that's the Libertadores. Whoever comes to play here will have a tough time, because this is a good team," he analyzed.
On February 27th, the Rubro-Negro team returns to play in the Libertadores, this time against Cienciano, another Peruvian team. But before that, the team faces Vasco da Gama next Sunday in a match valid for the Guanabara Cup semifinal.
Doubtful for the classic, Toró is upset with injury
Tacna (Peru) - In addition to a 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi in the Copa Libertadores opener, Flamengo has a doubt for next Sunday's derby against Vasco in the Guanabara Cup semifinal. In the 41st minute of the first half, Toró took a blow to his right knee and was substituted by coach Joel Santana. The mood after the match was apprehensive, as the Flamengo coach demonstrated. "I'll wait for the doctor's decision. We don't know the severity of the injury. We'll wait," he stated.
After the blow, the midfielder tried to stay on the field, but was advised to leave the field by the medical committee and by Joel Santana himself, who hopes to use him against the Giant of the Hill. "It's the first Libertadores I've played in. It was a silly incident, but the doctor thought it best to take me off," he said. "I'm upset. I just want to forget what happened."
Despite the frustration, Toró is confident he can play against Cruzmaltino. "They're one of our biggest rivals, and we know it's going to be another battle," he analyzed. "Now we have to think about Vasco, which is another important game.
Obina regrets mistake and promises redemption
Tacna (Peru) - In the 31st minute of the second half, Obina, a fan favorite for Flamengo, entered the field against Coronel Bolognesi in a Copa Libertadores match. In the 43rd minute, he had a clear chance to score what would have been the winning goal, but he slipped and missed the opportunity. Angered by the mistake, the center forward promised the fans he would do everything he could to make amends. According to the striker, Leonardo Moura's pass caught him by surprise. "I overshot the ball and ended up slipping," he said. "It took a little luck, a little composure, a little bit of everything. But patience."
Despite this, Obina showed determination in his attempt to return to being decisive for the Red-Blacks. "In the next game, I'll do everything I can to score a goal and help my team," he declared.
And the player will have the chance to redeem himself this Sunday, if coach Joel Santana decides to field him or at least field him for the derby against Vasco. The match is part of the Guanabara Cup and will be played at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Maracanã stadium.
PELENET
Fla even plays better, but it's nothing more than a draw in the Libertadores
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo began its bid for its second Copa Libertadores title (its first and only one came in 1981) with a draw. On Wednesday night in Tacna, Peru, the Red-Black team drew 0-0 with Coronel Bolognesi in Group 4 of the competition. The team even performed better, but far from the strong performances of the State Championship.
Still in Flamengo's group, Cienciano-PER and Nacional-URU face each other at high altitude in Cuzco, Peru, this Thursday, at 19:30 pm (Brasília time).
In the next round, Flamengo hosts Cienciano on the 27th at 21:45 pm at Maracanã. Coronel Bolognesi, once again playing at home, faces Nacional on the 19th at 20 pm (Brasília time).
However, before that, this Sunday, Flamengo faces Vasco da Gama at 16 p.m. at Maracanã in the Guanabara Cup semifinal, the first round of the State Championship. Toró, with a right thigh injury, is already doubtful for the derby.
For the first Libertadores battle, coach Joel Santana decided to put Diego Tardelli up front alongside Souza. This left Marcinho to play. In midfield, Jônatas left Kléberson on the bench.
When the ball rolled, Flamengo had more possession. However, their performance fell short of expectations. The main opportunities in the first half fell to full-backs Leonardo Moura (right) and Juan (left).
Meanwhile, Colonel Bolognesi, unfamiliar to Flamengo despite playing at home, sought to exploit counterattacks. González Vigil was the most troublesome. On one of the chances, Bruno saved the Red-Blacks.
In the 40th minute, Toró, injured, had to be replaced by Kléberson. In a midfield play, the Flamengo player ended up getting the worst of a challenge from Uribe.
The second half began with Flamengo on top of Coronel Bolognesi. Within six minutes, Flamengo had already squandered two good opportunities. The Peruvians, meanwhile, were sitting back.
Despite their dominance, Flamengo couldn't find a goal. To try to change this situation, Joel Santana, in the 31st minute, took off Diego Tardelli and brought on Obina. "Stay in the box, as their defense is weak and the ball could go loose," warned the coach.
In his final move, in the 39th minute, Joel Santana took off Souza and brought on Marcinho, who, in the 43rd minute, missed Flamengo's best chance. The goalkeeper rebounded the shot, but Obina was unable to capitalize.
Joel Santana laments Flamengo's haste in scoring the goal
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi-PER this Wednesday in Tacna, Peru, in Group 4 of the Libertadores, was considered satisfactory by Joel Santana. However, the red-and-black coach lamented his players' inconsistency in scoring.
"We were in a rush. The game was close and we had the best chances. However, that's how the Libertadores is. It wasn't excellent, but the result ended up being satisfactory," he emphasized.
Despite all the lamentations, Joel Santana already knows that it is time to forget about Coronel Bolognesi, the Copa Libertadores da América and turn his attention to Vasco and the State Championship.
This Sunday, the Rubro-Negro, facing their biggest rival, seeks a spot in the Guanabara Cup final, the first round of the competition. Despite the grueling trip to Peru, Joel Santana isn't worried about any problems for the team.
"We can't compare the Libertadores with the State Championship. They are different competitions. The important thing now is to get adequate rest. We'll give it our all in this classic," he concluded.
The red-and-black delegation arrives in Rio de Janeiro this Thursday morning, around 7 a.m. (Brasília time). The players will be off and will return to work only on Friday.
Toró is now in doubt for Flamengo's match against Vasco
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo has a problem for Sunday's classic against Vasco da Gama at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium, in the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the State Championship. This is because Toró left the Libertadores match against Coronel Bolognesi-PER this Wednesday in Tacna, Peru, with a right thigh injury.
The Flamengo player left the pitch in the first half, in the 40th minute. If he's ruled out, Kléberson will likely be the substitute. In the 0-0 draw with the Peruvians, this was the change made by coach Joel Santana.
"I'm going to get treatment and hope it gets better. I hope nothing has happened and I can play against Vasco. I'm going to start treatment right here in Peru," the midfielder added.
"The pain was intense at the time. I've never felt anything like this before. I'm going to do my best to get on the field on Sunday and help the Flamengo team," he added.
Although the focus was on Toró's injury, the Flamengo player also spoke about the draw against Coronel Bolognesi. The midfielder emphasized the importance of the point earned away from Rio de Janeiro.
"It wasn't what we expected, but the result was far from terrible. It's worth remembering that it was just a debut and victories will come normally within the competition," he concluded.
GLOBOESPORTE
Leila and Sandra are inspired by Fla in 2008
The duo officially introduces themselves to the club, which they will represent in this year's Brazilian Circuit.
Simone Evangelista
Leila and Sandra Pires will represent Flamengo during this season
On the day Flamengo's soccer team makes its Copa Libertadores debut, the club officially unveiled two new signings for the season: Leila and Sandra Pires. The duo, who will represent the Rio de Janeiro team in the Brazilian Beach Volleyball Circuit, are inspired by the example of the field as they pursue their main goal in 2008: a spot in the Beijing Olympics.
"Wasn't Flamengo in the relegation zone last year and still in the Libertadores? We'll get there too," Sandra jokes.
"Flamengo is a massive club, we will have fans all over Brazil, and this will be very important in our preparation"
Leila
With the agreement, the athletes will be able to use the club's facilities for training and will also receive support for competing in the Brazilian Circuit.
"Today is a special day. Flamengo is the home of the champion athlete, and I'm certain we've begun another victorious chapter," celebrates Flamengo's vice president of Olympic sports, Patrícia Amorim.
Leila and Sandra, who returned to play together this year with their sights set on a spot in the Games, know they have a tough task ahead of them. Outside the world rankings, the two will begin the World Tour stages of the quota country (a preliminary tournament between partnerships from the same country). Besides reaching the main tournament, they'll need to achieve good results to have a chance against strong opponents like Renata and Talita and Shelda and Ana Paula.
- I'm very happy to be back home, I lived my last moments of glory on the courts here (the player was part of the team that won the 2000/01 Superliga title). Flamengo is a massive club, we'll have fans wherever we go in Brazil, and that will be very important in our preparation - says Leila, who made a point of remembering that, like every Flamengo fan, she also "never gives up."
For the duo, Flamengo's victory in Peru is certain
The athletes took the opportunity to give their predictions about the score of this Wednesday's game, when Flamengo faces Coronel Bolognesi in Peru. As true fans, they have no doubt that Flamengo will win. And they hope that, like the soccer team, they can go even further in 2008.
- Flamengo will win 2-0 - says Sandra.
Excited, the muse Leila believes that the team's top scorers will score another goal at the Jorge Basadre stadium.
- For me, it will be Fla 3-1!
After the beach, Fla wants to invest in the court
Champion of the 2000/01 Women's Super League, the club hopes to build competitive teams in 2009
Simone Evangelista
Leila and Sandra Pires form a partnership to represent Flamengo in the Brazilian Championship
After partnering with Leila and Sandra Pires, who will represent the team in the 2008 Brazilian Circuit, Flamengo plans to invest in indoor volleyball. The club, which boasts talents such as Diego Hypolito and Jade Barbosa from gymnastics, and Marcelinho from basketball, aims to revive the sport's recent past. In the 2000/01 season, after a thrilling final against Vasco, the Flamengo women's team won the Superliga title.
"We're trying to recapture an era. Beach volleyball is new, but we're already exploring the possibility of creating a small school. Throughout this year and next, we plan to strengthen our indoor volleyball team. Since this requires groundwork, and it's an Olympic year, we prefer to invest in established athletes," explains Flamengo's vice president of Olympic sports, Patrícia Amorim.
The club intends to put together competitive teams for the next season, in 2009. However, the plans are long-term: to once again have athletes at national team level, as happened in 2000, when the women's team included Leila (who returns to the club, this time on the beach), Virna and Valeskinha.
Flamengo needs to have the best athletes in Brazil and the world, with representatives on the national team, as is already the case in synchronized swimming, water polo, and basketball. Who knows, maybe in the near future we can do the same on the court?
Fla can't get past Bolognesi
The red-and-black team plays very poorly and draws 0-0 in its debut in the Copa Libertadores
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Just like in the 2007 Libertadores, Flamengo failed to beat an opponent with no prior experience in its competition debut. This Wednesday night, in Tacna, Peru, the team only managed a 0-0 draw with modest Coronel Bolognesi in the first Group 4 match. But, unlike last year, when the Rubro-Negro drew 2-2 with Real Potosí and struggled with the Bolivian city's 3.967-meter altitude, the local climate can't be used as an excuse, as the Peruvian city is located at sea level, at the edge of the Atacama Desert.
With this result, the two teams currently share the lead in the group with one point each. In the next round, Flamengo hosts Cienciano on the 27th at Maracanã Stadium. The Peruvian team plays again at home, against Nacional de Montevideo, on the 19th. Cienciano and Nacional debut in the competition this Thursday, in a duel in Cuzco, also in Peru.
Warm start to the match
The duel in Tacna was a ten-minute affair, with both teams calmly passing the ball around without exposing themselves too much. The first dangerous move came in the 11th minute: Revoredo crossed from the right, and Gonzalez Vigil finished first time, but Bruno made a good save. Flamengo then responded with a powerful shot from Leo Moura from the edge of the box. Penny showed quality and saved Bolognesi.
In the 18th minute, Gonzalez Vigil once again frightened the Flamengo goalkeeper: the striker received the ball on the left side of the box, turned quickly, and sent the ball just wide of the left post. Until this point, coach Joel Santana's team had been timid, lacking offensive impetus, struggling to exchange passes and try to engage the opposition.
Near the end of the first half, in the 38th minute, Toró was fouled on the edge of the box. Juan took a good shot, but Penny jumped to the right corner and saved. On the Fla bench, Joel showed signs of intense dissatisfaction, especially with Diego Tardelli, who missed almost everything he attempted. And the first 45 minutes remained like that, dull and unexciting, but with the applause of the well-behaved home crowd.
Joel asks for more plays on the wings
Obina looks at the ball after missing the goal
Flamengo returned for the second half with a clear mandate from the coach: the team needed to use Leo Moura and Juan up front, which hadn't happened in the first half. The team showed more desire to score in the opening minutes. In the fourth minute, Tardelli took a chance from outside the box, but sent the ball to Penny's right. Then, Ibson cut in from the right, shot; the defense deflected it, forcing the goalkeeper to make a difficult save, denying Flamengo the first goal, which began to dominate the match, despite not playing particularly well.
In the 25th minute, a strong exchange of passes in the red-and-black attack nearly resulted in a goal. Souza left Ibson in a good position, but the midfielder was unsure whether to return the pass or shoot and missed a great opportunity, sending the ball to Penny's right.
Until the end of the match, neither team had a chance to score, except in the 43rd minute, when Marcinho cut in from the right, shot, the goalkeeper rebounded, and Obina missed an incredible chance, all alone, in front of the net. After referee Mauricio Reinoso blew the final whistle, the impression lingered was that Flamengo could have taken all three points if they had had a bit more inspiration.
On the way back from Tacna, sleep and shopping
Flamengo players return to Rio after draw in Copa Libertadores debut
Eduardo Peixoto
The card-playing gang tried to play a game as the plane took off. However, fatigue prevailed, and the Flamengo players fell asleep during the four-hour flight between Tacna and Rio de Janeiro in the early hours of this Thursday. The team returned after a 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi in their Copa Libertadores debut.
At 5:40 a.m., the plane landed at Galeão Airport, and the players were released. Some even ran home, but most preferred to shop at the duty-free shop. Most chose to spend their dollars on perfumes and lotions.
Ibson wanted to be fashionable and bought sunglasses.
- See if it's okay, Jônatas? - he says.
His teammate didn't even comment, but the midfielder took the item. Across the store, Souza and Obina were buying gifts for their children. Sayonara, the Bahia striker's daughter, received a small guitar.
In fact, her father was still lamenting the goal he missed in the 43rd minute of the second half in the match against Bolognesi.
- I think I slipped, right? - he still asked himself.
The players will report back this Friday afternoon at 16 p.m. in Gávea and begin preparing for the match against Vasco in the Guanabara Cup semifinals. Toró, with pain in his right thigh, will be evaluated by the club's doctors and will spend Thursday undergoing treatment.
Fla promises plenty of energy in the classic
Leo Moura and Toró guarantee that their trip to Peru will not affect their performance in the classic.
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Toró promises total determination in the semifinal against Vasco, on Sunday
Vasco sent a reserve team to Sergipe for its Copa do Brasil opener against Itabaina. The reason? To rest the starting lineup to face Flamengo in the Guanabara Cup semifinal. In contrast, the Rubro-Negro returned this morning from Tacna, Peru, after a tough match in its Libertadores debut. An advantage for the Cruzmaltino team? According to the Rubro-Negro squad, the answer is no.
"We came from Peru on a chartered flight precisely for this. We'll have three days to rest and prepare for the derby. Even if we were tired, it would be time to overcome it," assures right-back Leo Moura.
Spared against Coronel Bolognesi, after suffering a blow to his right leg in the first half, midfielder Toró reinforces the words of the number 2.
"There's no such thing as fatigue. That won't be used as an excuse. In a semifinal against Vasco, it's time for everyone to give it their all."
Flamengo and Vasco face off next Sunday at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium. The winner will face Fluminense or Botafogo in the GB Cup final.
Joel Santana approves the team's performance
Coach says victory didn't come down to details, and recalls River's stumble
Not even Flamengo's poor performance against Coronel Bolognesi in their Copa Libertadores debut could discourage or express frustration in coach Joel Santana. In his opinion, the 0-0 draw was ultimately satisfactory, given that it was played away from home.
However, Joel's speech contradicts what was seen on the field. He considered his team's performance to be good and stated that the victory was only prevented by a mere detail.
"We had the best chances and all we needed was a goal. I liked the team's performance. Anyone who comes here against Bolognesi will have a tough time. That's how the Libertadores is. I heard River Plate lost here in Peru," the coach declared, referring to the Argentine club's 2-0 defeat to Peruvian side San Martín this Wednesday.
Bruno: 'A draw is fine'
Goalkeeper laments missed chance at the end and says whoever has more determination will get the spots
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Flamengo fans were disappointed with the goalless draw against modest Coronel Bolognesi this Wednesday at Jorge Basadre Stadium in Tacna, Peru, in Flamengo's debut in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. The result didn't seem so disappointing to the squad, however. A privileged spectator of the game, goalkeeper Bruno believes that returning to Brazil with a point under his belt isn't a bad deal.
"When it comes to the Libertadores, the games are always tough. We're playing away from home, and a draw is a good result. Now, we know we can't afford to make mistakes in the next rounds. The games will always be like this: hustle and bustle, desire, and whoever has the most determination will prevail."
Despite being satisfied with the result, the goalkeeper regrets the chance wasted by Obina in the final minutes.
- It could have been better, couldn't it? We missed a goal at the end. But that's how it is.
With a lackluster performance, striker Diego Tardelli, champion of the competition in 2005 with São Paulo, echoed the number 1.
"It's not a bad result. A point away from home can always be seen as a victory in the Libertadores."
Flamengo will play again in the Libertadores on the 27th, against Cienciano, also from Peru, at Maracanã.
Toró is injured and is rested for the classic
The midfielder receives a blow to his right knee and leaves the field to avoid worsening the injury.
Eduardo Peixoto
Injured, Toró is doubtful for the Guanabara Cup semifinal
There's no doubt that the Libertadores is Flamengo's priority for the season. However, it currently appears that the Guanabara Cup is not far behind. In the first half of the match against Coronel Bolognesi in Peru, midfielder Toró suffered a blow to his right knee and was forced by the coaching staff to be replaced by Kleberson in the 41st minute.
Willing to push hard to continue in the match, the red-and-black player was advised to leave the field by coach Joel Santana, fitness coach Ronaldo Torres, and doctor Marcelo Soares. The reason? The coaching staff didn't want the player to worsen his condition and miss Sunday's derby against Vasco in the GB Cup semifinal.
"Suddenly, it actually felt good to get out. It was a really hard blow, something I'd never felt before. I felt a lot of pain at the time. It's a little worrying," says Toró.
As soon as he left the match, Toró was handed over to the care of physiotherapist Gláucio Barbosa, and remains in intensive treatment.
Fla is at Ronaldo's disposal
The director says that the club's medical department is able to help the Phenomenon
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Ronaldo puts his hand on his left knee after participating in an attacking play. Even far from Brazil and Italy, Flamengo is paying close attention to everything that happens in Ronaldo's life. This Wednesday, moments before the team's Copa Libertadores debut in Tacna, Peru, against Coronel Bolognesi, vice-president of football Kléber Leite sent a message to the Phenomenon, who injured his left knee during Milan's 1-1 draw with Livorno in the Italian Championship:
"Flamengo is available to Ronaldo if he needs it. We have the Brazilian national team doctor and a large team ready to help him," says the Flamengo director.
THROW
Fla leaves much to be desired in its debut in the Libertadores
Rubro-Negro presents football with little objectivity and cannot escape the draw with Coronel Bolognesi
Fabio Luciano fights for the ball in a lukewarm start for Flamengo in the Libertadores
Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO
Flamengo began its ninth Copa Libertadores campaign in a disappointing fashion. The Red-Blacks faced debutants Coronel Bolognesi at Jorge Basadre Stadium in Tacna, Peru, and drew 0-0 in Group 4 of the competition. This Thursday, Cienciano-PER will host Nacional-URU in Cusco, completing the first round of the group.
The first half, from start to finish, was a slog. Flamengo didn't try to take advantage of their opponent's weakness and was extremely lazy and disinterested until halftime.
Proof of the red-and-blacks' apathy is that the team only had three shots on goal in the first half. In the most dangerous of them, Leonardo Moura, who had received a good pass from Ibson, took a chance from the edge of the box and forced goalkeeper Penny to palm the ball away for a corner.
Despite lacking any particular skill, Colonel Bolognesi nearly opened the scoring with a beautiful play from striker Gonzales-Vigil. He received a cross from Revoredo on the right and volleyed it in, forcing Bruno to stretch out to save.
Late in the first half, Flamengo lost Toró. The player who had been putting in the most effort for Flamengo had to be substituted due to injury. Kleberson came on in his place.
In the second half, Flamengo at least took more chances with shots on goal. Kleberson, Diego Tardelli, and Jônatas all tried their luck, but were unsuccessful.
Not even the team's lack of skill prompted Joel Santana to make immediate changes. Ibson was misplacing many passes, Kleberson wasn't showing up to play, and forwards Diego Tardelli and Souza weren't getting along.
Flamengo even created another good opportunity when Diego Tardelli headed in Ibson's miscued shot. After that, Joel's patience finally wore thin, and he made changes to the team. Obina replaced Tardelli for the final 15 minutes.
Marcinho also had a few minutes to do something good, but he missed a clear chance. On the rebound, Obina did worse and missed. For a team that started the Libertadores as the title favorite, Flamengo's performance was below par.
Joel settles for a draw in his debut
For the coach, at home, Bolognesi will make things difficult for all opponents
LANCEPRESS!
Not even Flamengo's poor performance against Coronel Bolognesi discouraged coach Joel Santana or expressed frustration. In the coach's opinion, the 0-0 draw was satisfactory, given that it was played away from home.
However, Joel's speech contradicts what was seen on the field. He considered his team's performance to be good and stated that the victory was only prevented by a mere detail.
"We had the best chances and all we needed was a goal. I liked the team's performance. Anyone who comes here against Bolognesi will have a tough time. That's how the Libertadores is. I heard River Plate lost here in Peru," the coach declared, referring to the Argentine club's 2-0 defeat to Peruvian side San Martín this Wednesday.
Toró was replaced as a precaution by Joel
Supporter suffered a slight strain and the coach decided to rest him
LANCEPRESS!
One of the few Flamengo players to run in the match against Coronel Bolognesi, midfielder Toró had to leave the field in the first half. His early departure was due to a slight strain in his right leg.
Concerned about Sunday's match against Vasco in the Guanabara Cup semifinal, coach Joel Santana and Flamengo's medical team decided to rest the player. Toró lamented not being able to play the full 90 minutes.
"This is my first Libertadores. I wish I could stay in the match until the end. I injured myself in a silly play where I stretched my leg too far. The doctor asked me to leave because we have an important game on Sunday, the derby against Vasco," said Toró, who shouldn't be a problem for the GB Cup semifinal.
Bolognesi celebrates draw against Flamengo
Peruvian team's coach considers Rubro-Negro to be the favorite for the title
LANCEPRESS!
If Flamengo's side wasn't frustrated by not achieving victory, Coronel Bolognesi's joy wasn't hidden by the draw achieved against Rubro-Negro.
Juan Reynoso, coach of the Peruvian team, points to Flamengo as one of the main contenders for the Libertadores title and was pleased with the fact that he stopped the Brazilian team.
"It was a tough game. Flamengo is a strong opponent, certainly going to finish in the top four of the Libertadores. It was a great experience for the Peruvian Championship," explained the coach.
Diego Tardelli is already thinking about Sunday's classic
Striker says he is motivated for the semifinal against Vasco
LANCEPRESS!
After a discreet performance against Coronel Bolognesi, striker Diego Tardelli decided to immediately turn his attention to Sunday's classic against Vasco, in the semifinal of the Guanabara Cup.
Regarding the debut in the Libertadores, the number 11 considered the result satisfactory, as Flamengo played as visitors.
"A draw away from home in the Libertadores is like a victory. We didn't even know the opponent. But now we have to think about Sunday's derby, because it's worth a spot in the final. I'm very motivated to face Vasco," Tardelli admitted.
Bruno doesn't see despair with the bad debut
Goalkeeper regrets the moment Obina missed a late goal
LANCEPRESS!
Despite Flamengo's poor performance, goalkeeper Bruno didn't consider the 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi a tragedy. The number 1 didn't work much and highlighted the team's clean sheet.
"When it comes to the Libertadores, playing away from home is always difficult. The draw was a good result, as these teams always play fast and rely on the support of their fans. The important thing is that we didn't concede any goals," said Bruno.
Despite not creating much, Flamengo had a great chance late in the game, which Obina blundered. Flamengo's number 1 regretted the move. The Bahia native tripped over his own legs while trying to rebound a shot from Marcinho:
– We missed a goal at the end. If we had taken advantage, I think we would have come back with the three