The Globe
Training for Libertadores
In a Flamengo training match marked by violence and catimba, Toró accuses Uruguayan of racism
FLA and Huracán players argue after a violent tackle by a Uruguayan player in a training match in Teresópolis
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Flamengo's victory over Uruguay's Huracán was predictable. It was hard to imagine that a Sunday morning training match at Granja Comary could turn into a Copa Libertadores preview. In the 3-0 victory, the Flamengo team received and made harsh challenges, argued with the Uruguayans, and accused their rivals of racism.
Toró was the standout performer. He established himself as a worker capable of creating, disarming, and fulfilling tactical roles in all areas of the field. He did this and was the standout performer until, in a harsh challenge, he was insulted by defender Fernando Caballero. According to Toró, the term used was "monkey."
"In the Libertadores, it's going to be from there on. There will be provocation and insults. It was a delicate situation, but the player later apologized, and I accepted. I'm a nice guy, happy the way I am, and a lot of people love me just the way I am. I'm sad because I make a living from football, and in sports, we try to make friends," said Toró.
Uruguayan denies insult
Caballero gave a different version. He said that, after the tackle, he was struck in the back by Toró.
"There was a misunderstanding due to the language. I used the word negro, which in Argentina and Uruguay means something like amigo. I didn't know this was racist in Brazil. When I saw the Flamengo players angry, I apologized. I'm not racist. It was just a mistake, a mix-up," he apologized.
The damage was done. Flamengo was already leading 1-0, thanks to a goal by Fábio Luciano. More than the goal, the game was marked by harsh tackles and arguments between players. After the incident with Toró, almost all Flamengo fans defended the midfielder.
"When we face a loyal team, we'll be loyal. If we have to play hard, we will. But we'll have to learn to accept it better. This kind of racist abuse happens a lot, and we have to accept it. If not, it could lead to a suspension or expulsion. I'll discuss this with the players," said captain Fábio Luciano.
The defender experienced a similar problem playing for Corinthians against River Plate:
- We lost two players to red cards because of D'Alessandro's insults. There are times when it's better not to react.
Ibson was conciliatory:
- It's annoying, but we have to let it go. The guy called Toró black, and Toró called the guy white. That's racism too.
Coach Joel Santana used the incidents as a lesson. He promises to give a talk on provocations, whether racist or not:
"At halftime, I asked the team to calm down. We could face two Uruguayans in the Libertadores. They cursed Toró a lot, it was annoying. Besides, it's a tiny country that has a knack for irritating Brazilians. It's annoying, but we're proud of the black race, of our wonderful country, with beaches and beautiful people. They always call us monkeys, banana eaters, black people. But you have to stay calm. Sometimes you see a very elegant guy and he's a bad character."
Vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, calmed the players down at halftime. The team still suffered some violent fouls in the second half, but avoided any arguments. In the 17th minute, Leonardo Moura took a corner kick, Ronaldo Angelim headed it, and Renato Augusto shot for the second goal. In the 38th minute, Marcinho dribbled past the goalkeeper to seal the victory.
"The team is almost ready for the debut. It was important to see that the physical aspect, a priority these days, is in very good shape. Sometimes you win 3-0 with your goalkeeper excelling. That wasn't the case. The opponent had no chances," Joel stated.
Highly praised by Joel, Toró celebrated the new phase.
"I never thought about scoring. With Ney Franco's arrival, I gained this status, and now Joel is betting on me. Flamengo fans like those who give their all on the field," he said.
Flamengo played with Bruno (Diego), Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano (Rodrigo), Ronaldo Angelim and Juan (Egidio); Jaílton (Jônatas), Cristian, Toró (Marcinho) and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
The board hopes to finalize the signing of striker Diego Tardelli from São Paulo today.
Flamengo maintains 100% success rate
Team defeats Saldanha da Gama by 94 to 79 in the National Men's Basketball Championship
CENTER WAGNER dunks the ball to score two of his 13 points in Flamengo's victory over Saldanha da Gama from Espírito Santo
Tatiana Furtado
Flamengo easily maintained its lead in the National Men's Basketball Championship by defeating Saldanha da Gama (ES) 94-79 (55-43) yesterday in Gávea. Flamengo has a 100% record in its four games played. The team's next match will be away, against Ulbra/São Bernardo (SP), on Friday at 20 p.m.
The game's standout with 26 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and five steals, forward Marcelinho credits the team's victory to patience in adverse moments.
"Our merit was our patience when we were behind. With a strong defense and a good counterattack, we managed to open up a lead," he highlights.
Before the Carnival break, the team will play three games (Ulbra/São Bernardo, Londrina, and Iguaçu). Coach Paulo Chupeta expects to remain undefeated:
- The goal is to make it 7/0 to reach the playoffs with an advantage.
With a strong defense and good counterattack, the team builds victory
Regarding the victory, Chupeta echoes Marcelinho's words about the importance of a strong defense:
"They scored ten straight points in the second quarter, including three three-pointers. I called a timeout to organize the defense, and the team complied. From then on, we started scoring better, and they made some mistakes."
The match started evenly, with Flamengo slightly more efficient on offense. In the first quarter, center Wagner excelled in both offensive and defensive rebounds. In the final minute of the period, the Rio de Janeiro team held a seven-point lead: 32-25. In the second quarter, Saldanha da Gama took advantage of the opposing defense's lack of aggressiveness and turned the game around (34-38).
After the technical break, Flamengo came back stronger, and Marcelinho led the comeback. The team came from behind to finish with a 15-point lead.
Flamengo: Marcelinho (26), Coloneze (11), Fred (3), Wagner (13), Helio (18), Igor (2), Duda (7), Maicon (6), Amiel (8) and Alirio (0).
Other results from yesterday: Iguaçu 59 x 94 Cetaf (ES); FTC EAD (BA) 60 x 62 Londrina (PR); Minas 102 x 92 Lajeado/Univate (RS) and Uberlândia 65 x 73 Joinville.
Sports Journal
I want to be the guard dog
Jônatas intends to play as a defensive midfielder in a midfield full of stars
Nathan de Lima
Observed by Kleberson, Jônatas would like to play deep.
Of all Flamengo's positions in 2008, the most uncertain is the midfield. Coach Joel Santana has already announced that he will start the season with the same team that ended 2007, and with that, the new signings for this position (Gavilán, Kleberson, Jônatas, and Marcinho) will have to demonstrate in training that they have enough quality to earn a starting spot. However, of the four reinforcements, one player has started out ahead and once again wowed the coach.
During training in Teresópolis, Jônatas has been standing out playing further forward (as he did at Espanyol) and also as a defensive midfielder (the same role he played in 2005 with Joel himself).
Joel Santana still doesn't want to reveal what position Jônatas will play in the team, but, if it depends on the athlete's will, he will play further back.
"I played more forward at Espanyol, but I still feel better as a holding midfielder. I played that way with Joel in 2005 and if I could choose, I want to play that way," said Jônatas.
If the red-and-black coach grants the player's request, the one who will end up losing his position is Jaílton, formerly of Ipatinga, who currently fills the role desired by the player. But Joel Santana has already warned that it's too early to consider changes to the team, especially since Jônatas is still far from ideal physical condition.
"I don't want to rush things, my team at the moment is what's been playing. Jônatas knows how to score, but he's highly offensive. He knows how to work the ball deep. His only problem at the moment is physical, as he came back from an injury in Spain," said Joel Santana.
It's not just defensive midfielder Jaílton who sees his starting spot threatened; even more experienced players, like Ibson—a standout player for the team in 2007—are wary and, therefore, are giving their all in training. The best right-midfielder in the last Brazilian Championship warned that he's keeping a close eye on his rivals and won't give anyone a chance to take his spot.
"The competition here at Flamengo is very strong. We have to always be alert. If we give an opening, someone of quality will come in and may never leave," said Ibson.
Joel Santana has been fielding his first team: Bruno, Jaílton, Fábio Luciano, and Ronaldo Angelim; Léo Moura, Cristian, Ibson, Renato Augusto, Toró, and Juan; and Souza. But with Rodrigo and Jônatas recovering, and Kleberson's release—whose FIFA-imposed suspension only ends in February—it's quite likely that the coach will field a slightly different team. Joel won't confirm it, but Flamengo 2008 will be Bruno, Jônatas, Fábio Luciano, and Rodrigo; Léo Moura, Kleberson, Cristian, Renato Augusto, Ibson, and Juan; and Souza.
Xodó Obina has already recovered
Obina was one of the players coach Joel rested in the training match against Huracan. The favorite had injured his right big toe in the match against Nicaragua and was training separately. Yesterday, after Flamengo's victory, the forward revealed to JORNAL DOS SPORTS that he had recovered.
"I'm fine. I had a minor injury, but I'm better now. I'll get back into playing shape quickly. Tomorrow (today) I'll be doing that physical training at Gávea," said Obina.
Soap opera 'Diego Tardelli' ends today
Once again, the saga surrounding the signing of striker Diego Tardelli is the talk of the town in Gávea. Flamengo's board has until tonight to secure US$1 million to secure the player's place in this year's Copa Libertadores squad.
Last Friday, the club's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, announced that everything had already been agreed and the only problem in closing the deal would be the money requested by São Paulo, the striker's current club.
Negotiations with Tardelli started hot, cooled down when Santos showed interest in the athlete, heated up again and now the temperature has dropped again, after the discussion in the press between the tricolor striker and the red-black Souza.
If they fail to sign the player, Fla's board will start to face serious difficulties, as their main group has few attackers.
Not to mention coach Joel Santana, who, on several occasions, has asked for the signing of another forward to form a duo with Gávea's number 9, Souza.
Juniors qualify for the Copa SP
The Flamengo boys lost to the weak XV de Novembro by 3 to 2, yesterday, at the Barão da Serra Negra Stadium, in Piracicaba-SP, but qualified in first place in Group N in the São Paulo Junior Football Cup. Pedro Beda and Bruno Paulo scored the red-black goals.
Alert!
But not everything is rosy for the club's youth academy directors. They've been complaining that young talents are being promoted to the professional ranks too early, which ultimately hinders the development of the players.
"This is a problem that's been affecting us for a long time. Our young players are starting to stand out, and the fans are demanding they join the senior team. The board often gets carried away and promotes players prematurely. They already want to promote Erick Flores. They'll end up doing to this kid what they did to Mezenga and what they're doing to Paulo Sérgio," said the director of the youth teams, Moisés Salbel.
Carioca U-20
While one part of the club's youth squad is enjoying success in São Paulo, the other has already begun training for this year's Campeonato Carioca de Juniores, which kicks off on the 20th against Boavista. The match will initially be held at Maracanã, a preliminary to the two teams' senior matches. The team, featuring Kayke as a standout, will be led by coach Adílio.
Toró accuses Huracán defender of racism
The 300 fans who watched Flamengo's final training match before the Carioca Championship kicked off from afar were expecting a great match, but unfortunately, what was supposed to be a celebration ended in a regrettable episode. During the first half, Flamengo and Huracán players clashed after Toró accused defender Fernando Caballero of calling him a "monkey."
"I was upset at the time, but it's in the past. He apologized. I'm sad for the sport and the professionals who make a living from it. But it's okay, I'm happy the way I am, and there are many people who love me just the way I was born," said Toró.
The Huracán defender defended himself and explained the incident with the red-black team after the match.
"I had a little problem with that short guy named Toró, but that's a football thing. I called him 'negro,' but in Uruguay it means friend. I didn't know it was a racist term in Brazil. I already apologized, and everything is fine. I'm not and never have been racist," explained defender Fernando Caballero.
Coach Joel Santana, who had already become angry during Saturday's match against Tupi-MG, warned that this type of incident is not correct, but it served to help the team prepare for the challenges of the Libertadores.
"This kind of dirty trickery, unfortunately, is common in the Libertadores. They shouldn't come to Brazil and do what they did. Our country has a good mix, and we're very proud of the black race," Joel lamented.
Ibson, who even threatened Caballeros, explained his revolt.
"I was upset, but we have to understand that in the Libertadores Cup we'll encounter this kind of thing. We know it's not cool, but unfortunately it happens. I don't tolerate it. We argue because we're united, and everyone has to fight for each other," he added.
Are you going to face it, Mengão?
Against Huracán (URU), Fla has a taste of what the Libertadores will be like: fighting, violence and racism
Nathan de Lima
Jair Motta
Toró and Léo Moura confront defender Caballero (L), who reportedly called the former a 'monkey' in a display of racial prejudice
In a festive atmosphere, Flamengo defeated Uruguay's Huracán Buceo 3-0, ending the preseason at Granja Comary in style. The match was marked by a lot of catimba, accusations of racism, and violent tackles, which served as a good test for Joel Santana's team, which will face opponents with similar behavior in the Copa Libertadores. The goals in the match were scored by Fábio Luciano, Renato Augusto, and Marcinho.
Coach Joel Santana said after the match that this is the style of play that Flamengo will encounter in the main club competition in the Americas and took the opportunity to evaluate the team's time in Teresópolis.
"It was a tough and very complicated game, but we did well. They pressed hard, and we'll find that in the Libertadores. Everyone knows we prepared well here. Our team is very talented, and I'm proud of them," said the coach.
The standout performer of the match was midfielder Toró. He seemed to be everywhere on the pitch at once, scoring prolifically and presenting himself exceptionally well.
As soon as he left the pitch, being replaced by Marcinho, in the second half, Torózinho, as he is called by Joel Santana, assessed his moment at Flamengo.
"I'm happy with the way I've been performing here in Teresópolis. I'm preparing myself physically, and I owe all my technical development to Coach Joel and Ronaldo Torres. We know the competition will be fierce; we have very high-quality players on the team, like Kleberson, who is a star," said Toró.
Another curious fact was Bruno's mysterious departure at halftime. The goalkeeper, who had complained of shin pain after a tackle during the match, left the bench before the second half began and refused to speak to anyone in the press. Club doctor Walter Martins told JORNAL DOS SPORTS what happened to the athlete.
"Bruno felt a sharp pain in his shin during a tackle, but it's nothing serious. I didn't even notice that he was upset. The substitution at halftime was already planned," Walter Martins said evasively.
Joel Santana lined up Flamengo in the training match with Bruno (Diego), Jaílton (Jônatas), Fábio Luciano (Rodrigo) and Ronaldo Angelim; Léo Moura, Ibson, Cristian, Toró (Marcinho), Renato Augusto and Juan (Egídio); Souza.
Mengão wins the fourth consecutive
This time, Flamengo's victim in the National Basketball Championship was Saldanha da Gama: 94 to 79
Pedro Ivo Almeida
Alexandre Vidal/CBB
Rubro-negro winger Marcelinho was the game's top scorer with 26 points
With another fine performance from the team, Flamengo defeated Saldanha da Gama 94-79 (55-43) yesterday at the Hélio Maurício gymnasium in Gávea. Once again, forward Marcelinho stood out, leading the game with 26 points. With the victory, the Rio de Janeiro team maintains its 100% record in the competition after four matches played.
After a very balanced start to the game, where they were behind on the scoreboard, Flamengo, counting on excellent rebounding from Wagner and Coloneze, managed to get the marking right and come out with speed on the counterattacks, closing the first quarter at 32 to 25.
In the second period, the Espírito Santo team returned determined to change the game. They went up 13-2 in just over three minutes, opening up a four-point lead. But after a timeout from coach Paulo Chupeta, Duda's introduction, and Wagner's return, who had been replaced by Alírio, the team from Gávea regained control. Still counting on steals and accurate mid-range shots from winger Marcelinho, the Rubro-Negro team went into halftime with a strong lead: 55-43.
As the third quarter began, the Espírito Santo team continued to feel the intense heat of the Rio de Janeiro capital and found no strength to contain Flamengo's attack. Coach Paulo Chupeta's team continued to dictate the pace of the game, steadily increasing the lead.
Relay
Taking advantage of the advantage on the scoreboard, the red-black coach rested some of the key players, but those who came off the bench didn't let the rhythm drop and the team maintained the difference on the scoreboard.
After a technical foul on Amiel, the Saldanha da Gama team converted four free throws in a row, reduced the lead a little and even attempted a comeback, but nothing that would hinder another comfortable red-black victory.
Flamengo returns to the court next Friday, at 20 pm to face the Ulbra/São Bernardo (SP) team, at the opponent's home.
FLAMENGO: Fred (3), Hélio (18), Marcelinho (26), Coloneze (11) and Wagner (13). Entered: Duda (7), Amiel (8), Maicon (6), Alírio and Igor.\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\
SALDANHA: Laurence (15), Ed (11), Leandro (20), Alessandro (2) and Lucas Costa (21). Entered: Cristiano (8), Matheus (1), Barone (1) and Ricardo.\ Coach: Enio Vecchi\
Location: Hélio Maurício Gymnasium in Gávea\ Income: J. Pelissari (SP), C. Maranho (SC) and A. Cunha (SC)\
Pacifier highlights the red-black team as a whole
After another great performance by his team, coach Paulo Chupeta made a point of highlighting the strength of his team and the importance of all the players.
"We knew the difficulties we would encounter during the match, and for a long time the game was even. But when both teams had to use the bench, we ended up with a huge advantage. I have ten players who can come and go at any time without the team's level and standard of play dropping. I have a very good bench, and that will make a huge difference in the toughest games."
The red-black coach also took the opportunity to praise athletes Duda and Wagner.
"Duda is doing well and whenever he comes in for Hélio, he keeps the team's performance high. Wagner is another standout player, showing significant improvement. We're working specifically with the pivots, and it's showing on the court."
Despite being satisfied with his replacements, coach Paulo Chupeta still doesn't have a full bench. Winger Fernando Mineiro is recovering from an injury and won't return to the team until the next few rounds.
O Dia
Fla: Racism causes fight
Uruguayan Caballero reportedly called Toró a 'monkey' in the 3-0 victory over Huracán
Rio - Flamengo will have to prepare its players for the Copa Libertadores. Yesterday, in a simple training match against Huracán Buceo of Uruguay, at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, the Rubro-Negro won 3-0, but there was a lot of bickering, several rough exchanges, pushing and shoving, and even a report of racist abuse directed at Toró.
The goals were scored by Fábio Luciano, Renato Augusto and Marcinho, in training that was attended by just 300 fans.
Still in the first half, defender Fernando Caballero had a disagreement with Toró, resulting in a heated argument. Íbson responded: "No racism here! Pay attention."
Toró was reportedly called a 'monkey.' "I feel sad for the sport, but I'm happy the way I am. Many people love me. I was upset at the time, but he came to apologize. And he's forgiven," Toró explained.
Caballero gave his version of the incident. "I got punched in the back and called him 'negro.' In Uruguay, that expression means something like 'friend.' I didn't know it would be interpreted as racism. When I found out, I apologized," the defender said.
Joel Santana was also upset with the Uruguayan's attitude, but used the incident to issue a warning to the group that will compete in the Copa Libertadores.
"This kind of thing is very unpleasant. But it was an experience we gained, a learning experience. They always call us banana eaters, monkeys, and things like that. They have a knack for irritating. This will even be the subject of our future talks," said the coach, who left the starters in action for most of the game and made five substitutions.
In a practice match filled with tense plays and arguments, defender Fábio Luciano opened the scoring in the 22nd minute of the first half. Renato Augusto, in the 16th minute, and Marcinho, in the 38th minute of the second half, completed the 3-0 score.
Immediately after training, everyone hurriedly left and was released for a day off. The group had been in Teresópolis since January 4th. The players will report back tonight at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca.
Today at Flamengo, however, will be a day of hard work for those still far from ideal conditioning. Six players, including Obina, Gavilán, and defender Rodrigo, will do a separate special physical workout this morning at Gávea.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo loses in Piracicaba, but secures leadership
Piracicaba (SP) - Flamengo ended its participation in the first phase of the Copa São Paulo with a defeat. However, this Sunday's 3-2 loss to XV de Piracicaba at the Barão de Serra Negra stadium didn't prevent the Rio de Janeiro club from qualifying for the second phase. Group N was decided by goal difference, with three teams each earning six points. Flamengo finished first with a goal difference of 14. Next came Nacional-AM, with XV de Piracicaba in third place.
In Sunday's game, XV de Piracicaba needed just nine minutes to score twice, through Evandro and Cléberson. Flamengo pulled one back in the first half through Pedro Beda.
In the second half, Marlon scored the home side's third goal in the 26th minute. Five minutes later, Bruno pulled one back for Flamengo, sealing the match.
Flamengo wins training match and complains about racism\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's preseason at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, ended this Sunday with a 3-0 victory over Huracán, from Uruguay, in the second training match of 2008.\ With goals scored by Fabio Luciano, Renato Augusto and Marcinho, the Rio de Janeiro club had no trouble building up the score. Coach Joel Santana did not repeat the formula used in the game against the Nicaraguan national team, and preferred to keep the starting lineup almost the entire time and make a few substitutions.\
Despite the comfortable score and the team's superiority on the field, the training match was not without a controversial incident. During a dispute over the ball, defender Fernando Caballero and midfielder Toró clashed, and the Uruguayan player allegedly made racist insults to the Flamengo player.
According to Toró, Caballero used the expression "monkey." The Uruguayan told reporters after the match that he had called him "black," which is not considered an insult in his country. In any case, Caballero apologized to Toró after the match and was forgiven by the Brazilian.
The team that took to the field was Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano (Rodrigo), Ronaldo Angelim and Juan (Egídio); Jailton (Jônatas), Cristian, Ibson and Toró (Marcinho); Renato Augusto and Souza. Fabio Luciano was rested for half of the training session because he had an illness that night.
Having been based in Rio's mountainous region since January 4th, the squad was released shortly after training. The squad is scheduled to return this Monday at 22 p.m. at the Windsor Hotel in Rio de Janeiro.
Six players will have full training this Monday to improve their physical condition: Gavilán, Marcinho, Rodrigo, Colace, Nilton and Obina.
Tricolor rules out Aloísio's departure and awaits contact from Flamengo
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Forward Aloísio was the main absence for São Paulo in the victory over São Bernardo, in the club's first training match of the 2008 season. According to the club's medical department, the player was left out of Sunday's training session due to muscle pain. However, in recent days, Aloísio confirmed having received an offer from the United Arab Emirates. The board continues to deny any negotiations. "São Paulo doesn't know anything. He's not injured. There is an offer for him, but nothing has come to São Paulo," said vice president of football Carlos Augusto de Barros e Silva, known as Leco.
The São Paulo director, however, admitted to having contacted Flamengo regarding striker Diego Tardelli. Leco receives daily calls from Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, to discuss the matter. The Rio de Janeiro club has one more day to meet some of the Morumbi club's demands in the negotiations, which will only be finalized.
Tardelli's departure, which also interests Santos, is the closest São Paulo has come to being finalized. In the case of midfielders Hugo and Souza, other players on Santos's list of reinforcements, Santos is unwilling to make any kind of deal. Coach Muricy Ramalho himself has expressed his desire to retain both players.
Regarding the arrival of more reinforcements, São Paulo's management remains mysterious, even with Atlético-MG's confirmation that it had consulted about striker Éder Luís and the recent departure of attacking midfielder Leandro to Japanese football. "We're in the study phase," Leco said.
PeléNet
Flamengo defeats Uruguayan violence in the last training match at Granja
Bruno Rousso\ Emn Teresópolis\
Flamengo faced a true test this Sunday morning for the Copa Libertadores. The team defeated Uruguay's Huracán 3-0 at Granja Comary, the club's preseason training ground. The neighboring country's rival didn't let up, and its players made several harsh challenges against the Brazilians.
This was the team's last training match, as they return to Rio in the afternoon and prepare in Gávea for their debut in the State Championship, next Sunday, against Boavista, at Maracanã.
Defender Fábio Luciano opened the scoring in the 22nd minute of the first half. Renato Augusto, in the 16th minute, and Marcinho, in the 38th minute of the second half, completed the Flamengo scoring.
The team coached by Joel Santana had already faced the Nicaraguan national team on Thursday (5-0), and the reserves lost to Tupi-MG on Saturday afternoon (2-1), both games also held at Granja.
Flamengo faced Huracán with Bruno (Diego), Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano (Rodrigo), Ronaldo Angelim and Juan (Egidio); Jaílton (Jônatas), Cristian, Toró (Marcinho) and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
Racist protest heats up Flamengo's training match
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
An unpleasant incident marred Flamengo's 3-0 victory over Huracán-URU in a training match held Sunday morning at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. After a tough clash with Toró, Uruguayan defender Fernando Cavallero allegedly used a racist term. According to the midfielder, "monkey."
Toró was the victim of racist abuse during Flamengo's training match in Teresópolis
The act sparked outrage among the red-and-black players. Ibson, distraught, argued harshly with the defender. "Hey, what's this? We don't have that here! Pay attention, man," the supporter yelled.
After the match, with tempers calming down, Toró tried to downplay the incident. "It's in the past. He apologized. These things happen on the field. I'm sad for the sport. But I'm happy the way I am, and there are a lot of people who love me that way," he explained.
Joel Santana also expressed his displeasure with the Uruguayan's actions. However, he believes it serves as a lesson for the challenges that await his players in the Copa Libertadores matches.
"This kind of thing is very unpleasant. But it's an experience we gain. A learning experience. They always call us banana eaters, monkeys, and things like that. They have a knack for irritating us. This will even be the subject of future lectures," the coach emphasized.
Defender Fernando Cavallero tried to defuse the controversy. "He punched me in the back. So when I complained, I referred to him as black. In Argentina and Uruguay, black isn't racist. We tell our friends that. I didn't know it was racist here. So I apologized right away. I'm not racist," he explained.
Also this Saturday there was confusion in the training match in which Flamengo was defeated 2-1 by Tupi (MG. Coach Joel Santana was irritated with defender Silvio, from the Minas Gerais team, who argued with striker Maxi Biancucchi
Joel Santana and Flamengo players approve "test" for the Libertadores
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
Flamengo defeated Huracán-URU 3-0 in a training match held this Sunday morning at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. The training session didn't provide much for the Flamengo team, but the players gained some experience ahead of the Copa Libertadores.
"It's good for us to play a game like this, because we're going to get it right there. It was a nice appetizer for the Libertadores, very salty and spicy," the coach highlighted.
Without much humor, midfielder Toró maintained Joel's message. "We'll find out from there. So it's good that we're already adapting to dealing with players cursing and acting out," he said.
Defender Fábio Luciano followed suit. Experienced in international competitions, the captain will gather his teammates and share tips on how to deal with the provocations.
"I've experienced this a lot and I know we have to stay calm. They always do something to irritate us. So we have to stay calm and not fall into their trap. I'll pass these things on to everyone," he explained.
Flamengo, Fluminense and Vasco are in the second phase of the Copa SP
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The three Rio de Janeiro clubs competing in the Copa São Paulo de Juniores qualified in first place in their groups and already know their rivals for the second phase of the competition, the first of which will be decided in knockout matches.
Vasco and Fluminense finished with 100% success in groups S and O, respectively, and will face União São João-SP and Nacional-AM, seventh and third qualified by technical index.
Despite being defeated by XV de Piracicaba, 3-2, this Sunday, Flamengo finished first in group N and will face Goiás, the second best in the technical index.
The three clubs have all seven Rio titles in the competition's history. Fluminense was a five-time champion, in 1971, 73, 77, 86, and 89; Flamengo won in 1990; and Vasco won in 1992.
Copa São Paulo: 32 teams qualified for the next phase defined
From UOL Esporte\ In São Paulo\
The São Paulo Junior Football Cup revealed this Sunday the 32 teams that will advance to the next stage of the competition. Twenty-two teams secured their spot by finishing first in their respective groups. Another ten secured their spot based on technical index.
The teams that finished as leaders were: Corinthians, Santo André, Fortaleza, Coritiba, Taboão da Serra-SP, Marília-MA, Ferroviária-SP, Rio Branco-SP, Sugarloaf-SP, Portuguesa, Santos, America-MG, Internacional-RS, Flamengo, Fluminense, São Paulo, Grêmio, Ponte Preta, Vasco da Gama, Palmeiras, Vitória and Cruzeiro.
Those classified by technical index are Youth, National-AM, Goiás, Atlético-PR, Bahia, São João Union, Figueirense, Guarani, São Bernardo and São Carlos.
The next stage's matchups have also been set. However, the São Paulo Football Federation has yet to announce the dates, times, and locations for the games, which will be played on Tuesday and Wednesday. Losers from now on will be eliminated from the competition.
Atlético-PR and São Bernardo, both qualified, had identical campaigns in the first phase, and the tiebreaker will be determined by the number of red and yellow cards. Therefore, only after the São Paulo State Federation releases the match reports will Grêmio and São Paulo's opponents be known.
In total, 88 Brazilian teams participated in the first phase. As every year, the competition final will take place on January 25th, the anniversary of the city of São Paulo.
The last teams to confirm their place in the next stage were Grêmio, Flamengo, and Guarani. The Rio Grande do Sul team defeated São Bernardo 2-1 and finished first in Group Q. The Rio de Janeiro team, despite losing 3-2 to XV de Piracicaba, finished first in Group N.
The Campinas team defeated Náutico-RR 2-0 and secured the final spot in the technical index. Guarani finished with just one goal difference ahead of XV de Piracicaba, which was eliminated despite beating Flamengo.
BalloonSport
Copinha: Fla loses, but finishes first
Flamengo ends first stage in first place despite 1-3 loss to XV de Piracicaba\ Flamengo ended its participation in the first stage of the São Paulo Junior Football Cup with a loss. XV de Piracicaba won 2-3 this Sunday, but the Red-Black team secured first place in Group N on goal difference, with six points from three matches. The team will face the team with the second-best technical index in the second stage. The team from the interior of São Paulo finished third and was eliminated.\
Playing at home, XV de Piracicaba attacked Flamengo and quickly took a commanding lead. In the seventh minute, Evandro hit a beautiful volley to open the scoring. In the ninth minute, it was Cléberson's turn to extend the lead. But Flamengo didn't give up and managed to reduce the deficit in the first half. Pedro Beda received a pass and shot across goal, scoring in the 20th minute.
In the second half, the game remained evenly matched, with chances for both teams. But XV de Piracicaba secured the victory in the 26th minute. After a corner kick, Flamengo's defense mishandled the ball, leaving Marlon to finish. Flamengo scored the second goal through Bruno in the 31st minute, but could not equalize.
In the other Group N match, Nacional-AM defeated Ypiranga 12-0. The Amapá team leaves the Copa São Paulo with 25 goals conceded and only one scored in three matches. The result qualified the Amazonian team for the next round.
Fla defeats Capixabas and remains undefeated
Point guard Marcelinho was the star of the match with 26 points
CBB\ Players from Fla and Saldanha da Gama fight for the ball in the paint\
Flamengo remains undefeated after four games in the Men's Basketball Championship. Playing at home this Sunday, the Rio de Janeiro team defeated Saldanha da Gama from Espírito Santo 94-79. Flamengo's shooting guard Marcelinho stood out, leading the way with 26 points, while also grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out seven assists.
"We secured another good victory, with a well-developed defense. We nailed our marking, and with that, the counterattack worked. We set a strong pace and stayed ahead the entire game. We managed our advantage well and won our fourth straight game," analyzes Flamengo coach Paulo Chupeta.
In the other matches of the round, after losing to Flamengo, Cetaf recovered and defeated Iguaçu away from home by 94 to 59. In Belo Horizonte, Minas beat the Gauchos from Univates by 102 to 95 and Londrina debuted with a victory over FTC EAD by 62 to 60 in Salvador (BA).
"It was a good game, where we managed to play well, overcoming the absence of some injured players. With the victory, we left Rio with the positive balance we planned, with a win and a loss to Flamengo, which is the best team in the championship so far," explains Cetaf coach Luiz Felipe Azevedo.
Check out the other results from this Sunday
Iguaçu 59 x 94 Cetaf
Minas 102 x 92 Univates\ FTC EAD 60 x 62 Londrina\ Uberlândia 65 x 73 Joinville\
Fla beats Huracán in farewell
The starting lineup controls the match and easily defeats the Uruguayan team 3-0.
Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis (RJ)
Renato Augusto scored one of Fla's goals in the training match in Teresópolis
The fans, once again, were kept outside Granja Comary. And from the fence, the approximately 300 Flamengo fans watched the calm 3-0 victory over Huracán Buceo, from Uruguay.
The goals were scored by Fábio Luciano, Renato Augusto, and Marcinho. Unlike the training match against Nicaragua, coach Joel Santana didn't use a different team in each half. He left the starting lineup in place for most of the half and made five substitutions.
Flamengo opened the scoring in the 22nd minute of the first half. Souza headed a free kick from the sidelines, the goalkeeper partially saved, and Fábio Luciano scored. Instead of calming down, the Rio de Janeiro team became nervous due to Uruguay's provocations, and the game's level dropped.
In the second half, Renato Augusto fired a powerful shot to score the second after a corner kick from Leo Moura. Finally, in the 36th minute, Marcinho dribbled past the goalkeeper and sealed the win for the Rio de Janeiro team.
Return home:
Immediately after the training match, Flamengo's players hurriedly left the field and headed to Rio de Janeiro. They had been in Teresópolis since January 4th. Many skipped the delegation bus and hitched rides with friends and family. Leo Moura, for example, opted to hire a taxi from Rio de Janeiro to take him there.
The athletes will meet again on Monday night at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca. Except for those with a body fat percentage above the ideal, the small group—of six athletes—will do a separate workout in the morning in Gávea.
Joel: 'It was a savory appetizer'
Flamengo 'falls for the Uruguayans' trap and coach sees preview of the Libertadores Cup
Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis
Confusion in Flamengo's training match against Huracan Buceo, from Uruguay
Souza kicked the opposing goalkeeper, Ibson spent a few minutes arguing with a Uruguayan, and Toró was embroiled in a racism controversy. It was just a practice match, but the match against Huracán Buceo of Uruguay felt like a Copa Libertadores match.
Not because of the rival team's quality, which was quite limited technically. However, when it came to challenging, the foreigners tested Flamengo well. And the Rio team's performance wasn't the best.
"It was a very salty appetizer for the Libertadores. The players got unnecessarily irritated by their insults. But people from that small country are complicated. They have a knack for irritating. They create nicknames on the spot, calling them banana eaters. Patience," says coach Joel Santana.
At several points during the red-and-black team's 3-0 victory, the match descended into violence, and a brawl almost broke out. Team captain Fábio Luciano acknowledges that there were excesses.
"There were some unnecessary incidents. And every action has a reaction. But we'll have to better understand these provocations because in the Libertadores, there are expulsions and suspensions. I'm going to talk to the guys," says the scorer of Flamengo's first goal of the match.
Preseason has accusations of racism
Uruguayan player reportedly called midfielder Toró a monkey in a training match at Granja Comary
Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis, (RJ)
Flamengo's preseason in Teresópolis ended this Sunday morning. But the farewell was not without controversy. During the training match against Huracán Buceo of Uruguay, the Flamengo players accused defender Fernando Caballero of racial abuse (watch the video of the incident below).
Still in the first half, the Uruguayan had a disagreement with Toró, and an argument ensued. Soon after, Ibson defended his teammate and warned:
- There's no racism here!
The atmosphere grew tense, and after Flamengo's 3-0 victory, Toró admitted he had been insulted. The Uruguayan athlete had allegedly used the word "monkey."
"I'm happy the way I am. Many people love me this way." I was upset at the time, but he came to apologize. And he's forgiven.
Uruguayan defends himself
Confusion in the training match against Uruguayans
As soon as he left the Granja Comary field, Fernando Caballero was surrounded by journalists. He was frightened by the repercussions of the case, but gave his version of events.
"I got punched in the back and called him 'nigger.' And in Uruguay, that expression means something like 'friend.' I didn't know it would be interpreted as racism. When I found out, I apologized," says the Uruguayan.
Coach Joel Santana was upset by the incident. However, he reminded Flamengo players that they have to get used to such behavior during the Copa Libertadores.
"That story bothered me because there's no need to go to that point. But they always do it and call us banana eaters, monkeys. They have a knack for irritating," the coach declares.
Throw
Ibson regrets racist attitude
Midfielder says Fla cannot fall for provocations during the Libertadores
LANCEPRESS!
In the final preseason training match, chaos overshadowed Flamengo's 3-0 victory over Huracán. An alleged racist attack by defender Fernando Caballero toward Toró created a major disturbance during the match. Teammate Ibson, midfielder, condemned the opponent's actions and stressed that Flamengo cannot afford to be provoked by their South American rivals.
"It's a bit annoying, just because one is a little darker and the other is white. The important thing is to put that aside; we know that's how it is in the Libertadores, and they'll try to irritate us as much as possible," he warned.
Controversy steals the show at Flamengo's training match
Huracán defender allegedly addressed Toró with a racist insult; confusion did not prevent Flamengo's 3-0 victory
Toró was insulted by an opponent in the training match (Credit: Lancepress!)
Mauricio Louro TERESÓPOLIS
An alleged insult by Uruguayan defender Fernando Caballero toward Toró stole the spotlight on the final day of Flamengo's preseason training camp at Granja Comary in Teresópolis this Sunday. It happened in the final minutes of the first half of Flamengo's 3-0 victory over Uracán-URU.
What was supposed to be a simple practice match took on the details of a fiercely contested match between South American rivals. In time, the goals were scored by Fábio Luciano in the 22nd minute of the first half, and Renato Augusto and Marcinho in the 16th and 39th minutes of the second half.
The altercation between Toró and the Uruguayan occurred after a dispute over the ball. Caballero, irritated by his opponent's harassment, reportedly called the red-and-black player a 'nigger.' Soon after, some of Toró's teammates went towards Caballero, causing a small disturbance. Joel Santana took advantage of the break to warn his players.
"This will be common in the Libertadores, these provocations. They call us "negrito," "monkey," etc. It's normal. We can't lose our concentration because of this," he said.
And so it was. Flamengo returned to the final stage of the training match with the same drive they had shown in the first half. They played well enough to secure the victory, demonstrating that they are coming into the season with great determination.
Flamengo's starting lineup included the base that finished the 2007 Brazilian Championship, namely Bruno, Fábio Luciano, Angelim, and Jailton; Léo Moura, Cristian, Ibson, Toró, and Juan; and Renato Augusto and Souza. During the match, Jônatas, Marcinho, Egídio, and Rodrigo came on, replacing Jailton, Toró, Juan, and Fábio Luciano, respectively.
Fla loses, but advances as leader in the Copa-SP
Rubro-Negro's opponent is Goiás, who qualified in Group R
Fred Gomes RIO
In a game that started very slowly in the first ten minutes, Flamengo lost 3-2 to XV de Piracicaba at the Barão da Serra Negra Stadium this Sunday. The defeat, however, was not enough to take away the Rubro-Negro's lead in Group N and, consequently, their qualification for the second phase, in which they will face Goiás, the second-best ranked team by technical index.
The resounding preliminary result - Nacional-AM thrashed Ypiranga-AP 12-0 - forced XV de Piracicaba to face the difficult task of defeating Flamengo, who entered the field with the best attack in the competition (15 goals - the same number as Grêmio), by an eight-goal margin. However, Flamengo was sluggish in the opening minutes, reflected in the poor performance of goalkeeper Marcelo.
In the sixth minute, XV's Evandro volleyed in a cross from Faravin, which, while beautiful, was weak. Marcelo jumped late, and the home team opened the scoring. Three minutes later, the red-and-black goalkeeper failed again, coming out awkwardly to clear a corner. Result: he missed the shot, and Cléberson doubled the lead.
The goals seemed to have affected the Flamengo players, who began to move more and began to dominate the game. Erick Flores began his repertoire of beautiful plays, creating good chances, but they ultimately failed to convert. In the 19th minute, however, Pedro Beda, who had scored in Flamengo's first two games, found the net again. The Flamengo number 9 received a pass from Renan Silva and, with a right-footed cross-shot, scored the first goal for the Rio de Janeiro team.
The aggravating factor for the red-blacks was the yellow card received by Paulo Sérgio, his second in the competition and which resulted in his suspension for the second phase.
In the second half, another setback for the red-and-blacks. In the 13th minute, Fabrício committed a violent foul, received a second yellow card, and was sent off.
In the 26th minute of the second half, a collective error by the red-black defense resulted in the ball being left clear for Marlon to extend the Piracicaba team's lead: XV 3-1.
Five minutes after XV's third goal, the red-black full-back Michel ran down the right wing and made a perfect cross for Bruno who, alone, pushed it into the net and reduced the score.
CREDITS:
XV DE PIRACICABA 3 x 2 FLAMENGO
Stadium: Barão da Serra Negra, Piracicaba (SP)\ Date/time: 13/01/2008 - 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time)\ Referee: James Anderson de Morais\ Yellow cards: Charles, Cléberson and Goiano (XVP); Fabricio, Paulo Sérgio and Pedro Beda (FLA)\ Red cards: Fabricio (FLA) - 13'/2nd half; Goiano (XVP) - 37'/2nd half\ GOALS: Evandro, 6'/1st half (1-0); Cléberson, 9'/1st half (2-0); Pedro Beda, 19'/1st half (2-1); Marlon 26'/2nd half (3-1); Bruno 31'/2nd half (3-2)\
XV DE PIRACICABA: Fábio, Favarin (Wesley - 22'/2nd half), Cleberson, Diegão and Charles (Head - 45'/2nd half); Marco Aurélio, Evandro, Goiano and Denis; Douglas and Marlon (Guina - 47'/2nd half) - Coach: Alexandre Fagnello.
FLAMENGO: Marcelo, Michel, Michel Pereira, Fabrício and Jorbson; Guilherme Camacho, Erick Flores (Bruno - 22'/2nd half), Welington, Renan Silva (Juninho - 12'/2nd half), Paulo Sérgio (Rafael Galhardo - 16'/2nd half) and Pedro Beda - Coach Rogério Lourenço.
Fla's full-back laments poor start to Copinha
Against XV de Piracicaba, the club conceded two goals in the first ten minutes
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's 3-2 defeat to XV de Piracicaba this Sunday was attributed by right-back Michel to a "disconnection" by the red-black team in the game.
"It was a surprise. We lost interest early on. We tried to keep going, but unfortunately it didn't work out," laments the member of the Brazilian U-17 team, speaking to Sportv.
Michel also said that the XV de Piracicaba fans - the club was the host of Group N - were another factor that helped the home team triumph.
"Against Flamengo, everyone wants to give something extra. The presence of their fans also made our job more difficult," he concluded.
Despite the defeat, the Gávea club qualified for the second phase of the São Paulo Junior Football Cup as leader of Group N.
Flamengo lined up with a very offensive profile
Security in the red-black defense allows strength in the attack
Mauricio Louro TERESÓPOLIS
The racism controversy involving Huracán (URU) attacking midfielder Toró and defender Caballero took center stage on the final day of Flamengo's preseason training camp at Granja Comary in Teresópolis this Sunday. However, another issue was raised by coach Joel Santana and the players: the coach's new system is approved.
The foundation of Joel Santana's team's performance is largely due to the defensive posture, which was evident in the turbulent match against Huracán. And the defense appears to be in tune.
"We have a team that plays seriously and in an organized way. We need to know how to play and defend well. Furthermore, our physical condition is very good. We're almost ready," said the coach.
Defender Fábio Luciano, who scored one of the goals in the 3-0 victory over the Uruguayans, believes the team is very secure at the back, allowing them to run forward at speed, especially down the wings.
"Léo (Moura) was able to attack frequently without leaving the team vulnerable. We did that a lot in this game (against Huracán) and the result was very good," he analyzed.
Léo Moura reinforces Fábio Luciano's words, but highlights another important factor:
"We're continuing what we've been doing before, and it's normal for results to come this way. The defense is solid and the team is in sync. That way, I've been able to get on the attack a lot."
Angelim, who played on the left side of the defense, also highlighted the importance of good physical fitness, but did not fail to join in with his teammates.
"We've been working very hard, and even at the beginning of the season, we're in very good physical shape. I think we have everything we need to have a good start to the year," he concluded.
Ibson doesn't hide his excitement about his debut
This last week will serve to perfect the fundamentals in Gávea
Maurício Louro SPECIAL FROM TERESÓPOLIS
Ibson closed the preseason at Granja Comary as one of Flamengo's standout performers. His mission accomplished, he's now eager to debut in the Carioca Championship.
"Our short-term goal is the state championship, and we're all looking forward to the debut. We just need to take advantage of the final week to perfect our fundamentals and get off to a good start," he noted.
But Ibson confessed to having one more reason for his anxiety and rush to return to Rio:
- I want to see my children. I miss them so much and I'm dying to see them again.
Coach Joel Santana made a few comments about Jônatas, who recently returned to the club. He said the player is going through a readjustment phase but is doing well.
"I want to see him do the same as in 2005. Against Tupi on Saturday, he didn't perform. But today (Sunday), he improved a lot. He knows how to score, he has quality. But it's still too early to consider him a starter," the coach analyzed. Toró ends preseason satisfied. Flamengo player says he's taking care of his fitness, even during the holidays.
Toró stood out in the training match against Huracán this Sunday, not only because of the alleged racist incident, in which he was allegedly called "nigger" in an aggressive context by Uruguayan defender Caballero. The Flamengo attacking midfielder had a strong performance and left Granja Comary, the preseason training ground, satisfied.
The player, however, avoids making a fuss about the midfield spot.
- There's a lot of competition in my industry, but the important thing is to get in there and get the job done, whoever it is - he said.
Regarding the way he has been performing, Toró says he has learned a lot in recent months and feels mature.
"I started scoring more during Ney Franco's time, and now I'm continuing with Joel. I'm also taking better care of myself, keeping my mouth shut during the holidays, and performing well physically. After all, that's what I live for," Toró added.
He left Granja Comary with the certainty of having fulfilled his duty.
"It was the best preseason I've ever had, but we still have a week to go. I'm happy it went well. Now it's time to move forward and hope everything goes well on the 20th, when we debut against Boavista at Maracanã," the player concluded, adding that the group's unity has been fundamental to their success.
- Coexistence is important. I've only been a professional for a short time, and I try to learn a lot from my elders.
Juan praises the permanence of the base team at Fla
Full-back says continuity will be important to maintain 2007's rhythm
LANCEPRESS!
Full-back Juan is thrilled to start this year the way he ended 2007: wearing the No. 6 jersey for the red-and-black starting lineup. He thanked the coaching staff for their vote of confidence and stated that keeping last season's academy players will be beneficial for the Gávea team to maintain its good form.
radio l! - That's good. It's a demonstration of confidence in everything we've done this past year. It's important for us to be able to maintain the same pace in 2007 - said Juan. (Click and listen)
Joel uses insult to Toró to warn the group\ Supporter would have been insulted by Huracán defender in training match\ Maurício Louro TERESÓPOLIS\ Get in touch\
Flamengo coach Joel Santana, upon noticing the heated tensions caused by Uruguayan defender Caballera's alleged insult to Toró - who claimed he had been called a 'monkey' -, took advantage of the break in the training match this Sunday, at Granja Comary, against Huracán-URU, to calm his players down.
"You'll hear these insults all the time in the Libertadores. They call you a negrito, a monkey, but what they want is to destabilize us, to take away our calm. You can't fall for this. You have to get used to it," the coach told the players.
After the game, with the press gathered, Joel stated that this type of behavior from the opponent shouldn't be taken as a surprise. This will even be the subject of a future talk, obviously before the Libertadores.
"I'm annoyed; after all, it's just a practice match. This doesn't lead to anything. Uruguay is a tiny country, and we have everything good here, in a wonderful country like ours. We don't need to get upset with them, they're always making nicknames and teasing," the coach added, also teasing.
According to Joel, this preseason finale could serve as a preview of what the Libertadores will be like.
"It was a very intense game. If the crowd had been allowed here (at Granja) today, someone would have come in and slapped the Uruguayan. But it was worth it to test our physical preparation work. The game was hard-fought and ended with all our players fit," he concluded.
Defender Fábio Luciano was more relaxed, agreeing that this is common in matches between South Americans. Therefore, he emphasizes the importance of calm on the field.
"Of course, we'll have to assimilate better. But the group is prepared for it. In any case, they can't come here and do that. It serves as a learning experience," he said.
Fábio Luciano recalled that he's been through this before. "It was in 2003, in the Libertadores, when Corinthians faced River Plate. Kléber (left-back) was sent off there after being provoked. Then the same thing happened here, with Roger, and Corinthians was eliminated in the knockout stage," the defender added.
Flamengo coach opens up in interview
Coach explains how he will set up Flamengo in 2008 and takes stock of his career
Eduardo Tironi RIO DE JANEIRO\ Guilherme de Paula RIO DE JANEIRO\ Rodrigo Benchimol RIO DE JANEIRO\
What's going on in Joel Santana's head is what every Flamengo fan wants to know. In this exclusive interview, the coach talks about the team, his expectations for 2008, and even the fact that he's releasing a book about his experiences.
Eduardo Tironi: The first question is the question of at least 35 million Brazilians. How are you going to prepare Flamengo for 2008?
Joel Santana: Did it decrease? Not 35 million. We're already at 50 million. Our team, our group, is organized according to our needs, according to what we believe is most correct, what's right. Within a team approach, sometimes we have to differentiate one thing in football. Sometimes a team organizes itself differently than the coach wants. Sometimes it's how it fits together. And we've had numerous experiences with other clubs we've played for. Our team had a very good end to the season. We were solid in defense, creative in attack and midfield, scoring goals. And look, we lacked one of the key factors in today's football, which is set pieces. But the team performed well. And it's this start that we'll build on from last year. You don't just throw away something you started and did well overnight. Throw it all away and start over? It's so difficult to get a team to fit together. Once you've developed a team, a well-developed style of play, the players have already tested and have been well-absorbed. So we already have a starting point for how we're going to shape up. Now we're going to put the key players in place. So that's what we're aiming for. We'll wait for other players who are under-conditioned or undocumented, then we'll have the group and see how we'll build it.
Guilherme de Paula Machado: Still on the subject of the Libertadores. In 2001, you broke the record for most wins in the competition: eight in a row with Vasco. The streak ended up being interrupted by a win against Boca Juniors. Even Flamengo got in the way a bit. Vasco lost the final to Pet's goal and three days later played the return leg at La Bombonera, losing 1-0 at São Januário. Do you think it's possible to repeat that Vasco success, in terms of victories, and even further, in this case, winning the Libertadores?
JS: Look, look. We had, as you said, a record in Brazilian football, but we didn't reach the final, we weren't champions. Maybe because we thought we were already at a point where we would overcome all our opponents, and that team... other factors that aren't relevant now got in the way. Because it was a really good team. I think in the Libertadores, I think a team has to have balance, and that's the balance we'll try to achieve. It's no use sometimes having three, four, five, or six wins and then advancing to the next stage, only to run into a team perhaps of lesser quality, less skill, and less class, and you lose or draw. The Libertadores is a very tough competition. It's difficult to make a prediction based on the difficulties you face within the competition. Sometimes it's the cold, the location is hotter, sometimes it's too much rain, altitude, etc. And sometimes you have to be lucky to avoid relegation, at certain times when you have difficulties: in the regional championships. I'll give you an example right away. We're going to have a tough start. After the 20th, we'll have consecutive games: Wednesday, Sunday, Wednesday, Sunday, Wednesday, Sunday... And our first game will fall right after the match against Fluminense. And, if we qualify, we intend to reach the Carioca finals. We'll play on the 10th, the 13th, and maybe the 17th. Look at that. At the beginning of the season, when you don't have the entire team ready for everything you want in the Libertadores and Campeonato Carioca, it's tough. The Libertadores is very difficult, and sometimes you pay for that difficulty. So you have to rely on a good team and luck in the competition.
GPM: What projection do you have for Flamengo?
JS: I don't make promises, man. Of course I want to reach the final. If I start making promises... I don't live by promises, I'm addicted to results. Before thinking about the Libertadores, you have to think about the Campeonato Carioca. It seems like it won't be difficult, but it will be. Because they've banked on the big teams... In recent years, there's always been a small team coming through. And this year they created a situation where the big teams only play at Maracanã. The one who wins the Campeonato Carioca is the one who doesn't lose points to smaller teams at Maracanã, which will give them an advantage. And the Campeonato Carioca fires a lot of coaches. Usually, they fire one or two. So we're vaccinated against all that, you know. Both the Campeonato Carioca and the Libertadores don't have favorites. You have to put together a competitive team, organize yourself, and compete in both competitions. Achieving your best, which is to win the title. Which is what we aim for. So we're going to compete. There's no point in promising to be the favorite. You're a favorite until you step onto the field. Until the match is called, the favorite in football doesn't exist. There may be a better team, beautiful on paper, beautiful to look at. It's beautiful, it's wonderful, but when you get there, the team isn't complete. There are the stories of football. There's Real Madrid, the World Cup for Brazil. And we don't learn. We Brazilians don't learn. Because, sometimes, the most competitive, most organized team wins. Suddenly, the best team in terms of players doesn't win.
Rodrigo Benchimol: You're known as the coach called in to put out certain types of fires. For example, at Flamengo, this is the second time. In 2007, now, and in 2005, you miraculously saved the club from relegation. Now you're starting from scratch, despite having already laid the foundation last year. Is it different for you?
JS: It's no different. It's just that this has been happening in my life lately. We mentioned Flamengo twice, but we can't forget Vasco. The year Vasco won the Mercosur and Brasileirão (2000), we were practically the away team. We had to beat Palmeiras and Cruzeiro, the best team in the league, away from home, with Felipão, who had been training for twelve days to play Vasco and lost the game. Not to mention 2004, when we started with Vasco in last place and, in the penultimate round, beat the best team in the competition, which at the time was Atlético-PR. That's been happening lately. Like in the XNUMXs, I'd take the whole team for preseason training. We came here (to Granja Comary, in Teresópolis) in Friburgo several times, and we managed to win championships.
RB: Do you want to change that label?
JS: It's not that label. I think our coaching lives fluctuate. The most important thing for me is to remain among the group of 20 coaches in Brazil. To remain among the group of coaches who have seen and supported Flamengo for the fifth time. The most important thing is to see the fans' demonstration, something...