THE GLOBE
A classic for Renato Augusto to win the spot
Supporter needs to show improvement to face Nacional
Concerned about resting starters for Wednesday's Libertadores match against Nacional, Flamengo coach Joel Santana will use Sunday's derby against Botafogo to test Renato Augusto's recovery from facial surgery two months ago. If he recovers well, the midfielder could start against the Uruguayans, as the coach admitted yesterday that he will not insist on the three-forward formation used in the 2-0 victory over Mesquita.
- We have an important game on Sunday where I can get a little more rhythm for Wednesday - said Renato.
Teamwork won't be a problem. Rather than try new tactics, Joel prefers to return to the norm:
- With three forwards, the team didn't play well. The other way was the right one.
After repeated on-field arguments, Souza and Ibson agree they need to control themselves more. In Cuzco, Peru, players from Cienciano, Flamengo's Libertadores opponent, were held up while receiving their salaries by three armed bandits who stole US$90.
CBF will comply with FIFA's package against corruption in football
Brazilian entity will not request exclusion from any of the new rules
Photo caption: FIFA PRESIDENT Joseph Blatter: decisions to protect the results and integrity of competitions
The CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) has decided to strictly follow the measures announced by FIFA last Wednesday at its headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland. A member of the task force that brought together members of the organization's Executive Committee to develop nine rules to combat corruption, money laundering, and illegal betting in soccer, president Ricardo Teixeira returns to Brazil certain that Brazilian clubs will have to comply with the rules. Currently, no club in the country would meet the new specifications, which will come into effect in 2009.
If there was any expectation that the CBF would request the removal of certain provisions in the application of the rules in Brazilian football, it was dashed with Ricardo Teixeira's participation in the task force. It would be contradictory, to say the least, for the CBF president, a member of the Committee, to demand different treatment from other confederations. Especially since a Brazilian case was used as a negative example.
Executive Committee hears Bolivia's appeals today
Corinthians' partnership with MSI, a company owned by Iranian investor Kia Joorabchian, is cited as a defense of the adoption of a club licensing system, which aims to uncover information about the origin of funds used to finance football teams:
"In 2004, a businessman invested heavily in a South American club and dramatically strengthened the squad. The money was of suspicious origin, and the investment quickly ceased. Three years later, the club was relegated," says FIFA.
The organization has eliminated transfers made through faxes between the clubs involved. The new system will be online, allowing for the monitoring of the large volume of transactions. In 2006, FIFA received approximately 25 transfer certificates with numerous irregularities.
Regarding the work of agents, FIFA intends to regulate the extent to which an investor can interfere in a club's management. On another topic, the organization determines that agents must periodically renew their FIFA agent status.
The measures also establish a system, tested at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, to track illegal betting. The system is already in use to monitor suspicious bets on qualifying matches for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
The rules prohibit the participation of third parties, such as agents and companies, in the negotiation of athletes and increase control over the methods of relegation and promotion. The goal is to avoid the situation that occurred with Granada, in Spain's fourth division. Its president purchased Murcia and moved the club's headquarters near the city, promoting Granada's artificial promotion.
Today, the Executive Committee will hear Bolivia's arguments for maintaining La Paz as the host city for the 2010 qualifiers. FIFA recently banned international matches in cities above 3.500 meters in altitude, which affects La Paz.
Basketball
Moncho watches Fla in the National
The national team coach meets Marcelinho, with whom he worked in Spain.
Photo caption: Flamengo's Marcelinho trusts in Moncho's experience
Claudio Nogueira
After being introduced as the new coach of the Brazilian men's basketball team the day before yesterday at the Brazilian Basketball Confederation (CBB) headquarters in Rio, with the mission of leading Brazil to the Beijing Olympics, Moncho Monsalve will begin his involvement with Brazilian basketball today at 20 p.m. The Spaniard will be in Gávea to watch the match between Flamengo and Ulbra/Rio Claro/Bandeirantes (SP) in the Men's National Championship. In the preliminary round, at 17:30 p.m., Iguaçu vs. Inesul/Londrina (PR) will play.
National team coach praises Marcelinho's good pass
Rio Claro is managed by José Neto, Moncho's assistant on the new national team coaching staff. Moncho will see Flamengo's shooting guard Marcelinho again, whom he managed at Lobos Cantábria in Spain in 2003/2004. The player is the championship's top scorer with 287 points (26,1 average).
"Working with him was great. I learned a lot. His European experience can help the team gain consistency. No one solves anything alone. If we all give it 100%, we have a good chance of qualifying," said Marcelinho, a standout for Flamengo, the undefeated leader of the National Championship with 11 wins.
The wing/point guard praised Moncho's candor:
"He's meticulous, and the criteria he uses are demanding. I'm an optimist. I know we missed the theoretically easiest path, in the Americas Pre-Olympic Games, but nothing is impossible."
The day before yesterday, Moncho had cleared Marcelinho of the accusation of being a selfish player in decisive moments.
"If he plays like he did with me in Spain, it will be very important. At times, he seemed anxious. But he has a good pass, loves basketball, and averages 30 points per game for Flamengo," he said, adding that Marcelinho can play shooting guard or small forward: "He's a great player. I really want him on the national team."
As he didn't go to the Olympics as a player or as a coach, but as a commentator, Moncho, 63, wants to fulfill his dream for Brazil.
"You have to donate your personal prestige to the group. If everyone does that, we can win the spot," he stated.
After Atlanta 1996, Brazil no longer qualified for the men's Olympic tournament. The call-up will be on May 13th, and training will begin on June 8th in Rio. The Pre-Olympic tournament will be in Athens from July 14th to 20th. Brazil's Group A includes Greece and Lebanon.
Fernando Calazans
Can't praise
It's hard to know who left Maracanã Stadium more irritated on Wednesday night: Joel Santana or Renato Gaúcho. One thing I know: they were both right. Flamengo and Fluminense played matches that would have put two sets of fans to sleep at the same time. I could hazard a guess that Renato was the most outraged, because his team had drawn with the very modest Resende. But I won't.
For those who saw Joel after the game, even with the victory over the equally modest Mesquita, it is difficult to imagine another coach more upset.
Joel buried the three-forward system. Even I would have buried any system after that game. But I think he's being unfair to the forwards, or at least two. Flamengo's midfield was completely out of sync. It was horrific. And the injustice is even greater with two, Maxi and Tardelli, who were substituted without having been the worst.
It couldn't be worse than Souza. And, on top of that, Souza argues with everyone. He and Ibson. Souza was already known: he argues with opponents, teammates, fans, linesmen, doormen, barbecue vendors... Ibson, on the other hand, is a new arguer, so new that the psychologist wanted to know what's going on with him. Ibson said it's nothing, there's nothing unusual about Flamengo.
There's nothing wrong with that, but in the infamous game in Montevideo, for the Libertadores, Toró even fought with the ball boy.
It looks like Joel, at the right time, will put an end to all the arguments on the field. And he'll field a reserve team for Sunday's game against Botafogo. Just imagine what a fun derby that will be...
Renato Mauricio Prado
Urgent review
The 2008 Rio State Championship format urgently needs to be revised for 2009. There are too many clubs and not enough balance, which has led to such an imbalance that classics, which should have been the tournament's main attractions, have become mere friendlies. This was the case with the Fla-Flu matchup in the Guanabara Cup, and it will be the same for the Flamengo-Botafogo matchup in the Rio Cup.
And it's not even possible to say that the problem lies in the red-and-blacks' early qualification for the Carioca final. In the first round, given the weakness of their rivals (exacerbated by the privilege granted to the big teams to play all their matches at Maracanã, Engenhão, or São Januário), Flamengo, Botafogo, Flu, and Vasco already reached the final round qualified for the semifinals.
A phenomenon that is practically repeating itself now, taking away from this Sunday's classic all the excitement that would be natural to expect, after the turbulent decision of the Guanabara Cup.
The way it turned out, this championship could have been reduced to a four-way tie between the majors. The rest is just a figment.
Flamengo's likely lineup to face Botafogo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Thiago Sales, Leonardo and Egídio; Jaílton, Gavilan, Jonatas and Toró; Diego Tardelli and Obina.
On the bench, some starters, such as Souza and Kleberson, as well as Renato Augusto (who will certainly come in to gain rhythm), Luizinho and Rodrigo Arroz.
After the midweek round, here's the burning question: is the Rio Federation recruiting linesmen at the Benjamin Constant Institute?!?
SPORTS JOURNAL
Water to cool the red-black cauldron
Gávea experiences moments of tension after an argument between Ibson and Souza in the game against Mesquita
Thiago Bokel and Nathan de Lima
When Joel Santana took over Flamengo in August of last year, he found a dejected group languishing in 17th place in the Brazilian Championship. After an incredible recovery, they finished the competition in third place. These positive results transformed a fractured squad into the "Familia do Papai Joel" (Daddy Joel's Family). However, the tides that swept away 2007 brought turmoil in 2008. And the unity that once dazzled fans no longer seems so unshakable.
It all started the day before the match against Duque Caxias. During a simple recreational training session, Ibson and Léo Medeiros had a heated argument. The next day, another controversy erupted. In the 3-0 victory, after referee Marcelo Magalhães awarded a penalty to the red-and-blacks, coach Joel Santana allowed goalkeeper Bruno to take the spot kick.
What he didn't expect was that striker Souza would get the ball and refuse, a move that angered some teammates, who didn't join him in celebrating the fourth goal. Everything seemed to have calmed down until last Wednesday, against modest Mesquita, when another brawl again centered around Ibson and Souza.
After making a great individual play, the defender chose to shoot rather than pass to the forward. Irritated, Souza demanded an explanation, and the argument only ended with Juan's intervention.
One of the group's leaders, defender Fábio Luciano, still at Maracanã, criticized them:
"I don't know if they're tense because of the game against Nacional, but this has happened before with both of them. We've been saying all along that the group is close, but this kind of attitude shows otherwise. We should get a scolding from Joel, and rightly so," predicted the captain.
And the real scolding happened at the return match yesterday in Gávea. The coach berated the group for 30 minutes, gesticulating heavily. Then, he called Ibson, Souza, Fábio Luciano, and Léo Moura to talk. Finally, dissatisfied, he listened to the supporter's arguments.
After the meeting, psychologist Paulo Ribeiro tried to defend the brawlers.
"They are young, they have different cultures. It's normal for these problems to happen, and they need to be avoided. I talked to both of them and it seemed like nothing had happened," the psychologist downplayed.
One of the protagonists of the controversy, Ibson, did not want to heat up the atmosphere even further:
"It's over. We made mistakes, but we resolved everything. But you can't say please on the field."
Although there's the derby against Botafogo on Sunday, it won't be known until the match against Nacional next Wednesday whether the cauldron has truly cooled down or is finally boiling over. (TB)
Another red-black problem: ANXIETY
In addition to the hot weather that has been hanging over Gávea in recent days, coach Joel Santana has had to manage another complicated problem: controlling the players' anxiety for next Wednesday's game against Nacional, in the Copa Libertadores, which could decide the team's fate in the competition.
"I don't want to talk about this match now, but only on Monday. But I can't hide the fact that it's on my mind. Since we'll be playing at home, with the support of our fans, we have to go after them," Joel said.
Despite his strong performance against Mesquita, right-back Luizinho hasn't yet convinced the coach that he'll be able to start this crucial match. Proof of this is that he's considering the possibility of improvising with defensive midfielder Cristian in the position. The player, in fact, isn't concerned about the potential position change.
"I played on the wing when I was at Atlético Paranaense. If Joel needs me, I can play that role well. I have no problem moving from midfield to the wing. What I really want is to play," said Cristian.
Despite trying to avoid the feeling of revenge for the 3-0 defeat in Montevideo, Joel knows this is a nearly impossible mission. To this end, he has been relying daily on the help of psychologist Paulo Ribeiro to calm the players' spirits. His main goal at the moment is to ensure the team doesn't repeat the same mistakes made in the Uruguayan capital.
"I worked so hard with the players on this Uruguayan dirty trick, hammering away at the same point so much that we went into the game on the defensive. It turns out Nacional adopted a different approach than we expected. They played a clean game, wanting to play, and we lost our heads at some crucial moments," lamented the psychologist, referring to the sending-offs of midfielder Toró and right-back Léo Moura. (TB)
Joel confirms mixed team for Sunday's classic
Sunday's derby had all the makings of a heated affair and one of the biggest games of the year. But, cleverly, Joel Santana and the Flamengo board decided to rest their starters and field a mixed lineup against Botafogo.
In yesterday's tactical training session at Gávea, the coach fielded Bruno, Léo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Sales, and Egídio; Jaílton, Gavilan, Jônatas, and Toró; and Renato Augusto and Souza. Joel Santana praised the team and confirmed that unless something changes in today's collective.
"Sunday's team is the same one that trained today (yesterday). I really liked it," said Joel, who expects a tough game against coach Cuca's team: "Botafogo will be a tough opponent, it's going to be a terrible week. Their team is one of the best in the Campeonato Carioca. I don't believe there will be a rematch. That word suggests there will be a war on the field, and that won't happen. It's just one more game to try to maintain our group lead and a 100% record," warned the coach.
Regarding Renato Augusto, Joel Santana explained that it won't be long before the player returns to his ideal form and that if he gains confidence, he could even be selected to play against Nacional.
"Renato Augusto is a key player for our team. He's losing his fear. Today he headed the ball, which is very good. Let's wait and see how he performs in the match against Botafogo," said Joel. (NL)
Flamengo under Moncho's gaze
With the presence of the new coach of the National Team, the team faces Rio Claro in the National Basketball Championship
Pedro Ivo Almeida
File/JS
Marcelinho is Flamengo's main bet for today's game
After beating Paraguay's Sol de América last Tuesday in the South American League, Flamengo returns to the court today to face Ulbra/Rio Claro/ABCD Bandeirantes in the National Basketball Championship. The match, which will be held at 20 p.m. at the Gávea gymnasium, will have a very special attraction: the presence of the new coach of the Brazilian national team, Spaniard Moncho Monsalve.
This will be the Spaniard's first match as coach of the national team. He will take the opportunity to observe the performance of winger Marcelinho, a standout player for Nacional and a certainty for the Pre-Olympic squad, as well as other young talents who have been excelling in the championship and could be included in the squad for the South American Championship, which takes place from June 30 to July 7 in Puerto Montt, Chile.
Coach Paulo Chupeta's team will try to maintain its 15-game unbeaten streak (11 in the national championship) and its undisputed lead in the competition. But it will face a very tough opponent: Rio Claro boasts the second-best defense in the competition, averaging just 71 points conceded per game.
"It will be a very difficult match. UIbra/Rio Claro is a very strong, experienced team, and very well-coached by Neto. They are two technically balanced teams, and I think what could make the difference is Flamengo's homogeneity. We have a strong, united team that will fight with great determination to overcome the strain of two competitions and seek victory."
The Gávea team will also have to overcome the strain of the last few days. The team traveled on Monday, played on Tuesday, returned to Brazil on Wednesday, and only trained yesterday. But according to Chupeta, this won't be a problem for his group.
"Of course, there's some natural fatigue, but I don't think that will be a problem for us. The group is highly motivated; each game is an even greater challenge for us. Furthermore, André (the fitness coach) has been doing an excellent job with them. We'll be fine; fatigue won't hinder us," the coach assured.
Flamengo: Fred, Duda, Marcelinho, Coloneze, Alírio (Wagner)\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\
Rio Claro: Danilo, Diego, Vanderlei, André Bambu, Janjão\ Coach: José Neto\
Location: Hélio Maurício Gymnasium, in Gávea\ Time: 20am\
Eduardo Lacombe
The Red and the Black
Up on the hill
Eduardo Lacombe elacombe@jsports.com.br
It was tough. Tough to watch. In the last few matches, there were two lackluster victories and one embarrassing defeat. And while everyone else thinks about Nacional Montevideo, I'm thinking about Cuzco. What will it be like to play up there? And the question becomes even more pertinent after Colonel Bolognesi's performance, who almost won the game. So, I ask myself: why can others play up there and we can't? Could the reason be the veritable carnival we, in the press, have created with this altitude thing?
And to make matters worse, there's that lawsuit Flamengo is filing against the South American Confederation in the Swiss courts. There was no other time to file the lawsuit, was there? Did it have to be right around the time Flamengo faced Cienciano in Cusco? As the Bahians say, is it or isn't it supposed to be a dirty trick?
But everyone makes mistakes. To be fair, it's not the privilege of the board of directors of Brazil's Most Beloved. Judging by the newspapers, there's nonsense at every club, of all shapes and sizes. Just pick the one you like best (argh!!!).
Now, changing the subject, can someone explain why Flamengo insists on renewing its contract with Petrobras? For a few years, the battle was to collect the money, because the law prohibits the transfer of official funds to defaulters. Now, it's about the amounts. With the end of the CPMF (Federal Monetary Fund), even profitable companies must submit to the President's ruling to reduce expenses. I'm certain that the day Flamengo takes the field without any advertising on its shirt, offers will pour in. And I bet major oil companies from Europe or North America will be knocking on Flamengo's door. And who knows, perhaps among these European companies is one headquartered in the Netherlands, where, incidentally, the name Flamengo originated?
The club got its name from its founding on Flamengo Beach. But why does this beach, now so polluted, have that name? The answer follows in the next column. It's a curious story that, I believe, many people are unfamiliar with.
THE DAY
Pre-Libertadores Tension
Janir Junior
Rio - Winning the Guanabara Cup, plus a spot in the State Championship final, combined with the lead in the Rio Cup, didn't serve as an antidote to curb the 'Pre-Libertadores Tension.' (TPL) Yesterday, there was a psychologist on the field, Joel Santana's pressure on Íbson and Souza, who argued in the last game, and plenty of whispered conversations. All to calm nerves ahead of Wednesday's 'decisive' match against Nacional. "So far, it's been enough. Now, the responsibility will be theirs," said the psychologist.
Yesterday's discussion at Gávea was between psychologist Paulo Ribeiro and captain Fábio Luciano. Paulo summarized how any problems that arise from now on will be handled. "So far, it's been enough. From now on, the responsibility will be theirs. When the situation worsens, we have to open our eyes and stop while there's still time. Demands are positive, but they shouldn't be made on the field," warned the psychologist.
After the argument with Souza during the GB Cup, Íbson argued with Cristian during the 3-0 loss to Nacional in Montevideo, and against Mesquita, he was involved in another altercation. "I was surprised, as I've never seen Íbson like this. But he has great character, he's reflected, and will apologize to the group. We have to stop and resolve the issue so that nothing overrides Flamengo's interests," said Paulo.
In the loss to Nacional, Toró was sent off for pushing a ball boy, and Leonardo Moura was sent off for a violent foul. "We talked a lot about dirty tricks, which didn't happen, and we ended up creating problems for nothing," said the psychologist, who has worked at the club for 19 years.
After giving the brawlers a hard time in the Maracanã locker room, Joel had just 16 minutes of gentle conversation with the group on the field yesterday. Despite the claim that everything is resolved, Íbson and Souza didn't exchange a word on the field. "We fight, it's normal. In football, we can't say 'please.' Fights also happen at home, with our parents. But we've already talked, and it won't happen again," assured Íbson, who confirmed that the anxiety for the match against Nacional has affected the group:
"We're like this because of the circumstances of the game. Many people who are calm off the field get nervous on it. But it's up to us. The Libertadores affects us more because of its importance," said Íbson. Souza declined to be interviewed.
The day was spent ironing out rough edges. Joel spoke with Leonardo Moura and Íbson, and then privately with Íbson. Football manager Isaías Tinoco spoke with Souza. Fábio Luciano, who against Nacional managed to land a touch with the toe of his boot on an opponent's face, chatted with the psychologist.
“Because he is the captain, acknowledging his mistakes and apologizing serves as an example,” Paulo praised.
Then it was time for vice president of football Kléber Leite to speak with Joel. "The matter is over," the director said. The coach echoed the same sentiment.
"I spoke with both of them, expressed my perspective, and they explained. Flamengo always fights for titles, victories, and leadership. We live in a tense situation. Not everything is rosy; some thorns appear along the way. The important thing is to know that there are no more children here, and the rough edges have been smoothed out; they realized their mistake," the coach emphasized.
The tension before the Libertadores is explained by this being considered the most important competition of the season, both for its international projection and for financial reasons.
"It wouldn't be absurd to say that the Libertadores Cup is on our minds," said Fábio Luciano shortly after the victory over Mesquita. Souza had already revealed earlier in the week: "After the 3-0 loss, we're choking on it."
On Sunday, Flamengo takes on Botafogo in the Rio Cup. Next up will be Nacional's turn. In the TPL, it's safe to say that hormones are raging, and the team is "on its last legs."
Luizinho says he is calm and only thinks about helping Fla
Nilo Junior
Rio - Léo Moura's red card in the last Libertadores match, against Nacional, from Uruguay, opened up an opportunity for right-back Luizinho, the immediate backup at the position. While a teammate's red card isn't a reason to celebrate, the player doesn't hide his satisfaction at being able to prove himself in a Flamengo jersey. This Wednesday, he started against Mesquita in the Rio Cup. He's expected to remain in the squad for Sunday's derby against Botafogo, as well as for next Wednesday's match against the Uruguayans. Luizinho, however, is cautious when discussing his starting status in the team's two upcoming matches.
"I'm calm and my only thought is to help Flamengo. If Joel calls me, I'll try to do my best to help the team come out with the victory," he said.
Since joining Flamengo, Luizinho has had few opportunities. In 2007, he played just seven games. Currently, Leó Moura is considered the undisputed starter in that position, which, according to the full-back, doesn't discourage him. If confirmed as a starter in the next two matches, Luizinho will reach six appearances for Flamengo in 2008, almost the same number as last year.
"I know he's the starter today, but I can't get discouraged. The important thing is to keep working because when we least expect it, the opportunity arises and I have to be ready to help Flamengo."
Already looking forward to Sunday's classic, Luizinho expects a motivated Botafogo, hungry for victory.
"We always focus more on a derby; those are the best games. Botafogo will certainly be coming back from the Guanabara Cup final and will want to beat Flamengo. But we're also motivated and know that winning this match will give the team the morale to face Nacional," explained the full-back.
Safe is still empty
Petrobras quotas are not paid and salaries remain late. Joel defines team
Janir Junior
Rio - Bureaucratic details are still needed to release the installments from the Petrobras sponsorship renewal. Therefore, the board has not yet been able to pay the players' two months' overdue salaries, as well as three of the employees', who scheduled a meeting with the union and club officials for Monday. These delays, in fact, prevent punishment for players who have committed infractions.
There are no obvious sources of dissatisfaction in the cast yet, but the main complaint is that a promise was made, but not kept, to pay off the debt.
But the group remains focused on the Libertadores and the Taça Rio. Joel named the team that will face Botafogo on Sunday at 18:10 PM at the Maracanã stadium. The team will field Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Sales, and Egídio; Gavilán, Jaílton, Jônatas, and Toró; and Renato Augusto and Obina.
"We're leaders and we're going after the victory to get closer to a spot in the semifinals," said Joel Santana, dismissing the idea of revenge: "That doesn't exist."
If Renato Augusto performs well, he could be in the starting lineup against Nacional, when Joel will return to a 4-4-2 formation.
Tickets for the derby are already on sale at Gávea, General Severiano, Caio Martins, Fluminense, Maracanã ticket office 8, and Engenhão. Prices: green, yellow, and white stands: R$30; special seats: R$120; regular seats: R$20. Students with ID pay half price.
Ibson reveals anxiety, but believes qualification for the Libertadores is possible
Rio - The official narrative is that Flamengo enters to win every competition it competes in, but midfielder Ibson made no secret of his increased anxiety about the Libertadores. For the Gávea number 7, Flamengo's situation in the competition is complicated, but he recalled the club's feat in last year's Brazilian Championship, when Flamengo moved from the relegation zone to third place and, consequently, qualified for this year's Libertadores.
"The anxiety is greater in the Libertadores, the most important competition. We are anxious about the position we are in in the table (third place). In the Taça Rio we are in a more relaxed situation, as we became the leader with Fluminense drawing yesterday," revealed Ibson, in an interview with Rádio Globo.
However, Gávea's number 7 stated that qualifying for the second phase of the most important competition in the Americas is difficult, but not impossible:
"I think it just depends on us, the players. It's difficult, as it was difficult to qualify last year (for the Libertadores), nobody believed in us, they said we were going to be relegated and today we are there," he highlighted.
Ibson also stated that, if Joel so wishes, he wants to play against Botafogo, in this Sunday's classic:
"A classic, every player wants to play. If Joel wants, I'm available. The problems between Botafogo and Flamengo are over, the important thing is to play and get a good result to stay in the lead."
Joel, however, is unlikely to grant Ibson's request. The coach has already confirmed the following starting lineup for Sunday: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Sales, Egídio; Jaílton, Gavilan, Jônatas, and Toró; Renato Augusto and Obina.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Fla may have a “mixed” in the classic against Bota\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After the victory over Rezende, the future at Flamengo goes by the name of Botafogo, their opponent next Sunday, at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), also at Maracanã, for the fourth round of the Taça Rio, second round of the Campeonato Carioca.\ For this game, coach Joel Santana should rest most of the starters, as Rubro-Negro has a decisive match next Wednesday against Nacional, from Uruguay, in Rio de Janeiro (RJ), for the Copa Libertadores.\
The main question is whether the coach will field right-back Leonardo Moura, who, like midfielder Toró, was sent off in the 3-0 loss to Nacional in the last round of the Copa Libertadores and will have to serve a suspension on Wednesday. Because of this, there's a possibility he'll be used against Botafogo.
However, the coach did not rule out the possibility of fielding Luisinho again, who was already a starter against Mesquita and should also face the Uruguayans.
"I still have time to think about the team that will face Botafogo, and right now I don't want to make any statements about Nacional, especially since I'll only start thinking about this match after Sunday's derby," Joel explained. "There's a chance some changes will happen, but you'll know when that happens," he added.
However, the uncertainty goes beyond Leonardo Moura and Luisinho. This is because the reserve hasn't been impressive in the opportunities he's been getting, and therefore, there's a chance that midfielder Cristian will be benched at right-back.
"Luisinho played well in the first half against Mesquita, but he tired in the second half, and I have the opportunity to try Cristian at right back, as he's a player with good passing and can be very useful," said Joel Santana. One thing is certain: facing a stronger opponent on Sunday, Joel Santana will forgo the three-forward formation he used against Mesquita.
The squad will hold a training session this Friday, when the coach is expected to confirm the lineup. A recreational session will take place on Saturday, preceding the training camp for the derby.
Tickets: Tickets for the Flamengo vs. Nacional matches are now on sale. The total number of tickets is 60.080, divided between white stands (R$50), yellow stands, and green stands (both R$40), as well as field seats (R$30) and special seats (R$150) with half-price tickets for all sections. Tickets are expected to sell out early next week.
Flamengo downplays discussion between players\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Against a very weak opponent, Flamengo defeated Mesquita 2-0 in training mode on Wednesday night at Maracanã. In this context, the most interesting part of the match ended up being the argument between midfielder Ibson and forward Souza around the 24th minute of the second half. All because the defender chose to shoot on goal after making a good individual play, even though the striker was better placed to finish. In an attempt to prevent the incident from escalating, coach Joel Santana and the players decided to put a lid on the situation. "I've already spoken with both players after the match, and this incident is in the past. It was regrettable in my opinion, but we don't have to dwell on it anymore. We have to work with our future commitments in mind," the coach stated.
Always controversial in his actions and statements, Souza this time chose to downplay the incident. "It was a normal game situation. I demand a lot from Ibson, and he demands a lot from me. This is normal between teammates who are working for the best for Flamengo," Souza said.
Ibson, for his part, explained the incident as he was leaving the field, but he was monosyllabic. "It was nothing," he summarized.
PELENET
Renato Augusto and Obina will start for Fla against Botafogo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
After Thursday's training session at Gávea Stadium, coach Joel Santana confirmed Flamengo's starting lineup for Sunday's derby against Botafogo at 18:10 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium, in the fourth round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. Renato Augusto and Obina are the main new additions and will form the attacking duo.
Midfielder Renato Augusto is confirmed as Flamengo's starter for the classico
Fully recovered from a fractured face, Renato Augusto, after being away from the pitch for around two months, returned to the team against Americano (a 3-1 victory for the red-blacks) and also played in the match against Mesquita (a 2-0 victory).
The goal of the red-black commander is to rest the starters for the important match next Wednesday, the 19th, against Nacional-URU, at Maracanã, for Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores da América.
Therefore, the team, minus only Marcinho and Maxi Biancucchi, will be the same as the one that took the field against Americano. Right-back Leonardo Moura and midfielder Toró, who are suspended and unable to face Nacional, will play as usual in the derby.
"This is the team. Today (Thursday) they did a good tactical job. Tomorrow (Friday) we will organize a collective, to see if they repeat the good performance", said Joel Santana, who added.
"It will be a very important match for some players, like Renato Augusto and Toró, who need to get a little more into the swing of things. Leonardo and Gávilan can take advantage of the opportunity to gain more confidence, as they have only played a few times this year," he added.
In this way, Flamengo will face Botafogo with the following formation: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Sales and Egídio; Jaílton, Gavilán, Jônatas and Toró; Renato Augusto and Obina.
Luizinho emphasizes the importance of the game between Fla and Nacional-URU
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Although not confirmed, everything suggests that Luizinho will indeed replace the suspended Leonardo Moura in the match between Flamengo and Nacional-URU on Wednesday at the Maracanã stadium for the Copa Libertadores da América. The right-back recognizes the decisive nature of this clash.
"After the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo, this game against Nacional is the most important of the year for Flamengo. We're choking on some of the things they said after the 3-0 victory and we're going to do everything we can to win," he told Rádio Brasil.
After this comment, the full-back made a prediction about what will be the Rubro-Negro classic against Alvinegro, Sunday, at Maracanã, for the fourth round of the Taça Rio, second round of the State Championship.
"Botafogo will definitely come back with a vengeance, but Flamengo will also be motivated, as a victory against them will give us even more confidence to face Nacional," he concluded.
Flamengo vs Nacional-URU: ticket sales
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Tickets for the match between Flamengo and Nacional-URU, on March 19th, at 21:50 pm, at Maracanã, for Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores da América, are now available, always from 11 am to 17 pm. There are 68.080 tickets available to fans.
Flamengo fans can now buy tickets for the match against Nacional
Flamengo fans can find tickets at the following locations: Flamengo headquarters (Gávea), Botafogo headquarters (General Severiano), Caio Martins Stadium (Niterói), Fluminense headquarters (Laranjeiras), Maracanã ticket office 8 and Engenhão north ticket office.
Green and/or yellow stands cost R$40 (R$20 half-price), white stands cost R$50 (R$25 half-price), special seats cost R$150 (R$75 half-price), while for regular seats, fans will pay R$30 (R$15 half-price).
With four points, Flamengo finished the first round of Group 4 in third place. Nacional and Cicenciano-PER both have six, but the Uruguayans have the advantage on goal difference: 3-1. Coronel Bolognesi-PER is in last place with just one.
In addition to Nacional, Flamengo faces Cienciano, at the altitude of Cusco, on April 9th, and ends its participation against Coronel Bolognesi, on the 23rd of the same month, at Maracanã.
Flamengo's board absolves Ibson and Souza for the argument
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, will not impose any punishment on Souza and Ibson. The two players argued heatedly during the match against Mesquita on Wednesday, which the Flamengo team won 2-0, in the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship.
Midfielder Ibson (photo), who argued with striker Souza, will not be punished
After the game, Joel Santana dismissed the argument as trivial, but that the matter would be resolved internally. This Thursday, during training at Gávea, the coach spoke privately with Souza and Ibson.
"I have nothing to say. This kind of thing is normal, it can happen during a game. We were just demanding things from each other. This happens at home. In football, we can't say 'please' to our teammates," Ibson declared, warning that there will be no bad blood with Souza.
"I don't believe it. We always joke around when we're together. Nothing will change. We need to focus and think only about helping Flamengo," added the Flamengo supporter.
This wasn't the first time the two had clashed during a game. On January 27th, against Duque de Caxias, still in the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the tournament, Ibson and Souza disagreed over who should take a penalty. Flamengo won 5-1.
"The matter was resolved at home and is closed. There's no reason for us to keep commenting. My role is to smooth things over, and I did that. If people argue in a pick-up game, imagine what it's like in a game worth three points," Joel Santana declared.
Renato Augusto and Obina will start for Fla against Botafogo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
After Thursday's training session at Gávea Stadium, coach Joel Santana confirmed Flamengo's starting lineup for Sunday's derby against Botafogo at 18:10 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium, in the fourth round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. Renato Augusto and Obina are the main new additions and will form the attacking duo.
Midfielder Renato Augusto is confirmed as Flamengo's starter for the classico
Fully recovered from a fractured face, Renato Augusto, after being away from the pitch for around two months, returned to the team against Americano (a 3-1 victory for the red-blacks) and also played in the match against Mesquita (a 2-0 victory).
The goal of the red-black commander is to rest the starters for the important match next Wednesday, the 19th, against Nacional-URU, at Maracanã, for Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores da América.
Therefore, the team, minus only Marcinho and Maxi Biancucchi, will be the same as the one that took the field against Americano. Right-back Leonardo Moura and midfielder Toró, who are suspended and unable to face Nacional, will play as usual in the derby.
"This is the team. Today (Thursday) they did a good tactical job. Tomorrow (Friday) we will organize a collective, to see if they repeat the good performance", said Joel Santana, who added.
"It will be a very important match for some players, like Renato Augusto and Toró, who need to get a little more into the swing of things. Leonardo and Gávilan can take advantage of the opportunity to gain more confidence, as they have only played a few times this year," he added.
In this way, Flamengo will face Botafogo with the following formation: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Sales and Egídio; Jaílton, Gavilán, Jônatas and Toró; Renato Augusto and Obina.
GLOBOESPORTE
Fla gives anti-discussion ultimatum
The club's psychologist says it's time to call it quits. Ibson understands the message and promises to monitor himself.
Eduardo Peixoto
Ibson had to be restrained by Juan to avoid fighting with Souza in the last game
Flamengo's constant on-field arguments came to an end this Thursday. At least that's what the club's coaching staff hopes. Club psychologist Paulo Ribeiro spoke with the players and warned them that it's time to put an end to their disagreements during matches.
In the game against Mesquita, Ibson and Souza were once again the center of the argument. They had also exchanged insults against Caxias in the Guanabara Cup.
"So far, so good. From now on, it's up to them. We have to stop and resolve the issue so that nothing overrides Flamengo's interests. The game isn't the best time to make that kind of demand," says Paulo Ribeiro.
So far, there have been three serious arguments in 2008. In addition to the two between Souza and Ibson, the midfielder also clashed with Cristian during the match against Nacional in Montevideo. For now, the board will not punish anyone.
Ibson in focus
Ibson's "hot-headed" side is new. During training, he's usually one of the most playful, and his friendship with the other players, especially Cristian, is palpable. That's why Paulo Ribeiro made a point of seeking him out to understand the reason for all the fuss.
"He's reflecting, but he assured me that nothing serious is going on. Ibson is a guy with character; I've known him for a long time and I've never seen him like this. So I was surprised. But he promised to apologize to the cast," the psychologist declared.
Smiling, but a little embarrassed to once again be the target of controversy, Ibson maintained that arguments between friends and family are normal. However, he acknowledged that the contention between him and Souza had crossed the line.
"We fight with people we love. Arguments will always happen, but not like this. He said some things I didn't like. We made mistakes, but we're friends. We have to resolve these issues internally," declares the midfielder, who won't face Botafogo this Sunday.
Joel talks to Ibson and Souza
Coach gives collective scolding and then instructions to players who argued on the field
Eduardo Peixoto
Joel Santana and Ibson talk during Flamengo training
It seemed like Flamengo had lost the night before. The day after the 2-0 victory over Mesquita, there was a collective scolding, whispered conversations, and unfriendly faces in Gávea.
Coach Joel Santana considered the performance the worst since returning to the club and demanded the same from his players. Most listened to the sermon with their heads bowed. The meeting in the center of the field was attended by the entire coaching staff and lasted 20 minutes.
Afterwards, Joel Santana made a point of speaking separately with the "fighters." First with Ibson and then with Souza. They clashed for the second time this year, and the argument nearly escalated into physical violence. The players' bad temper in recent games has worried the coach. In Uruguay, Ibson argued with Cristian during the 3-0 loss to Nacional.
Captain Fábio Luciano also made a point of speaking with psychologist Paulo Ribeiro for a few minutes. Meanwhile, the players who played against Mesquita went to the weight room, and most worked out for 15 minutes.
Flamengo faces Botafogo next Sunday in the Taça Rio. The team will field almost all of its reserves. The starters will be rested for the decisive match against Nacional on Wednesday in the Copa Libertadores.
'There are thorns here too,' says Joel
Coach appears calmer in Gávea and is upset about 'his children's fight'
Eduardo Peixoto
Joel Santana spoke with Ibson and Souza after a fight between the players
Not everything is rosy, as the saying goes. And this Thursday, coach Joel Santana completed the thought by reminding us that, even in victories, Flamengo also doesn't escape its thorns.
After the 2-0 win against Mesquita, the coach was harsh with his criticism. But his stance changed somewhat almost 24 hours later. He reviewed the game, spoke with the players, and softened his stance.
"It's not all roses here. There are thorns too. We need to make repairs," he declares.
The fight between Ibson and Souza caught everyone's attention at Gávea. Joel's too. He spoke separately with the two players and reaffirmed his paternal role leading the squad.
- Anyone who is a father knows that a fight between siblings is annoying. But this is not the time to whip someone - he says
Joel decides team for the classic
In tactical training at Gávea, coach selects Renato Augusto and Obina up front
Eduardo Peixoto
Obina is scheduled to face Bota
Thursday afternoon in Gávea was filled with explanations, scoldings, and training. The latter was geared toward Sunday's game against Botafogo. As promised, coach Joel Santana will field a team largely made up of reserves.
The only players expected to start the derby against Alvinegro and the decisive match against Nacional on Wednesday are goalkeeper Bruno and Renato Augusto. The red-and-black mix will also be reinforced by Leo Moura and Toró, who received red cards in the match in Montevideo.
"We're going to put our best foot forward physically. We're not leaders by chance," declares Joel Santana.
For more than an hour, the Flamengo coach led an attack versus defense training session and tested the following formation: Bruno, Leo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Sales and Egídio; Gavilán, Jaílton, Jônatas and Toró; Renato Augusto and Obina.
THROW
Joel reveals the team that will face Botafogo
Of the starting lineup, only Léo Moura and Toró will play the classic\ LANCEPRESS!\
Joel Santana led a tactical training session with the team that will face Botafogo. If nothing happens by then, the starting lineup will be: Bruno, Léo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Sales, and Egídio; Gavilán, Jaílton, Toró, and Jônatas; Obina and Renato Augusto.
"There are so many teams in mind that that's what you saw," joked Joel, who declined to discuss a rematch against Botafogo. "When they say that, it sounds like they're talking about fighting and trouble. We don't have that here," the coach stated.
Leonardo Moura and Toró will only play against Botafogo because they are suspended for next Wednesday's match against Nacional-URU in the fourth round of Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. Therefore, Joel Santana has no reason to rest them.
Joel eases discussion between Ibson and Souza
Coach talks to players to put an end to problems at Gávea
Joel calls Ibson for a private conversation (Credit: Cleber Mendes)
Coach Joel Santana once again had to act like a father figure to calm the argument between Ibson and Souza during last Wednesday's match against Mesquita. The coach spoke with the players and asked that the issue be immediately resolved.
radio l! - Some things can be resolved at home. Especially in football. I talked to Ibson and Souza, expressed my point of view, and they expressed theirs. These rough edges have already been smoothed over. If there's already an argument in a pick-up game, imagine a three-point game. This is how teams that want to win are. Here, we live in a tense situation all the time. It's better to live like this and still be competing for titles. There are not only roses here, but also thorns. (Click and listen)
Joel had to smooth over the argument between Ibson and Souza during the match against Duque de Caxias, still in this Campeonato Carioca. On that occasion, Flamengo was awarded a penalty, and Souza took the ball from Ibson, who was about to take the penalty. The number 9 took the shot and scored.
The incident caused unrest, and Joel had to take matters into his own hands. He called for an end to the players' behavior and appointed Ibson as the team's official penalty taker.
Most of Souza's goals continue to come at Maracanã
Striker scored 18 of his 20 goals in the World's Largest Stadium
Souza, a specialist in scoring goals at the Maracanã (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
With his goal in Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Mesquita, Souza scored his fifth goal of the season. A detail: all of them were scored at the Maracanã stadium, in ten games he played this year. In 2007, the Flamengo number 9 scored 15 goals, 13 of them at the World's Largest Stadium.
Last year, in 23 games played at Maracanã, Souza found the net 13 times, representing an average of 0,56 goals per game. In 2008, the average was 0,5 goals per game.
Away from Maracanã, the Flamengo striker has scored just two goals in 20 games. His average is paltry: 0,1 goals per game.
Washington, who is also facing a similar situation in Rio de Janeiro, has scored nine goals in 11 games for Fluminense, all at Maracanã. The Lionheart's average at the World's Largest Stadium is enviable (0,81 per game).
Check out Souza's numbers:
Total Goals 20\ Goals at Maracanã 18\
Ibson doesn't hide his focus on the Libertadores
Supporter values classic against Botafogo but already thinks about Nacional\ LANCEPRESS!\
The likely lineup of reserves for Sunday's match against Botafogo, in the fourth round of the Taça Rio, makes midfielder Ibson practically forget that the derby is the Rubro-Negro's next match.
For the number 7, his main focus is on Wednesday's crucial Copa Libertadores clash with Nacional. The match has the air of a decisive moment for Flamengo, who are in a delicate situation in Group 4 of the competition.
"We're looking forward to the game against Nacional, as it's very important. We're thinking about Botafogo, yes, but the excitement for the Libertadores is even greater. It's still up to us. Last year was also difficult, and we managed to escape the relegation zone and reach the Libertadores," he explained.
Marcelo de Souza Pinto referees Flamengo vs Botafogo
The committee defines the refereeing trio for this Sunday's classic\ LANCEPRESS!\
In a draw held this Thursday by the Rio de Janeiro Refereeing Commission, it was decided that Marcelo de Souza Pinto will referee the classic between Flamengo and Botafogo, this Sunday, at Maracanã. The assistant referees will be Beival do Nascimento Souza and Vilmar Raul.
The referee has already officiated one Botafogo match in this Campeonato Carioca: the 1-1 draw with Cabofriense in the first round. This will be his first match against Flamengo.
The refereeing is important in this Sunday's classic due to the events of the Guanabara Cup final, won by Flamengo over Botafogo. At the time, the black and whites complained heavily about Marcelo de Lima Henrique's performance, which was defended by the Refereeing Committee.
Flamengo has its best start to the Rio Cup since 2000
In 2000, the club achieved five consecutive victories and was the second round champion.
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
With the 2-0 victory over Mesquita - the third consecutive in the second round of the State Championship -, Flamengo achieved its best start to a Taça Rio since 2000, the edition of the tournament in which it achieved five consecutive victories.
Interestingly, the last time Flamengo won the Taça Rio was in 2000. In the sequence, Flamengo beat América (4-1), Fluminense (3-2), Madureira (3-0), Botafogo (2-1) and Olaria (3-2).
The difference is that, in 2000, there was no knockout stage and Flamengo was champion in the last round of the first half, after a 3-1 victory over Friburguense.
Check out the 2000 and 2008 sequels:
2000
Game Goals\ Flamengo 4x1 América Leandro Machado, Petkovic, Reinaldo and Rodrigo Mendes\ Flamengo 3x2 Fluminense Petkovic, Reinaldo and Zetti (own goal).\ Flamengo 3x0 Madureira Leandro Machado (two) and Fabio Baiano\ Flamengo 2x1 Botafogo Athirson (two)\ Flamengo 3x2 Leandro Machado, Beto and Juan\
2008:
Game Goals\ Flamengo 4x2 Resende Thiago Sales, Obina, Diego Tardelli (two)\ Flamengo 3x1 Americano Thiago Sales (two) and Maxi\ Flamengo 2x0 Mesquita Souza and Vágner (own goal)\
Joel is happy with Renato Augusto's progress
Coach doesn't hide the importance of the supporter in the Flamengo team\ LANCEPRESS!\
Considered one of the most talented players in Flamengo's squad, Renato Augusto is slowly regaining his form. Having undergone facial surgery earlier this year, he has been encouraging coach Joel Santana with his brief recovery.
The coach made a point of highlighting Renato Augusto's dedication in training and noted that the number 10 has even lost his fear of heading the ball. This fact is understandable given the delicate facial surgery.
"He's losing his fear. He already headed the ball this Thursday. We'll see how he performs for this game against Botafogo," said Joel, who practically predicted Renato Augusto's starting lineup for the derby.