THE GLOBE

Promises and doubts in Flamengo's baggage

The attacking duo's lack of affinity is a concern for the decisive game against Vasco.

Flamengo arrived from Peru yesterday with a heavy load of luggage. Besides bottles of liquor, perfume, glasses, and electronic devices purchased at Tom Jobim International Airport, the players and coach Joel Santana were worried about having to face Vasco da Gama in the Guanabara Cup semifinal on Sunday, with a disjointed attacking duo. After the 0-0 draw with the modest Coronel Bolognesi and the 4-1 rout by Fluminense, everyone was wondering: where are the goals?

Joel traveled light. Yesterday, he wore the same shirt he wore on Tuesday when he left for Tacna. From the trip to the Atacama Desert for his Copa Libertadores debut, he brought with him the certainty that he'll need to give Souza and Diego Tardelli more time to get their feet right.

"You don't form an attacking duo overnight. Yesterday (Wednesday), the attack was doing well; we created three or four goal-scoring opportunities, but we didn't score. We lacked goals. Especially in the second half, when we played better," he said.

Happy to step onto Rio de Janeiro soil, Obina, who slipped and missed the game's best chance in the second half, hummed as he stepped into the airport lobby. A smile on his face and two bags filled with items totaling US$323, including a toy keyboard for his daughter, Sayonara.

- There was a taste of defeat. But the mood remains high.

The performance in the draw with Bolognesi was considered good by only 7% of ten thousand readers in a Globo Online survey. The majority (65%) thought it was bad and 28% thought it was reasonable.

Souza guarantees goals at decisive moments

Souza crossed the terminal and went out to look for a taxi. Eager to free himself from the weight of his luggage and the responsibility on his shoulders, he guarantees that the goals will come:

"Tardelli and I are starting to play together now, and that's normal. In the game against Vasco, we'll score goals."

Tardelli held his bags and was careful not to trip. He revealed that the result against Bolognesi was considered a victory by the group. Aware of this, he knows that, against their biggest rival, only victory matters, and one false step will be fatal. Therefore, he summarized what the team needs:

- Goals... Now, we have to rest and train.

Instead of the penne bolognese served on the outbound flight, a four-cheese lasagna was on the menu. Joel will have two days to train the team and wait for Toró, who is undergoing treatment for a hamstring injury in his right thigh.

In the other Group 4 match yesterday in Cuzco, Peru, Cienciano defeated Nacional of Uruguay 2-1, securing the group lead. Flamengo faces Cienciano on the 27th at Maracanã.

Fernando Calazans

The litany

It was only Flamengo's first game in the Copa Libertadores, just their debut, just a tour of the pitch, but judging by the countless messages I've read from Flamengo fans, they're already on edge. Of course, the coach and players were pleased, recalling the old refrain of a draw away from home. It's possible the management has also resigned themselves to it.

But the fans, at least those who demand football and not just results—especially in a 0-0 draw—were not satisfied. They thought it was horrific.

Me too.

One of them even perceptively observes that if there was ever a game on the opponent's field where Flamengo should try to pick up some points, it was against this Colonel. Because the others are more difficult, at least in theory: Nacional, from Uruguay, and Peru's Cienciano, at altitude. Right?

From the start, however, it was clear that Flamengo was lacking in ambition. A bunch of defensive midfielders bumping into each other and kicking—with the exception of Íbson and, later, Kleberson—and two unassisted forwards, who are already not very good.

So, in my opinion, everything remains as written here. For the debut, for the first round, for the away game, whatever, it might even be enough. Then, for the decisive stages, especially for the title, a little bit of football will be needed.

With four defensive midfielders, or with Íbson playing as a playmaker, it won't work. Yes, Íbson is already considered a kind of football playmaker, a team playmaker, and soon a Brazilian national team playmaker. Because the mediocrity of football has no end, no limit, no bottom.

Oh, how I admire Íbson, how I've praised him before, and how I still do. Íbson possesses that rare virtue in his position: he's a defensive midfielder who knows how to play and—sporadically—can play as a playmaker. Just imagine how different it would be: a defensive midfielder who knows how to play soccer. What a beauty!

Íbson is a great defensive midfielder. And Íbson is an average playmaker, not to say mediocre, a term that was once synonymous with average but has acquired a pejorative meaning, which cannot be applied to a professional as competent as him. But if Íbson were truly a playmaker, he would have set up Flamengo's team in Tacna, precisely where Flamengo had no playmakers at all.

For all these reasons, Íbson is and will continue to be a great defensive midfielder. Which is saying a lot.

Football brutes often think - and, even worse, say - that Brazilian referees call too many fouls, while others, the geniuses of Europe, "let the game flow."

Flamengo's referee in Tacna, Mauricio Reinoso, was presented on TV Globo as one of those who "let the game run".

Because in 45 minutes of the first half, he had already committed an infinite number of fouls, one after the other, which, if repeated in the second half, in the same quantity, would have led to the game registering more than 60.

Was TV Globo's presentation wrong? No, it wasn't. But why did the referee who "let the game play out" call so many fouls?

For a single and unusually simple reason: because there was, in fact, one foul after another, of course! He called it because there were fouls. And when there's a foul, you have to call it, whether in Tacna, Quixeramobim, Rio, London, or Seoul. Isn't it simple? When asked about the issue of so many fouls being called in Brazil, José Roberto Wright got one thing right: "It's because there are so many fouls in Brazilian football." And that's it. If there's no foul, the referee doesn't need to call it. If there is, he has to call it. Period. Period.

Renato Mauricio Prado

Disappointing. That's the least that can be said about Flamengo's debut in the Libertadores, drawing with a mediocre opponent like Coronel Bolognesi.

True to the basic formation that saw success in the last Brazilian Championship, Joel Santana started the match with his traditional midfield of four defensive midfielders (Jaílton, Jônatas, IIbson, and Toró). So far, so good. After all, it was the first game, away from home and against an unknown opponent.

What was serious, however, was not knowing when to be more daring in the second half, when the red-black team took control of the game but was unable to convert such superiority into goals.

Then Joel slammed on the brakes—and the ball. He should have immediately replaced one of the holding midfielders (Jaílton wasn't playing well and was resorting to excessive violence) with Marcinho, the only creative option in midfield.

The coach, however, preferred to wait half an hour and, when he acted, he swapped six for half a dozen: he took off Diego Tardelli and put on Obina.

It didn't work. With just five minutes left, he finally brought on Marcinho, but then he took off Souza (!!!!), the team's top scorer!

In the face of so many mistakes, Obina's ridiculous mistake, in front of the opposing goal, without a goalkeeper, felt like a punishment from the football gods, preventing, in the last play of the match, a victory that Joel did not deserve.

If it wasn't a disaster in terms of the result, aiming for qualification, the 0-0 draw was, at the very least, a punishment. It was due to the coach's lack of courage.

SPORTS JOURNAL

The Nation in Good Hands

Bruno has a great track record in games decided on penalties and could be the hero in the semifinals.

Thiago Bokel, Nathan de Lima and Pedro Cavalcanti

A specialist in defending penalties, Bruno is one of the red-blacks' hopes against Vasco

As decisive matches approach, like the Guanabara Cup semifinal against Vasco, the red-and-black fans quickly become attached to those who can't afford to miss. Confident and a national idol, Bruno has an excellent track record, especially in penalty shootouts.

That's what happened last year, when the goalkeeper secured Flamengo's place in the Guanabara Cup final against Vasco. After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, the match went to penalties, and the Flamengo's number 1 was instrumental in helping the team reach the final.

A few months later, Bruno once again made a decision. On May 6th of last year, Flamengo and Botafogo played in the final of the Campeonato Carioca. After two 2-2 draws, the goalkeeper once again became a hero. He saved shots from midfielder Lucio Flavio and defender Juninho, firmly establishing himself in the red-and-black goal.

Now, Bruno will have an extra boost of energy. Besides practicing free kicks, like his Vasco rival Tiago, he was surprised by a controversial statement from his rival. While reiterating his respect for Flamengo's number 1, Tiago stated that Bruno was a normal goalkeeper and that it would be wonderful to score against the opponent.

"Scoring a goal against Vasco and Flamengo would be great. If it's against a goalkeeper like Bruno, even better. But he's normal like anyone else and is subject to anything in football, even conceding a goal from a free kick by another goalkeeper," said Tiago after Vasco's training session last Wednesday.

In fact, Bruno has already proven that it's best not to provoke him, especially in decisive matches. Accustomed to growing in games like this, he has the complete trust of the red-and-black squad and also of the fans, who still haven't come to terms with the mistakes made by his reserve, Diego, in the rout suffered against Fluminense last Sunday.

Since the controversy last year, when he said he'd rather see Atlético-MG, the club he came up through, relegated than Flamengo, Bruno has stopped giving interviews and started performing better. Now, the time has come to give Vasco fans his answer. Sunday, at 16 p.m., the match is scheduled.

Kleber is still waiting for Romário

The club's board's dream of signing Romário is becoming increasingly distant. Despite being cleared by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) yesterday, the short man appears to have resolved his differences with Vasco president Eurico Miranda and is unlikely to return to Gávea.

However, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, still believes in the possibility of counting on the goals and image of the top scorer.

Yesterday afternoon, the director guaranteed that the doors of Gávea will always be open to Romário and that if he shows interest, he will do everything to bring him.

"Romário's situation is very simple and completely up to him. As soon as he settles things with Vasco, we'll talk and decide what to do. There's no point in making an offer with him there; it would be unethical. In the meeting we had, I made that very clear. Whether Romário is cleared to play or not won't change our situation," he stated.

Fan Refunded — The controversy surrounding the ticket exchanges for the match against Atlético-PR last November isn't over yet. Due to the confusion that occurred at the time, fan Geneci Soares won R$4 in compensation from Nestlé Brasil Ltda. in the 500,00th Small Claims Court of Rio. Although he managed to exchange his tickets, Geneci claimed he experienced embarrassment in the line and decided to file a lawsuit.

Coach praises the result in Peru

Despite having played far from brilliant football, Flamengo coach Joel Santana seems to have enjoyed the team's performance in the 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi last Wednesday in Tacna, Peru, in the Copa Libertadores opener.

For the coach, the Rio team dominated the match for the entire 90 minutes and only failed to emerge victorious because they were lacking in some details, such as creation and finishing.

Joel Santana considered the draw a good result and warned that Bolognesi will give all opponents playing at their stadium a hard time, as the Peruvians have a strong and very well-organized tactical team.

"We had the best chances throughout the match and all we needed was a goal. I liked the team's performance. Anyone who plays against Bolognesi will have a tough time. That's how the Libertadores is. I heard that River Plate lost here in Peru," said Joel, referring to the Argentine club's 2-0 loss to Peruvian side San Martín, also last Wednesday.

Flamengo's next Libertadores match will be on February 27th, against another Peruvian team. Their opponent in the second round of the competition will be Cienciano. The match will take place at Maracanã Stadium at 21:50 PM.

Until then, Flamengo will focus on the finals of the Guanabara Cup.

Against regulations, Joel claims advantage

The fact that they played on Wednesday in the Copa Libertadores will not affect Flamengo's performance on Sunday against Vasco, in the semi-final of the Taça Guanabara.

This is guaranteed by the players themselves and coach Joel Santana, who claimed some advantage for having had the best campaign in the competition.

"We have to overcome fatigue. These players have been winning for over six months and that's why they won the support of our fans on Sunday. You have to win something when you have the best campaign, I've never seen that," complained Joel.

Striker Diego Tardelli, who will be playing his first Clássico dos Milhões, commented on a possible Cruzmaltina advantage due to the fact that the opponent played with a reserve team on Wednesday, in the Copa do Brasil.

"This trip was definitely very tiring for Flamengo. We felt it a bit, but we got a day off to rest, a day and a half in fact, since tomorrow (today) we only train in the afternoon. Psychologically, we're calm," assured Diego Tardelli.

The player said he was aware of the responsibility of facing Vasco in a semi-final and even at just 22 years old, he showed experience common to a veteran.

"Joel told those who haven't played in this classic yet that it's a match not much different from the others. I'm ready, looking for this final that's unique in my career," concluded the striker.

Tardelli admits Vasco's advantage due to Libertadores fatigue

Ursula Nery/JS

After a draw in their Copa Libertadores debut, Flamengo landed in Rio de Janeiro this Thursday. The group was given a day and a half off to rest after the trip. Right now, their focus is on Sunday's Guanabara Cup semifinal match against Vasco.

In an interview with Rádio Tupi, Diego Tardelli commented on Sunday's match and his preparation.

"Professor Joel told the newcomers that a match between Fla and Vasco isn't much different from any other. I'm well prepared and looking forward to this unprecedented final. I think it's important to be in a new competition. I've always reached several finals, and that's good for my resume," the forward revealed.

About Vasco's advantage due to Fla's exhaustion and Edmundo in the rival's attack.

"We need to worry about Vasco's team, not just Edmundo. We're approaching it differently, with the team very calm and focused. The trip was definitely very tiring for us, we felt it a bit, but we've got a day off today to rest. Psychologically, the team is very calm," concluded the player.

The match will take place this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã. Tickets are already on sale at the Gávea box office in NS Auxiliado Square, and on Mario Ribeiro Street (Helio Maurício Gymnasium), at the Olaria Atlético Clube Headquarters (Rua Bariri, 251), in São Januário, at the Calabouço Headquarters (downtown Rio), at Maracanã ticket office 05 (except on Saturday, February 16, 02) and at the Vasco Barra ticket office.

Toró guarantees that Fla is ready for the marathon in 2008

Player celebrates remaining in the starting lineup

Revealed at Fluminense, Toró is an absolute starter at Flamengo

Flamengo faces the daunting task of competing in two major competitions simultaneously in 2008. The team is competing in the Copa Libertadores and the Campeonato Carioca. Flamengo debuted in the Copa Libertadores last Wednesday in Peru, and next Sunday faces Vasco in the semifinals of the Taça Guanabara.

Midfielder Toró, who will start against Vasco, guarantees that the team is prepared for this new challenge.

"We're at Flamengo, which is a great team, and we're always fighting for good positions. We're well prepared physically and technically. Now we're going to try to win, no matter who the opponent is," said Toró.

The player was threatened with losing his starting spot, but that didn't happen. He was retained in the starting eleven, confirming his standing with coach Joel Santana.

"I'm happy with the confidence he (Joel) has given me. My happiness is immense. I'm going to run and give my life for Flamengo on the field to live up to the trust I've been receiving," the supporter told Rádio Bandeirantes.

Juan aims for victory on Sunday

Left-back Juan expects a strong performance from Flamengo in Sunday's match against Vasco at Maracanã. The match is a Guanabara Cup semifinal, and the winner advances to the final of the first round of the Campeonato Carioca.

"The team knows the importance of this derby. Victories will come naturally. We'll continue training hard and working hard. We have our biggest rival in an important game, and we know the difficulties we'll face. I hope Flamengo plays a good game," said Juan, who will be the starting left-back in the match against Vasco.

Circuit starts today in the sands of the South

The winning pairs of the Banco do Brasil Beach Volleyball Circuit are the main attractions today at the Xangri-lá (RS) stage, the first of the 2008 season. Juliana/Larissa and Franco/Pedro Cunha will begin their title defense on the sands of Atlântida. Their main competitors, Renata/Talita, Maria Clara/Carolina, Sandra Pires/Leila, Ricardo/Emanuel, Márcio/Fábio Luiz, and Pedro Solberg/Harley, will also take to the arena on the first day of the tournament.

After today's matches, 36 will continue competing tomorrow. At the end of the day, after the knockout stage of the competition, the final pairs will be determined.

In 2007, Franco and Pedro Cunha won their first title on the Circuit as a duo. The weight of favoritism doesn't bother the experienced 41-year-old Franco. For last season's best player, the partnership should only be concerned with maintaining the same level they displayed at the end of last season.

"We don't feel the weight of being the defending champions, although defending the title in a strong competition like the Circuit is always a huge responsibility. We'll try to maintain the momentum we had in the second half of 2007. We faced some problems last year, but when we managed to put them behind us, we competed on equal terms with the strongest teams in the world," believes Franco.

THE DAY

Joel criticizes the Carioca formula

Rio - Coach Joel Santana criticized the format of the Campeonato Carioca during the team's arrival in Rio de Janeiro.

"We finished the first phase as the best team. That's why you have to have some kind of advantage. Unfortunately, the championship doesn't allow that. In the future, we'll all come to the same conclusion: whoever is the best has to have some kind of advantage, whatever it may be. I like the playoffs. But you have to have an advantage," he said.

Fla's coach didn't want to risk a favorite for the classic against Vasco, on Sunday.

"I don't know who has the advantage, football is decided on the field. This group has been achieving almost impossible situations since last year. I have a lot of confidence in them," said the "father" of the red-black squad.

Leonardo will be presented tomorrow

Rio - Flamengo's squad was given a day off this Thursday after yesterday's Copa Libertadores debut. The return match is scheduled for tomorrow at Gávea, where the club's new signing, defender Leonardo, will be introduced.

The signing of the former Goiás player was completed quickly this week so Flamengo could replace defender Rodrigo, who fractured his right arm, on the roster for the South American competition. The new defender has already registered for the tournament.

Joel motivates the team for the classic

Rio - Flamengo arrived in Rio at 6 a.m. this Thursday with a point in their luggage. Coach Joel Santana analyzed the team's first match in the 2008 Copa Libertadores.

"The opponent is a team that hits you hard, mistreats you, creates difficulties, and the Brazilian player finds this behavior strange. We could have come back with the three points, but Obina slipped up."

Regarding the Guanabara Cup semi-final on Sunday, the coach made a point of motivating the group.

"In a classic we have to overcome any kind of fatigue. Today we rest and tomorrow we get back to work. That's how big teams are."

Midfielder Toró, who left the field injured in the first half, will begin intensive treatment today.

"I felt pain last night. Today I'm starting intensive treatment to cure this discomfort in my right thigh," reported the player.

Doctor Marcelo Soares explained the midfielder's injury.

"It was the posterior muscles of his right thigh. We decided to take him off the field to prevent the injury from getting worse. This afternoon we'll go to his house to treat the injury," he concluded.

SPORTS GAZETTE

It was a satisfactory result, says Joel after the draw

Tacna (Peru) - Flamengo's 0-0 draw against Coronel Bolognesi in their Copa Libertadores opener doesn't seem to have shaken Flamengo coach Joel Santana's confidence in his squad. According to him, the Rubro-Negro played a satisfactory match in Peru and remains fully capable of advancing in the competition. Calmly, the coach emphasized that the nerves of a tournament's first match hinder players' performance. "The game is very similar these days. A debut is really difficult, regardless of the team you're playing against. And since our team is very fast and very aggressive, we had some difficulties," he declared. "But that's how the Libertadores is. It wasn't excellent, but it was a satisfactory result."

Despite the draw, the manager still praised his team's performance, especially defensively. "The team gave me more confidence, with the players in better physical shape. Jonatan and Kleberson also played well. That's how the Libertadores is; you have to play against the odds," he stated.

Joel Santana also issued a warning to Nacional and Cienciano, other clubs in Group 4. "The game was tough, heated, and I think we had more chances. But that's the Libertadores. Whoever comes to play here will have a tough time, because this is a good team," he analyzed.

On February 27th, the Rubro-Negro team returns to play in the Libertadores, this time against Cienciano, another Peruvian team. But before that, the team faces Vasco da Gama next Sunday in a match valid for the Guanabara Cup semifinal.

Doubtful for the classic, Toró is upset with injury

Tacna (Peru) - In addition to a 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi in the Copa Libertadores opener, Flamengo has a doubt for next Sunday's derby against Vasco in the Guanabara Cup semifinal. In the 41st minute of the first half, Toró took a blow to his right knee and was substituted by coach Joel Santana. The mood after the match was apprehensive, as the Flamengo coach demonstrated. "I'll wait for the doctor's decision. We don't know the severity of the injury. We'll wait," he stated.

After the blow, the midfielder tried to stay on the field, but was advised to leave the field by the medical committee and by Joel Santana himself, who hopes to use him against the Giant of the Hill. "It's the first Libertadores I've played in. It was a silly incident, but the doctor thought it best to take me off," he said. "I'm upset. I just want to forget what happened."

Despite the frustration, Toró is confident he can play against Cruzmaltino. "They're one of our biggest rivals, and we know it's going to be another battle," he analyzed. "Now we have to think about Vasco, which is another important game."

Joel complains about the State competition formula\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The Flamengo delegation arrived in Rio de Janeiro this Thursday morning, one day after a goalless draw with Coronel Bolognesi in Peru, in the two teams' Copa Libertadores debut. Upon arrival in Brazil, the Flamengo team already had their sights set on the derby against Vasco da Gama at the Maracanã on Sunday, in the semifinals of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the Campeonato Carioca. Coach Joel Santana was optimistic about this match, but lamented the competition's rules, which do not grant any advantages to teams that performed better in the qualifying round.

"Flamengo is now focused on this semifinal against Vasco, as we know the importance of this match. Our group is accustomed to playing in decisive matches. But I will always regret the fact that we don't have any advantage in this match, as we've had a better run in the tournament so far. I'm not against the knockout system, as I know it's exciting and attracts the public. But I suggest the playoffs, which are already established in the United States and seem fairer to me," said Joel, unhappy with the fact that, in the event of a tie, the winner will be determined by penalty kicks.

The coach commented on the draw with the Peruvian team and considered the result satisfactory. Joel Santana complained about Colonel Bolognesi's violence. "We know their team isn't great, but it's difficult to play away from home because the opponent is rough, picks, and the referee lets the game continue. The Brazilian players aren't used to that yet. But we had the chance to win and didn't. But a point is good to start with," said Joel Santana.

After the players arrived, the squad was released and given the rest of Thursday off. They are scheduled to return this Friday, when preparations for the derby begin.

PELENET

Diego Tardelli: "I'm looking for a different title"

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Holder of important titles on his resume, striker Diego Tardelli revealed his desire to achieve a victory in his first year wearing the Flamengo shirt: the State Championship.

"I'm looking for a different title. I've been happy throughout my career and have had several important achievements. But I haven't won this competition yet, and I'm going after it," he said.

The striker admitted, however, that before achieving such an achievement, Flamengo will need to pay full attention to the classic against Vasco, Sunday, at 16 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, for the semifinals of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the State Championship.

"Joel (the coach) has already warned the club's newcomers about the importance of a match against Vasco. I promise maximum effort to beat our biggest rival," he said, adding to the red-and-black spirit for the weekend's clash.

"The team is very calm and focused. Flamengo is getting into gear and we will certainly have a good performance," he concluded.

Flamengo postpones presentation of defender Leonardo

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo was scheduled to introduce Leonardo this Thursday, starting at 18 p.m. (Brasília time), at Gávea. However, Flamengo's board decided to postpone it until Friday, at 16 p.m., at the same location. Training, which was scheduled for the morning, was also moved to the afternoon.

Leonardo, somewhat surprisingly, was hired last Monday to replace Rodrigo, who will be out of action for around four months due to a fracture in his right arm.

Leonardo, formerly of Palmeiras and a former Goiás player, has already been registered for the Copa Libertadores. This Wednesday, Flamengo, in Group 4, debuted with a 0-0 draw against Coronel Bolognesi-PER in Tacna, Peru.

"We did some research and found an extremely qualified player. We received the best references, including from Geninho, who coached him at Goiás, and he's someone we have a lot of trust in," said vice president of football Kleber Leite on the day of the signing.

Leonardo, who signed a contract until December 31, with the option for another season, is 30 years old and was born in the Minas Gerais city of Juiz de Fora, on March 12, 1977. He began his career at Tupi-MG and later played for Coritiba, Palmeiras and Goiás, where he has been since 2005.

Semi-final referees announced

The Rio Football Federation's refereeing committee drew two trios for the semi-final matches of the Guanabara Cup, to be held at Maracanã, this Thursday afternoon.

The game between Botafogo and Fluminense, on Saturday, at 18:10 pm, will be directed by Luis Antonio Silva dos Santos, assisted by Jorge Luis Campos Roxo and Jackson Lourenço Massara dos Santos.

Flamengo and Vasco, on Sunday, at 16 pm, will be commanded by Gutemberg de Paula Fonseca, with Marco Aurélio dos Santos Pessanha and Orlando Hortêncio as assistants.

The two referees each officiated only two matches in the qualifying phase of the Guanabara Cup. Luis Antonio was in charge of the Madureira 3-4 Cabofriense match at Conselheiro Galvão Street on January 24th, and the Fluminense 1-1 Boavista match at the Maracanã on February 1st. Gutemberg was in charge of the Vasco 1-0 Americamo match on January 23rd at São Januário, and the Cabofriense 4-1 Resende match on February 2nd in Cabo Frio.

Rio's biggest clubs have players called up to the under-16 team

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

The four major Rio clubs had players called up this Thursday for the Brazilian under-16 team, which will compete in the Mediterranean Tournament in Barcelona, ​​Spain, between March 19 and 23. They are goalkeeper Luis Guilherme, from Botafogo; full-back Anderson, from Flamengo; and defender Leozão and midfielder Wellington, from Fluminense.

The players will report to Granja Comary in Teresópolis on March 3rd. They will train at the training center until the 8th, when they will travel to Doha, Qatar, for two friendlies (March 11th and 13th). The team will then travel to Barcelona on the 15th.

On Wednesday, five Rio players had been called up to the under-19 team, which will also participate in the Mediterranean Tournament, in its category, in March: goalkeeper Renan, from Botafogo; full-back Michel and defender Wellington, from Flamengo; and defender Dalton and striker Maicon, from Fluminense.

GLOBOESPORTE

Fábio Luciano has his eye on Edmundo

Captain asks Animal for attention and asks for seriousness in the match against Vasco

Fábio Luciano preaches respect for Vasco in Sunday's classic

Turning the page from the Copa Libertadores to the Campeonato Carioca, defender Fábio Luciano warned of the team's need for Sunday's derby against Vasco in the semifinals of the Taça Guanabara. He doesn't shy away from the responsibility of securing a favorable result.

"It's a game that moves everyone. We know how important the fans are to this game and how important the game itself is. Besides, the winner goes to the Guanabara Cup final. For that reason and everything else, we'll approach this match with the utmost responsibility possible. We'll start our preparations tomorrow and see what Joel has to say to the team," he admits.

Accustomed to high-profile matches since his time at Corinthians, the red-and-black captain preaches respect for the opponent and demands concentration from his teammates, especially Edmundo.

"We know what a Flamengo vs. Vasco match is all about. Not just these games, but other classics in Brazil, which also have a lot of tradition. We'll approach it responsibly and seriously. I've already marked him, and he's a great player who's really eager to play. For all these reasons, we'll respect him and the Vasco team and try to do our job," he declares.

Bruno: 'I really guarantee it'

Goalkeeper says teammates trust him and chooses best saves for Flamengo

Eduardo Peixoto

Responsibility doesn't scare Bruno

With a serious expression and a cap pulled down low on his head, Bruno stares straight ahead. Sitting in the departures area of ​​Tacna Airport in Peru, he reflected on the 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi in his Copa Libertadores debut. But he set another immediate goal before him: Sunday's derby against Vasco in the Guanabara Cup semifinals.

In 2007, in a semifinal match of the first round of the State Championship, the goalkeeper was Flamengo's hero in the penalty shootout. The positive memories continue. Preventing Romário's thousandth goal with his right foot, a performance praised in the 2007 Brasileirão. Definitely, the Cruzmaltino team is not an opponent that gives you chills.

"I have this good record against them. I hope this continues on Sunday," says the goalkeeper, in an interview with GLOBOESPORTE.COM.

Since 2006 at Gávea, Bruno has been virtually unanimous. As if his defensive skills and confidence weren't enough, reserve Diego's reticent performance last Sunday against Fluminense sent Bruno's stock soaring.

GLOBOESPORTE.COM: You have a great record against Vasco. However, on Sunday, you'll face Edmundo, Flamengo's notorious tormentor, for the first time. Who will come out on top in this duel?

Bruno: Edmundo is undoubtedly a unique player. But I'm confident. I did well against Vasco a few times. I saved a penalty last year, prevented Romário's thousandth goal, and in the 1-1 draw, I managed to make some good saves. Yes, the record is good. We'll settle that on Sunday.

This year, in six games, you've conceded only three goals. Is it safe to say you're experiencing a period of maturity and tranquility?

I have a lot of confidence in myself. I really do. I work hard in training to get to matches and make saves.

And do you think the fans also have this confidence?

Bruno usually gets lucky against Vasco

Yes, but not just the fans. I convey calm and confidence to the entire team. I take responsibility in the most difficult moments. I will never hide, and they know it.

So, if it's a penalty shootout on Sunday, there's bound to be a comment from the rest of the team: "At least he'll save one penalty"...

They know it. They all know it. But let's wait and see, shall we? In a classic, anything can happen.

And what's it like facing Tiago, a goalkeeper with a reputation for scoring goals? Does it cross your mind to concede a goal against him?

Honestly? I don't even want to hear about the other side. I can only say that Tiago also excels at defending.

Think quickly and choose the three most beautiful saves you made for Flamengo. Can you do it?

Three? My favorite save was the one against São Paulo. Aloísio's header at the end of the game (watch below). There was one from Dodô in the State Championship final, which I rank second (below). And finally, one I made against Juventude in the first round of the Brazilian Championship (below).

Undefeated, Flamengo faces Salvador

Rubro-Negro bets on winger Marcelinho to avoid a surprise in Bahia

Marcelinho has shone at Nacional

Undefeated and isolated leader of the National Men's Basketball Championship, Flamengo travels to Bahia to face Salvador on Friday night, in a match valid for the eighth round.

With 14 points from seven matches, the Rubro-Negro sits atop the table and is banking on captain Marcelinho Machado to avoid any surprises. In the last round, the Bahian team pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the competition, securing their first victory in five matches against Minas Gerais.

"I don't know much about their team, but I know some of the players, and they're a good team that deserves respect. They're coming off a good win over Minas Gerais in the last round and will be playing at home, but we have to try to impose our rhythm, maintain our speed, which is our hallmark, and go for another win," said the winger, captain of the Brazilian national team and the championship's top scorer with 171 points.

After facing Salvador, Flamengo faces another challenge. On Sunday, the team travels to the Federal District to face Brasília, the defending champion.

Tardelli knows the importance of the classic

Joel Santana advised the striker on the rivalry between Flamengo and Vasco

Diego Tardelli received instructions from Joel Santana for the semifinal

Flamengo coach Joel Santana has already warned the club's newly arrived players of the importance of the "Clássico do Milhões", which will be played on Sunday at 16 pm at Maracanã, valid for the semi-final of the Taça Guanabara.

"Joel has already told the newcomers that Flamengo vs. Vasco is unlike anything else. But I'm ready. It's important to debut in a game like this," forward Diego Tardelli told Rádio Tupi.

The player, who is gradually establishing himself with Flamengo's number 11 shirt, believes that Edmundo should not be the team's biggest concern.

- Edmundo can make a difference, but we have to worry about the entire Vasco team - he concluded.

Timemania will be released this Monday

Ceremony in Brasilia will be attended by Lula and the presidents of the main clubs

President Lula will participate in the launch of Timemania in Brasília

Timemania will be launched next Monday, the 18th, at a ceremony in Brasília attended by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Minister of Sports Orlando Silva. The presidents of the clubs participating in the new lottery have already been invited to the event, scheduled for 15 p.m.

According to the decree that made the new lottery official, Caixa would have up to six months to implement the contest after publication, which took place on August 14, 2007. In other words, the contest would have to begin by this Thursday, February 14. But the Caixa Econômica Federal press office explains that there was no delay because the deadline for clubs to submit the certificates was extended from November 12 to December 28, according to decree 6.284/07.

The change was necessary because, as of November 12th, of the 98 eligible clubs, 45 had submitted all the required documents, while 43 had submitted only partial ones. Ten other teams had not filed renegotiation requests with their creditor agencies. Furthermore, the launch underwent a minor change to align with the product's marketing strategy.

After the Timemania launch ceremony next Monday, which is being organized by the Presidency of the Republic, Caixa will launch a marketing campaign to explain how the new lottery will work. In Timemania, bettors can select 10 numbers from the 80 on the betting slip and also choose their favorite team from 80 clubs to compete for prizes. The new lottery will have one drawing per week. Betting is expected to begin by the end of February.

Timemania has card released

Caixa Econômica Federal releases ticket that will be used in the new lottery

Scheduled to launch next Monday in Brasília, the Timemania card was released this Thursday by Caixa Econômica Federal. The new lottery is seen by major Brazilian clubs as a lifeline for paying off their debts to the federal government. With Timemania, which is expected to come into effect by the end of this month, clubs will no longer be able to default on tax debts, and past debts will be repaid in installments over a period of up to 20 years.

In Timemania, players can select 10 numbers from the 80 on the betting slip and also choose their favorite team from 80 clubs to compete for prizes. The new lottery will have one drawing per week.

Disclosure\ Saving the clubs, Timemania should come into effect by the end of this month\

Timemania could become a trap for clubs

Revenue from the new lottery may be less than the amount of the monthly installment paid to the Union

Thiago Lavinas

Timemania will start in February

Seen by managers as a lifeline to pay off debts owed to the federal government, Timemania could turn into a trap for Brazil's leading clubs. Officially launching next Monday, February 18th, in Brasília, the lottery expects revenue for those with high debts to be lower than the club's loan installment. Adjusting the debt to the Selic interest rate could result in a slight decrease in the total amount, while the installment payments could even increase over time.

After the start of Timemania—which, according to Caixa Econômica Federal, begins at the end of this month—clubs can no longer default on their tax debts. Both past debts, which will be paid in installments over up to 20 years and will be funded by Timemania, and future debts, which will be the clubs' monthly debts to the federal government (INSS, FGTS, PIS, among other taxes).

"Clubs will have to stay current with their current tax obligations and also supplement the monthly installment amount, which will mean another significant monthly payment. In other words, since many traditional clubs have very high debt, the additional monthly installment amount will also be very high," said lawyer Leonardo Viveiros, who believes that over time, few clubs will be able to stay current with the Timemania installment plan and current taxes.

In the first year, clubs shouldn't have much trouble covering their expenses. This is because there's a clause in the lottery's creation that stipulates that the supplement will be capped at R$50. The problem begins in 2009. Flamengo, for example, has a debt of approximately R$180 million and will need to adapt to meet its Timemania commitment.

The club's monthly installment is expected to be around R$750. Flamengo's projected revenue is R$350. In the first year, the club would only need to make up R$50 in the balance, as required by law. But starting in 2009, the entire installment must be paid. This could mean a monthly debt of R$400. This doesn't even take into account that the amount raised through the lottery can fluctuate, either up or down depending on the season. Added to current tax expenses, the payroll will be significantly impacted. Any delay in payment could result in the elimination of Timemania.

GLOBOESPORTE.COM

Márcio Braga admits that Flamengo will have to make sacrifices with the lottery

President Márcio Braga, one of the main advocates for the creation of the new lottery, admits that the board will have to make an effort.

"Of course, all clubs will have to make some adjustments to pay what was signed. It will be a necessary sacrifice. We have to wait and see how it plays out. The important thing is to make it possible to pay off a debt that was unpayable. Without Timemania, it wouldn't be possible to pay off a R$180 million debt," said Márcio Braga.

In addition, another worrying fact arises. The directors wanted the long-term interest rate (TJLP) to be used to adjust debts. However, the government established that the Selic rate, one of the highest on the market, would be used. The Selic rate in December 2007 was 0,84%, and the TJLP was 0,5208%. Only debts with the FGTS (Severance Fund for Severance Indemnity) have their own interest rate mechanism. When negotiating a change with the government, Márcio Braga admitted that with the Selic rate, "in the future, clubs would only be paying interest instead of the debt itself."

"To calculate the interest for each person, we would need to know the nature of the debt. The FGTS debt has different interest rates. The Selic rate is around 12% per year. Therefore, someone with a debt of R$100 million to the Federal Revenue Service, INSS (National Institute of Social Security), and PGFN (National Fund for the Protection of Children and Adolescents) will pay around R$1,2 million per month in interest alone," said Leonardo Viveiros.

Only those who owe less than R$72 million will not be paid. The debts of the main Brazilian clubs. Clubs Debt. Flamengo R$180 million. Botafogo R$160 million. Fluminense R$155 million. Portuguesa-SP R$145 million. Atlético-MG R$112 million. Grêmio R$80 million. Vasco R$70 million. Santos R$62 million. São Paulo R$43,2 million. Cruzeiro R$32 million. Corinthians R$30 million. Bahia R$30 million. Palmeiras R$27 million. Coritiba R$20 million. Figueirense R$6 million.

Approximate value

If Caixa's revenue forecast is correct, Timemania appears to be very attractive for First Division clubs in 2007 with debts under R$72 million. Thus, the amount raised from the new lottery would be enough to pay the monthly installments.

"A club with a debt of R$50 million, for example. The monthly payment would be approximately R$208. The "surplus" (R$92) would be immediately used to offset the debt balance. This club would spend a long time without worrying about paying the Timemania supplement. It would simply have to stay current on its taxes and avoid incurring new debt," said Viveiros.

The fact that many clubs have obtained a debt clearance certificate by joining Timemania is initially seen as a major victory. By participating in the new lottery, clubs will not be subject to judicial foreclosures and will be free to resume receiving public funding. However, to participate in the lottery, clubs had to give up their legal challenge to their debts with the Federal Government.

Among the major Rio clubs, Vasco is the club in the best shape. The club's debt is around R$70 million.

Vasco's debt is less than what it has to receive per month from Timemania. To be more than R$300 (Caixa's estimated revenue), Vasco would have to owe more than R$72 million, which the club doesn't owe. I don't have the exact amount because the debt hasn't been consolidated.

But Palmeiras' presidential advisor, Antônio Carlos Corcinone, admits that some clubs will have trouble staying in Timemania. According to Corcinone, the declared debt is R$27 million.

"Palmeiras won't have any trouble paying. But some other clubs will have problems," he guarantees.

Santos' planning director, Dagoberto Fernando dos Santos, believes the club will be one of the first among the "big" clubs to pay off its tax debts.

"Santos' declared debt is approximately R$60 million. But only at the end of the first year will we be able to get an idea of ​​what the clubs will be able to raise from the lottery," he said.

'On Sunday, I don't slip,' says Obina

Striker wants to make up for his mistake against Bolognesi in the semi-final against Vasco

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM

Obina looks at the ball after missing an incredible goal against Colonel Bolgnesi

In the 43rd minute of the second half, the ball fell to Obina at the edge of the six-yard box. But the forward slipped and missed the chance to secure Flamengo's victory against Coronel Bolognesi in their Copa Libertadores opener. The missed chance bothered the striker.

After the match and upon his return to Rio, he was visibly embarrassed by the situation. But he hopes to recover next Sunday against Vasco.

"It's different at Maracanã. I'm lucky there. I promise I won't slip on Sunday. If there's any chance, it'll be a goal," he declares.

The Bahia striker's record against Vasco is positive. In 2006, he scored one of the goals that defeated Vasco in the Copa do Brasil victory. Last year, in the play that tore his knee ligaments, Obina also found the back of the net.

Despite his desire to make amends for his mistake in Tacna, Obina will have to wait. He will once again be a substitute in the Guanabara Cup semifinal. This year, the center forward has scored three times, all against América.

THROW

Fullbacks have history in Flamengo vs Vasco

Juan and Cocada are examples of names engraved in the classic

Cocada and Juan have already shone in Flamengo and Vasco

Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO

A separate attraction for Sunday's classic between Flamengo and Vasco, for the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, the full-backs Juan, Leonardo Moura, for the red-black side, and Wágner Diniz and Calisto, for the Cruzmaltino side, hope to confirm the trend of this clash, which has seen a player in this position shine with a decisive goal on several occasions.

One of the key figures in this match was even a hero in the biggest showdown between these eternal rivals. In 2006, Juan scored Flamengo's winning goal in the Copa do Brasil final against Vasco. After Flamengo's 2-0 victory in the first leg, Flamengo's number 6 was the only goalkeeper in the final.

Another player who made history, but while wearing the Vasco jersey, was the legendary Cocada. In 1988, in the Campeonato Carioca, he entered the field in the 40th minute of the second half, scored a goal – the title-winning goal against Flamengo (1-0) – in the 41st minute, and was sent off in the following minute. Coincidentally, this was the last decision Vasco won against its main opponent.

In the 2003 Brazilian Championship, Flamengo beat Vasco in both rounds by the same score: 2-1. In both matches, a Flamengo full-back was decisive. In the first, Cássio scored the winning goal at the very end. In the second, Rafael, currently with Fluminense, opened the scoring.

In 1997, in a match that virtually guaranteed Vasco a spot in the Brazilian Championship final, Edmundo put on a show, scoring three goals against Flamengo. However, right-back Maricá scored Vasco's fourth goal, turning Vasco's fine performance into a 4-1 rout.

Other full-backs who shone in the Clássico dos Milhões:

YEAR PLAYER RESULT COMPETITION\ 2004 Rafael Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco 1st game of the Carioca final\ 2003 Wellington Monteiro Vasco 1 x 1 Flamengo Guanabara Cup Final\ 2001 Gilberto Vasco 5 x1 Flamengo Brasileiro\ 2000 Athirson Flamengo 3 x 0 Vasco 1st game of the Carioca final\ 1999 Athrison Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco Guanabara Cup Final\ 1993 Pimentel Vasco 1 x 0 Flamengo Carioca\ 1989 Paulo Roberto Vasco 2 x 1 Flamengo Carioca\ 1980 Júnior Flamengo 2 x 0 Vasco Carioca\

Joel claims advantage in the semifinals

Coach claims that Fla should have some gain for the better campaign

Fred Gomes RIO

Upon landing in Rio de Janeiro, Joel Santana stated that the fatigue caused by the trip to Tacna will not be a complicating factor for the derby against Vasco da Gama next Sunday. The Flamengo coach, however, protested the fact that the Rubro-Negro is entering the Guanabara Cup semifinals without any advantage, despite being the team with the better record.

"We must overcome fatigue. This group has been winning for six months, and we will have the support of our fans. But we finished the first phase as the better team, and we should have some kind of advantage," he complained.

Joel expressed his support for the knockout system, explaining that this type of competition is more financially profitable for clubs. However, the coach reiterated that there is an advantage.

– I'm all for playoffs. The Americans take everything to the playoffs, and that's how they make money. But if you have the best record, you should have some kind of advantage on your side.

Obina hopes for Ronaldo's recovery

Striker suffered a similar injury last year

LANCEPRESS!

Besides lamenting the missed goal that could have given Flamengo the victory against Coronel Bolognesi, striker Obina didn't hide his annoyance at Ronaldo Fenômeno's serious injury. The Flamengo fan favorite experienced a similar situation last season, against Vasco.

"I hope he has a lot of strength. He's been through this before and knows what he has to do. Strength, faith in God, and that he will be enlightened," he hoped.

Regarding the fact that he remains in the reserves, Obina maintains his attitude as a working boy and declares that not only he, but other attackers are also looking for their space.

"We know there are talented players here, like Souza and Diego Tardelli. They're helping us, and we have to think about those here, like Éder and Marcinho," he declared. Cienciano wins and leads Flamengo's group. The Peruvian club beats Nacional 2-1 in Group 4.

Vassallo (right) fights for the ball with Barone (Credit: EFE)

LANCEPRESS!

Cienciano hosted Nacional de Montevideo this Thursday at 3.600 meters above sea level in Cuzco, Peru, and won 2-1 in a match valid for Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores, the same as Flamengo. In the next round, the Peruvians will travel to Maracanã to face Rubro-Negro, and the Uruguayans will play at home against Coronel Bolognesi.

The first half of the match in Cuzco was extremely even. Nacional relied on the isolated talent of Ligüera, who created two good opportunities. But the best chances of the first half fell to the home team. First, a solo effort by Japanese player Sawa nearly resulted in a stunning goal. Shortly after, it was Vassallo's turn to miss an easy header.

Nacional began to struggle near halftime. Romero unnecessarily stepped on Guizasola and was rightly sent off. The numerical disadvantage was reflected on the field in the second half.

With an extra man and the altitude on their side, Cienciano went after Nacional and got the result. In the ninth minute, Vassallo received a cross from Guizasola and finished for the goal.

It wasn't long before Vassallo added another. He took advantage of a free kick taken from the right by Julio Garcia and headed it into the top corner past goalkeeper Viera, sealing the victory and securing his team's lead, as Coronel Bolognesi and Flamengo both have one point.

In the end, defender Victorino's free kick goal wasn't enough for Nacional to escape defeat.

TECHNICAL SHEET:\ CIENCIANO (PERU) 2 X 1 NATIONAL (URU)\

Stadium: Garcilaso de la Vega, Cuzco (PERU)\ Date/time: 14/2/2008 - 19:30 p.m. (Brasília time)\ Referee: Enrique Osses (CHI)\

Yellow cards: Vassallo, Romaña, Sawa, Bazalar (CIE); Filgueira, Ligüera (NAC)\ Red cards: Romero, 41'/1T (NAC)\

GOALS: Vassallo, 9'/2Q (1-0), Vassallo, 22'/2Q (2-0); Victorino, 43'/2Q (2-1).

CIENCIANO: Cienciano: Flores, Ccahuantico, Marengo, Solís, Guizasola,\ Romaña; Bazalar, Chiroque, Julio García, Sawa (Corcuera, 45'/2T) and Vassallo (Manique, 30'/2T). Coach: Franco Navarro.\

NATIONAL: . Viera, Romero, Victorino, Melo; Caballero,\ Arizmendi, Oscar Morales, Filgueira (Barone, 29'/1T); Ligüera; Richard Morales and Fornaroli (Pereyra, 24'/2T). Coach: Gerardo Pelusso.\

Fábio Luciano turns his attention to Vasco

Defender knows the responsibility of the game and asks for concentration\ LANCEPRESS!\

Turning the page from the Copa Libertadores to the Campeonato Carioca, defender Fábio Luciano warned of the team's need for Sunday's derby against Vasco in the semifinals of the Taça Guanabara. He doesn't shy away from the responsibility of securing a favorable result.

"It's a game that moves everyone. We know how important the fans are to this game and how important the game itself is. Besides, the winner goes to the Guanabara Cup final. For that reason and everything else, we'll approach this match with the utmost responsibility possible. We'll start our preparations tomorrow and see what Joel has to say to the team," he admitted.

Accustomed to high-profile games since his time at Corinthians, the red-and-black captain preached respect for his opponent and urged his teammates to concentrate, especially Edmundo.

"We know what a Flamengo vs. Vasco match is all about. Not just these games, but other classics in Brazil, which also have a lot of tradition. We'll approach it responsibly and seriously. I've already marked him, and he's a great player who's really eager to play. For all these reasons, we'll respect him and the Vasco team and strive to do our job," he declared.

Joel explained the importance of the classic

Diego Tardelli, who is expected to start, says he is ready

LANCEPRESS!

Flamengo coach Joel Santana has already warned the club's newly arrived players of the importance of the "Clássico do Milhões", which will be played on Sunday at 16 pm at Maracanã, valid for the semi-final of the Taça Guanabara.

The information comes from striker Diego Tardelli.

"Joel has already told the newcomers that Flamengo vs. Vasco is unlike anything else. But I'm ready. It's important to debut in a game like this," the player told Rádio Tupi.

The striker, who is gradually establishing himself in Flamengo's number 11 shirt, believes that Edmundo should not be the team's biggest concern.

- Edmundo can make a difference, but we have to worry about the entire Vasco team - concluded the striker.

Tardelli eager for the semifinal against Vasco

Striker sees the game as a chance to reach his first final for Fla\ Fred Gomes RIO\

Concerned about putting the 0-0 draw with Coronel Bolognesi in the background, striker Diego Tardelli was eager to play in the Guanabara Cup semi-final, which will be played next Sunday, between Flamengo and Vasco.

- I'm more motivated than ever, because it's a semifinal and I could reach my first final in a different competition, the Campeonato Carioca - he enthused.

The fatigue caused by the trip to Tacna was lessened by Tardelli, who saw this Thursday's day off as a good chance to recover his energy for the Clássico dos Milhões.

- Of course we feel the wear and tear, both psychological and physical. However, this Thursday's break will be essential for us to recover - he concluded.