THE GLOBE

Fla throws for History

Team bets on collective play to beat Corrientes in the South American League finals

Photo caption: PAULO CHUPETA poses next to Flamengo's shield and shows optimism: "The goal is to win both matches in Corrientes"

Claudio Nogueira

In search of the most important title in its history in basketball, the South American League, Flamengo plays today, in Corrientes, against Regatas Corrientes, from Argentina, the first match of the best of five final, at 23 pm in Brasília.

The first game of the final was supposed to be played yesterday. However, it was postponed at Corrientes' request due to a problem with the documentation of their Americans Robinson and Stanton, who had not obtained work visas to enter Brazil for the semifinal against Universo/Brasília. According to the Argentine League website, they finally obtained their visas at the Brazilian Consulate in Buenos Aires.

Marcelinho praises the team's strength

At Flamengo, Rio de Janeiro coach Paulo Teixeira Sampaio, also known as Paulo Chupeta (who has been in charge of the three-time Rio de Janeiro champions for three years), is credited with leading the team's success, which was reinforced in the second half of 2007 with Marcelinho (a member of the Brazilian national team), his brother Duda, and Hélio. Collective play is the team's strength.

"I've always worked this way. It took time for them to assimilate it, but every time you deviate from the collective game, the team gets into trouble," says Paulo Chupeta, adding: "Everyone has to know their role, their ball game, to undermine the opponent. The coach's job is to convey this to the team."

Chupeta looks up to coaches he's worked with, such as Cláudio Mortari and Emmanuel Bomfim. According to him, the greatest example of collective play is Marcelinho, the team's shooting guard, leading scorer, and star.

"You can see how many rebounds he grabbed. He's a scorer, like I was on the Riachuelo team, but he plays as a team," he said.

Last week, in the 72-66 victory over Boca Juniors, in the third game of the semifinal, in Tijuca, Marcelinho had 27 points and 11 rebounds.

"In that semifinal, the strength of Flamengo's team shone through. They say I'm a star, but a star only shines together. I thank the whole team," he said.

For the player, the matches in Corrientes will be the first two battles of a war, but the group is ready for the pressure:

"Finals are played with heart, and this team has already shown it has that in spades. Corrientes is well-organized. We've seen videos of their games. They make few mistakes, know how to handle the ball, and have quality players."

Point guard Hélio is another to emphasize the need for Flamengo to maintain its collective spirit, which is crucial in the semifinals against Boca Juniors.

"We never stop thinking about the collective game. That's our mentality. The coach preaches it. You can win a game or two individually, but titles are only won collectively. The secret to being a champion is to let go of individualism," Hélio emphasized.

In his first season with the red-black team, the point guard is happy with the fans and asks for support in the games that will be held at Maracanãzinho:

- The fans give me extra energy.

Three-time Rio champions Flamengo still haven't won a national or South American basketball title. They lost the 2000 National Championships to Vasco and the 2004 National Championships to Uberlândia, and are in their first final on the continent. Chupeta and his assistant João Batista have been analyzing videos of their opponent's matches against Brasília in the League semifinals.

"I really believe in my team. We've already faced strong Argentine teams, like Libertad Sunchales and Boca Juniors. The goal is to win both games there, or at least one, to shift the blame onto them," imagines Flamengo's coach, known as "Pacifier" for using it nonstop as a child.

Corrientes is undefeated with seven wins, while the Rio de Janeiro club has six wins and one loss. The Argentine team's standouts are point guard Montecchia, a 2004 Olympic champion with Argentina, and Americans Stanton and Robinson. Carabajal and Cavaco, injured, are doubtful.

At Fla, Gavilán\ finds himself far from showing his worth\

Midfielder reportedly considering proposals. Club doesn't guarantee renewal

Gavilán exuded confidence when, despite being rejected by doctors, he accepted the risk of signing short-term contracts with Flamengo to be evaluated. Today, he lives in Gávea, a different reality than he imagined. He played four matches, only two as a starter. Seen as a role model at Gávea, he is respectful of the club and coach Joel Santana, but would consider offers to play.

Flamengo praises Gavilán's performance. But the player's future, whose first three-month contract ends on the 23rd, is under discussion.

"We'll talk to Joel and see if we can extend it a little further or not. He's completely straightforward," says vice president of football Kleber Leite.

At 28 years old and with two World Cups under his belt, Gavilán is a constant presence in the locker room and among the players' circles, even when he's not in the squad. He envisioned a different role at Flamengo.

"I arrived expecting to have a run of games. It's difficult to evaluate my performance. I started a bit behind, because of my suspension. After that, I only started twice, and with the reserves. But I respect Joel's decision," said Gavilán. "It's hard to say I'm ready. I needed more games with the starters. I often came on out of position. It's been difficult to get more use. There are a lot of players in my position. I feel good at Flamengo. But if there's a real opportunity to play at another club, I'll go to Flamengo and talk. I'll be open."

Besides Gavilán, defender Leonardo and forward Éder haven't even been named in the squad. Of the club's other five signings for 2008, only Kléberson is currently a starter. Defenders Rodrigo and Jônatas are recovering from injuries. Marcinho and Tardelli are substitutes who have been coming on as games progress.

"It's too early to tell. The season started in February," says Kleber Leite.

He asked the coaching staff to consider taking the team to Itu. Another option is to keep the group focused on Rio next week.

SPORTS JOURNAL

Uncomfortable thorns

Renato Augusto has no preference for the final; he wants to get revenge on both Flu and Botafogo.

NATHAN DE LIMA AND THIAGO BOKEL

Archives

After leaving injured last Sunday, Renato Augusto is cleared to train and take revenge on Botafogo or Fluminense in the finals of the Campeonato Carioca

Flamengo began its preparations yesterday for the match against Coronel Bolognesi on the 23rd, in the final round of the first phase of the Copa Libertadores, but the players' main topic of conversation was still the Campeonato Carioca. Supporter Renato Augusto—one of the few players who decided to stop and speak to the press yesterday, as most had fled due to the rain and cold—said he's excited about the two finalists of the Taça Rio.

The player, who is free to train normally despite being injured in the defeat to Botafogo, did not want to name a favorite for the finals, as it would be the same to face either club.

"That's football. Botafogo hadn't beaten us for a while, and now we're the ones with them hanging on. Fluminense also beat us, and we want to beat them. We'll work hard during this time so we can reach the final in good shape. I don't have a preference for our opponent, especially because Botafogo is on a very strong run, and Fluminense has a good team," said Renato Augusto.

Regarding the team's absence from playing until the match against Bolognesi, Renato Augusto welcomed the short break. He believes this training period can be beneficial for improving the players' physical condition.

"We've been on a long run of games, and this break is good for us to get back into shape. We're going to dedicate ourselves to work so we can arrive strong for the final," explained Renato Augusto.

In addition to Renato Augusto, another player seems to be choking the finalists.

Goalkeeper Bruno, who yesterday worked out with his teammates at the club's gym, was not scheduled to give an interview, but when he left Gávea, along with goalkeeper Paulo Vitor and a club employee, he greeted the journalists and soon after, a little further away, at the door, he sent a message with a smile on the corner of his mouth: "What's theirs is kept", surprising everyone present and without giving time for any explanation.

It is enough to know now what he meant by this statement.

Flamengo trains in the morning at Gávea

After losing to Botafogo in the Taça Rio semifinals, Flamengo turned its attention to the Copa Libertadores. The red-and-black team will not play again until April 23rd, against Coronel Bolognesi, at the Maracanã.

Coach Joel Santana leads a training session this Wednesday morning at Gávea. Midfielder Renato Augusto, who left the field injured against Botafogo, has been cleared by the medical department and is training normally. Souza, who was substituted at halftime of Sunday's derby due to nausea, is also fully recovered.

Joel: 'Romário is an enlightened man like me'

File/JS

Joel Santana is considered by Romário to be the best coach he has worked with in his 22-year career.

In several interviews, when asked who was the best coach he worked with during his brilliant career as a player, Romário never hesitated in his answer: Joel Santana.

The coach, who has worked with the striker at Vasco Fluminense and Flamengo, where he currently plays, is flattered by the mention of the shorty. Now that the number 11 is retiring, the Master of the Clipboard took the opportunity to reciprocate the kind words once again. The coach believes Romário will continue to be successful, even off the field.

"Romário is an idol to me, and unfortunately, the time has come for him to retire. I had the honor of working with him at several clubs, and I know he will be successful in whatever he does from now on, because he's like me: an enlightened man," Joel said in an interview with Rádio Globo.

Jônatas and Rodrigo are already doing physical training in Gávea

Midfielder Jônatas and defender Rodrigo will only be fit to play in the second leg of the State Championship final in May. Flamengo, as the winner of the Guanabara Cup, has already qualified for the final stage of the competition, awaiting the winner of the second round, which will be determined next Sunday between Fluminense and Botafogo.

Jônatas, with a left leg injury, will have his physical training load intensified this week. And Rodrigo, who fractured his right arm on February 7th against Volta Redonda, has been training more lightly to calcify the bone, after which he will be able to work with his teammates.

Mengão without fear of Regatas

Flamengo promises to show courage against the Argentine team and fans in the opening of the League final

Pedro Ivo Almeida

Nina Lima

Winger Duda, with his vibrancy, emerges as a bet for Flamengo

After the confusion surrounding the game dates, the Flamengo team landed in Argentina yesterday afternoon and is now focused solely on today's match, the first of the best-of-five series of the South American Basketball League finals, against Regata Corrientes, at 23 pm (Brasília time), at the opponent's gym.

With morale high after a stunning comeback in the competition's semifinal series, when they defeated Boca Juniors 2-1, coach Paulo Chupeta's team enters today's match with a virtually full court. The only player missing remains center Wagner, who is still recovering from dengue fever and is expected to return to the team only in the second leg matches in Rio de Janeiro.

Center Maicon, who participated more effectively in the semi-final series matches due to Wagner's absence, hopes to continue helping the group in these first matches of the final series.

"Due to Wagner's absence, I got more court time, as the group was down to a smaller number of centers and Coloneze had foul trouble in both matches against Boca in Rio. Thank God I came in strong and was able to help the group a lot. I hope to be able to help the team again in these final matches, but I also hope Wagner recovers soon, because besides being a friend, he's a very important player for the group," said the young center.

prepared

The team's most experienced player and standout player in the competition, winger Marcelinho guarantees that the team is prepared for the pressure they will face in these first two matches on Argentine soil and also spoke about the importance of at least one victory on the opponent's home ground.

"These will be the first two battles of a war. But we're ready. We're going to Argentina knowing we have some very tense matches ahead, a packed gym, and enormous pressure. They'll do everything they can to break our focus and irritate us, but we're going there to start the series well, aiming for a win in the first game, then focusing on the second, to get at least one victory. We have a strong team that has already shown what it's capable of, its quality and potential. We've all fought hard to reach this final, and now we're here. Finals are played with heart, and this team has already shown it has that in spades," said the player.

After today's game, the red-and-black team will have very little time to rest. The second match of the series takes place tomorrow, also in Corrientes (ARG).

THE DAY

Against whoever it is, a taste of revenge in the air

Renato Augusto remembers that Flamengo lost to Botafogo twice and was thrashed by Flu

Martha Esteves

Rio - Whoever Flamengo's opponent is in the state title game, the flavor will be revenge. This is according to supporter Renato Augusto, who was kicked in the right leg by Lúcio Flávio and is in intensive care but is expected to face Coronel Bolognesi on the 23rd in the Copa Libertadores.

Gávea's number 10 remembers that Flamengo lost two games in a row to Botafogo (3-2 and 3-0, in the Rio Cup), and was beaten by Fluminense 4-1, in the Guanabara Cup.

"These match numbers prove that the next match, no matter who it is, will be a rematch. But I'm not choosing an opponent, because it's the same old story: if you want to be a champion, you have to face any team," said the supporter.

Despite still experiencing significant pain in his leg, which is severely swollen and has a large bruise, Renato Augusto, who will be spared from training today, hopes not to be ruled out of the Libertadores match. According to doctor Walter Martins, the player is on medication, will undergo two physical therapy sessions per day, and should not pose a problem for coach Joel Santana.

If Renato Augusto hopes for a rematch in the State final, supporter Cristian isn't even thinking about drying up Fluminense, who face LDU tomorrow in the Libertadores, in search of first place overall in the competition.

"I'm not going to shut anyone out. Especially because it will be good for Rio de Janeiro football if Flamengo and Fluminense win their matches and do well in the Libertadores. We just have to do our part, win our match, and not root against anyone," he says. That's why Cristian won't be rooting for anyone in the Taça Rio final. He'll watch the game just to study Flamengo's opponent in the state final.

Right-back Léo Moura and Souza have gastroenteritis and won't train today. The forward, who was substituted at halftime of the match against Botafogo, suffered from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Both were advised by their doctors to follow a diet at home.

Bruno: 'What's theirs is kept'

Rio - The message was left to the wind, without direction, without explanation, and without a specific target. As he left Gávea Stadium early last night, goalkeeper Bruno said loudly, near some journalists: "What's theirs is safe." And he walked away, without giving any explanation or address for the message.

As there were fights and confusion in two games against Botafogo, and many people in Gávea also couldn't swallow the defeat imposed by Fluminense (4-1 against the reserve team), the message could have been addressed to either of the two teams, who are fighting on Sunday for a place in the State final against Flamengo.

In the double round, in which Fluminense played a preliminary match in which Flamengo beat Friburguense, at Maracanã, part of the tricolor fans stood behind Bruno's goal, cursing and provoking the number 1. During the game, the goalkeeper, annoyed, retaliated to the provocations with a farewell to the tricolors.

Fla faces 'catimbeiros'

The team begins the final series of the South American League against Corrientes today.

Corrientes, Argentina - Flamengo's season has been going exactly as planned. The basketball team has a real chance of winning two unprecedented titles in the same year: the National Championship, in which it remains top, and the South American League. The final of the international tournament against Regatas Corrientes will begin today at 23 PM (Brasília time) in Argentina. The second match will be tomorrow at 21 PM.

The matches at Maracanãzinho are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday (if necessary). If necessary, the fifth match will be on the 29th or 30th, away from home. "These will be the first two battles of a war. But we're ready. We have very tense games ahead, a packed gym, and enormous pressure. They'll do everything they can to break our focus and irritate us, but we'll try to get at least one win," said point guard Marcelinho.

The Argentine catimba began early. The South American Basketball Confederation (Consubasquet) changed the match dates, claiming that Robinson and Stanton, the two Americans playing for Regatas Corrientes, lacked visas to enter Brazil. In addition to the dates, they also changed the schedules for the Rubro-Negra team's flights, which created further dissatisfaction by disrupting the athletes' rest.

Despite this, Flamengo is confident. "We have a strong team that has already shown its capabilities, its quality, and its potential. We all fought hard to reach this final, and now we're here. Finals are played with heart, and this team has already shown that it has plenty of that," believes Marcelinho.

The homework to beat their opponent, who beat Brasília in the semifinals, was done: "We watched videos of them. They're a team that makes few mistakes, knows how to play with the ball, and has quality players."

At Fla, meeting to outline plans is postponed until Wednesday

Rio - Due to the heavy rain in Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo's team trained very little on Tuesday. No one even took the field at Gãvea Stadium. All the players were working out in the club's gym.

A meeting between the technical committee was scheduled for today to define a possible trip for the entire delegation, but as the group did not even enter the field, the decision about a possible departure from Rio de Janeiro was postponed to this Wednesday.

Joel Santana spoke to the press. The coach, whom Romário has consistently chosen as the best coach he's ever worked with, discussed the star's retirement.

"Romário is an idol, a friend, and a hero. One day, the time will come for everyone to stop playing football. What remains for us are the wonderful goals he scored. I had the honor of working with him at several clubs, and we won several titles together," he said in an interview with Rádio Globo.

Fla may leave Rio in search of team preparation

Rio - Flamengo's coaching staff canceled training scheduled for Tuesday morning, concerned about players' fatigue. Since the team's next match isn't until the 23rd, against Coronel Bolognesi, a possible departure from Rio de Janeiro is being considered.

The team's physical trainer, Ronaldo Torres, admitted the possibility of traveling.

"It's a good period (eight days) to prepare the team. Especially after the game in Cuzco, the return trip, and this semifinal against Botafogo. Tomorrow (Tuesday), we decided to only train in the afternoon, to spare the players. Then we'll meet to make plans for the game against Bolognesi and the first leg of the Carioca final.

Asked if he would approve a possible departure from Rio, Torres admitted he liked the idea.

"The ideal would be to leave Rio. I would accept. But you also have to know where you're going. Granja Comary would be good, but Botafogo is already taking up the space," he highlighted.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Rain cancels ball training at Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - With the Gávea pitch soaked by the heavy rain that fell in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, coach Joel Santana was unable to lead the training session as originally scheduled. Therefore, the Flamengo squad took advantage of the return to training to work physically in the club's gym. Meanwhile, Flamengo's goalkeepers worked lightly with the ball in the Gávea gym. The squad returns to training on Wednesday morning, when Joel Santana hopes to be able to conduct the first tactical exercise of the week.

Flamengo only returns to the field on the 23rd and the players are relieved to have a break in the table, after a marathon of games.

"We've had a long run of important games and trips. This time we'll have will be important for recovering physically and mentally," said midfielder Renato Augusto.

Almost recovered, Rodrigo hopes to play the final for Fla\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - One of Flamengo's signings at the beginning of the year, defender Rodrigo has spent the last two months in the medical department, having been injured in a match against Volta Redonda on February 7th. Immersed in intense physical training in recent days, Rodrigo hopes to be able to play in the final of the Campeonato Carioca, whose first leg of the State Championship final is scheduled for the 27th. "I'm excited and happy to be back. I was coming off a knee injury, and in my first match as a starter, I ended up injuring myself again. But I'm returning with joy and a lot of desire to play," promised the athlete.

"I'll still be training physically this week, and who knows, maybe I'll be training next week and then I won't be able to play the following week," the defender continued. "I've been talking to the coaching staff and (doctor José Luis) Runco. He himself said I can be available to the coach on the 27th," Rodrigo told Rádio Brasil.

If Joel Santana selects Rodrigo, he will face Botafogo or Fluminense, who face each other on Sunday in the Taça Rio final. The red-and-black defender, a politician, stated that he prefers not to choose an opponent in the final.

"We're tired of knowing. When it comes to the final, whichever team makes it through, it'll be an exciting and well-contested game. There's not much to choose from," the Flamengo defender emphasized.

Rodrigo's contract expires in the middle of the year, but it's still unclear whether his loan with Dynamo Kyiv in Ukraine will be renewed. This is because young Thiago Sales has been filling in well when he's had to replace Fábio Luciano or Ronaldo Angelim at Flamengo. As a result, the Flamengo board may opt to release Rodrigo, who has one of the highest salaries at the club.

Meanwhile, Flamengo's squad returned to training on Tuesday afternoon at Gávea. With no official commitments scheduled for the coming days, coach Joel Santana will calmly decide whether to rest starters for the match against Coronel Bolognesi on the 23rd, in the final round of the first phase of the Copa Libertadores.

Renato Abreu - Flamengo's board is already looking for reinforcements for the Brazilian Championship. Vice President of Football Kléber Leite confirmed that the club has already begun negotiations to bring back midfielder Renato Abreu, who left Flamengo last year to play for Al-Nasr in the United Arab Emirates.

Renato Abreu is well-liked within Flamengo and was considered one of the fans' most beloved players when he accepted a multi-million dollar offer to play in Arab football. At the time, he promised to return to Gávea.

The arrival of Renato Abreu could also help to fill the probable exit of Ibson, who, on loan to Fla from Porto until the middle of this year, is unlikely to remain at Gávea after the end of his contract.

PELENET

Joel Santana: "Romário is an enlightened man like me"

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

On Monday, during the launch of the DVD "Júri do Baixinho - DVD Romário É Gol," Romário announced the end of his career. On Tuesday, when asked about Baixinho's decision, his friend and coach Joel Santana lamented the entire situation.

"Romário is an idol, friend, and hero. Unfortunately, the time has come for him to retire. But it happens, and what he did well remains. I had the honor of working with Baixinho and several clubs. Romário is an enlightened man like me," he emphasized.

Joel Santana, considered by Romário to be one of the best coaches in Brazilian football, worked with Baixinho at Flamengo (1996 state champion), Fluminense and Vasco (Brazilian champion and 2000 Mercosul Cup champion).

Other coaches also spoke about Romário's retirement, including Sebastião Lazaroni, currently in charge of Marítimo, in Portugal.

"Romário was a mischievous kid on the field. I want to congratulate him on his brilliant career, his goals, his achievements at club level and with the Brazilian national team. What Romário really disliked was being called "Toddynho," a nickname he earned from his teammates," he revealed.

Defender Rodrigo may not stay at Fla until the end of the year

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Recovering from a right arm injury, defender Rodrigo is expected to return to Flamengo in two weeks. However, it appears his time at Gávea won't be long.

With a contract until the middle of the year, Rodrigo may be leaving the red-black team

On loan from Dynamo Kyiv-UKR, the defender's contract with the Rubro-Negro runs until mid-year, and it's up to him to extend his contract for another six months. However, the defender's initial comments on the matter weren't so encouraging.

"The atmosphere here is very good. Everyone is friends. But we'll see. It's all up to me. I'll wait until I get closer, to see what happens. Whether I stay here or not," he said.

Now cleared by the medical department, Rodrigo has been training with the ball and improving his physical fitness. This way, he would be ready to play the rest of the Copa Libertadores for Flamengo.

"I'm anxious to get back to playing. I spoke with the doctors and physical trainers and they gave me a deadline of two or, at most, three weeks. I have to recover quickly," he explained.

Midfielder Cristian sees the "bright side" of Flamengo's elimination

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Out of the Rio Cup final, the second round of the State Championship, Flamengo will now only take the field on the 23rd, when they face Coronel Bolognesi-PER, at Maracanã, in the Libertadores. Until then, the Rubro-Negro will only be training.

For Cristian, the fact that the team was left out of the final isn't that serious. The midfielder emphasized that the "free" time will be good for ironing out all the details.

"These days we'll have off will be important for us to work on our technical, physical, and mental aspects. Joel Santana (coach) will take advantage of this to correct the mistakes we made in the Rio Cup semifinal," the midfielder highlighted.

The State Championship final, against Fluminense or Botafogo, is scheduled for April 27 and May 4. During this time, Rubro-Negro will also be involved in the round of XNUMX of the Libertadores.

Flamengo's board, along with the coaching staff, is considering moving the team out of Rio de Janeiro. However, a final decision is expected this Wednesday.

Joel Santana could replace Parreira in the South African national team

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

A report, not yet confirmed, emerged this Tuesday in Gávea: Joel Santana could replace Carlos Alberto Parreira in South Africa, as he is reportedly considering leaving the national team. However, the Flamengo coach has not commented on the matter. The information comes from Rádio Tupi.

Coach Joel Santana could swap Flamengo for the South African national team

In fact, Joel Santana wasn't supposed to hold a press conference this Tuesday. However, he decided to make an exception to speak only about his friend Romário, who announced his retirement the day before.

Flamengo's board of directors also declined to comment. Joel Santana, whose contract runs until the end of this year, returned to Gávea in August 2007 and qualified the club for this year's Copa Libertadores.

This season, Joel Santana led Flamengo to the title of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the State Championship, and also to the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores da América.

The State Championship final, against Fluminense or Botafogo, is scheduled for April 27 and May 4. During this time, Rubro-Negro will also be involved in the round of XNUMX of the Libertadores.

GLOBOESPORTE

Fla begins fight for the South American title

The red-and-black team tries to overcome fatigue and Regatas Corrientes in the first decisive game

Thiago Fernandes

Flamengo team is united to seek the South American League title

Flamengo begins its fight for the South American Basketball League title this Wednesday against Regatas Corrientes of Argentina. The match, which kicks off at 23 p.m., will feature more than just the rivalry between Brazilians and Argentines. After the imbroglio involving the postponement of the match and the rescheduling of travel times, the Flamengo players are taking to the field with a vengeance.

The team traveled all day Tuesday, the day before the game. Despite the exhaustion from the journey, coach Paulo Chupeta believes the team will be fit to take the court.

"The trip was very tiring. We had to leave at 6 a.m., catch a plane, a bus, and only arrived at night. But the game isn't until 23 p.m. tomorrow, and I believe the team will be fine. We had a good preseason, and I don't think the physical aspect will be a problem. I'll rotate the players on the court a lot. Anyway, now it's the final. It's time to give a little more," the coach told GLOBOESPORTE.COM by phone from Corrientes.

Even tired from the trip, the red-and-black players did a light workout to get to know the match gym. Then, they went to their rooms to rest until Wednesday morning, when Chupeta will lead another training session on Argentine soil. The athletes will have the afternoon off to rest before taking the court.

Well-studied opponents

The coaching staff has already analyzed videos of their opponent in the final and believes they are well informed about Corrientes' strengths.

"Their team has some good individual talent, but their greatest asset is the team. They're doing well in the Argentine championship, but we're ready to face them and beat them," says Paulo Chupeta.

The second match of the series will be played this Thursday at 21 p.m., also in Argentina. The third match will be played in Rio de Janeiro next Tuesday at 19 p.m. If necessary, the fourth match will be played a day later, on Wednesday at 22 p.m., also in Rio. If the series is tied, the fifth and final match will be played in Argentina, due to Corrientes' better performance in the tournament semifinals. This match has yet to be scheduled.

Renato Augusto doesn't choose an opponent

Flamengo midfielder says he has no preference for Botafogo or Fluminense in the Carioca final\ Márcio Iannacca\

Renato Augusto (left) prefers not to choose an opponent in the State final

Midfielder Renato Augusto is one of coach Joel Santana's weapons in his bid to win the Campeonato Carioca and a successful future in the Copa Libertadores. Aware that Flamengo must work hard to remain in both competitions, the 19-year-old stated that the team cannot afford to let up in the final stages of the championship. However, the player prefers not to choose an opponent, especially in the final stretch of the State Championship. Botafogo or Fluminense, for Renato, it doesn't matter.

"It doesn't matter to our team. We're already in the final of the Campeonato Carioca, and now we have to wait for our opponent. These are two great teams that had a great championship. We'll work hard these days to be ready for the final," says the midfielder.

Renato Augusto stated that the recent defeats to Botafogo and Fluminense have not yet been digested by the red-black squad.

"Of course, a loss sticks in the player's throat. We're choking on both of them. We'll go in like this with whoever comes," says Renato Augusto.

Gastroenteritis attacks Souza and Leo Moura

Players receive medication and train lightly. Flamengo's doctor explains the players' problems.

Marcio Iannacca

Souza works out in Gávea. The striker is still recovering from gastroenteritis.

Right-back Leo Moura and forward Souza remain out of training with the rest of the Flamengo squad. Both players have gastroenteritis and are being spared by the medical department. While receiving medication, they were advised to follow a diet developed by the club's nutritionist.

According to doctor Walter Martins, the problem may have occurred due to an intolerance to some food eaten over the weekend.

"Souza left the field in Sunday's game due to nausea and a headache. This condition developed into gastroenteritis. It's the same case as Leo Moura. They're both weakened," the professional explains.

Walter Martins explained how two athletes who had their diet controlled over the weekend could have such a problem.

"It's a food intolerance. Chicken, for example. The player might eat an undercooked part. We talked to his family to improve his diet, and tomorrow (Wednesday), they'll be fine," says Flamengo's doctor.

Joel gets emotional when talking about his friend Romário

Coach says he feels honored to have worked with Baixinho, whom he calls a legend\ Márcio Iannacca\

Joel Santana gets emotional when talking about striker Romário's retirement

Considered the best coach by former striker Romário, Joel Santana became emotional and had tears in his eyes when talking about Baixinho this Tuesday at Gávea. Called to speak with the press only because of the 42-year-old player's retirement, the Flamengo coach lamented the end of his friend's career, whom he called an idol and hero at the press conference at Gávea.

"Romário has all my respect. These myths can't be stopped. He scored wonderful goals. I had the honor of working with him at many clubs. And like me, he's an enlightened man. Romário has always stood out, for his demeanor, for the answers he always gives," says Joel.

Romário is a friend, an idol, a hero. Legends like this can't be stopped. Joel Santana, Flamengo coach.

Joel admitted he was thrilled to talk about Romário. Together, the two won the 1996 Campeonato Carioca, the 2000 Brasileirão, and the Mercosul championship that same year.

"I'm thrilled, and it's not every day we get the opportunity to work with such an enlightened figure. Receiving this honor certainly moves me. Quietly, thank you!" the Flamengo coach said.

Reintroduction with light training

Heavy rain disrupts schedule and players stay in the weight room in Gávea\ Márcio Iannacca\

Joel will have time to prepare the team

The heavy rain that hit Rio de Janeiro this Tuesday hampered Flamengo's initial schedule. Previously, the players were scheduled to work out in the pool, but due to the cold and the water pouring down on the club, they stayed in the weight room. The workout lasted about an hour.

Tuesday's training session was Flamengo's first since their elimination from the Rio Cup. Now, the players are working to improve their fitness for the Libertadores Cup match against Coronel Bolognesi and the decisive matches of the Campeonato Carioca.

This Wednesday, coach Joel Santana will lead a morning training session. The activity is expected to be physical, at the Gávea field. In addition to improving the group's fitness, the coach will be able to count on some injured players, such as Renato Augusto, who suffered a knock to his right thigh.

THROW

Joel's Elite Squad remains on the rise

When the team doesn't perform, the coach resorts to the 2007 scheme

Joel calls the Elite Squad when he needs help (Credit: Art: Allex Ximenes)

Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO

Joel's approach is known for the trust he places in and maintains in his players. It was perhaps with this approach that he and his players led Flamengo to a spot in this year's Copa Libertadores. Following this almost constant approach throughout his career, Joel has given more space to the players who have been with the club since last year than to the reinforcements who arrived at the beginning of this season.

This year, despite having gained reinforcements at the level of the Brazilian National Team, the Flamengo coach has not given up on the 2007 base. It was like that in Flamengo's debut of the year, against Boavista, in the Campeonato Carioca, and it has been like that in the last matches, where of the starters, only Kleberson was not at Gávea in the last Brazilian campaign.

To give you an idea, Marcinho - the team's top scorer this season with eight goals - and Diego Tardelli - hero of the Taça Guanabara title against Botafogo -, who arrived at the club this year, are unable to return to the starting lineup even with these credentials.

It's true that midfielder Jônatas and defender Rodrigo are injured. However, even their quality wouldn't guarantee a starting spot in Joel Santana's system. Flamengo's Elite Squad is a tough nut to crack.

Parreira would have indicated Joel to replace him

South Africa coach expected to leave the African national team soon

LANCEPRESS!

Joel Santana was reportedly suggested by Carlos Alberto Parreira to replace him - he was reportedly leaving - in charge of the South African national team, the host country of the 2010 World Cup.

However, vice president of football Kléber Leite and Ronaldo Torres, Joel's fitness coach and loyal squire, claimed to be unaware of the matter. Torres stated that his friend would have already informed him if it were something concrete.

Kléber said he traveled to São Paulo with Joel, who also said nothing.

Doctor reveals problem Souza had

Striker has gastroenteritis due to poor diet\ LANCEPRESS!\

The reason for Souza's substitution last Sunday has finally been diagnosed. Club doctor Wálter Martins stated that the striker has gastroenteritis, having eaten something he shouldn't have in recent days.

Another player with a similar problem is right-back Leonardo Moura. He has been suffering from nausea and will have to follow a diet prescribed by Flamengo's doctors.

"Leonardo Moura and Souza are experiencing nausea. It's something they ate. It has nothing to do with Cuzco. It's not a collective issue. It's individual. We spoke with their families and were given a diet plan. They are both weak," stated Wálter Martins.

Cristian regrets long period without games

Flamengo will spend ten days preparing for the next match\ LANCEPRESS!\

Flamengo's elimination from the Rio Cup to Botafogo forced them to pause their marathon of matches for ten days. The "rest" didn't please midfielder Cristian, who preferred to keep the Red-Blacks playing at the same pace.

"It's hard to sit still. Everyone wants to play. Especially in a final. It's up to us to train and correct our mistakes so they don't happen again against Coronel Bolognesi and in the finals," the midfielder declared.

Regarding a possible mix of the starting lineup and the reserves for the Libertadores match, Cristian did not hide his desire to take the field, even though Flamengo has already secured its place in the round of 16 of the South American competition.

"I always want to play, but it's Joel who decides. Whoever takes the field has to give their all and try to deliver. We know we didn't play well. We're aware that we need to improve. Botafogo had their merits and were superior. Whoever comes in, we'll try to play well and win," argued Cristian, not choosing an opponent for the Campeonato Carioca final.

The Rio Junior Cup Final will be held in Édson Passos

Macaé and Flamengo fight for a place in the State final against Fluminense\ LANCEPRESS!\

The Rio Junior Cup final between Flamengo and Macaé will be played next Saturday at 15 p.m. at Giulite Coutinho Stadium in Édson Passos, Mesquita, Rio de Janeiro. The two teams will battle at América-RJ's stadium for a spot in the State Championship final against Fluminense, the Guanabara Cup winner.

Unlike the professional category, in which only the big clubs participated in the final phase of the rounds, in the junior category the teams with less investment managed to get in on the fun: in the first, Volta Redonda and Cabofriense played in one of the semifinals and the second lost the title to Tricolor on penalties.

Now, Macaé and Resende have reached the top four and the club from the North of Rio de Janeiro defeated Vasco last Saturday, at Maracanã, 1-0, while Flamengo beat the team from the South of Rio de Janeiro, a day later, by the same score.

Macaé and Flamengo have faced each other once in the current Carioca Championship, in the fourth round of the Guanabara Cup. The match took place at Cláudio Moacyr de Azevedo Stadium in Macaé and ended in a 1-1 draw.

Rodrigo hopes to play in the Carioca final

Almost recovered, the player is eager to return to the field\ LANCEPRESS!\

Signed by Flamengo at the beginning of the year, defender Rodrigo spent almost two months recovering from surgery on his arm, which he fractured in a match against Volta Redonda on February 7th. Having undergone intense training in recent days, Rodrigo hopes to be able to compete in the Campeonato Carioca final, with the first leg of the final scheduled for February 27th.

"I'm excited, very happy, and eager to play. I'll be training physically this week, and maybe next week I'll be able to start training. I've been talking to the coaching staff and Runco, and he himself said I can be available to the coach on the 27th," Rodrigo told Rádio Brasil.

Flamengo strong in the South American League final

Point guard Marcelinho Machado is the biggest star of the Brazilian team

The League title will be decided in the best of five matches (Credit: Disclosure/CBB)

LANCEPRESS!

Seeking an unprecedented victory, Flamengo begins its South American League title match against Regatas Corrientes (ARG) in Corrientes this Wednesday at 23 p.m. The series is a best-of-five series. The competition is considered the "Libertadores of basketball," and the cramped arena and the pressure from the fans the Rio de Janeiro team will face prove this point. The incidents leading up to the match—the lack of visas for Regatas' Americans to enter Brazil and the red-and-black team's refusal to postpone the finals—intensified the already characteristic rivalry between Brazil and Argentina.

With this in mind, LANCE! interviewed some players from the historic 1981 red-and-black team, champions of the true Libertadores, to get some tips on how to behave in enemy territory. Júnior, left-back for that team, believes the key to victory is not getting carried away by what happens off the court and, above all, avoiding the well-known Argentine catimba:

"Flamengo has an experienced team. I believe the coaching staff must have adopted the same procedures we did back then: not letting pressure from the fans or opponents influence them. If they apply everything they did during the championship, they'll come away with the victory."

Another 81 champion, Adílio also showed confidence in the red-black team, but warned the players about the provocations they are subject to.

"It's a characteristic of Argentines, regardless of the competition. They'll do anything to irritate you, especially since they're Brazilian," said one of Flamengo's greatest heroes.