The Globe
To fight against relegation and closure
In Roger's debut against his former team, Fla has many reasons to break its long winless streak in classics.
Photo caption: ROGER IN Gávea, yesterday. He faces his former team for the first time with Fla and says the derby is normal
Márcio Tavares
If Roger demonstrates the same agility in today's Fla-Flu match at 20:30 p.m. at Maracanã as he did when he dashed out of Gávea to testify on behalf of coach Joel Santana, who was unanimously acquitted yesterday of inciting violence in the match against Santos (Article 279 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice), the red-and-black team will certainly have an important advantage in overcoming many challenges. The main ones are the fight to avoid relegation, breaking the winless streak in derbies, and avoiding a week of confinement in Teresópolis.
Roger swears he considers the classic against his former club to be normal, but he knows that the motto win or win, created by Francisco Horta, former president of Fluminense, fits Flamengo like a glove today.
"I've already faced Fluminense, and the game didn't have anything special to do with my emotions. My concern is Flamengo's position in the standings," said Roger.
Joel: 'He has to polish my clipboard'
Without winning a classic since October 4, 2006 (coincidentally, 4-1 over Fluminense in the Brazilian Championship), with a victory the red-black team, with 15 points, improves its position slightly, rising to 18th place in this Brazilian Championship. Fluminense is in a comfortable situation. With 26 points, the tricolor occupies 11th place.
Coaching a team that hasn't won a derby in eight matches (five draws and three losses), Joel has been involved in his trial at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) and a verbal duel with Renato Gaúcho over the past two days. Relieved by the acquittal, Joel mixed humor and irony when comparing his career to Renato's.
"As a player, I have to take my hat off. He was better than me. But as a coach, it's just a matter of comparing titles. As a manager, he has to polish my clipboard," Joel said in Gávea, still in the afternoon, drawing laughter.
But not everything was a source of laughter at the club yesterday afternoon. President Márcio Braga released an official statement announcing that he had received a complaint from the Rio de Janeiro Military Police, which in turn had been alerted by the São Paulo Military Police, about threats from Palmeiras supporters' groups against fans and the club. According to the São Paulo police, the supporters are threatening revenge for the death of a Palmeiras fan last year.
According to the information, the revenge could reach the club's own delegation and the board is asking for guarantees in order to avoid problems in Sunday's game, at Parque Antártica: "Therefore, we request measures that guarantee the lives and safeguard the physical integrity of our fans and the delegation", concludes the signed note.
Fluminense: Ricardo Berna, Thiago Silva, Luiz Alberto and Roger; Arouca, Romeu, Mauricio, Thiago Neves and Junior Cesar; Soares and Somalia. Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Romulo, Ibson and Roger; Paulo Sergio and Maxi. Referee: Evandro Rogério Roman (PR).
BROADCAST: Premiere and Rádios Globo and CBN
Sports Journal
Souza fails to obtain a suspensive effect and is out of the Fla-Flu
This time, Flamengo's lawyers didn't succeed. The request for a stay of execution for striker Souza was denied this Wednesday by the president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), Rubens Approbato. As a result, the number 9 is out of this Thursday's Fla-Flu derby and will have to watch the match on television.
The center forward had been suspended for assaulting midfielder Tcheco during the match against Grêmio at the Olympic Stadium. On the field, he elbowed the Grêmio player and, off the field, he also slapped the opponent on the head. The striker still has two more matches to serve the full sentence.
Despite the aggression, the player celebrated having only received a five-match ban and was hopeful of being able to obtain the suspension effect.
Fla-Flu: the classic of provocations
Renato and Joel face off in a classic match that both need to win.
Bernardo Peirão and Thiago Bokel
Renato said he respects his opponent a lot and that he only tried to motivate the classic
The country's most captivating derby, the Fla-Flu match, promises plenty of action tonight at 20:30 pm at the Maracanã. Flamengo needs a win to move away from the relegation zone, while Flu wants three points to climb the Brazilian league table. With so much at stake, a very special duel will be played from the bench.
Renato Gaúcho and Joel Santana, who have worked for both teams, spiced up the match even more with a provocative war that began mid-week.
"As a coach, Renato still has to polish my clipboard," the red-and-black coach joked yesterday. Last Wednesday, Renato took a dig at his opponent:
"Have you ever seen Joel lift a trophy as a player? I've lifted 16," he said good-naturedly in Laranjeiras. The response was immediate in Gávea.
“Baby has grown up and is already getting a little naughty,” explained Joel Santana.
Despite his bombastic remarks, Renato tried to tone down his speech yesterday and show respect for his opponent. He made a point of emphasizing that it was all a joke.
"Football is very serious. We need more of that; we need players like Vampeta, who promote the game. That's all I did. I respect Joel a lot; we're friends," Renato stated.
When it comes to serious matters, the Tricolor coach maintains an air of mystery. With Rafael still in the training camp, he left a question mark regarding his replacement. If the full-back is unavailable, when fielding the three defenders, Arouca could be moved to the wing, with Maurício in the middle. Another option would be to bring in David.
For Flamengo, coach Joel Santana used the same weapon as his opponent and also didn't confirm his starting lineup. But the team is expected to be the same one that beat Náutico last Saturday, with young Paulo Sérgio replacing Leonardo. Argentine Maxi will partner him up front.
Another separate duel will be between Luiz Alberto and Roger. The defender grew up in Gávea, but today proudly wears the Tricolor jersey. Newly signed Roger will face his former club for the first time in the red and black jersey. With so many elements, tonight's Fla-Flu clash promises to be thrilling.
Roger and the other side of Fla-Flu
In his first Fla-Flu with the red-black shirt, Roger wants to shine
The main figure for the red-and-black side in tonight's Fla-Flu match is supporter Roger. The number 8 will experience an unusual moment: playing the Rio derby for the first time without wearing the jersey of Fluminense, the club that developed him. Despite his Tricolor roots, the player believes his opponent will be just another in the Red-and-Black team's fight to escape the relegation zone as quickly as possible.
"Although it's a major Brazilian football derby, it'll be a normal match. I already had the experience of playing against Fluminense when I was at Corinthians. The important thing is that Flamengo really needs these three points to get closer to the other clubs that are ahead of us in the standings," said Roger.
Roger's record against Fluminense is favorable. In his three matches for the São Paulo team, he recorded two wins and one loss in the 2005 and 2006 Brazilian Championships. The duel between creation and creation, however, is secondary in the point guard's opinion.
"My individual performance isn't paramount. Even given the current situation, the collective must prevail. This game will be a turning point for Flamengo, because by winning, we'll be able to gain the morale needed to get out of this situation," the supporter analyzed.
Despite wanting to relieve the burden of facing his former club, Roger knows he'll face a hostile crowd. The Tricolor fans haven't forgotten that when he introduced himself to Flamengo, he said he was wearing the true sacred mantle. It will be up to the red-and-black fans to once again turn out in large numbers to push the team to another victory and quell the Tricolor protests.
Paulo Sérgio earns a spot in the red-black attack
Striker Paulo Sérgio, just 18 years old, has secured a spot in Flamengo's starting lineup for today's derby at Maracanã. With Obina sidelined to regain fitness and Souza suspended, the battle for the Flamengo's number 9 jersey is between the young player and Leonardo, formerly of Paraná.
Earlier this week, in Teresópolis, Paulo Sérgio started off behind in this match, having trained separately and not participated in the first training session at Granja Comary, Flamengo's training ground for tonight's match. But starting Tuesday, Joel began showing signs that he was the favorite for the match.
Paulo Sérgio said he has the personality to face his first Fla-Flu. "At Flamengo, the pressure is enormous, but I have the personality to face it. I'm happy to play in Fla-Flu, and I hope to live up to the trust. I've always dreamed of playing in this derby, but I didn't expect it to happen so soon," the player said.
Joel is acquitted and leads the bank team
With the acquittal, Joel will be able to command the Fla team directly in the Fla-Flu
Coach Joel Santana received some excellent news last night. The coach, who was charged under Article 279 (inciting violence) in the match against Santos on August 5th at Vila Belmiro, was unanimously acquitted by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). The five auditors in the case voted against the court's proposed punishment.
With that, Joel is cleared to take charge of Flamengo's game against Fluminense tonight at Maracanã. Relieved, he celebrated the positive outcome of the trial and even made a promise:
"It was a fair result, I'm innocent. It's the first time something like this has happened to me. I was very sad, disappointed, but only those who are part of football know what really happened. It was a stressful situation, which will not happen again in my career, I guarantee it," he said.
In favor of the coach, in addition to the witness of supporter Roger, a letter sent by coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, exonerating Joel's actions.
Suspension denied\ While the news is good, it's also not particularly celebratory. Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, was unable to obtain a suspension order allowing Souza to play today. Superior Court of Justice (STJD) president Rubens Aprobatto denied the club's request, and the striker will have to serve the remaining two-game suspension resulting from his five-match ban for his red card against Grêmio.\
Roger celebrates the acquittal of the red-black coach
Supporter Roger, one of Flamengo's new signings for the Brazilian Championship, was relieved by the acquittal of coach Joel Santana. The coach was indicted by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) for violating Article 279 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice, inciting the team to attack Santos players when Urubu was losing 3-0.
Roger, who testified on behalf of the red-black commander, stated that the order was misunderstood.
"We know our coach's nature. He would never order our team to beat the opposing team," the player commented.
With his legal troubles out of the way, Joel's next challenge will be Fluminense. Next Thursday, the Fla-Flu match will decide the fate of the two clubs in the Brasileirão: for Fla, it's worth escaping the relegation zone, for Flu, the feeling of still being in the competition.
Return to the red-black nation
Duda, who played for Fla in 2004, is back in Gávea to play in the State and National Championships.
Eduardo Vieira
Point guard Duda is in his second stint at Gávea
Flamengo's main basketball signing for the 2007/08 season, wing/point guard Duda Machado is excited about the possibility of fighting for titles wearing the jersey of his beloved club.
"I'm a true Flamengo fan. I'll be playing for the Fla-Flu (soccer) tournament, and I've never hidden that fact. If I left Brasília, the current Brazilian champion, it's because I believe in the group Flamengo has assembled this season. They're excellent players and, above all, my friends. Everyone gets along well on and off the court," said Duda.
Fan favorite\ In 2004, he led Flamengo to a runner-up finish in the National Championship. And he became an idol of the Red-Black Nation. He humbly considers himself just another player in the supportive team being assembled by coach Paulo Chupeta.\
"I don't see myself as a fan favorite. I know the fans love me, and I'm very happy to be able to play for Flamengo. The new players aren't as well-known, but they have all the potential to build a competitive team. Of course, I'm a little anxious about my return to the Flamengo jersey."
Accustomed to the renowned Oscar, Gema, Caio, Pipoka and Ratto, the red-black fans are waiting for the first opportunity to get in touch with the new reinforcements: point guard Hélio, forwards Fernando and Amiel and pivots Wagner and Alírio.
For Duda, it's a matter of time.
"The fans will soon realize the value of these players. Amiel, for example, has everything it takes to succeed at Flamengo. He's a gritty guy with a lot of determination," said Duda, who will revive a partnership with Fred.
Duda comments on success
Despite the brilliance of his own career, Duda knows that comparisons with his brother Marcelinho are inevitable.
"I've always tried to be like Duda. This kind of comparison was common when I was starting my senior career. Now, everyone recognizes my worth," said the winger, who won the South American championship with the national team in 2006.
His family has a basketball tradition. His brother Ricardo is a physiotherapist for Flamengo, his father Renê was a Fluminense idol in the 70s, and his uncle Sérgio Macarrão shone for both Tricolor and Botafogo.
"I'm happy to work at the same club as Ricardo. I know she's an excellent professional, and everyone at Flamengo praises her work as a physiotherapist."
Maria Helena Braun
By Letter
Phenomena
Two "small big details" caught my attention during last weekend's Brazilian Championship round. The first was on Saturday. In their current predicament, second-to-last in the standings, discredited, understaffed, and ridiculed by their opponents, Flamengo's fans manage to pack no less than thirty-five thousand fans into the Maracanã. What passion! My God...where does so much selflessness come from? Perhaps from adversity itself. I've already said here that, in practice, the more a team loses, the more the fan base grows. It was like that during Corinthians' twenty-year drought, it was like that with Botafogo, who went two decades without a title, it was like that with Atlético Mineiro, who broke revenue records in Serie B, and it was also like that with Grêmio's frenzied fans, who multiplied like avalanches. Could this be the embodiment of a Nelson Rodrigues maxim: the more you get hit, the more you like it? Well...where this phenomenon comes from is of little importance. The great thing about this is realizing that football and its passions have the power to bring back from the ashes what seems to have been erased. Chico and Milton would certainly create a musical backdrop: "What could it be that gives me, that moves me inside...".
O Dia
Fla x Flu: Just look at the resume
Joel Santana says numbers show he's better than Renato as a coach
Marluci Martins
Rio - “Are you, as a football coach, better than Renato Gaúcho?”
The question, in the middle of yesterday's press conference, caught Joel Santana off guard. He sighed and pouted his modesty:
"You just have to look at the numbers there. As a coach, he has to polish my clipboard."
Joel's drawing board is already polished for tonight's Fla-Flu match, as is his tongue. The Flamengo coach's speech yesterday was one of someone who didn't like hearing Renato Gaúcho mock his playing days. So much so that Joel isn't even thinking about giving his former player a warm hug later today, before the match at Maracanã.
"A hug? Is that really necessary? Am I going to wish him good luck? That would be too ironic, wouldn't it? We greet each other from afar..." he said evasively.
On Tuesday, when Renato Gaúcho made his provocations, Joel tried to be as cordial as possible. But yesterday, upon returning from Teresópolis, he learned what the Fluminense coach had actually said.
"I don't plan on responding. He has that kind of irony, but if he won so many titles as a player, you have to look at the other side of the story too. Just look at how many titles I won as a coach. I'm not taking a dig, no... Renato will learn a lot over time. I don't think I meant to cause trouble. It was a healthy joke," Joel said, trying to hide his displeasure.
Despite biting and blowing in his response to the Fluminense coach, Joel Santana made it clear that he also feels responsible for winning the Copa do Brasil, the only title won by Renato Gaúcho to date as a coach.
"I left the team almost ready, more organized. So much so that, since I left, Fluminense has been reaping nothing but good results. Deep down, I think I left a good legacy there," he stated.
One of Joel's successful bets at Laranjeiras was on midfielder Thiago Neves, a standout player for the Tricolor. It was Joel who brought the former Paraná player to Vegalta Sendai in Japan and then to Fluminense.
"I got it right again. I gave Fluminense a number 10. Thiago Neves has good finishing, both with his right and left foot," said Joel, who will face his youngster tonight.
Inflamed by Renato's provocations, the Flamengo coach vows that a victory won't feel like revenge. Winning, for Joel, has a different meaning: "Flamengo needs to get out of the relegation zone soon."
Roger: Past that doesn't intimidate
The player guarantees that he will face his former club as if it were any other opponent.
Marluci Martins
Rio - While Joel Santana and Renato Gaúcho, former friends, are already exchanging barbs, the same cannot be said of Roger. On the eve of his reunion with the fans of the club that launched him, the fan left Gávea yesterday without any sign of tension or anxiety about the Fla-Flu matchup at Maracanã.
He left in a hurry, as he would be a witness for Joel Santana, who was on trial for ordering his players to beat up Santos players in the match at Vila Belmiro on the 5th. It was through the club's press office that Roger sent his statements about his feelings on the eve of the derby. The surprise: he didn't care.
"For me, it doesn't make any difference whether I face Fluminense or another team. I've faced my former club a few times before, and I never saw it as something special, something that gave me extra motivation, much less intimidated me in any way," Roger said coolly.
Two years ago, playing for Corinthians, the club with which he would win the Brazilian title, Roger faced Fluminense on two occasions: in Mogi Mirim, Corinthians won 1-0, and, in the return leg, another 2-0 victory, in Volta Redonda.
For Flamengo fans, the only reason Flamengo won't be a classic like any other is because Flamengo, in the relegation zone of the Brasileirão, always needs to enter the field as if it were competing in a final.
"It's going to be an important match, of course, because it's a derby, and we need a win to improve our position in the championship. Flamengo needs to win, and that's all I'll be thinking about when I step onto the field," said the former Tricolor player, already accustomed to the clash.
OBINA ON THE BANK?
Coach Joel Santana was mysterious, but did not rule out the possibility of leaving striker Obina on the bench today.
"In a Fla-Flu match, anything can happen," the coach said evasively. "Do they have a set lineup? Our team is ready too," Joel simply said, keeping the bench in suspense.
Paulo Sérgio, a Fla-Flus winner
At 18, Paulo Sérgio, who will play today, experiences the anxiety of someone who has never played in a Fla-Flu match in the professional ranks. And, at the same time, he has the confidence of someone who has always made life difficult for his famous rival in the youth divisions.
Two years ago, while still in the youth team, Paulo Sérgio scored all three goals in a 3-1 victory in the first leg of the Guanabara Cup final. He defeated Fluminense not only in this competition, but also in the Macaé Cup and the São Lourenço Cup, scoring twice again in the final against the Tricolores.
"I can't say that Fluminense is my regular customer, but I know I'm on their list. I hope to continue there, now in the professional ranks," he said.
He will indeed start in the derby. Flamengo failed yesterday in its attempt to obtain a stay of execution in the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) for Souza, who is suspended from playing for assaulting Tcheco in the match against Grêmio.
Paulo Sérgio is confident. "A victory in a derby is always a blessing. If I can score a goal, even better. Who doesn't love playing a derby, especially at the Maracanã, with the wonderful Flamengo fans?" said the player, who has already faced Botafogo this year.
At the training camp, Paulo Sérgio is preparing for the game later today. He's even studying how he should play alongside Argentine Maxi Biancucci: "I can change my characteristics, yes. Playing with him, I'll be more consistent."
Sports Gazette
Fluminense and Flamengo face off for the future\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Victorious in last weekend's round, Fluminense and Flamengo are still far from achieving a campaign that pleases their fans in the Brazilian Championship. Looking for another positive result and a better standing, the two teams will take to the field this Thursday at 20:30 pm (Brasília time) at Maracanã, in a postponed match from the eighth round. So far, Fluminense is doing better and sits in eleventh place with 26 points from 18 games. Flamengo, on the other hand, having played only 15 times, is second to last with 15 points. Like every classic, this Thursday's Fla-Flu match was also subject to provocation in the days leading up to the match. Despite praising Joel Santana's work as a coach, coach Renato Gaúcho took a dig at his opponent, saying that Joel won few titles as a player. The Flamengo captain preferred to avoid controversy, but he didn't hold back when asked about the fact that Renato also uses a clipboard in his work. "He saw me using it, and people tend to copy what's good," Joel Santana said.
Amid the provocative exchanges, the two teams are also looking to settle things in the Brazilian Championship. Joel Santana, who will coach Flamengo's fourth game, says he sees improvement in his team. "The team is starting to achieve something I like, which is absorbing important points in my view. The marking is improving, and we have more attacking speed. Little by little, we'll improve," commented the coach.
For this Thursday's match, Flamengo will be without midfielder Renato Augusto, who suffered a muscle injury and was ruled out by the medical department. This gives Argentine Maximiliano Biancucchi his first start since arriving at Gávea. "The Fla-Flu match is very well-known in Argentina. When a player wears a Flamengo jersey, he's already obliged to be motivated, but the derby always has an added flavor," stated Maxi.
Up front, Joel Santana is keeping Obina sidelined to regain his ideal weight. Since Leonardo, who had even requested a second spell, didn't perform well against Náutico, the coach decided to bring on young Paulo Sérgio in the position if Flamengo can't secure a suspension for Souza by game time.
For Fluminense, coach Renato Gaúcho truly recognizes the derby as his team's moment of affirmation in the Brazilian Championship. For him, it's a gift to have another first-round game to close the gap on the Brasileirão's top flight. "Fluminense's goal is to compete for and win the Brazilian title, and I've been saying that from the beginning, even though it's been repeated. Therefore, you can bet that the game against Flamengo is key for us, as it would facilitate our mission in the second round of defeating Flamengo this Thursday," said Renato Gaúcho.
Fluminense's players believe the best way to get a positive result against Flamengo is to leave no room for their opponents. "Flamengo will try to impose itself because it needs a winning streak to escape the relegation zone. Therefore, we will have to impose ourselves first, attacking consistently, but taking the necessary precautions to avoid surprises. Taking the lead will also be crucial," said midfielder Thiago Neves.
For this match, Tricolor returns to a 3-5-2 formation, with defenders Thiago Silva and Roger available again after serving suspensions in the 3-0 victory over Santos. The right-back position remains unavailable. This is because starter Carlinhos is recovering from a torn left thigh muscle and will be sidelined for about a month, and immediate backup Rafael was ruled out due to severe pain in his right thigh. As a result, the coach will likely be forced to improvise with defensive midfielder Arouca in the position, as he did in training this week. Maurício will come into midfield.
Joel Santana is acquitted in trial at the STJD
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Coach Joel Santana escaped punishment at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). In a trial held this Wednesday, the coach was unanimously acquitted. He was charged after being caught on television cameras asking his players to "beat him up" if their opponents "clowned around" in the match against Santos on August 5th.\ Indicted by prosecutor Marcelo Jucá, Joel Santana was tried under Article 279 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD): publicly inciting the commission of an infraction. The coach risked a punishment of up to two years.\
During his testimony, the Flamengo coach expressed "regret and shame" for his actions. Furthermore, he stated that his behavior during the Vila Belmiro match was unbecoming of a professional with over 20 years of experience.
Midfielder Roger testified for the defense in Joel Santana's trial. The athlete revealed that the coach's words are normal in soccer. He also noted that none of the players heard the orders due to the stadium noise.
With the result, Joel Santana is free to carry out his work at Flamengo, who are desperately fighting to escape the bottom of the Brazilian Championship standings.
Flamengo fails to obtain suspensive effect for Souza\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's attempt to secure a stay of execution for striker Souza, who was sent off against Grêmio, failed. On Wednesday afternoon, the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) denied the request made by the Flamengo fans, who had hoped to release the player for the derby against Fluminense, this Thursday, at Maracanã. Unable to count on Souza, coach Joel Santana has already confirmed that young Paulo Sérgio will be Maximiliano Biancucchi's partner in the derby. Leonardo, who started against Náutico, will be on the bench.
If there are no last-minute problems, Flamengo will enter the field with the following formation: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, Fábio Luciano and Juan; Cristian, Rômulo, Ibson and Roger; Maximiliano Biancucchi and Paulo Sérgio.
Roger wants to use the classic to win over the red-black fans\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Midfielder Roger has always been a controversial player. Ever since he began to shine in Fluminense's youth academy, he has sparked controversy and maintained a love-hate relationship with the fans. Now, at Flamengo, he aims to emulate the players who shone with both shirts. In the history of the two clubs, perhaps the greatest example was Argentine striker Doval, a technical and hard-working player who was adored by Flamengo fans. In 1976, involved in a swap deal with Fluminense by president Francisco Horta, Doval also earned the respect and admiration of the Tricolor fans by winning the state title, including scoring the winning goal, and becoming the competition's top scorer.
And it's in this Thursday's Fla-Flu match at Maracanã that Roger, at 29, intends to show the true path he intends to take in his career. In Brazilian football's most famous derby, the midfielder aims to help his new club win and solidify its advantage over its rival. In 361 matches, Flamengo has achieved 129 wins, while Tricolor has 116 wins and 116 draws.
Roger maintains that he has Flamengo roots and that it was at Flamengo that he took his first steps in football, but he knows he needs to prove on the field that he can become an idol to Brazil's biggest fan base. His experience at Corinthians started well, and he even won the championship in 2005 alongside Carlito Tevez, but the following year he returned to inconsistency, appearing more at social events than on the field.
Released by Carpegiani, Roger was given a new chance at Flamengo. So far, his best moment has been the perfect pass that Leonardo Moura turned into a goal in the hard-fought victory over Náutico.
A move Roger intends to repeat many times with the red-and-black jersey. All he hopes is to convince Flamengo's board to pay $500 for his federation rights at the end of December and transform his love affair with the fans into a lasting passion.
BalloonSport
Roger: 'We know Joel's character'
Midfielder celebrates coach's acquittal, as he could be benched for Thursday's Fla-Flu match
A witness in coach Joel Santana's trial, midfielder Roger was relieved by the Superior Court of Sports Justice's sentence against the Flamengo manager. The coach was unanimously acquitted, and the player's testimony helped Flamengo's defense discredit the coach's actions, which were caught on television cameras ordering his team to "get" the opposing team.
Roger came to the coach's defense shortly after the trial ended.
"We know our coach's nature. He would never order our team to beat the opposing team," says Roger, who will play against Fluminense for the first time, representing Flamengo.
Joel was indicted by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) under Article 279 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (publicly inciting an infraction). The coach could have faced a one- to two-year suspension. However, he was unanimously acquitted.
Fla asks for protection from the Military Police in São Paulo
The board receives information from the Rio police and wants tranquility in the capital of São Paulo.
Flamengo's board of directors sent a letter to São Paulo Governor José Serra and the Second Riot Police Battalion warning São Paulo authorities of possible retaliation by Palmeiras fans. The club is requesting protection for its delegation and fans attending next Sunday's Brazilian Championship match at Palestra Itália.
According to the document submitted by Flamengo, the information was gathered by the Rio de Janeiro military police. The motive for the retaliation was the death of a Palmeiras fan last year. Reports indicate that Flamengo fans and players are at risk of violence from Palmeiras fans.
The document sent to the São Paulo authorities was signed by president Marcio Braga, who is concerned about the physical integrity of the red-black team's players and fans.
Joel celebrates acquittal at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD)
The red-black coach says he had a stressful week because of the trial
After the trial at the STJD, Joel Santana announces by cell phone that he was acquitted
Coach Joel Santana breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing the ruling from the Superior Court of Sports Justice this Wednesday in downtown Rio de Janeiro. Indicted by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) under Article 279 (publicly inciting the commission of an infraction), the coach was unanimously acquitted by the auditors and will be able to lead the team in this Thursday's classic against Fluminense at 20:30 p.m. at Maracanã.
"It was the first time this has happened. We feel sad, disappointed, but only those who are part of football know what it's like. This situation was very stressful, and I hope I never go through another similar situation. These things happen in football," says the coach, visibly relieved by the sentence.
Upset by the repercussions of the case, Joel was thrilled with the sentence and once again defended himself, stating that he is not a violent coach.
"Unfortunately, the words came out, but I was tried and acquitted. Now it's time to think about Flamengo's next game. Those were words I would never say. I'm not a violent coach and never will be. I deserved this acquittal," the Flamengo manager analyzes.
Joel was judged for his remarks in the coaching area during the match against Santos at Vila Belmiro. On that occasion, the coach was caught on television telling his team to "get" the opposing team's players.
Maxi and Paulo Sérgio in Fla's attack
Argentine and red-black revelation will have the mission of scoring goals in the classic
Marcio Iannacca
Paulo Sérgio will start against Flu
Faced with problems with Flamengo's attacking lineup, coach Joel Santana ended up building the attack with the best options available at the club's current level. As a result, Maxi Biancucchi and Paulo Sérgio, a youngster who came through the Rubro-Negro youth system, will be tasked with scoring the team's goals.
In Thursday's derby against Fluminense, he will be without Souza, who is suspended by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), and Obina, who is out of the team to regain fitness. Furthermore, Leonardo's performance in the match against Náutico was disappointing.
"Has he already picked Fluminense? Then I won't pick my team. But there's no big secret. That's what you saw in training," says the coach.
On Wednesday, however, Joel didn't lead any activities that would reveal the lineup he would use in the derby. In Tuesday's training session in Teresópolis, Flamengo took the field with the following formation: Bruno, Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson, and Roger; Paulo Sérgio and Maxi.
Mengão takes on Manchester United in the under-19s
Teams compete for a place in the final of the Malaysia International Tournament in the category
Flamengo's opponent in the Malaysia International Tournament semifinals has been determined, in the under-19 category. Manchester United defeated Barcelona 1-0 this Wednesday in Kuala Lumpur and will now face the Rio de Janeiro club in the final.
The match takes place this Friday at 7:45 a.m. Brasília time. In the other semifinal, Milan awaits the winner of Inter Milan and Juventus, who play this Wednesday.
Coach Adílio's team has already played four matches in the competition: three wins and one draw: 1-1 against Milan, 2-1 against Arsenal, and 1-0 against Ajax. In the quarterfinals, they beat PSV 1-0.
Manchester's campaign has three wins and one defeat: 1-0 against Porto, 3-2 against Boca Juniors, a 2-1 defeat against Internazionale and, in the quarterfinals, a 1-0 victory over Barcelona.
Throw
Joel Santana is tried and acquitted by the STJD
Coach says he is ashamed and sorry and is cleared of ordering players to 'beat them up'
Joel could be on the bench against Fluminense (Credit: Paulo Sérgio)
LANCEPRESS!
Coach Joel Santana was acquitted by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) for having been caught on television cameras ordering his players to "beat up" Santos players in the game against Flamengo in the Brazilian Championship.
In his testimony, Joel stated that he was ashamed and remorseful. He noted that the team only committed 15 fouls during the entire match, and the players couldn't hear him over the crowd's noise.
Supporter Roger, who played in that match, testified on behalf of the Flamengo coach. He said Joel's words were normal in football and reiterated that none of the players heard the order because of the noise in the stadium.
The club's lawyer, Michel Assef, also showed a document in which all Flamengo players stated they had not heard Joel's words. He also read a statement from Santos coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, saying he had heard nothing and that such words were used to instill more commitment and determination in the team on the field.
Rapporteur José Teixeira Fernandes and auditors Luis Tavares, Luis Nicolini, Fabrício Dazzi, and section president Marco Antônio unanimously acquitted the red-and-black coach. This means Joel will be able to start on the bench for this Thursday's derby against Fluminense.
"This kind of statement happens in football. I was tried and deservedly acquitted," Joel concluded.
Fla x Flu of rehabilitation moves Maraca
The Rio de Janeiro classic was postponed due to the Rio de Janeiro Pan American Games.
Rafael Ximenes and Ricardo Napolitano
Rehabilitation is the word that defines exactly what the classic between Fluminense and Flamengo, this Thursday, means for both teams. The game will be played at Maracanã, at 20:30 pm, and marks the reunion of the 1995 state champions: Renato Gaúcho and Joel Santana. The Tricolor coach will try to secure three points to finish the first half of the season among the top seven. The Rubro-Negro coach, meanwhile, hopes to breathe a little more and earn points to escape the relegation zone.
The match is valid for the 11th round of the Brasileirão, which was postponed due to the closure of Maracanã for the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro.
In Laranjeiras, the victory over Santos in the final round brought peace back to the Fluminense players, and the group regained faith in winning the title. During the week, coach Renato Gaúcho reiterated that there are still many games left and that many teams will "limp along" when the pressure increases. Fluminense, already assured of a Libertadores berth, would play more relaxed.
"My team still has a chance. The Brazilian Championship is long, and when things get tough, a lot of people will lose important points at home," he said.
With right-backs Carlinhos and Rafael absent, Renato Gaúcho will have to improvise and is likely to field a 3-5-2 formation. Arouca would play as a right winger. Renato believes the match will be evenly matched:
"Just because Flamengo is in the relegation zone doesn't mean Fluminense is the favorite. The teams are in different situations, but when they step onto the Maracanã field, the story changes. Flamengo thrives in these moments. It's going to be a great game, and it should be decided by the small details."
After reuniting with their fans in a 2-1 victory over Náutico last Saturday, Flamengo faces Fluminense in a crowd-pleasing derby. Coach Joel Santana praised the team's performance in the victory against Timbu, but he knows he still needs to improve significantly to escape the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship.
To do this, Natalino calls on Flamengo fans.
"The derby will be great, our fans will be there and will certainly cheer us on. We have to win, and I'm sure this support can help us a lot," he concluded.
Flamengo traveled to Granja Comary in Teresópolis to seek greater unity and concentration for the derby. During training there, Joel fielded Paulo Sérgio and Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, who will get his first start for the Red-Blacks.
However, Souza could still be in the lead if the suspension is approved by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). The striker is serving a suspension for assaulting Grêmio supporter Tcheco. Obina, on the other hand, is expected to remain sidelined while he regains fitness.
Otherwise, the lineup is the same as the one that beat the Pernambuco team, with young Rômulo in midfield and Fábio Luciano in defense. The Flamengo captain felt muscle pain due to inactivity, but he's confirmed for the Fla-Flu match and will make his debut in the derby.
"It has a special flavor. It's the kind of game that changes the week ahead, and whoever wins will have a happier week. Fluminense has a great team, but we need to win," said the defender.
Flamengo asks for protection for the delegation in SP
Club president sent letter to São Paulo authorities
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo president Márcio Braga sent a letter to the commander of the Second Riot Police Battalion and to São Paulo Governor José Serra after being warned by the Rio Military Police that both the fans and the team delegation could suffer some sort of attack from Palmeiras fans in São Paulo. The threat stems from the killing of a Palmeiras fan by Flamengo supporters last year.
The match between Flamengo and Palmeiras will be this Sunday, at Parque Antártica Stadium, in the capital of São Paulo.
Renato Gaúcho sees the strength of Flamengo and its fans
Coach remembers that the red-black team improves in adversity
LANCEPRESS!
No one disputes Flamengo's immense potential, not even the coach of its next opponent. This is especially true when it comes to the club's greatest ally: its fans. Fluminense's Renato Gaúcho recalls the Gávea club's ability to bounce back when things get tough:
"We're going to face an opponent that thrives on adversity. Just look at the support the fans gave last Saturday, when nearly 40 went to Maracanã," the manager told the Tricolor's official website.
Renato Gaúcho changes his speech and praises Joel
Flu coach leaves the tensions aside and praises his friend
LANCEPRESS!
After the provocations he made to coach Joel Santana, last Tuesday, Renato Gaúcho changed his speech and praised the work of his opponent this Thursday, at Maracanã.
"I have a lot of respect for Flamengo and Joel. I learned a lot from him. Joel was nervous at the time, but I don't think he meant any harm," he admitted.
Last Tuesday, Renato Gaúcho said he didn't remember any of Joel's titles as a player. The Flamengo coach responded by saying Renato still had a lot to learn.