THE GLOBE
On the field, a rivalry beyond starters and reserves
Fla and Botafogo meet again after the controversial final of the Guanabara Cup
LÚCIO FLÁVIO (right) trains for the classic: Botafogo wants revenge
RENATO AUGUSTO fights for the ball with Juan during Flamengo training
When Flamengo and Botafogo take the field today at 18:10 p.m. at the Maracanã for the fourth round of the Taça Rio, it will be impossible not to recall the Taça Guanabara final. The circumstances are quite different, but the last meeting between the two rivals left its mark that will be clear today.
Winning that final has prompted Flamengo to focus, once and for all, on the Copa Libertadores. Today, coach Joel Santana will field a reserve team, reinforced by just three starters: Leonardo Moura and Toró, suspended for the South American competition, and goalkeeper Bruno. A bold move, especially considering the prevailing sentiment at Botafogo.
Botafogo tries to break\ four-year rule\
Losing the Guanabara Cup final less than a month ago was a blow the club is still trying to come to terms with. The red cards of Zé Carlos and Túlio and the penalty awarded to Flamengo are crucial incidents that still spark protests at Botafogo. The club complains about the refereeing and the luck that caused the decisive ball to hit the post in the last minute. For Botafogo, winning today by the highest possible score is a matter of honor, although coach Cuca and his players try to downplay the weight of the match. Cuca, however, sees the rivalry between the teams growing and predicts that the matches between the teams will go down in history:
"The rivalry is related to the current situation of both clubs. Just think of other rivalries from different eras, like those between Palmeiras and Corinthians, or Vasco and Flamengo. Botafogo and Flamengo have played great games that will remain in the memory of many."
But for history to be favorable to the black and white team, Cuca's team needs to break a certain mold. Botafogo hasn't beaten Flamengo in four years. Since the black and white's 1-0 victory in the 2004 Rio Cup, there have been 15 matches, with eight draws and seven Flamengo wins.
The recent record has increased the red-black advantage in the history of the clashes: today, there are 112 victories for Flamengo against 99 for Botafogo, in addition to 102 draws.
In Gávea, Joel Santana has reason to see another ingredient in today's classic. In 1997, he was Botafogo's coach who decided to field a reserve team to face Flamengo in that state championship. After all, his team was already in the Guanabara Cup final. Not even Joel himself was on the bench. That role fell to Valinhos. A completely discredited team defeated Flamengo, which featured players like Romário, Sávio, Athirson, and Mancuso, 1-0.
Joel wants the win even with the reserves
Joel, who will now lead Flamengo's reserves, has the chance to give the red-and-black fans a taste of revenge, but avoids comparisons.
"It's been 11 years, that's a long time. I don't even think about it. The game is important because of all the engagement it generates. These are two clubs with a lot of tradition. We need to have the entire squad in the Libertadores, and for that reason, we're going to rest some players. But the game is very important to us. If we win, we'll almost qualify for the Taça Rio semifinals," says Joel.
Referee: Marcelo de Souza Pinto.
BROADCAST: Premiere and Rádios Globo and CBN
The generation that changed the history of the classic
Júnior talks about the team that ended the black and white dominance and asks for peace in today's game
JUNIOR CELEBRATES his goal in the first game of the 92 Brazilian Championship final, against Botafogo: Fla 3-0
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
When Júnior was preparing to take his first steps into the world of soccer, a Flamengo vs. Botafogo match was a cause for concern in Gávea. The full-back and future idol debuted for Flamengo in 1974 and quickly became a pillar of the greatest team in Flamengo's history. That generation, inheriting trauma and a historic disadvantage, took it upon themselves to rewrite the history of the classic.
In the 60s, Botafogo built more than an enviable advantage in head-to-head matches. With the greatest team in its history, it won remarkable finals and didn't hold back on the jokes. Goalkeeper Manga, for example, said that facing Flamengo was a "sure thing." To make matters worse, 1972 would be marked by the 6-0 rout inflicted by the black and whites, on Flamengo's anniversary.
"Naturally, there was a desire to beat Botafogo. We grew up in a time when Flamengo was a regular. And whenever we played, there was a white banner in the stands commemorating the 6-0 victory. That was an added incentive. But what we felt was the desire to win. It wasn't a feeling of revenge or hatred. We just wanted to relieve the Flamengo fans, who had suffered for many years. No one thought about violence; we wanted to win by playing football, in a sporting way," recalls Júnior.
The day Flamengo returned the 6-0 defeat in 1981 was etched in Júnior's memory:
"We didn't go onto the field thinking about getting even, about getting revenge. We were aware that if we did that, we'd lose sight of our ultimate goal, which was winning. We'd become impatient and anxious," says Júnior. "But when we went into the locker room winning 4-0, things changed. We felt it was our chance to give a gift to the fans, to the club. And the biggest encouragement was Zico, the way he spoke to us. Not even in Tokyo have I seen the man's veins bulge as much as they did during that halftime break. Then we returned to the field and made it 6-0."
Rivalry, a will to win, a commitment to the fans' feelings. None of this, according to Júnior, even approached a violent sentiment. The former player, who holds a record 857 appearances for Flamengo, delivers a message to the players and fans who will be at Maracanã today.
"It's important to disarm the crowd, the players. I hope Botafogo doesn't take the field full of hatred, thinking of revenge. What greater revenge could there be than winning the Rio Cup and the State Championship? Botafogo has been playing great football since 2007 and doesn't need feelings like this to be strong," says Júnior. "When we won the Copa Libertadores, we always said: take a slap in the face, swallow the toad, but secure a ticket to play in Japan. This is the best revenge."
Besides returning the 6-0 defeat, Júnior and Zico's generation would lead Flamengo to overtake Botafogo in head-to-head matches in the 80s. With both stars in Italy in 1985, Flamengo delivered another remarkable thrashing of the black and white: 6-1 in the Brazilian Championship. Back in Brazil, Júnior participated in Flamengo's greatest triumph over Botafogo, winning the 1992 Brazilian Championship final.
NATIONAL BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
In the Men's National Basketball Championship, Flamengo, tournament leader with 12 wins in 12 games, hosts Inesul/Londrina (PR), today, at noon, in Gávea.
Fernando Calazans
Questions
How's the rivalry between Botafogo and Flamengo going? I thought the intensified competition after the recent GB Cup final had made the derby the most heated in Rio de Janeiro football today. But no. According to Globo.com's poll, Flamengo and Vasco still hold a considerable advantage. As of this writing, 44 percent to 31 percent.
I found it strange. I found it strange because Vasco, despite its strong run in the Rio Cup, is a club that, for some time now, has won little or nothing. I thought it had momentarily fallen behind. But it didn't, thanks to its strong fan base. It continues to star in Rio's biggest rivalry with Flamengo, at least according to Globo.com regulars: Flamengo and Vasco; Vasco and Flamengo.
Flamengo vs. Botafogo is next, and it will be tonight's derby at the Maracanã. But it's a half-hearted derby, in which Flamengo, already qualified for the championship final and tormented by the Libertadores, will compete with a mixed team.
Incidentally, the classics in this championship, due to the regulations, the schedule, and the weakness of the smaller teams, tend to turn into friendlies, as I've noted here more than once. And, as Renato Maurício Prado has already observed, the entire championship could turn into a four-legged tie between the big teams, period.
Is it because of this weakness of the kids that the big shots are playing so well, like Vasco and Botafogo played in the middle of the week, or is it because Botafogo and Vasco are really good?
Good question, isn't it?
Botafogo is playing well with starters, reserves or mixed teams, regardless.
What does this mean? It means, at least to me, that Cuca deserves congratulations. Especially because, as everyone has observed, the team stands out for its set plays that others lack. And these set plays bring together not only the players considered starters, but the entire squad. Other teams lose their consistency when they have to field mixed teams or reserves. Be it Flamengo, Fluminense, or Vasco.
Does this mean Botafogo is the clear favorite today against Flamengo? No. It doesn't mean anything.
For a very simple reason that harks back to the previous question. Does Botafogo play well because they're Botafogo, or because Duque de Caxias is Duque de Caxias? Flamengo isn't Duque de Caxias, so we don't know if Cuca's well-rehearsed plays will have the same effect against Flamengo as they did against Duque de Caxias.
These are the questions, the doubts, the interrogations that this championship offers us.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Duel on the edge of the field
Adherents of distinct work philosophies, Joel and Cuca have their teams in the palm of their hands.
Gabriel Branco and Thiago Bokel
On the field, today's derby may not seem as appealing due to the red-and-black team's reserve lineup, but off the field, there will once again be a great duel between coaches Cuca and Joel Santana. They have different styles of managing their teams, as well as completely opposite paths in football. On the sidelines, tradition and innovation will collide.
Beyond their working methods, there are other factors that set them apart. Known for his conservative style, his results-driven, title-winning style, Joel, despite having good campaigns, hasn't reached the same level as Cuca, even though he's never lifted a trophy in his career: unanimous approval.
To achieve this, he wowed the club's fans and critics with a highly offensive, courageous style of play, sometimes bordering on irresponsibility. Three forwards and a false third defender, a role played by the left-back. This is the formation Cuca never wavers from, a unique and efficient style. Joel achieved this efficiency through his midfield, packed with defensive midfielders who constantly mark and give the full-backs the freedom to be highly attacking.
And today's match will be no different. While Botafogo will have two defensive midfielders who frequently come forward, create plays, and score goals, Flamengo will have four, with a playmaker and just one striker.
One group, one family. Even with so many things separating them, they both have one thing in common: a fatherly attitude, always willing to listen to their subordinates and help them at any time. Their teams are typically known for their family atmosphere, always united, without vanity or stardom.
Each with their own unique characteristics, the two will have to apply everything they know about their methods to emerge victorious today. The classic will be a showdown between Joel's tradition and Cuca's constant innovation. (GB)
Renato Augusto: 'It will be a decisive game'
As much as he tries to hide it, Botafogo is an opponent that brings back fond memories for Renato Augusto (pictured). In last year's Campeonato Carioca final, he scored the goal that sent the match to a penalty shootout. Everyone already knows the final chapter of this story. Now, once again, the rival plays a major role in the midfielder's career.
This will be Renato's first start since a facial fracture that sidelined him for nearly two months. And he's determined to seize this opportunity, as it could guarantee him a spot in the starting lineup against Nacional-URU next Wednesday, a crucial match for Flamengo in the Copa Libertadores.
"I'm really looking forward to doing well and securing my place against Nacional. It's always great to play in a derby, especially this one, which brings back good memories," said the player, who reiterated the importance of the South American competition for the club: "The Libertadores is everyone's dream here. It will be a decisive match, and no one wants to miss it," he concluded. Midfielder Jaílton, meanwhile, wants to prove in this derby that he can start again.
"I'm part of one of the strongest squads in Brazilian football. This rotation in my position was expected, but I know I have what it takes to be a starter, and I can only demonstrate that by working hard," said Jaílton. (TB)
Gavilán debuts in classics
Even with the experience of having played in European football and the Gre-Nal double, as well as having competed in several Libertadores, Paraguayan defensive midfielder Diego Gavilán will experience a special feeling today. He will play his first derby in the red-and-black jersey. Despite knowing that the stadium won't be as packed as it was in the Guanabara Cup final, the midfielder doesn't hide his excitement.
"A derby is always special, even more so because it's my first here in Rio. They're fun matches to play because they're different from the others. Regardless of Flamengo having a reserve team, whoever comes in will be representing a club with a lot of tradition, so dedication is a must," Gavilán warned.
The player, who joined Flamengo earlier this year on a risky contract, knows he has little time to demonstrate his abilities. He still had to wait almost two months to make his debut because he was serving a suspension imposed by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). Because of this, Gavilán lamented being out for so long, even though he was already physically fit.
"I'm confident in my ability, and with the sequence of games I'll get into rhythm. I was doing well before, but Joel decided I wasn't playing. I'm going to approach this match very seriously to leave Flamengo in an even more comfortable position in the table," promised the defensive midfielder, who will be making only his third start since arriving at Flamengo. (TB)
Fla makes agreement with Petrobras
Last Friday, Flamengo's board managed to resolve a problem that had been plaguing everyone at the club. With January and February salaries overdue, Flamengo's leadership was awaiting the signing of a new sponsorship contract with Petrobras, which will bring R$16,2 million to the club's coffers this year.
It was also agreed that the state-owned company will pay half of the quota (R$8 million) in the coming days, with the remaining portion only being deposited starting in June. Now, to increase revenue, the board is already discussing with Nike, the club's sports equipment supplier, an increase in the annual fee, which is currently R$7,5 million. The club's intention is to double the amount paid by the American company.
In addition to these alternatives, the board is pinning its hopes on FlaTV, Flamengo's online channel. The expectation for this first year of the project is that at least 500 fans will subscribe to the R$12 monthly package. This would allow Flamengo to not only pay salaries on time but also retain its key players, such as midfielder Ibson, whose contract expires at the end of June. (TB)
Promise of a great game at Maracanã
Without forgetting the GB Cup final, Fogão faces Fla and tries to end a four-year streak
Gabriel Branco and Thiago Bokel
Obina also doesn't have good memories of last year, as he suffered a serious knee injury.
March 14, 2004. This date brings back both good and bad memories for Botafogo. It was on this very day that they secured their last victory over Flamengo. Today, when they step into the Maracanã stadium at 18:10 p.m. to face Flamengo in the Rio Cup, coach Cuca's team will have another opportunity to break this record. Besides the taboo, the classic will mark the meeting of two great friends: Renato Silva and Obina.
Besides the affection gained during the defender's time at Flamengo in 2006, these two characters share in common the resurgence of their careers in 2008. While Renato Silva tested positive for marijuana use last year, Obina tore ligaments in his left knee, an injury that sidelined him for five months. The period of inactivity led to both being challenged by both Flamengo and Flamengo.
Even with the controversy surrounding this year's Guanabara Cup final, the defender doesn't want Maracanã to turn into a battlefield.
"There's no war atmosphere, especially since I left some friends at Flamengo, like Diego, Rodrigo Arroz, and Obina, who's a great striker," the defender praised. Obina, for his part, feels the same way: "This business of joking around is with the fans; on the field, it's different. What happened is in the past," he assessed.
Good phase
The two also had a special week. Renato Silva learned that Schalke 04, from Germany, was interested in signing him. "I felt more valued because of this. I hope to respond in the derby," he said.
The darling of the Flamengo fans has renewed his contract with Fla until the end of 2010, and now he wants to show on the field that the board made the right decision in keeping him at the club: "This week was great for me. I will have the opportunity to show why they renewed my contract," he said.
Even with Joel Santana opting to field the reserves, the derby itself is already a draw, especially with the possibility of Botafogo ending the season or becoming even more of a laughingstock for the red-and-blacks. (TB)
Flamengo in search of the lucky number
The team welcomes Londrina seeking their 13th victory in 13 games in the National Basketball Championship.
Pedro Ivo Almeida
Winger Duda has been one of the main weapons of the Flamengo team in the National Basketball Championship
After winning another match in the National Basketball Championship, Flamengo returns to the court today to face Inesul/FEL/Londrina at 12 p.m. at the Gávea gymnasium. For Flamengo, it will be another game trying to maintain its undefeated streak, which has now lasted 16 matches. Meanwhile, its opponent, who defeated Iguaçu BC last Friday 81-56, is fighting for another victory to stay alive in the fight for one of the eight spots in the final stage of the competition.
Coach Paulo Chupeta commented on the fact that the Londrina team is fighting for one of these eight spots, and believes that this could bring a little more difficulty for his team in the match.
"These teams fighting for one of these last spots tend to play every game with ever-increasing dedication. We have to be constantly alert because they desperately need this victory, and although we're in a very good moment, a loss now could cause us a lot of damage. We can't afford to take chances; we have to be cautious and maintain the same level of performance as in recent matches to secure another victory," said the red-and-black coach.
In the first round of the competition, Flamengo won 82-65 playing away from home. Highlights included the duo Marcelinho and Duda, with 28 and 23 points respectively. Both players have been having an excellent season and were highly praised by the new coach of the men's national team, Moncho Monsalve, in the last match against Rio Claro, when the Rio de Janeiro team won, and once again the duo was the standout performer.
Preliminary\ Also in the tenth week of the National Men's Basketball Championship, Iguaçu BC hosts Ulbra/Rio Claro/ABCD Bandeirantes today at 10 a.m. at the Gávea gymnasium, in the preliminary match of the Flamengo match. The team from Baixada Fluminense, which has yet to win in the competition, does not yet know if it will be able to count on Rafinha, the team's top scorer, who is injured.\
Flamengo: Fred, Duda, Marcelinho, Coloneze and Alírio\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\
Londrina: Ricardinho, Guto, João, Léo and Little\ Coach: Saviani\
Location: Hélio Maurício Gymnasium, Gávea\ Time: 12 pm\
THE DAY
Enough controversy
Fla's Mistão takes on Alvinegro, who tries to end a four-year streak
Janir Junior and Raphael Roque
Rio - Flamengo cannot afford to ignore the derby against Botafogo, but it is difficult to deny that attention in Gávea is almost entirely focused on the decisive match against Nacional, on Wednesday, in the Copa Libertadores.
Therefore, coach Joel Santana decided to rest most of the starters from the match against the black and whites to focus on the continental tournament match. From the team that started against Botafogo in the Guanabara Cup final, only four players will be on the field today: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Jaílton, and Toró. However, the memories of the last duel have been swept under the rug.
The controversies have been left behind. The goal is to adopt a 'peace and love' style, and therefore, Souza, the target of Botafogo fans after the "crying" celebration, won't even be on the bench. However, in the last training session before the game, there was apprehension. The reserves won 3-1. "I don't care about this loss in the training session; I was just focused on the team that's going to play. They played very well. Of course, we had our flaws, but we know how to fix those," said Joel Santana.
Botafogo against writing
Botafogo, meanwhile, will enter at nearly full strength. The exception is defender Ferrero, who is suspended. Since Flamengo won the Guanabara Cup and is already in the state final, the only option left for Flamengo is to secure the Rio Cup title and attempt revenge at the end of April.
The match will also be an opportunity for Glorioso to break a streak. The team from General Severiano hasn't celebrated a victory over their rival in four years. The last triumph came in style, with a backheel goal from striker Alex Alves. Since then, there have been 15 matches, seven for the red-and-blacks and eight draws. Under coach Cuca, there have been seven matches (five draws and two for the red-and-blacks).
"This is a mark we can't deny. It exists and has been there since before I arrived. We have to go out on the field with the goal of winning, not to end this taboo. We have to continue on our path to the Rio Cup semifinals," said Cuca, who rejected the idea of revenge. "There's no revenge. It will be a tough game, as always. The last few matches have been like this, and we've never played worse than them," he emphasized.
Léo Moura: 'It's beautiful to see Maraca with children and women'
Janir Junior
Rio - Leonardo Moura arrives at Maracanã on derby day, believing in better days, days of peace. Among the thousands of Flamengo fans, the player increasingly sees women, children, and families wearing their jerseys, taking their flags, and heading to the stadium to cheer, shout "goal," and root for their favorite team's victory. For that scene to be repeated, Léo Moura makes his request:
"There needs to be peace in the stadiums between fans. It's beautiful to see Maracanã with children, women, everyone cheering for their teams, without fights."
And may the controversial Guanabara Cup final between Flamengo and Botafogo, with its red cards, the black-and-white lamentations, and Souza's tearful celebration the following week, remain just memories. "That's all in the past, the page is turned. There's no bad vibes about this match. The word revenge is out of our vocabulary," the right-back emphasizes.
Leonardo Moura, sent off in the first leg against Nacional in the Copa Libertadores in Montevideo, will be on the field today as he will serve a suspension in the return leg on Wednesday. He explains his red card:
“The Uruguayan player arrived late, when I was already tackling the play.”
For Leo Moura, what matters is the teasing between fans, only with sarcastic songs, never with fights and confusion.
“The fans singing to each other, joking around, that’s what counts,” says the player who, in 1997, played as a midfielder in Botafogo’s youth teams.
The chants from the stands, he says, won't affect the players: "The atmosphere will be peaceful, without fights or provocations. We're professionals, and we have to play football."
At the request of 'Ataque,' Leonardo Moura posed for a photo wearing a white shirt and dove, symbols of peace. At first, the player was apprehensive, but soon he was at ease and laughing at the dove's few flights. "Wait, let me hold her by the paws," the player joked, careful not to hurt her.
With each beat of the white dove's wings, Léo Moura broke into a broad smile. Like Botafogo's Zé Carlos, he donned the shirt to call for peace on the field and in the stadiums. After photos and a few awkward flights, the dove finally took flight to freedom.
She left the fullback behind, who repeated the gesture with his hands that symbolizes peace. Peace in the stadiums, between players and fans. This way, everyone wins.
PELENET
Flamengo and Botafogo face each other in a "mild" atmosphere
Alexandre Soares and Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\
With no sense of revenge, Flamengo and Botafogo face off this Sunday at 18:10 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium in a fourth-round match of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. The match will be memorable, as it will be the teams' reunion after the Taça Guanabara final, in which Flamengo defeated Botafogo 2-1 in a controversial match due to referee Marcelo de Lima Henrique's performance.
With the exception of suspended Argentine defender Ferrero, the team from General Severiano will be at full strength in this match. The team from Gávea will rest some of its starters and field a mixed lineup.
Aiming to qualify for the next stage of the Copa Libertadores da América, Rubro-Negro will rest its main athletes, except for right-back Leonardo Moura and the versatile Toró, both suspended in the South American competition, in addition to goalkeeper Bruno.
Coach Joel Santana made it clear that his focus is on achieving a positive result, despite opting for a second-string team. Although Flamengo is assured of a spot in the State Championship final, the coach wants his players focused on this match.
"Entering with a mixed team doesn't mean we're not interested in the game or the competition. The match is crucial for us to qualify, because if we win, we'll have 12 points and practically guarantee a place in the semifinals," he recalled.
At Botafogo, the same belief holds that this derby is a key game for their qualification hopes. "This game could send us to the semifinals. And who knows, maybe down the road, we'll face Flamengo again," emphasized coach Cuca, referring to the first-round final.
The only problem for Alvinegro in this matchup is in defense. Unable to count on the suspended Argentine Ferrero, Cuca hasn't confirmed his replacement. He has three options: André Luís, Edson, and Eduardo. The former should have the advantage, but the coach isn't giving his opponent any weapons.
"Regardless of who I put in, the sector will be well served. They have the same characteristics," commented the black and white commander, who will have a reinforcement in the midfield.
Midfielder Diguinho, who returns to the team after serving a two-game suspension by the Sports Justice Court (TJD-RJ), is confirmed alongside Túlio in the midfield.
However, what seems to make coach Cuca most uncomfortable is the fact that he hasn't beaten Flamengo since taking over Botafogo. In total, they've played seven games, with five draws and two losses.
"These taboos are part of football. If we get the three points, it will be a personal victory for me, but I won't celebrate as if it were a title," he concluded.
GLOBOESPORTE
Timemania: Timbu is the club of the week
The Pernambuco team is the third to be drawn in the 'Favorite Team' prize category.
The third Timemania drawing took place on Saturday night, March 15th, in São Paulo. The winning numbers were, in order: 9, 21, 29, 36, 43, 72, and 74. The winner of the "Favorite Team" prize was Náutico. In the second drawing, the winners were those who bet on São Paulo. In the opening round of Timemania, Palmas, from Tocantins, came out on top.
Furthermore, in the second draw, the prize accumulated to R$1.200.000,00. While in the first round of the lottery, the winners shared a prize of R$1.894.953,44. Timemania was created to help clubs pay debts to the Federal Government.
Suderj wants the kids out of Maraca
Secretary criticizes ticket prices and threatens to cancel Fla-Flu games
Five games of the Fla-Flu duo against small teams are scheduled for the stadium
Rio de Janeiro State Sports Secretary Eduardo Paes is threatening to stop allowing the Maracanã stadium to host smaller Carioca Championship matches. Irritated by the small attendance at last Wednesday's doubleheader (10 paying spectators for Flamengo vs. Mesquita and Fluminense vs. Volta Redonda) and this Saturday's Fluminense vs. Americano (5.570), Paes stated that he will "play hard" with the clubs.
"The clubs don't pay to use the Maracanã, but it's unfair that I should open a stadium of this size to accommodate such a small crowd. This is unacceptable. We have to play hardball with the clubs, and the only way to do this is by informing them that, for games with an estimated attendance of less than 25, the Maracanã will no longer be open," said Paes, who also serves as president of Suderj, the stadium's governing body.
The secretary considers the price charged for tickets to be the main culprit for the low attendance of fans.
- It's not fair to charge R$30 or R$40 for a ticket (grandstand), especially with such a huge number of games.
"I'm delighted to host the games, but Suderj isn't here to subsidize the directors, but the fans. Clubs should find a way to allow fans to come to Maracanã to support their team," he added.
Even before the match, Pedro Costa, press officer for FERJ, stated in an interview with Rádio Canal Fluminense that he had spoken with the Federation's president, Rubens Lopes, about the matter. His message to Eduardo Paes was quite blunt. The Secretary of Sports should be more concerned with the prices of sandwiches and drinks in the stadium, instead of interfering in matters that don't concern him. Furthermore, the contract signed between the clubs and SUDERJ should be respected.
Tricolor coach Renato Gaúcho preferred not to add fuel to the fire. According to the coach, the issue should be resolved by the management.
"That's a matter for the clubs and the Federation to resolve. If Fluminense doesn't play at Maracanã, where will they play? I really like Eduardo Paes and have a fondness for him, but I'm not going to get involved in this discussion," he concluded.
Flamengo and Fluminense play all their Carioca matches at the stadium. Until the end of the Taça Rio, five matches between Flamengo and Fluminense against smaller clubs are scheduled for the stadium (three for Flamengo and two for Fluminense).
Jailton wants to take advantage of his chance in the starting lineup
Player started playing in 11 matches this season, but lost his place in the team
Jaílton (center) hopes to regain his place in Flamengo's starting lineup
Coach Joel Santana's idea of resting some of Flamengo's starters in the match against Botafogo, this Sunday, served to give midfielder Jailton a new opportunity to show that he can regain his position in the team.
The Flamengo player played 12 games in 2008, starting 11, but lost his position to Cristian. Despite being a reserve, Jailton was undeterred and affirms that unity within the group must prevail in these times.
"I'm part of one of the strongest squads in Brazilian football. This rotation in my position was expected. There's only one way to show it: by working. That's why I'm so focused for this Sunday's game," he said.
Bruno pays tribute to Raul on his shirt
Flamengo's number 1 asks a supplier for a yellow uniform and receives praise from the former goalkeeper
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto
Bruno in the yellow number 1 jersey. A tribute to former goalkeeper Raul. Bruno has a new outfit. Since the match against Americano last Sunday, the goalkeeper has been wearing a yellow jersey. The style was a special request from Flamengo's sports equipment supplier. The color wasn't chosen by chance: it's a tribute to Raul, the Flamengo goalkeeper in the 80s who preferred to wear the yellow jersey.
The two haven't met yet, nor have they spoken. But the current number one at Gávea made a point of studying the club's history and bringing back the legacy of one of his predecessors.
"I try to learn about the club's history, and Raul caught my attention in my position, as did Julio (Cesar, current Inter Milan goalkeeper). But since Raul has the whole yellow jersey thing, I thought it would be cool to pay tribute to him," says Bruno.
Raul Plassmann currently lives in Curitiba and follows Flamengo's progress from afar. When informed of the tribute by GLOBOESPORTE.COM, the former player expressed his flattery.
"I don't know him, but he seems focused and well-balanced, fundamental characteristics for a great goalkeeper. I'm proud. That's what makes me stop and think sometimes and realize how important I was. I feel even more like a champion," he says over the phone.
In late 2007, Flamengo released a retro yellow jersey that commemorated Raul, who was voted the club's best goalkeeper of the 1th century. Now, he dreams of sharing the honor with the current number XNUMX.
"Bruno isn't perfect, because perfection doesn't exist, but he's close. He has everything it takes to make it to the national team. I've become a role model, even for the titles I've won, but the day the club wins another Libertadores and another World Cup, history will be rewritten. I was voted the club's best goalkeeper of the last century, but I would love and be incredibly proud to hear in a while that Bruno and I shared this place in Flamengo's history. They would talk about us both, and I would be happy. I wish him all the luck in the world, especially because luck is crucial for a goalkeeper," he says.
So far, the new model has been lucky. It's won two games and conceded just one goal.
In addition to the yellow uniform, Bruno will have two other options for matches: black and blue. He recently retired his gray and light blue jerseys.
- They were very ugly, they had nothing to do with me - he says.
Joel Santana: 'Renato Augusto is a starter'
Coach says derby against Botafogo will be important for player to gain match rhythm
Renato Augusto at Flamengo training
Coach Joel Santana assures that, despite a mixed lineup, Flamengo will enter the game with great seriousness on Sunday against Botafogo at the Maracanã stadium in the fifth round of the Taça Rio. Regarding Renato Augusto, who recently recovered from facial surgery and will start as a starter, Natalino commented:
- This Sunday's game will be crucial for Renato Augusto to get his rhythm back. He's a starter and will return to the team when he's 100% fit. Joel emphasizes that when he steps onto the field in the red and black jersey, the player must give his all.
- Flamengo and Botafogo are clubs with a lot of tradition and regardless of the team (A, B or C) we know that we are representing Flamengo and we have to do our best - he told Rádio Globo.
THROW
Mengão and Fogão meet again at the Biggest in the World
Flamengo will use a mixed team, while Botafogo will have almost full strength.
Who wins: Mengão or Fogão? (Credit: Allex Ximenes)
LANCEPRESS!
In another chapter of the rivalry that has grown the most in recent years in Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo and Botafogo face off this Sunday at 18:10 PM at the Maracanã stadium. Flamengo will field a mixed lineup, featuring only starters Bruno, Léo Moura, and Jaílton. Cuca's team, meanwhile, will be at nearly full strength. Only Ferrero will be absent.
The match is part of the fourth round of the Rio Cup. Flamengo leads Group A with nine points, the same number as Botafogo, who share the lead in Group B with Vasco.
Souza's provocations, combined with the club's many complaints regarding the Guanabara Cup final—won by Flamengo—promise to spice up the game. Joel Santana, however, appears calm about it, assuring that, at least from Flamengo, there will be no hostility.
"When they talk about revenge, it's like they're talking about fighting and confusion. There's no such thing here," he dismissed.
Renato Augusto, who has performed well in Flamengo's last two games, will have his first chance as a starter after fracturing two bones in his face (malar and zygomatic arch).
Botafogo coach Cuca will only be without one player for the match: defender Ferrero, who remains suspended by the Rio de Janeiro Sports Court (TJD-RJ) for a violent foul on Flamengo's Cristian in the Guanabara Cup final. Renato Silva and Diguinho served their suspensions and return to the team.
The defeat in the Guanabara Cup final to their rivals still lingers in the minds of Botafogo fans, managers, coaching staff, and players, but the rhetoric is dismissive of any kind of revenge. For the players, beating Flamengo will only mean they're closer to securing a spot in the Rio Cup semifinals.
"It'll be a normal match, and that's how it'll be treated. It'll be worth the same three points as any other game. Botafogo fans won't be satisfied with just a victory to qualify for the first round. What matters is fighting for the Taça Rio title and then thinking about Flamengo in the State final. But there's no sense of revenge," assures midfielder Túlio.
Fla close to reaching goal 500 against Botafogo
Obina and Renato Augusto are the favorites to reach the milestone\ LANCEPRESS!\
Besides defending its 15-match unbeaten streak against Botafogo, Flamengo has another milestone to reach in this Sunday's derby. Flamengo has already scored 498 goals in its history and is very close to reaching its 500th goal against its rival.
The only professional striker coach Joel Santana has fielded, Obina is the leading candidate to take over the club's title. Despite having scored just one goal for Alvinegro—a 3-3 draw in the 2007 Guanabara Cup—since arriving at Gávea in April 2005, the Bahia native has typically been lucky in state derbies, so much so that he has never lost to tonight's opponent.
"It will be gratifying for me to score my 500th goal, as I will be etching my name in Flamengo's history. That's always my goal when I step onto the field," he declared.
A strong competitor for Obina in the race for goal number 500 is Renato Augusto. The attacking midfielder had the most important match of his short career in Flamengo vs. Botafogo. He scored the goal that took last year's Campeonato Carioca final to penalties, which ultimately led to the Flamengo victory.
"The most important thing is that Flamengo wins, but if this milestone comes, it's always nice in a player's career," he mused.
Obina remembers that the black and whites will come in biting
For the striker, the fans will affect the opponents' psychology.
Obina asks for attention with the black and white players (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
LANCEPRESS!
After the controversial Guanabara Cup final match, Flamengo and Botafogo will meet again this Sunday at Maracanã. While the players are in the past with the altercation involving Souza and some of the black and white fans, the fans of both teams haven't forgotten. And striker Obina is aware of this.
"The (Flamengo) fans will try to mess with Botafogo's mentality, and that will bring more grit to their team. We have to play with determination to avoid any openings. If anyone makes a mistake, tomorrow (Sunday) one will leave feeling sad and the other sad. There's no way around it," Obina said, ignoring a possible draw.
The red-blacks' darling who will start as a starter guarantees that Nacional (URU) is not yet on the athletes' minds.
"It's a crucial game for us. It's time for everyone to show why they're here at Flamengo. We'll try our best to win. Our focus right now is solely on Botafogo. Then the Libertadores."
Renato Augusto will start for the first time since surgery
After surgery, the midfielder returns to the team and says he is still apprehensive.
LANCEPRESS!
After being out of the team for 50 days due to a broken cheekbone during the Guanabara Cup debut, midfielder Renato Augusto will start for Flamengo. The player has been confirmed for the derby against Botafogo and emphasizes the importance of this match for him.
"I'll try to play well so Flamengo can get the win and I can earn a place in the team on Wednesday. It's a very important game for me and one that can give me confidence to face Nacional (URU)," he emphasized.
The anxiety for the match against the Uruguayan team in the Libertadores is something that needs to be controlled, in Renato's opinion:
Everyone at Flamengo—fans, board, and players—dreams about winning the Libertadores. But the derby is always important, and we have to focus on that match.
The supporter also reveals that he will not lack grit and will, but reveals a certain fear in the toughest plays.
"Little by little, I'm taking more risks. Of course, it's still a bit scary, but I can't avoid tackling," said Renato Augusto.
Joel asks players not to provoke
Flamengo coach wants to avoid giving weapons to Botafogo\ LANCEPRESS!\
Coach Joel Santana's orders to avoid any statements that could become a weapon for the opponent have been strictly followed by Flamengo's players. The Flamengo coach doesn't want this Sunday's derby against Botafogo to have more repercussions off the field than on it.
Always measured in his words, striker Obina maintained humility and respect for Botafogo. He assures that if he scores a goal, he won't do anything that might anger the opposing team. The Bahia native has disciplinary reasons to avoid getting into trouble.
"I hope to score in this derby. If I do, I'll celebrate only with the Flamengo fans. Against Fluminense, I got into a fight and was suspended for one game. I don't want that to happen to me," he revealed.
Attacking midfielder Renato Augusto was also thoughtful in his pre-classic speech.
"It would be great to score a goal. But no provocation. I'll be cheering for Flamengo, as I usually do when I score," he assured.
Defender Leonaro wants to score his goal for Fla
Three Flamengo defenders have already scored this season
LANCEPRESS!
In addition to fulfilling their defensive responsibilities, Flamengo's defenders have also contributed offensively. Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Thiago Sales have all scored this season.
Aware of this, defender Leonardo – who will start this Sunday against Botafogo – also wants to leave his mark:
"I hope my goal comes as soon as possible. We (defenders) are doing our part at the back and contributing goals up front," the defender said.
Flamengo's board pays back wages
Club gets advance on sponsorship quota from Petrobras and pays off debts to players and employees\ LANCEPRESS!\
One of Flamengo's cyclical problems has been resolved, for now. According to vice president of football Kléber Leite, all outstanding salaries were paid at the end of this week. Flamengo was in debt not only to its players, but also to its coaching staff and staff.
The funding that allowed the club to provide this extra motivation to its players ahead of two important matches—this Sunday and Wednesday in the Copa Libertadores—came from Petrobras. The club secured an advance of approximately R$8 million, equivalent to six months of the state-owned company's annual sponsorship (in this case, from January to June of this year).
As a result, Flamengo will only receive the next installment of its Petrobras sponsorship in July.