THE GLOBE
Fla loses the first
In a tumultuous game, the team loses control and Corrientes wins 95 to 72
Photo caption: MARCELINHO, FROM FLAMENGO: the point guard was sent off yesterday for complaining and will miss the Rio de Janeiro team's game today.
CORRIENTES, Argentina
It wasn't what Flamengo wanted. In a confusing match with controversial refereeing—and in which star Marcelinho was sent off—the red-and-black team lost control and lost the first game of the best-of-five series against Regatas Corrientes of Argentina, 95-72, early this morning in Corrientes, Argentina, in the final of the South American Basketball League. This gave the team a 1-0 lead in the series.
Today at 21 p.m., the teams play the second leg of the match in Corrientes. The series continues on the 22nd at Maracanãzinho. If necessary, the fourth leg will be played on the 23rd at the same venue. The fifth leg, if necessary, will be played on the 29th or 30th in Corrientes.
In the first quarter, cheered on by the fans and with good marking—especially on Marcelinho—Corrientes prevailed, led by Montecchia, Argentina's Olympic champion point guard, and forward Martinez. They took a 29-16 lead and closed the period 31-18 with a dunk by Rivero. Corrientes also benefited from the red-and-black team's eagerness.
The women's team has been called up.
In the second quarter, Corrientes took a 43-27 lead thanks to a Martinez three-pointer with 4:30 remaining. Flamengo was trying to stay in the game thanks to Amiel and Fernando, who had come on in the first quarter. But a Montecchia three-pointer helped Corrientes close out the quarter 54-36, their largest 18-point lead to date.
After halftime, Flamengo returned without Marcelinho, who had left the previous period. The red-and-black team was playing stronger and fought back. The score was 54-43 in favor of the Argentine team with 7:11 remaining in the period. The red-and-black team closed the gap, led by center Coloneze and power forward Amiel. Halfway through the quarter, Corrientes led 58-52. However, as the Rio de Janeiro team fought back, the game heated up. Referees Gabriel Baum, Américo Rodríguez, and Alvaro Torres called a foul on a block by Amiel on Martinez. Subsequently, Marcelinho—who had returned to the court shortly before—committed an unsportsmanlike foul on the same Martinez. After the free throws, Marcelinho complained about the referees and was sent off, which results in his suspension for today's match and will lead to his trial in the South American Confederation's court.
There was a huge commotion, and the police entered the court, while the fans chanted "Argentina!" The match only restarted after Marcelinho left the court. After all the fouls against Flamengo were called, Regatas extended their lead to 68-54 and closed the quarter at 73-60. In the final period, Flamengo—which had won the third quarter outright, 24-19—lost control and fell prey to Corrientes: 95-72.
"Tomorrow (today) we'll have the same refereeing. Are you guys ever going to wake up? You look like kids," coach Paulo Chupeta told the players in the final timeout, with less than a minute remaining, warning them that a win today was essential.
Corrientes: Montecchia (6), Martinez (26), Stanton (14), Robinson (10) and Lopes (7). Entered: Tintorelli (12), Temute, Rivero (17), Serantes, Zacarias. Flamengo: Hélio (9), Duda (3), Marcelinho (7), Alírio (4) and Coloneze (18). Entered: Amiel (19), Fernando (8), Fred (4) and Maicon.
BROADCAST: ESPN Brazil
Close to leaving South Africa, Parreira nominates Joel
Coach denies inquiries and worries about controlling the red-black squad
JOEL SANTANA pensive after training in Gávea: the coach is on Parreira's list, who is expected to leave Africa
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira is expected to step down as South Africa's national team coach. Citing personal issues, the Brazilian coach is expected to officially resign in the coming days, according to the Globo TV program "Globo Esporte." Parreira submitted a list of Brazilian coaches to local officials to replace him, including Joel Santana, a Brazilian coach.
Flamengo's coach avoided the subject at all costs yesterday. Joel preferred to attribute the information to an attempt to destabilize Flamengo.
"I won't answer. Whenever we're close to a decision, someone throws something out there and this controversial news comes out. Nothing happened," says Joel.
On Tuesday night, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, spoke with Joel about the issue, which was beginning to gain momentum.
"It's just nonsense. Joel told me he heard about it through the press," the director said.
After training at Gávea, Joel's biggest concern seemed to be nipping in the bud the still timid expressions of annoyance that, for the first time this year, surfaced within the red-black squad.
The squad must go to Granja before the final
Joel made it clear that it's impossible to tolerate expressions of dissatisfaction every time a player is removed from the team. In Peru, Marcinho expressed dismay after coming on in the final minutes against Cienciano. Tardelli questioned his entry against Botafogo, when the team was losing 3-0. He hasn't given interviews since.
"I can't let every player I take off be upset," said Joel, who also spoke specifically about Tardelli. "I'm not going to create controversy. Maybe the timing wasn't right. He's a player with potential who's adapting here. In the future, if he has a place, he'll play."
Marcinho also avoided talking about his reaction in Peru.
- Each player reacts differently - he said.
Joel was dry when commenting on the fact that he opted, in important games, for last year's base.
"The new signings are part of the squad. I put in whoever I think is best. If they're good, they play. If not, they sit on the bench, which is normal. There's not room for everyone. Maxi, Jaílton, and Obina have been playing well and haven't been starting. By the end of the year, they'll all play," the coach stated.
Another problem at Gávea is gastroenteritis that has affected four players. Full-back Leonardo Moura and forward Diego Tardelli did not train yesterday. Souza, weakened, took to the field and participated in physical training. Goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba, who had milder symptoms, also trained. The club's doctors, who believe these are isolated cases, have provided written guidance to the players' families regarding their diets. Tardelli, whose recovery is slower, lives in a hotel and, therefore, would have more difficulty controlling his diet. Souza told the doctors that pizza caused the problem. Leonardo Moura, meanwhile, attributed his indigestion to popcorn purchased at the cinema.
Flamengo's players are scheduled to leave for Teresópolis on Monday, where they will train at Granja Comary. The team was scheduled to travel to Rio to face Coronel Bolognesi on Wednesday, and then head back up the mountains to train until the eve of the first leg of the State Championship final on the 27th.
Today, players are expected to receive their February salaries. The club secured a line of credit with a bank, pledging future revenue from the Petrobras contract.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Forces are no longer hidden
The causes of the gastroenteritis that attacked players, however, are still unknown.
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Jair Motta
Argentine Maxi leads the way in training at Gávea. He hasn't yet been attacked by the dark forces.
When coach Joel Santana said last week that hidden forces could hinder Flamengo's participation in the Rio Cup, he didn't anticipate that these forces might actually be within the club. In the derby against Botafogo, striker Souza developed a case of gastroenteritis and was substituted at halftime. When the squad returned to training on Tuesday, right-back Léo Moura appeared with the same infection. Yesterday, two more players developed the problem: striker Diego Tardelli and goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS interviewed two gastric specialists to understand the problem. The possibility of contamination during the training camp was not ruled out.
Dialina Martins Machado, a doctor at the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), explained how the disease is contracted. "Gastroenteritis can be viral or bacterial. The former is considered milder, requiring only hydration to resolve the condition. The latter requires antibiotics. Dysentery lasts a maximum of seven days," the professor assured.
His professional partner, Rodrigo Alves Costa, raised two more suspicions of contamination.
"Gastroenteritis is contracted in two ways: orally—through food or liquids—or through the respiratory tract (through the air). It's possible that the players caught this infection in training, or that Souza, who was the first to develop the disease, passed it on to his teammates. It's a disease that doesn't linger and also goes away quickly. Gastroenteritis is the medical term for that famous "piliri" (sickness)," explained the doctor.
For Flamengo's good, this problem happened precisely in the week in which the team will not play, and, therefore, the athletes will be able to recover in time to face Coronel Bolognesi, on Wednesday, in the Libertadores.
Juan does not point to favorite for Rio Cup
Flamengo's players continue to focus on the Rio de Janeiro State Championship final, even though they know their next match will be against Peru's Coronel Bolognesi on the 23rd at the Maracanã Stadium. Yesterday, they once again adopted a politically correct approach and avoided revealing who will be the Rio Cup champion and, consequently, Flamengo's opponent in the final.
Like his teammates, Juan praised Botafogo and Fluminense, but refused to name the favorite for the final. "They're two great teams that will put on a great performance. Botafogo found a unique way to play. Their team clicked. The difference is that Fluminense has more individual talent. Marking both teams is difficult. You can't pick one. Whoever makes it to the final will have a tough match against us," said the full-back.
Juan, in fact, could be indicted by the Sports Justice Court for insulting referee Péricles Bassols in the loss to Botafogo. If convicted, he could miss Flamengo's Carioca finals.
"I haven't seen the match report yet. But even though it's not in the document, I believe there will be a complaint," said prosecutor André Valentim. (NL)
Juan could be suspended by the TJD
Left-back Juan is expected to be indicted by Sports Prosecutor André Valentin. Juan allegedly insulted referee Péricles Bassols Cortez during the Rio Cup semifinal against Botafogo. The prosecutor spoke about the case.
"I haven't seen the referee's report yet. If it's there, it will be reported immediately. But even if it's not in the report, I believe there will be a report. The player has to play football, he shouldn't be complaining to the referee," André Valentin told Rádio Bandeirantes.
If convicted, Juan could face a suspension ranging from 30 to 120 days, under Article 187 of the Sports Justice Code, which covers moral offenses against referees. If convicted, he will be sidelined for the State Championship finals.
Renato Abreu: next or just a dream?
One day after JORNAL DOS SPORTS exclusively announced Flamengo's interest in repatriating supporter Renato Abreu, the speech by businessman Claudio Guadagno and the Board of Directors is no longer the same.
The prosecutor reiterated that Flamengo has not contacted him for almost 45 days to find out about Renato's situation and denied that he is representing the club in the negotiation.
"I only represent players, not clubs," Claudio Guadagno simply said.
Vice President of Football Kleber Leite continues to assert that the agent is representing Flamengo in its attempt to sign Renato. However, he did not set a deadline for this to happen.
"Claudio is our representative in these negotiations, but he will only begin talks at the appropriate time. I continue to affirm that Renato interests us," stated Kleber Leite.
With so much contradictory information, it's difficult to know whether the supporter is truly close to Gávea or whether it's just a dream of the Board.
THE DAY
Tardelli: with a virus and no space in the team
Rio - Coming on in the second half of the 3-0 defeat to Botafogo, Diego Tardelli grumbled and said he wasn't a savior. It's good for the player to know he's far from it. Yesterday, Joel made it clear that the striker hasn't yet adapted to the club and will have to fight for his place in the starting lineup.
"In the future, if there's room, he'll play. There's not enough room for everyone. Tardelli has potential, but he's still adapting to the club," Joel stated.
Yesterday, Tardelli spent only half an hour at Gávea Stadium. The forward is the fourth player to suffer from gastroenteritis. Souza, Leonardo Moura, and Marcelo Lomba also suffered from the same condition, which causes headache, nausea, and diarrhea.
According to club doctors, the possible cause of the outbreak is food intolerance. Juan is on high alert for the problem. "We have to be careful about what we eat," said the full-back.
The Flamengo board is still exploring with the coaching staff the idea of training outside of Gávea in the days leading up to the State Championship final. The first game of the final will be on the 27th.
Joel avoids talking about South Africa
Parreira appointed coach to lead African national team
Janir Junior
Rio - Joel Santana avoids the subject, saying it's a no-brainer. But the fact is, since he's leaving the South African national team for personal reasons, Carlos Alberto Parreira took the opportunity to suggest the name of Flamengo's current coach, whose contract runs until the end of the year. Joel Santana, who is involved in crucial matches in the Copa Libertadores and the State Championship, avoided the topic yesterday.
"They're trying to distract from the focus. They're always creating controversy as the decision approaches. There's nothing wrong with that, so I have no reason to fuel this story," the coach stated.
In fact, even if the invitation is confirmed, Joel doesn't intend to leave Gávea before the State Championship final, against the winner of Flu vs. Botafogo. At the end of last year, after pulling the team out of the relegation zone and securing a spot in the Copa Libertadores, the coach faced a dramatic turnaround until his contract renewal.
"We're focused on Coronel Bolognesi. I'm going to field my best players, as our goal is to finish first in the group and then play the second leg of the next round at home, with the support of the fans," Joel added.
Even though he's considered a "father" to the players and well-liked by everyone at Gávea, at the end of last year, Joel didn't hide his regret that, during negotiations for his contract renewal, Mano Menezes's name emerged as a possible replacement. In 2005, after saving Flamengo from relegation, Joel joined Vegalta Sendai in Japan.
Yesterday, in addition to defending the lack of concrete evidence regarding the South African national team, Joel also defended Toró, who has been criticized for his performances. "They're being harsh with him. I ask him to calm down; what they're saying has nothing to do with it," he emphasized.
While deciding on the team that will face Bolognesi on Wednesday, Joel jokes. "I'm the only one who can't be left out of the team, because I'm in charge," he says. However, in the coaching circle, the experienced Joel knows well that today's rumor could be tomorrow's truth.
Juan praises Rio Cup finalists
Rio - Even with his mind on Wednesday's game against Coronel Bolgnesi at the Maracanã, left-back Juan praised rivals Fluminense and Botafogo, who are competing on Sunday for a spot to face the red-black team in the grand final of the Campeonato Carioca.
"Now we're only focusing on the Libertadores. Botafogo and Fluminense have equal chances in the Taça Rio, and we can't choose. Each has its own strengths. Botafogo has a great squad, and Fluminense stands out for the individual quality of its players. But it's a final, so we have to be prepared for whoever comes our way."
After physical training this morning in Gávea, Juan admitted he was hot-headed when he complained about the refereeing after the match against Botafogo.
"Botafogo deserved to win. I was hot-headed and ended up complaining, but I admit that Botafogo played better and that's why they won."
SPORTS GAZETTE
Without rest, Fla watches the final of the Rio Cup\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - According to the schedule drawn up by Flamengo's coaching staff, the players will have no rest this weekend and will train this Saturday and Sunday, always in the morning. On the afternoon of the last day, the Flamengo fans promise to watch the match between Fluminense and Botafogo, valid for the Taça Rio final and which will determine the Flamengo's opponent in the Campeonato Carioca final. "It's really bad to miss such an important match. Since we won't be playing, we have to watch to study the strengths and weaknesses of both teams," emphasized midfielder Cristian.
The winner of Sunday's match will face Flamengo in the Carioca final, but the red-and-blacks have already announced that they won't choose their opponents. "It doesn't matter to our team. We're already in the Carioca Championship final, and now we just have to wait for our opponent. These are two great teams that had a great championship," midfielder Renato Augusto noted.
Left-back Juan echoes his teammate's sentiments and asserts that he's not rooting for either team in the Taça Rio final. "Botafogo and Fluminense have equal chances in the Taça Rio, and we can't choose. Each has its own strengths. Botafogo has a great squad, and Fluminense stands out for the individual quality of its players. But it's a final, and we have to be prepared for whoever comes our way."
Gavilán – While the starters' thoughts are focused on Flamengo's upcoming matches and opponents, other players have other concerns. With his contract expiring next week, midfielder Gavilán admits he may leave Gávea, as he hasn't been used much by coach Joel Santana.
"I feel good at Flamengo. But if there's a real opportunity to play at another club, I'll come to Flamengo and talk. I'll be open," said the Paraguayan, who signed a risky contract after failing a medical earlier this year.
Joel wants Fla to focus only on the Libertadores
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Coach Joel Santana wants Flamengo's squad to forget the Campeonato Carioca and focus solely on the Copa Libertadores da América. The team will decide who tops its group in the continental tournament against Coronel Bolognesi next Wednesday at the Maracanã. Before that, on Sunday, the team will learn its opponent in the state final – Fluminense and Botafogo will decide the Taça Rio. "I don't want to think about the state final yet. I don't even know who the opponent is. After Sunday, we can talk about that. First, we'll focus on the Libertadores. Deciding at home is always important. Every game is decisive now, and we can't make mistakes. We can't be surprised anymore. We can finish first in the Libertadores in our group and overall. We have to work hard to make that happen because this situation will help us in the subsequent stages," the coach predicted.
With no commitments in the Carioca, Joel is celebrating the week off to prepare the team for the decisive duel against the Peruvians. "We'll take advantage of the time off to improve our physical fitness and then focus on the tactical aspect," said the coach, who lamented Romário's retirement from football, announced last Monday. "He's an idol, a friend, and a hero, but the time has come to step down," he commented.
The Flamengo manager also complained about the rumor that he could replace Carlos Alberto Parreira in charge of South Africa. "When we were about to decide the Guanabara Cup, they asked if I'd been approached by a European club, and now this South Africa story comes up. It's always like that in a decision; there's always a rumor. I'm not saying anything about it because I don't think it matters," Joel concluded.
PELENET
Leonardo says he is ready to conquer his place at Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Signed by Flamengo in February, Leonardo arrived at the club with a certain amount of status. However, the defender has yet to establish himself on the team led by coach Joel Santana. Having recovered from a left foot injury, the player hopes to change this situation.
"Being out for a week was really bad. Now it's time to make up for lost time. The goal is to be available for the match against Coronel Bolognesi-PER and also for the State Championship finals," he highlighted.
The match against the Peruvians will be held on the 23rd at Maracanã. The State Championship final, against Fluminense or Botafogo, who will decide the Taça Rio, the second round of the competition, will take place on April 27th and May 4th.
Leonardo played only four matches for Flamengo. His debut was on March 2, when the Red-Black team defeated Resende (4-2). He then played against Americano (3-1), Botafogo (2-3) and Cabofriense (2-0), all in the State Championship.
Leonardo Devanir de Paula has a contract with Flamengo until the end of this year. The defender previously played for Palmeiras, Goiás, and Coritiba.
Juan could be tried and miss Flamengo's State final
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo may have another player indicted by the Sports Justice Court (TJD). Left-back Juan risks having to answer for his statements against referee Péricles Bassols, after the red-black team's loss to Botafogo (3-0) on Sunday at Maracanã, in a match valid for the Taça Rio, second round of the State Championship.
Juan could be tried by the TJD-RJ and miss Flamengo's State final
JUAN COMPLAINS ABOUT ARBITRATION
"I haven't seen the referee's report yet. If it's there, it will be reported immediately. But even if it's not in the report, I believe there will be a report. The player has to play ball, he shouldn't be complaining to the referee," prosecutor André Valentin told Rádio Bandeirantes.
If convicted, Juan could miss the State Championship finals. He risks a 30- to 120-day suspension. He would be subject to Article 187 of the Sports Justice Code (moral offenses against referees).
When asked about the matter, the left-back, with a "cooler head", admitted that he had exaggerated his criticism of the person responsible for conducting the match.
"I went a bit overboard. I was in a bad mood and shouldn't have been so critical. Botafogo won because they were better during the match," he admitted.
Flamengo players are suffering from gastroenteritis.
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The witch is loose. Gastroenteritis problems have taken over a number of Flamengo players. Diego Tardelli participated only briefly in Wednesday's training session at Gávea. Leonardo Moura didn't even show up. Souza, the first to show symptoms, was present, but only moderately.
Disorder forced right-back Leonardo Moura out of Wednesday's training session in Gávea
In addition to the three, reserve goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba has also been experiencing headaches, nausea and diarrhea.
According to the club's medical department, these athletes' problem may have been a food intolerance.
Coach Joel Santana regretted what happened to his players, but made it clear that, due to the time available, he intends to field Flamengo's full strength squad for the clash against Coronel Bolognesi, next Wednesday, at Maracanã, for the Copa Libertadores da América.
"We have to see what we're going to do, because the players are having this problem. But, as far as possible, I want to field what I think is best," he said, explaining the reason for this decision.
"With a large number of points, we will have advantages further down the line. Furthermore, we could face theoretically inferior teams in the next phase," he concluded.
Having qualified for the next stage of the international competition, Rubro-Negro leads Group 4 with 10 points from five matches. The Peruvian team is bottom of the group with two.
GLOBOESPORTE
Fla no longer accepts Péricles' arbitration
President Marcio Braga will send a letter to the Federation complaining about a 'crime'
Eduardo Peixoto
Márcio Braga will send a letter to the Federation vetoing Sunday's trio
Due to lack of time—not will—Flamengo has not yet sent a letter to the Rio de Janeiro State Football Federation (FERJ) requesting that Péricles Bassols Cortez no longer referee the club's matches. However, it will do so shortly.
The restriction will also apply to assistants Wagner de Almeida Santos and Jackson Lourenço dos Santos. Rubro-Negro president Marcio Braga's irritation with the trio's performance in the derby against Botafogo last Sunday has not yet subsided.
Without at any point belittling the black and white team's 3-0 victory, which he considered fair, the director classified Péricles' refereeing as a "crime".
"I didn't have time, but I'm going to send a letter to the Federation asking that this trio no longer be used in Flamengo games. Botafogo deserved to win because they were superior, and Flamengo was lacking energy because of Cuzco. But they didn't need to use a referee like that. It's blatant, a crime against the football product. He was biased," declares Marcio Braga.
President on Ronaldo case: 'A mess'
Marcio Braga has lunch with the striker's agent this Thursday, but doesn't get his hopes up
Eduardo Peixoto
Ronaldo alongside Márcio Braga at Maracanã, before the match against Botafogo
Flamengo president Marcio Braga has scheduled a lunch with Ronaldo's agent, Fabiano Farah, this Thursday. However, the Flamengo director will attend the meeting as a mere listener.
Braga has stated repeatedly that negotiations with the striker, who is recovering from knee surgery, are complicated. Now, he's gone even further by commenting on his thoughts on the Phenomenon's possible move to Gávea in 2009.
"It's a mess. Ronaldo says he wants to play here, and it creates a stir among the fans and the media. But for now, there's nothing," he says over the phone. Last Sunday, Ronaldo was at the Maracanã to watch the Rio Cup semifinal between Flamengo and Botafogo. He wasn't lucky, but he captivated the president by donning the red-and-black jersey.
At this Thursday's meeting, Marcio agreed to make Flamengo available for the player's treatment.
"I'm going to lunch to hear what they want to say. Maybe they want Ronaldo to work at Flamengo. If that's the case, fine," he declares.
Confusion in Flamengo's defeat
A fight marks the first match of the South American League final against Regatas Corrientes
Flamengo loses its head and the game
The mild atmosphere before the start of the first game of the South American League final between Flamengo and Argentina's Regatas Corrientes was short-lived. This Wednesday, at their opponent's home ground, Flamengo lost their temper with the referee, their most experienced player, Marcelinho Machado, and the match. With a 95-72 score, the Rio de Janeiro team gave the Argentines a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five series.
This Thursday, at 21 p.m., again in Corrientes, the teams will face each other again. The second leg of the competition final will be officiated by the same referees, which could mitigate any potential conflicts. Having been sent off in the opening game, Marcelinho will not be able to participate in this Thursday's match. Next Tuesday, the duel returns to Brazil.
Arbitration generates fight on the court
Corrientes started the match more energetic and determined. The Argentines maintained their lead in the first two quarters. In the third, Flamengo staged a strong comeback, closing the gap to six points. However, a foul by Marcelinho Machado ruined everything.
After a calm start between the teams, the Rubro-Negro felt undermined by the refereeing, and a brawl broke out on the court, culminating in the ejection of the Rio de Janeiro team's most experienced player, Marcelinho. The referee awarded the home team an extra foul, which angered the player. Hélio also joined the fray but remained on the court.
During the commotion, the Argentines urged the fans to shout louder and with more enthusiasm. This provocative request was turned into an attack by those present in the gymnasium. From the stands, the fans, elated by Flamengo's loss of control, threw objects at the coaching staff. Paulo Chupeta, the team's coach, was hit in the head with a lighter.
The game was interrupted for about 20 minutes. Marcelinho, dissatisfied, refused to leave the court. However, guided by his superiors, he complied with the referee's order. When the match resumed, it devolved into a series of shoving and slapping. Confident, the Argentines continued their march toward victory. Flamengo's players, however, shaken by the events, gave up and allowed Corrientes to open the final series with a victory.
Fla tries to cool down after the defeat\ This Thursday's game will have the same referees as the first leg of the South American League final\
After the defeat, confusion, and Marcelinho's ejection in the first game of the South American Men's Basketball League final against Regatas Corrientes, Flamengo is trying to cool off for the second game, scheduled for 21 p.m. this Thursday, also in Argentina. Especially since the refereeing for the second game, which deeply angered all Flamengo fans, will be the same as the first.
Back at the hotel, the red-and-black coaching staff's main concern was calming the players and knowing what the referees would say in the match report. The goal is to ease the pressure on point guard Marcelinho Machado, the team's key player, who was sent off and will be out of action this Thursday. He will be subject to a trial and may even be ruled out of the third game, scheduled for next Tuesday at Maracanãzinho.
The red-and-black leaders do not want to make the situation worse with a formal complaint to the South American Basketball Confederation.
"There's not much we can do. The game just ended, and we're all still a little overwhelmed. We're still analyzing what will be done, but we'll wait to see what the referees will put on the scoresheet to try to alleviate Marcelinho's situation," Arnaldo Szpiro, Flamengo's basketball director, said by phone.
Juan is at risk of indictment
TJD prosecutor admits reporting player for criticizing referee
Left-back Juan's criticism of referee Péricles Bassols, who officiated Flamengo 0-3 Botafogo, could backfire on the player himself. TJD prosecutor André Luís Valentin stated that he will analyze the referee's comments and may even file charges against him.
"I haven't seen the referee's report yet. If it's there, it will be reported immediately. But even if it's not in the report, I believe there will be a report. The player has to play football, he shouldn't keep complaining to the referee," the prosecutor told "Rádio Bandeirantes."
In the match report, the referee made no reference to the criticisms made by the red-black full-back.
At the end of Sunday's match, in which Botafogo beat Flamengo, the full-back was furious with the officiating. Considering that the Red-Blacks had been wronged, the player said the referee had won the game for the Black-and-Whites (watch the interview from the field in the video above).
Calmer this Wednesday, the full-back changed his stance and acknowledged that the opponent deserved to win on Sunday.
"I'm not choked up. Botafogo deserved the win and had merit throughout the match. I made that statement in a rush. They have a strong team, a good ensemble," he praised.
Zico praises Flamengo's performance against Cienciano
Galinho says the team played with personality and wishes other Brazilian clubs luck.
Zico praised Flamengo's performance against Cienciano last Wednesday
Flamengo's greatest idol, Zico, who currently coaches Fenerbahçe in Turkey, was thrilled with his former club's performance in last Wednesday's 3-0 victory over Cienciano in the Copa Libertadores. On his personal website, "Galinho" praises the performance of Brazilian clubs, especially Flamengo, and also criticizes matches played at high altitudes.
"I want to congratulate Flamengo on their victory over Cienciano, at altitude. Even though I'm against playing in places like Cuzco, which benefit local teams due to the home advantage, Joel's team showed character, strength, and enviable physical fitness. They showed that when there's good preparation, when the players embrace a winning spirit, it's possible to overcome many adversities," he states.
A Libertadores champion with Flamengo in 1981, Zico says the competition today is very different from what it was in his day. But he still takes the opportunity to wish Brazilians luck.
- Good luck to the Brazilian teams, especially Flamengo, and may we have another Brazilian final in the most important club championship in the Americas.
Fla: time to train what you didn't train
Joel prioritizes physical and technical work. Morning workouts make it difficult to party at night.
Eduardo Peixoto
With a comfortable position in the table, Flamengo players train hard in Gávea
Losing to Botafogo forced Flamengo to sit out a game for ten days. Besides watching the Taça Rio final on television, as captain Fábio Luciano commented, the coaching staff took advantage of the downtime to do what they hadn't been able to do for a long time: train properly.
"We're going to take advantage of these days to do what we haven't been doing: physical training, tactical training, and fundamental training. It will be important because our players were tired," says coach Joel Santana.
In recent weeks, Flamengo's back-to-back games have made its schedule almost repetitive. It alternated between light post-game workouts, small group sessions, and scrimmages. All to avoid further exhausting the players.
Training at 9am on the weekend
Now, however, the tone has changed. On Tuesday, due to the rain, there was only weight training. This Wednesday, the players did a strenuous physical workout. There will be full training on Thursday. A day off? No way. The coaching staff has scheduled training sessions for 9 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. So, anyone planning to party late on Friday and Saturday will need to change their plans.
"We'll train all week, including Sunday. Everyone is invited to wake up early on Sunday and watch us work," the coach says.
Flamengo faces Coronel Bolognesi on the 23rd in the final round of the Copa Libertadores group stage. Having qualified, the team is fighting only to maintain first place in Group 4 and avoid playing the first leg of the round of 16 at home. Therefore, coach Joel Santana will not leave out any starters.
Soon after, the club begins a period of decision-making. Between April 27th and May 7th (or 8th), it will play four crucial matches for the rest of the year: the two Carioca finals and the first knockout stage of the continental tournament.
- We won't have a second chance. Any game is a decision - warns Joel
THROW
Joel: 'Toró is being persecuted'
Coach complains about card and penalty linked to young player
Was Toró being treated unfairly? (Credit: Ricardo Cassiano)
Guilherme de Paula RIO DE JANEIRO
Considered by many to be Joel Santana's favorite, defensive midfielder Toró has once again earned the coach's protection. At the end of training on Wednesday, the club's manager came to the player's defense, claiming there is a certain type of persecution due to recent incidents involving the young athlete.
"I don't think he's been booked, but he's being followed. Sunday's card (in the semifinal against Botafogo) wasn't deserved, and there was no penalty. I don't want to believe he's been booked, but they're being very strict," the coach said, claiming, however, that it's necessary to wait a little longer to reach a definitive conclusion.
Lateral Juan may be indicted by the TJD
Prosecutor André Luís Valentim will analyze the athlete's statements
Juan is at risk of going to trial (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
LANCEPRESS! Left-back Juan's statements after last Sunday's derby against Botafogo, that referee Péricles Bassols had favored the Alvinegro to come away with the victory, could backfire on the player himself.
TJD prosecutor André Luís Valentim assured that he will analyze the words of the red-black and may even indict him in some article if necessary.
"I haven't seen the referee's report yet. If it's there, it will be reported immediately. But even if it's not in the report, I believe there will be a report. The player has to play ball, he shouldn't keep complaining to the referee," the prosecutor told Rádio Bandeirantes.
At the end of Botafogo's 3-0 victory over Flamengo, the full-back was furious with the refereeing. Claiming the Red-Blacks had been wronged, the player left the field with a sour expression and criticized the referee. Calmer, he assured on Wednesday that he's not considering a rematch against Flamengo.
"I'm not choked up. Botafogo deserved the win and had merit throughout the match. I made that statement in a rush. They have a strong team, a good ensemble," he praised.
Joel explains the red-black week of work
Coach says tactics and fundamentals will be improved
LANCEPRESS!\ Flamengo coach Joel Santana revealed that the week leading up to the match against Coronel Bolognesi (BOL) on the 23rd, in the Copa Libertadores, will be completely different from the week of preparation for the match against Cienciano. In this match, won by the Rubro-Negro 3-0, the focus was on the physical part, in search of better preparation to face the 3.400m of Cuzco (PER).\
"We're going to do now what we weren't doing before. Ronaldo Torres (the club's fitness coach) has started giving some physical training, but we're also going to improve the fundamentals and tactics," Joel said.
The red-and-black coach also didn't take kindly to the criticism following the 3-0 loss to Botafogo in the Rio Cup semifinal last Sunday. He commented on the decision not to rest the players used in Peru.
"After the game, it's easy to criticize. Everyone has their own opinion, and I respect that, but I did what I thought was best at the time," Joel concluded.
Joel denies that he will replace Parreira
Flamengo coach guarantees that the rumor arose to distract the team
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo coach Joel Santana denied the claim that Parreira had nominated him to replace him as coach of the South African national team. The coach believes this is speculation created to distract the team from upcoming matches.
"I don't want to talk about this subject because I won't lose focus. That's what they want. As any decision approaches, some controversy always arises. They've thrown something up in the air, and I'm not going to get involved. If it sticks, it sticks, but not with me," the coach said this Wednesday.
The news came after rumors that Brazil's four-time World Cup-winning coach would leave his position as South Africa's coach. Parreira was hired by the African country to ensure a strong campaign in the 2010 World Cup, which will be hosted by the South Africans.
According to "Globo Esporte," the coach reportedly wants to leave, claiming he misses his family in Brazil, but is having trouble terminating his contract. Parreira has not yet been reached for comment and has not yet provided any updates to his representatives.
Flamengo can prepare for the final in Itu
Rubro-Negro was lucky in 2006 when he went to the city of São Paulo
LANCEPRESS! Since Granja Comary will be occupied by Botafogo, Flamengo may travel to Itu, in the interior of São Paulo, for special preparation for the Carioca finals and the match against Coronel Bolognesi. Kléber Leite said the trip could take place as early as this Thursday. Volta Redonda is another option.
The city in the interior of São Paulo has traditionally been a lucky one for Flamengo. It was there that Flamengo prepared for the 2006 Copa do Brasil final. After beating rival Vasco in both games (2-0 and 1-0), Flamengo, coached by Ney Franco, won the competition for the second time.
Virus also attacks Diego Tardelli
Striker spared from training showing the same symptoms as Souza and Léo Moura
Tardelli suffered from vomiting and malaise (Credit: Paulo Wrencher)
Guilherme de Paula RIO DE JANEIRO
A virus has been attacking Flamengo's players, causing coach Joel Santana to be without players in the last few days of training. The latest attacker, Diego Tardelli, was spared from Wednesday morning's training sessions, showing the same symptoms (vomiting, malaise) as Souza, Leonardo Moura, and goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba, who had already been sidelined to recover.
Even with so many cases of the virus, left-back Juan still doesn't show concern about the case.
"I'm not worried yet. I'm sure everyone will be fine in the next game," said the number 6.