The Globe
Letter from readers
Flamengo Shopping Mall
Regarding Renata Vega's letter (August 16), we would like to clarify that, at the request of president Marcio Braga, we attempted to locate her in the club's administrative archives to dispel her doubts. However, she is not a member, as she stated in her letter. To allay her concerns and those of residents in the club's area, we would like to clarify that there will be no major games at the future Gávea arena, only matches between Flamengo and teams with smaller fan bases. Matches between fans of major teams will be held at Maracanã or Engenhão.
MARILENE DABUS\ CR Flamengo Press Office (by email, 8/16), Rio\
Super, mega... Maxi heroism
With two players sent off and a goal from the Argentine, Fla beats Flu 1-0 and breaks the drought
Photo caption: MAXI OPENS his arms to celebrate his first goal for Flamengo
Lionel Messi's cousin, Maxi Biancucchi, has gained further kinship in football. By scoring Flamengo's winning goal in yesterday's 1-0 victory over Fluminense at the Maracanã, the Argentine joined the ranks of derby heroes. For at least one night, he donned the grit of his compatriot Doval and Zico's number 15 to win over the fans and help the team climb the table. In 18th place with 18 points, Flamengo is four points away from leaving the relegation zone, with three games in hand over Atlético-PR, the first team above the relegation zone. With the red-and-blacks' red-and-blacks sent off in the 14th minute of the second half and Roger's red-and-blacks' red-and-blacks held on bravely to win their first derby after an eight-game drought, dating back to October of last year, when they beat the same rival 4-1.
- It was a huge deal. I was able to score a goal for this wonderful crowd - said Maxi.
Somalia misses chance at the end
Instead of the expected three-man defense, Tricolor's Renato Gaúcho lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, with defensive midfielder David deployed at right-back. However, it was Flamengo who initially dominated the midfield. Down the flanks, especially on David's side, the red-and-blacks pushed forward without scoring. In the 16th minute, Fluminense had a clearer chance when Rômulo's clearance was poor, but Romeu's shot went just over the crossbar. In the 24th minute, Maxi dribbled past Luís Alberto but fired weakly. Then, it was Arouca's turn to chip Bruno, who nearly got into trouble by playing the ball out with his feet. Fluminense tried to advance the team and left space. In the 41st minute, Juan launched a high-speed counterattack, and Maxi skillfully tapped the ball past the goalkeeper to make it 1-0.
Fluminense came out more aggressive in the second half. Before the tenth minute was up, Somália had already missed three chances. In the 14th minute, Juan, already booked, fouled Thiago Silva and was sent off. Bruno made a great save from Thiago Neves's shot. Substituted for Obina, Maxi was pushed by Luiz Alberto, with whom he had already been arguing, and a scuffle broke out. Soon after, Roger lost control, receiving two cards almost in quick succession and being sent off in the 30th minute. Fluminense pressed in a disorganized manner, but it was Flamengo who posed the greatest threat on the counterattack with Egídio in the 38th minute. In stoppage time, Thiago Neves took a free kick from the edge of the box, and Somália sent the equalizer over.
Fluminense: Ricardo Berna, David, Thiago Silva, Luiz Alberto and Junior Cesar; Arouca, Romeu (Cicero), Maurício (Leo) and Thiago Neves; Somalia and Soares. Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Romulo, Cristian, Ibson (Jailton) and Roger; Maxi (Obina) and Paulo Sérgio (Egidio). Referee: Evandro Roman (PR). Yellow cards: Arouca, Luis Alberto, Juan, Maxi, Roger, Leonardo Moura and Obina. Red card: Juan. Paying attendance: 49.828.
Argentine surrenders to the magic of Maracanã
Renato attributed Fla's victory to Flu's mistakes, but this time Joel Santana avoids controversy
Still in a delicate situation in the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo has become accustomed to drawing strength from adversity. On Saturday, they brought 40 fans to Maracanã for a dramatic comeback against Náutico. Yesterday, the victory in the derby solidified the return of their fans' confidence, but the team is once again weakened for Sunday's game against Palmeiras in São Paulo. In addition to Roger and Juan, who are suspended, they will be without Renato Augusto, who is still recovering from an injury. Even so, Maxi doesn't consider himself a starter:
"I work to be available whenever the coach needs me," said the Argentine, who compared the excitement of the Fla-Flu match to a Boca Juniors-River derby. "Each team has its own special side, and this one might be more exciting. Our team showed a lot of grit."
After belittling Joel Santana's career as a player, Tricolor coach Renato Gaúcho once again downplayed the red-black's achievements.
"It wasn't Flamengo who won, it was us who lost. We have to be ashamed to know where the team went wrong," said Renato.
After fueling the controversy before the game, this time Joel threw water.
- Let's put an end to this Renato thing, then we'll meet up and everything will be fine again.
After watching the game from the stands, full-back Gabriel is expected to confirm his return to the Tricolor. At Flamengo, Roger will wait to return. Even though he will miss the next game, he is committed to the team's recovery.
"We who have just arrived are doing our best to identify with the club. There were 40 fans against Náutico, and yesterday our fans overwhelmed Fluminense's. With this support, we become giants."
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: Three excellent saves, from shots by Somália, Thiago Neves, and Thiago Silva. He made a mess in the first half and nearly gifted Fluminense a goal. 6,5. LEO MOURA: Defensively, he was useful, but in support, he was locked in a duel with Júnior César that was characterized by errors on both sides. 5,5. FÁBIO LUCIANO: He excelled on high balls into the box. On the ground, when he didn't win technically, he imposed himself with determination. 7. RONALDO ANGELIM: He appeared up front a few times to attempt aerial plays, but to no avail. He made some positioning errors in his marking. 5,5. JUAN: He was instrumental in the entire play that led to Maxi Bianccuchi's goal, leading the counterattack until he delivered the perfect pass to the Argentine. He was one of the team's best players until he made an unnecessary foul and was sent off. 4,5. RÔMULO: He played his role in marking and releasing the ball discreetly. 6. CRISTIAN: Another player who, individually, showed little, but was important collectively. He could have gotten closer to the defenders. 6. IBSON: With the full-backs supporting and leaving space, he was stuck in cover, appearing little up front. 6,5. JAÍLTON came on to buy time. No rating. ROGER: Despite a couple of effective plays in the first half, he lacked more effectiveness. He was sent off childishly after receiving two consecutive cards. 3,5. PAULO SÉRGIO: He moved well down the wings, but struggled to find gaps in the Tricolor defense. 5. EGÍDIO came on to fix the defensive system. 5. MAXI BIANCUCCHI: He calmly scored his first goal for Flamengo, displacing Ricardo Berna with a beautiful touch. While on the field, he was tireless. 7. OBINA took a ridiculous shot that went out wide. Before playing, he needs to get in shape. 4.\
JOEL SANTANA: The team's merits were their speed in the first half and their fighting spirit to hold on to the result. 6. REFEREEING: Evandro Rogério Roman from Paraná had an excellent performance, always well-positioned, calling fouls on the fly. He correctly sent off Flamengo's Juan and Roger.
Renato Mauricio Prado
Remembering Doval
Fábio Luciano was a great signing, Ibson and Roger considerably improved the midfield, but the big and good news for the red-black team could be this little Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, Messi's cousin, who was mocked by half the world when he was signed, but who, yesterday, decided the Fla-Flu and brought to mind another "hermano" who was once an idol for both clubs: Narciso Doval.
Flamengo's second consecutive victory, like its first against Náutico, was dramatic. They played most of the second half with two players less and had to pull out all the stops to secure the result.
In addition to the hard-earned victory, the fans celebrated the discovery of the short Maxi, who knows how to play and has a lot of spirit.
If handled well, it can be a success, especially in a low-level football like Brazil.
Despite their numerical superiority, Fluminense couldn't even equalize. Renato Gaúcho really needed a good polishing of Joel's drawing board...
Joel Santana's acquittal by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) is absurd. I never supported a harsh sentence against the coach, who, in fact, has no history of violence against any of the teams he has managed. But, at the very least, a warning should have been issued. This should serve as an example for Joel and all other coaches.
The deplorable message that remained was this: you can tell him to lower his "toast" because in football that's not a problem. Just call it "getting along"...
Sports Journal
It was in the red-black race!
With two less, Fla, heroic, holds the pressure and beats Flu
Julius Gracchus
Argentine Maxi Biancucchi made the red-black fans happy: with opportunism, he scored the goal that gave Fla an important victory over Flu
In a thrilling match, in which Flamengo spent much of the second half with two players less, it added another page to the history of Brazil's most captivating derby. With nearly 60 fans in attendance, the Maracanã saw the Red-Blacks beat Fluminense 1-0 yesterday, ending their uncomfortable streak of not winning a derby this year. The result moved the team up one spot in the Brazilian league table, but remains in the relegation zone.
Flu entered the field needing three points to finish not far behind the leaders. Flamengo, on the other hand, needed a win to gradually escape the critical relegation zone.
The derby began with surprises. At the last minute, Renato decided to change the game plan, abandoning the 3-5-2 formation and switching to a 4-4-2, with Roger being removed for David. Flamengo started the match trying to suffocate. But in the 16th minute, Fluminense had the first chance. After a cross from Thiago Neves, Rômulo made a poor clearance, and the ball fell free in the six-yard box for Romeu to shoot poorly. In the 42nd minute, on a counterattack, Juan made a beautiful pass to Maxi, who skillfully slotted the ball into the left corner of Berna's net, making it 1-0.
In the second half, Fluminense came out with a new attitude. Early on, Somália missed two great opportunities. In the 14th minute, Juan received his second yellow card and was sent off, spicing up the match. With the numerical advantage, Fluminense capitalized on the space and began bombarding goalkeeper Bruno, who, with fantastic saves, shielded the red-and-black goal. In the 30th minute, Roger stopped a Tricolor counterattack and received a red card. The final moments of the derby were electrifying, with Flamengo, heroically, with only nine players, sustaining the intense pressure and securing the result.
Fla will have three absences on Sunday
Flamengo left Maracanã this Thursday with a 1-0 victory over Fluminense. Despite the positive result, Joel Santana's team had two players sent off: Roger and Juan. Leonardo Moura also received his third yellow card and will not face Palmeiras on Sunday at Palestras Itália at 16 pm. For the Flamengo manager, the important thing is for the team to keep its head on straight.
"The players in the squad are very talented. Luizinho and Edigio will start in the next game. We'll see who comes in for Roger. We'll decide later. In football, we need a squad where we can make changes without the team changing too much. The difference will be in the group's mindset. If they're as focused as we are, everything will work out," the coach explained to Rádio Globo.
Red and black tango at Maraca
Maxi Biancucchi has his Astor Piazzola day and is the maestro of the red-black victory in the Fla-Flu
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
This was the portrait of the Fla-Flu match. While Bern shows its disappointment, Biancucchi celebrates.
The mood in the Flamengo locker room after their 1-0 derby victory over Fluminense, with a goal by Maxi Biancucci, was one of joy and confidence. The red-and-black team, which had struggled in the Brazilian Championship, secured its second consecutive victory in the competition, in a thrilling derby with two players down, as Roger and Juan were sent off by referee Evandro Rogério Roman.
Argentine Biancucci, who made his first start for the club, compared the Fla-Flu with the Argentine classics and heaped praise on the Fla fans.
"It's a game that reminds me of Boca Juniors vs. River, only in Rio it's more exciting. Flamengo's fans are huge and beautiful," he said.
Coach Joel Santana had been arguing with Flu coach Renato Gaúcho all week, but after yesterday's victory, he decided to put the controversy aside and return to a good relationship with the tricolor commander.
"I just echoed what Renato said. I have a lot of affection for him and I'm rooting for his success. I have nothing against him; that's gone. He threw a rock at my roof, and I threw it back," said Joel Santana.
U-19 World Cup\ The youth team brings nothing but joy to Flamengo. After winning the Rio de Janeiro state championship for the third time this year and the Taça BH, they can now make history for the club. Today, at 7:45 a.m. (Brasília time), Flamengo faces Manchester United of England in the semifinal of the U-19 Club World Cup in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.\
Flamengo's campaign so far has been impeccable. In four games, they've won three, against Arsenal (ENG), Ajax (HOL), and PSV Eindhoven (HOL), and drew with Milan (ITA) in their opening match. The Italian team, in fact, could be one of Flamengo's opponents if they qualify for the final.
Coach Adílio still has two questions about his starting lineup. The Rubro-Negro's likely lineup is as follows: Marcelo, Daividson, Wellington, Anderson (Bamba), and Léo; Diego Moura (Ratão), Vinícius Colombiano, Érick Flores, and Vander; Pedro Beda and Kayke.
Fla shows its strength in the stands
The red-and-black fans have already started dreaming big. After chanting that Obina is better than Eto'o, they suggest that Maxi Biancucchi is better than Messi.
Flamengo fans, who turned out in greater numbers at Maracanã yesterday, despite the team being lower in the Brazilian Championship standings, gained a distinguished supporter. Supporter Renato Augusto, who missed the Fla-Flu match due to a grade-one left thigh injury, watched the entire first half of the game from the stadium's special seats.
Like any other fan, the player followed every play attentively, sang along to some Flamengo fan songs, and cheered loudly on Argentine Maxi Biancucchi's goal, following a beautiful pass from left-back Juan. Although excited to return to the Maracanã stands, Renato Augusto said he would rather be on the field wearing Flamengo's number 10 jersey.
"It's exciting to be able to come back here to the stands and cheer for Flamengo, but it's much better to be down there, on the field, helping my teammates. I wish I was there with them," said the supporter, who is also expected to miss the club's next match, against Palmeiras, in São Paulo.
Fluminense fans at Maracanã were unforgiving of Flamengo supporter Roger, a club idol from 1998 to 2001 and again in 2004, and now a Flamengo fan. Even before the match began, fans were cursing the supporter, and when the athlete's photo appeared on the stadium's new screens and the announcement was made over the public address system, the Fluminense fans booed him mercilessly.
Flamengo defeats Fluminense with grit and the strength of the fans
Gabriel Santos gsantos@jsports.com.br
Biancucchi scores his first goal for Fla and secures the victory in the Fla-Flu
Flamengo defeated Fluminense this Thursday at Maracanã Stadium, 1-0, in a tightly contested and sometimes violent match. Flamengo had two players sent off, but through grit and the support of their fans, they managed to secure their fourth victory in the Brazilian Championship, reaching 18 points in 18th place. Fluminense remains in 11th place with 26 points.
After the battle of nerves between Renato Gaúcho and Joel Santana, the classic that "started 40 minutes early out of nowhere," as Nelson Rodrigues would say, got off to a lively start. While the Tricolor coach surprised by starting the match with Divid at right back and without Roger in defense, along with three defensive midfielders, Flamengo took the field with Maxi wearing the number 10 jersey.
The Red-Blacks pushed for a goal from the start, cheered on by the overwhelming majority of fans at the Maracá, despite the team being in a worse position. In the first minute of play, after a rebound in the box, the ball fell to Ronaldo Angelim, but the defender was unable to finish well.
Despite the Gávea team's momentum, Fluzão had the first big chance. In the 16th minute, Thiago Neves took a free kick from the edge of the box. The ball hit Rômulo and fell to Romou inside the six-yard box, but the midfielder sent a shot over the bar, well wide of Bruno's goal.
Joel's team responded in the 24th minute, when Maxi burst into the box, easily got past Luiz Alberto, but his shot was too weak, for Ricardo Berna to save. Three minutes later, Fluminense was once again more dangerous. Arouca played a one-two with Somália inside the box and fired over the bar. Soon after, Bruno was slow to get the ball out, and as the Tricolor forwards were already pressing, he passed it to Angelim, who lost the ball to Somália. Despite this, the striker couldn't finish.
Although the Laranjeiras club deployed three defensive midfielders, seeking counterattacks, it was Mengão who managed to create them. Roger brought the ball forward at lightning speed and delivered a pinpoint pass to Maxi. Messi's cousin made no mistake, scoring his first goal for Flamengo in the 42nd minute.
Fluminense returned for the second half with a vengeance, seeking an equalizer at any cost. Just three minutes in, Somália received the ball on the left and shot over the bar. The ball sailed over Bruno's goal. Soon after, Maurício broke down the right wing, dribbling past two defenders, but shot under pressure.
The Tricolor's pressure was intense. In the eighth minute, Somália missed an incredible chance. He shot from the right of the Fla box, goalkeeper Bruno saved it, and Somália himself grabbed the rebound, close to the six-yard box, but sent the ball out of bounds. Flu's top scorer also delivered the cross for Thiago Neves to head dangerously wide of the goal.
Flamengo's situation began to unravel when, in the 14th minute, Juan was sent off after committing a hard foul. Thiago Neves's shot was powerful, but Bruno saved it once again from the corner. Renato Gaúcho's team also had a great chance with Thiago Silva, the Brazilian national team defender who took a shot from outside the box. Bruno, one of the game's standout performers, saved it.
That's when Roger managed to get himself sent off childishly. Shortly after receiving an unnecessary yellow card for complaining, he committed a harsh foul in midfield and was sent off, leaving the Rubro-Negro with only nine players on the field. Before leaving, the midfielder even tried to feign aggression, but the referee ignored him.
With two men up, Fluzão went all-in, taking off midfielder Maurício and bringing on forward Léo, a youth academy graduate. In the 35th minute, Thiago Neves took another dangerous free kick, but Bruno saved it again.
Flamengo's best chance of the second half fell to midfielder Cristian. He capitalized on a counterattack on the left and sent a cross-shot, but Ricardo Berna saved it easily.
Even with the numerical advantage and under pressure throughout the second half, Tricolor was unable to avoid defeat to Fla, who fought until the end and saw Bruno's star shine brightly tonight.
Flamengo's next game, as they look to escape the relegation zone, is against Palmeiras at Palestra Itália on Sunday at 16 p.m. Fluminense will travel to Belo Horizonte to face Cruzeiro on Sunday at 18:10 p.m.
Twelve teams in the fight for the title
Federation announces number of participants and format of the State Futsal Championship, which begins on the 31st
Eduardo Vieira
The Cabo Frio team won the Carioca title in style in the first half of the year
The Rio de Janeiro Futsal Federation announced yesterday the groups for the first phase of the State Championship, which begins on the 31st. There will be 12 teams fighting for eight spots in the quarter-final playoffs.
In Group A, there are Vasco/USS, Petropolis, Teresópolis, Montanha, Canto do Rio and Army Club. While in B: América, Flamengo, Macaé, Cabo Frio, Drogaria.
The first round will have the following games: Teresópolis x Vasco/USS, Army Club x Petrópolis, Canto do Rio x Montanha, Piedade x Macaé, Flamengo x América and Drogaria do Povo x Cabo Frio.
One of the biggest rivalries in Rio de Janeiro futsal is undoubtedly the one between América and Flamengo. This classic should ignite the competition in the first round.
América coach Alan Salinos will have a renewed team with the signings of Saulo and Fabinho (ex-Montanha), Duda and Fafá (ex-Piedade) and Fabinho (ex-Flamengo).
"I'm not worried about Flamengo, but about my team. In a strong competition, you can't choose your opponent. I'd prefer a points-based competition, but we're going after the fourth spot in this group," said Alan, who considers the professional teams the favorites.
"Those who train in two shifts have a huge advantage. Furthermore, these are teams (Petrópolis, Teresópolis, Macaé, Cabo Frio, and Vasco/Vassouras) with municipal support. But América is very motivated for the State Championship."
Another attraction of the round will be the reopening of the Piedade gym, considered the 'Bombonera' of Rio futsal.
"It'll be a David versus Goliath duel. We know Macaé's strength, with great players like Roni, Leco, Piu, and Eric. But here at home, Piedade will play excellent games. Without a doubt, our fight for fourth place will be with Drogaria and Montanha," said Piedade's Maurição.
Victor Rosa confident for the Gymnastics World Championships
Stuttgart, Germany — The most important competition on the gymnastics calendar is approaching: the World Championships, in Stuttgart, Germany, in September, and the team has been in the city since Monday. The team will participate in friendly competitions. Training is ongoing full-time, and the athletes' and coaches' expectations are growing as the start of the competition approaches.
Anxiety\ "Of course we're anxious, after all, it's the World Championships. The pressure from the coaching staff has increased, but we know that's how it is. I'm giving my all in training and I'm already practicing floor and vault," said two-time Brazilian gymnast Victor Rosa, who despite being cut from the Pan American Games due to a broken foot, is one of the favorites in international competitions.\
The Gymnastics World Championships are qualifiers for the Beijing Olympics and will determine the athletes who will compete in 2008. The men's team is trying to secure a spot in the world's biggest sporting event. This would be a major achievement for Brazilian gymnastics. The taste of winning the silver medal at the Pan American Games left gymnast Victor Rosa wanting more.
"We did well at the Pan American Games, the team was very dedicated, but we want gold at the World Championships. The Pan American Games were a great selection process for the World Championships in Germany."
Men\ Other big names on the Brazilian team are Diego Hypólito and Mosiah Rodrigues, both team silver medalists with the national team at the 2007 Pan American Games.\
The women's team has more ambitious plans at the World Cup: a top-five finish. To achieve this, they're betting everything on Jade Barbosa, who thrilled Brazil by winning an incredible gold medal.
The experienced Daiane dos Santos and Daniele Hypólito should also fight for great results at the World Cup in Germany.
Luiz Augusto Veloso
Timemania was approved despite much resistance. Brazilian clubs face a tremendous challenge: seizing this opportunity to begin a new cycle in their lives. Miracles won't happen, but a new, healthier scenario can easily be built. This is to the dismay of those who play and believe that the only way out for our football is, initially, its complete demise.
O Dia
With two less, Flamengo defeats Fluminense
Martha Esteves
Rio - A good dose of luck and the full support of the fans were the recipe for a hard-fought victory. With only nine players on the field (Juan and Roger were sent off in the second half), Flamengo defeated Fluminense 1-0, with Maxi scoring at the Maracanã, having to be heroic in the final minutes. The team from Gávea, despite winning, remains in the relegation zone with 18 points.
Flamengo hadn't won a derby this year (3 losses and 5 draws), and perhaps for that reason, they started the game with aplomb, holding their rivals at bay. Until the 13th minute, Flamengo hadn't made any attacking moves. Flamengo had more game volume, but their attacking moves weren't resulting in good finishes.
In the 16th minute, Tricolor created a good chance with Romeu. In a great play, Flamengo responded in kind: the diminutive Maxi twisted Luiz Alberto, but shot weakly at Ricardo Berna in the 24th minute.
Flamengo fans were in for a shock in the 29th minute: goalkeeper Bruno gave the ball to Rômulo, Maurício took it, but the ball fell to Somália, who got in a mess, allowing Rômulo himself to fix everything.
At 41 minutes, on a counterattack, Juan advanced unmarked and passed to Maxi, who chipped the ball over the goalkeeper to score Flamengo's goal.
In the second half, Fluminense started brightly. Soares passed to Somália, who missed a good chance. Fluminense tried again in the 8th minute. Somália shot, Bruno saved, but left the ball at Somália's feet, who missed. In the 15th minute, Juan was sent off, leaving the team weakened.
Flu started to press, and Bruno saved the team with a beautiful save from Thiago Neves' free kick in the 16th minute. He saved Flamengo again in the 25th minute, saving a shot from Thiago Silva. Things got worse in the 30th minute, with Roger being sent off: he simulated being punched and hurt the Gávea team, which worked twice as hard to hold on to the 1-0 lead.
Maxi dedicates his goal to the fans
Euphoric with the victory, the Argentine says that the Flamengo fans deserve the tribute.
Marluci Martins
Rio - Scorer of the winning goal for Flamengo, striker Maxi Biancucci was in a state of grace at the end of the match. The player dedicated the result to the fans, who supported the team throughout and were crucial, especially after Juan and Roger's childish red cards in the second half.
"This victory is for the fans, who were wonderful. I'm very happy with the goal," said the 'hermano', who is well on his way to winning a place in the hearts of the red-and-black fans, in good Spanish. "Fla-Flu is a classic with a lot of rivalry; it can be compared to Boca Juniors vs. River Plate in Argentina," he recalled.
Coach Joel Santana didn't want to revisit the controversial exchange of taunts with Renato that took place in the days leading up to the derby. He believes the incident is in the past. "It wasn't personal; it was a joke. I still have enormous respect for Renato.
He poked me and I poked him back, that's all. It's in the past now. I'm rooting for his success," Joel Santana summarized.
The coach praised his players' dedication and effort, especially after the red cards: "We tied them in knots and managed to hold on to the result. It was a victory for tactical discipline and dedication. The credit was due to us and the fans, who were essential."
Defender Fábio Luciano said his first Fla-Flu match will be forever etched in his memory. "This one will be unforgettable. A victory to mark my career. The group's mindset has changed, and confidence is returning. I'm happy to have arrived and be a part of this. We'll strive for something better in the championship," said the new 'sheriff.'
Flamengo will be without three players for its Sunday match against Palmeiras. Roger, Juan, and Léo Moura are suspended. Renato Augusto could return on Wednesday against Juventude. Father Benedito, from the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, Flamengo's patron saint, will be in Gávea today to bless the field and the soccer department.
The identity of a passion
Fan declares his love in an unusual way: his name is Tadeu Flamengo
Rio - Passion led Tadeu to adopt the name of his favorite team as his surname. Since 1979, Tadeu Flamengo has kept his wardrobe red and black. His entire bedroom is decorated in these colors, and not even his children escaped his loyalty to the club.
"I registered all four with Flamengo: Igor Flamengo, Rafael Flamengo, Ane Krishna Flamengo, and Cristóvão Flamengo. All the effort for my team is worth it. I left Piauí and endured a two-day trip just to see this classic. I wake up every day to the Flamengo anthem, and I know the mystique and determination are so great that the team will overcome this difficult moment. Flamengo doesn't lose, it shares joy," smiles Tadeu.
The confidence that the team will escape the relegation zone is so great that the brothers Igor and Steffany do not miss the opportunity to provoke their father, a Tricolor fan, and yesterday they were betting on a 3-0 victory.
"They don't suffer from it. On the contrary, they make me mad and make fun of me," said Denilton da Conceição, a Tricolor fan.
At age 4, little Pedro displayed the colors of Fluminense on his face and body, and smiled when he said his favorite team would win. In his debut match against Fluminense two years ago, accompanied by his parents, Samuel Santana and Lívia, he watched the team win 4-1.
“He's already been on the field with Alex Dias and says that when he grows up he's going to be a soccer player,” his father points out.
Sports Gazette
Happy with the fans, Joel highlights tactical discipline
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's 1-0 victory over Fluminense pleased coach Joel Santana. He said the team responded to the fans' chants of support and managed to shut down the opposing attack. "When you're down a man, you have to know how to stop the other player. We won on merit. The players showed confidence and tactical discipline. There was also the emotional factor, with the fans providing that extra boost that helped us achieve the result," assessed the Flamengo coach.
Encouraged by the fans' performance, the manager was full of praise. "The biggest contribution came from the fans. Only they can provide this energy, and from now on, we'll always need that," he declared.
Even so, Joel Santana made it clear that Flamengo is still in the relegation zone and needs to maintain its momentum. "We still need to improve to achieve our goal. We haven't achieved anything yet. We're happy and satisfied, but there's still a lot to happen," he concluded.
Red-and-black players highlight the fans' performance
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - For Flamengo's players, the fans at the Maracanã were crucial in their 1-0 victory over Fluminense. They made a point of thanking them and asking for more support to help them escape the relegation zone. Midfielder Roger, who was sent off in the second half, was the first to praise the fans. "We're doing our best to respond to this crowd. They far surpassed the Fluminense fans and transformed our warriors," he declared. "We really have to celebrate. It was truly Flamengo, and everyone got involved and made an effort."
Scorer of the game's only goal, Max Biancuchi also highlighted the participation of the red-and-black fans in the derby. "The fans helped us every moment. They're a huge force, and every opponent will feel that," he reflected.
The Argentine took the opportunity to highlight the determination of his teammates, who, despite being two players down, managed to hold on to the result. "The team showed grit. We had some difficult moments, but we had the will and overcame them," he analyzed.
Bruno agreed with Max. "There's still a lot to do, but I'm not putting in the effort on the field. I even hurt myself from taking so many goal kicks; my groin hurts. Now we'll see what happens," he explained.
Flamengo, with nine, wins heroically in the classic\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Despite playing with nine men from the 30th minute of the second half, Flamengo secured a heroic victory by defeating Fluminense 1-0 in a match played this Thursday at Maracanã, valid for the eighth round. The only goal of the game was scored by Argentine Maxi Bianccuchi, in the 42nd minute of the first half.\ The game was tumultuous and full of violent plays. Flamengo full-back Juan and midfielder Roger were sent off, and the Rubro-Negro showed great determination to hold on to the lead in the face of the Tricolor pressure.\
The result was fair because Flamengo was better in the first half, establishing its lead, and also showed fighting spirit to secure the victory when down to a minimum. The victory left Flamengo in 18th place with 18 points, while Fluminense is in 11th place with 26. In the next round, Flamengo will face Palmeiras at Palestra Itália, while Fluminense will face Cruzeiro at Mineirão.
Flamengo started by attacking Tricolor, with Argentine Maxi wide on the right flank, forcing the opposing defense to defend. Just three minutes in, the pressure nearly led to a goal when Ibson crossed, Luiz Alberto headed back, and Ricardo Berna had to work hard to send the ball out for a corner.
The Tricolor das Laranjeiras struggled to establish itself in midfield and only reached the red-and-black half in the sixth minute, but without posing any threat to Bruno's goal. Flamengo maintained its dominance, but failed to create any real danger. In the 17th minute, after a corner kick, midfielder Rômulo made a glaring error in the box, and Romeu, free in the six-yard box, wasted the chance to score, shooting over the crossbar. In the 24th minute, Maxi made a great play, dribbling past defender Luiz Alberto and shooting low, but goalkeeper Ricardo Berna stretched and saved the goal.
Fluminense attacked tentatively and took advantage of the opposing team's individual mistakes to create dangerous situations for Bruno's goal. This happened in the 27th minute, when Bruno, Fábio Luciano, and Rômulo exchanged passes at the edge of the box, and Soares almost took advantage to break free. In the 37th minute, goalkeeper Ricardo Berna's mistake came from a Juan cross, releasing the ball in the penalty area, but David cleared the danger away.
Just when everything indicated that the first half would end in a draw, Flamengo scored their goal in the 42nd minute. Juan led the counterattack through the middle and passed to Maxi Biancuchi, who cut in from the left and slotted past Ricardo Berna to score his first goal for Flamengo and seal the first-half score.
Both teams returned for the second half unchanged, with Fluminense trying to be more aggressive. In the fourth minute, Somália attempted a lob over Bruno, but the ball sailed over the crossbar. Two minutes later, the same Somália produced an incredible play. Arouca played him past Fábio Luciano and shot straight at Bruno, who rebounded into the middle of the box. Somália shot again, but this time wide of Flamengo's goal, wasting Fluminense's best chance of the match. In the 14th minute, full-back Juan, who already had a yellow card, committed a hard foul on Thiago Silva and was sent off. To capitalize on their numerical advantage, Renato Gaúcho brought on midfielder Cícero for defensive midfielder Romeu, while Flamengo took off forwards Paulo Sérgio and Maxi, bringing on Egídio and Obina.
Fluminense increased the pressure, and goalkeeper Bruno began to shine, saving Flamengo with two great saves from Thiago Neves' shots in the 15th and 22nd minutes. Fluminense attacked in a disorganized fashion, much to the dismay of coach Renato Gaúcho, who urged his team to pass the ball around and take advantage of having an extra man.
In the 29th minute, midfielder Roger, who already had a yellow card, was sent off after colliding with defender Thiago Silva, causing a commotion on the field and on the bench. With only nine players, Flamengo began to make commitment its greatest asset.
Goalkeeper Bruno continued to excel, saving the Tricolor's rare shots, and Flamengo nearly scored a second goal when Egídio's shot bounced off goalkeeper Ricardo Berna's chest. In the final minutes, Fluminense showed more nervousness than efficiency as Flamengo's players began to hold on to the ball to secure an unforgettable victory, which could represent a new era for the red-and-black club in the Brazilian Championship.
Flamengo requests police reinforcements to prevent attacks in São Paulo
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Concerned about the possibility of retaliation from Palmeiras fans during Sunday's match, Flamengo contacted the São Paulo state government and the capital's Military Police requesting greater protection for the delegation and fans attending Palestra Itália for the match. According to the document sent by the Rio de Janeiro team and signed by president Márcio Braga, the Rio de Janeiro Military Police received information that fans of the São Paulo team were preparing attacks on Flamengo fans in retaliation for the death of a Palmeiras fan earlier this year in Rio.
Alessandro Camilo de Melo was shot on May 13th of this year, after a match between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro teams in the first round of the Brazilian Championship - on that occasion, Palmeiras won 4-2. Since then, the fan was hospitalized for almost four months and died on August 5th.
PeléNet
With a goal from Messi's cousin, Fla beats Flu in heroic fashion
Flamengo-Flu is usually a tense derby, and this Thursday was no different. However, even with nine players on the field, Flamengo managed to hold on to the first-half lead and defeat Fluminense 1-0 at Maracanã. In addition to their triumph, the Flamengo hero was Argentine Maxi, who scored the goal.
"I couldn't have imagined what my first Fla-Flu would be like, but I experienced it firsthand and I'm very happy with the victory. I'm very happy with the goal and the victory. This is more exciting than Boca vs. River [the Argentine classic]," Maxi said after the match.
Until this Thursday, the striker was just Messi's cousin (the Barcelona-ESP star). But his goal in the Flamengo-Fluminense match, wearing the number 10 jersey in his first game as a starter, made him a household name. In the second half, he didn't feature as much and was replaced by Obina in the 19th minute. Before leaving, however, he had a disagreement with Fluminense players.
This wasn't the only disagreement. After being sent off in the 30th minute of the second half, Roger had to be carried off the field by Tricolor players and even pretended to have been attacked. Juan, who was shown the red card in the 14th minute, was less of a problem, but also took a while to leave the field.
In a difficult position in the standings, Flamengo entered the derby more willing to attack. However, the two teams played a balanced first half, without forcing the goalkeepers into any major saves. The greater initiative, however, paid off for the red-and-blacks, who, late in the half, managed to open the scoring through Maxi.
Fluminense returned from the break with more momentum and began to pose a threat, missing several opportunities. After the red cards, the pressure increased even more, but with a strong drive, a strong performance by goalkeeper Bruno, and the support of the fans, Flamengo managed to hold on.
"The players don't have to be psychologically down. On the contrary, they have to be ashamed. You can't play against Flamengo at the Maracanã with two more players and lose to yourself. Flamengo didn't win, we lost," said Renato Gaúcho, Flu's coach.
With the result, the red-and-black team avoids the relegation zone, but moves up to third-to-last place, with 18 points and three games in hand over most of its rivals. The Rio de Janeiro team, with 26 points, remains in 11th place.
In the next round, both teams travel to play outside of Rio de Janeiro on Sunday. Flamengo faces Palmeiras at Parque Antarctica at 16 p.m., while Fluminense faces Cruzeiro at Mineirão Stadium at 18:10 p.m.
Fla could lose half the team for the match against Palmeiras
After another hard-fought victory in the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo will once again have to overcome its own set of challenges to secure three points against Palmeiras next Sunday in São Paulo, in their second-half opener. The red-and-black team could be without up to five players for this match.
Four of them are already confirmed. Full-backs Leonardo Moura—who received his third yellow card against Fluminense—and Juan and midfielder Roger (who were sent off in the derby) are serving automatic suspensions. Renato Augusto remains out with a grade-one left thigh strain, and he's being prepared for the next match against Juventude.
However, Flamengo could still lose goalkeeper Bruno. After the 1-0 victory over Fluminense, with two players down, he left the field with goalkeeping coach Roberto Barbosa supporting him due to pain in his right groin.
"I felt a pain in my groin. I hope it won't be a problem for the next game," Bruno commented as he left the field, admitting that he doesn't know if he'll be able to face Palmeiras.
Roger apologizes for sending off\ Among the players already out of the match due to suspension, Roger is the most remorseful. Besides receiving a red card after the team had already lost Juan, he was sent off by the referee just minutes after receiving a yellow card.\
For this reason, Roger apologized to the group. "I've already apologized to all my teammates in the locker room, because it's not right to be sent off when the team has already lost a player and leave the team in an even more difficult situation. But everything is resolved now," said the midfielder, justifying his dismissal.
"I thought the first yellow card was strange. I understand the second one, even though it was an unintentional foul, because I tripped over the opponent's legs. But in the first one, I was fouled and didn't make a hostile complaint, but he [the referee] gave me the yellow card and two minutes later sent me off."
Irritated, left-back Juan also tried to explain himself. He was sent off after holding defender Thiago Silva, despite having already received a yellow card.
"He [the referee] gave me a card because I pulled, and that happens in every game. But he gave me a card and harmed me and the club because of a silly incident like that," he complained.
Despite the red cards, defender and captain Fábio Luciano absolved his teammates of blame, showing that Roger's apology was accepted by the group. "It was a difficult game. You can't crucify anyone. If they were sent off, it's because they fought," the player stated.
Coach Joel Santana has already named the full-back replacements, but he still doesn't know who to field in Roger's place. "The players at Flamengo have quality. Luizinho [on the right], Egídio [on the left], and we'll see who fills Roger's spot," the coach said.
Fla coach ends controversy with Flu coach
Despite having responded to Renato Gaúcho's provocations before the classic, coach Joel Santana sought to end the controversy with his opponent after Flamengo's 1-0 victory over Fluminense, this Thursday, at Maracanã, in the Brazilian Championship.
Last Wednesday, when asked how the coaches could make a difference in the classic in relation to the "trickery", Renato Gaúcho said he could win because he had 16 titles as a player and mocked his rival, saying that no one would be able to show a photo of Joel Santana lifting a trophy as an athlete.
Afterwards, Flamengo's coach said that his opponent still has a lot to learn and returned the barb by stating that, as a coach, he should polish his drawing board.
"I just returned the joke he made the day before, but it wasn't anything personal. My respect for Renato remains the same. He knows me well, it was a way of returning the jab, but without any resentment, quite the opposite. I'm rooting for his success; he's a new professional in this difficult profession. That's over, it's in the classics, it's in history," he commented.
Joel even avoided another dig from Renato Gaúcho this Thursday. After the derby, the Fluminense coach stated that his team lost to itself.
"Never mind, that's just how it is. Maybe he said that in a moment of nervousness after a defeat like the derby. Fluminense didn't lose to themselves, but because Flamengo played intelligently, tactically obediently, and was better, in my opinion. Let's put an end to this Renato thing," Joel concluded.
Flamengo fans praise Flamengo's spirit and fans in victory over Flu
As midfielder Roger had predicted after the hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over Náutico last Saturday, Flamengo suffered more scares this Thursday. Even with two players less than Fluminense in the second half, the red-and-black team held on for a 1-0 victory, built in the first half at Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship.
Therefore, after the match, the Flamengo fans praised the team's determination and the fans' support. "We really have to celebrate. This victory is truly Flamengo. Everyone sacrificed and embraced this fighting spirit," commented midfielder Roger.
"The fans once again showed their strength. Against Náutico, they showed almost 40, and today [Thursday], they swallowed up the Fluminense fans. They occupied these spaces and made us become warriors," continued the player.
Even with the victory over Fluminense, Flamengo remained in the relegation zone, but at least they moved out of second-to-last place. Therefore, coach Joel Santana highly praised the fans' support, which, in his opinion, was contagious for the players.
"It's not easy for the fans at a club of our size to have such a celebration. They managed to find motivation and know that only they can transmit this energy. The biggest contribution to the victory was theirs, after the players, who had the energy to endure and tactical obedience," he analyzed.
For Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, scorer of the winning goal, opponents will feel the pressure of facing Flamengo at Maracanã from now on. "The team showed a lot of grit. They didn't make the game difficult by being two players down and showed a positive attitude. The fans gave us tremendous support, and their opponents will certainly feel it," he stated.
With Maxi's first goal, Fla wins the first classic of the season
After seven matches against their Rio de Janeiro rivals in 2007, Flamengo finally won their first derby this season. The drought ended with Argentine Maxi Biancucchi's first goal for the red and black team, giving the team from Gávea a 1-0 victory over Fluminense this Thursday at the Maracanã stadium in the Brazilian Championship.
Roger (left) was sent off in his reunion with his former club on Thursday
The goal from Barcelona star Lionel Messi's cousin came in the 41st minute of the first half. After receiving a good pass from Juan, who led a counterattack from the left, the Argentine burst into the open area and fired a shot high past goalkeeper Ricardo Berna. "At that moment, thank God I was able to score and celebrate with this wonderful crowd," commented Biancucchi.
Maxi was signed—with the approval of coach Valdir Espinosa—as a reinforcement for the second half of the year after excelling at Deportivo Luqueño in Paraguay. The player, who also previously played for San Lorenzo-ARG, made his first start for Flamengo this Thursday.
With Maxi's winning goal, Flamengo won a derby again after ten months. Interestingly, the red-and-blacks' last positive result over a Rio rival was against Fluminense, in October 2006.
Flamengo then drew five derbies and lost two, before winning again this Thursday. Incidentally, one of those two losses, in 2007, was to Fluminense, a 2-1 comeback victory in the Rio State Championship. At the time, coach Joel Santana was in charge of the Tricolor team.
The other loss was to Vasco, 3-0, in the derby that marked Romário's "999th goal"—according to the striker's calculations—also in the regional competition. Of the other five draws, four were against Botafogo, all of which featured high goals.
The first was a thrilling derby that ended in a 3-3 draw for the Guanabara Cup. Still in the Rio State Championship, the rivals tied twice 2-2 in the finals, with Flamengo winning on penalties.
In the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo and Botafogo again drew 2-2. Flamengo's other derby that ended in a draw was against Vasco, a 1-1 draw in the Guanabara Cup semifinal. Flamengo secured a spot in the first round of the regional tournament on penalties.
Globo Sport
Fla beats Flu with a goal from Maxi
Argentine gives victory to Rubro-Negro and helps the team improve its position in the table
Marcio Iannacca
In a thrilling derby, not because of missed chances, but because of the red cards (all of them Flamengo's) and the spicy comments throughout the week, Flamengo defeated Fluminense 1-0, with a goal from Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, who lived up to the number 10 jersey he wore on his back. Thursday's derby, part of the Brazilian Championship, wasn't particularly technically stellar, but Flamengo played their hearts out and came away with all three points at Maracanã (watch the highlights in the video below).
With the result, Flamengo moved up to 18th place with 18 points. Fluminense remained in 11th place with 26 points. In the next round, Flamengo will face Palmeiras at Palestra Itália. Fluminense will face Cruzeiro at Mineirão Stadium. Both matches will be on Sunday.
Maxi saves the first half
Maxi celebrates his first goal for Flamengo, which gave the team the victory
Flamengo was the better team throughout the first half, but they rarely threatened Fluminense. The standout performer of the first half was Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, who created the red-and-black team's biggest chances. Early on, Messi's cousin controlled the ball on the left side of the penalty area, cut inside a Tricolor defender, and shot. Goalkeeper Ricardo Berna prevented the goal for the team from Gávea.
The red-and-black team continued to play better, and Roger also missed an excellent chance. The former Flamengo player received the ball at the edge of the box and, instead of shooting, tried to dribble past his opponent, missing a great opportunity. In the 42nd minute, Juan led a counterattack and found Maxi Biancucchi. The Argentine entered the box and slotted it past Ricardo Berna: 1-0 Flamengo. If it weren't for Messi's cousin, the first half might have been forgotten.
Juan and Roger, from Fla, are expelled
Tricolores argue with Roger, who ended up being sent off in the second half
Fluminense came back stronger in the second half and missed two excellent chances with Somália. Three minutes in, Somália controlled the ball on the left side of the penalty area and fired a shot that skimmed the Flamengo crossbar. In the 8th minute, the forward received the ball inside the box and missed his shot woefully. Fluminense continued to press, but without threatening goalkeeper Bruno.
In the 14th minute, Juan received his second yellow card and was sent off by referee Evandro Rogério Roman. From then on, Renato Gaúcho, for Tricolor, and Joel Santana, for Flamengo, began making their substitutions. For Fluminense, Cícero came on in place of Romeu. For Flamengo, Obina and Egídio replaced Maxi and Paulo Sérgio.
Down ten men, goalkeeper Bruno became the name of the game. He saved Flamengo from three dangerous Fluminense shots. To make matters worse for the red-and-black team, Roger received two cards in two minutes and was sent off. From then on, the Gávea team began defending, while the Laranjeiras team pressed forward in search of an equalizer. In the end, grit prevailed, and Joel Santana silenced his rival, Renato Gaúcho.
Joel Santana emotional after victory
Rubro-negro coach says the important thing is to see the biggest fans in the country happy
Coach Joel Santana was emotional after Flamengo's 1-0 victory over Fluminense this Thursday at Maracanã Stadium in the Brazilian Championship. He praised the Flamengo fans for their support. (Watch Maxi's winning goal for Flamengo in the video below.)
"The important thing is to see the fans happy. They believe in a team that was in a difficult situation. We cry, we laugh, but that's football," he says.
Joel also praised Fluminense coach Renato Gaúcho. The two exchanged barbs before the derby.
"He's a promising young man. He's just starting out and is a very good coach. He has a great future," he concludes.
Players dedicate victory to the fans
Maxi, scorer of the decisive goal, and Cristian, a giant on the field, thank the red-blacks
After a dramatic 1-0 victory over Fluminense, with two players down, Flamengo's players acknowledged the fans' support (watch the goal in the video below). The red-and-blacks showed up in good numbers at the Maracanã stadium.
Argentine Maxi Biacucchi, who scored the winning goal, made a point of remembering the fans' constant support. He was playing in the Fla-Flu match for the first time and scored his first goal for the team.
"The victory is for the entire fan base, for all of them. Thank God I played well. The fans are wonderful, and I'm happy with the goal. We knew it would be a tough game. I had no idea how emotional it would be. The team showed grit, we struggled, but we came away with the victory," he says.
Midfielder Cristian, also making his debut in the Rio derby, highlighted the players' efforts to hold on to the score.
"It's thanks to the fans and the players who fought from start to finish in the second half. Congratulations to this wonderful crowd," he said.
Fábio Luciano: 'It's going to be difficult to beat us'
Defender praises the team's performance in the Fla-Flu and believes in the group's growth
After the 1-0 victory over Fluminense (watch the video below), defender Fábio Luciano stated that Flamengo will be on a roll in the Brazilian Championship. He praised the team's performance on the field this Thursday at Maracanã.
"This one will go down as one of the unforgettable games. With two players down, Fluminense is better than us in the table. I'm happy to be joining the club at this time. The team fought hard, and now it's going to be difficult to beat us. Let's celebrate, rest, and tomorrow start thinking about Palmeiras," he says.
Even with the victory, the second in a row, Flamengo remains in the relegation zone, with 18 points, in 18th place.
Roger and Juan will be out of Fla's squad on Sunday
Midfielder is sent off from Fla-Flu and is out of the game against Palmeiras, in São Paulo
Marcio Iannacca
Sent off, midfielder Roger will miss Flamengo's game against Palmeiras
Left-back Juan and midfielder Roger will miss Flamengo's match against Palmeiras next Sunday at Palestra Itália. Both players were sent off in Thursday's match against Fluminense at Maracanã.
Irritated by referee Evandro Rogério Roman's attitude, Roger explained the reason for his expulsion.
"The moment I was fouled, he gave me a yellow card. The foul was unintentional; I tripped. The first time, I didn't even understand why he gave me a yellow card," says Roger.
Coach Joel Santana is expected to field Egídio in Juan's place and Renato Augusto in Roger's. The coach will begin naming the team in training this Friday at Gávea.
Leo Moura also won't play on Sunday
In addition to Roger and Juan, the right-back received his third yellow card and will not play against Palmeiras.
Marcio Iannacca
Right-back Leonardo Moura is out of Sunday's Brazilian Championship match against Palmeiras at Palestra Itália. He received his third yellow card in Thursday's derby against Fluminense at Maracanã (watch Flamengo's winning goal in the video below).
In addition to Leo Moura, coach Joel Santana will be without Juan and Roger, who were sent off in the derby. The coach hasn't named the midfielder's replacement. For the full-back positions, the names are on the tip of his tongue.
"We have a good squad, and whoever's training at Flamengo is capable of starting. I'll put Luizinho and Egídio on the wings. Now, let's think about who will fill Roger's shoes," analyzes Joel Santana.
Renato Augusto is expected to return to the Flamengo squad. The player missed Thursday due to a strained left thigh. He will be re-evaluated by Flamengo's medical department to determine whether he will be fit to play on Sunday.
Bruno feels pain and is worried
The goalkeeper left the derby on a stretcher and is doubtful for the game against Palmeiras on Sunday.
Flamengo beat Fluminense 1-0 this Thursday at Maracanã, but may have a problem for the match against Palmeiras on Sunday in São Paulo. Goalkeeper Bruno felt pain in his right groin and left the field on a stretcher at the end of the derby.
"It was when I took a goal kick. As a precaution, I preferred to be carried off on a stretcher. I hope it's nothing," he said.
For the match against Palmeiras, Flamengo will be without Juan and Roger, who were sent off in the derby, and full-back Léo Moura, who received his third yellow card.
Flamengo fans give Ibson goosebumps
Midfielder is proud of the support from the red-blacks even with the team in the relegation zone
Supporter Ibson said he was thrilled to see Flamengo's fans cheering during Thursday's 1-0 victory over Fluminense at Maracanã Stadium in the Brazilian Championship (watch the highlights in the video below). However, he emphasized that, for the team, every game should be treated as a final.
"Every game that passes is a title race for us. Arriving at Maracanã in second-to-last place and seeing this crowd cheering us on. I even got goosebumps putting on the Flamengo jersey and seeing the fans. It's wonderful," he said.
Flamengo reached 18 points and is in 18th place. The Rio de Janeiro team's next match will be this Sunday, against Palmeiras, in São Paulo.
Fla ends drought and wins a classic
The red-black team defeats Fluminense 1-0 at Maracanã and climbs the table
Marcio Iannacca
Maxi secured the victory and ended the red-black drought in classics
Flamengo ended an eight-game losing streak against its rivals. Thursday's 1-0 victory helped the Red-Blacks climb the Brazilian Championship standings and truly gain momentum in the competition.
Flamengo's last victory came on October 8th of last year, against Fluminense. The team defeated their rival 4-1, with two goals from Renato and two from Obina.
Flamengo secured its second consecutive victory in the Brazilian Championship. Last week, the Red-Black team defeated Náutico 2-1. On Sunday, coach Joel Santana's team will face Palmeiras at Palestra Itália.
Cristian: 'This is unforgettable'
Player, signed from Atlético-PR, says that competing in the Fla-Flu was exciting
Marcio Iannacca
Midfielder Cristian, one of Flamengo's heroes in the 1-0 victory over Fluminense on Thursday night at Maracanã, had no words to describe the experience of winning a classic with the traditional red-and-black shirt.
"It's unforgettable. A crowd like this, supporting our team in such large numbers. It's exciting. I've never played on a massive team, and this is incredible," says the player.
Cristian was signed in June from Furacão and earned a starting spot under coach Ney Franco. He established himself in the team with the arrival of Joel Santana.
Priest will bless Gávea this Friday
A religious man from the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus goes to the club to bless the football department
Father Benedito will be in Gávea this Friday to bless the Rubro-Negro
Father Benedito of the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, Flamengo's patron saint, will be in Gávea this Friday at 14:30 p.m. to bless the field and the soccer department. The priest's presence, or the delegation's visit to the basilica in Cosme Velho, in Rio de Janeiro's south zone, is a common practice for the red-and-black club.
In recent years, before making decisions or even trying to escape the relegation zone in the Brasileirão, Flamengo has been praying to the heavens for help to improve its situation or win a title. So far, it's been successful.
In the current Brasileirão, Flamengo sits second-to-last with 15 points from 15 games. The team needs a winning streak to escape the relegation zone. With three games in hand over its direct rivals, Flamengo is seven points behind Náutico, the first team outside the relegation zone.
SporTV broadcasts Mengão in Malaysia
Juniors face Manchester United in the semi-final of the International Tournament
Flamengo's youth team is in Malaysia in search of another trophy
This Friday morning at 7:45 a.m. (Brasília time), Flamengo's under-19 team takes the field for the semifinal of the Malaysia International Tournament. SporTV will broadcast the Flamengo's match against Manchester United live in Kuala Lumpur.
So far, Flamengo has had a great campaign, with two wins over Arsenal (2-1) and Ajax (1-0) and a draw against Milan (1-1) in the first round. In the quarterfinals, the boys from Gávea beat PSV Eindhoven from the Netherlands 1-0, qualifying to face the English team.
Throw
Flamengo gets the better of Flu
Rubro-Negro spends much of the second half with nine players, but resists and beats Flu 1-0
Romeu tries to escape from Paulo Sérgio: the red-black team got the better of him (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)
Danilo Santos
Despite being down two men after 30 minutes into the second half, Flamengo heroically defeated Fluminense 1-0 this Thursday at Maracanã. The goal was scored by Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, a standout performer in the first half. In the duel between the coaches, Joel Santana came out on top, defeating his rival Renato Gaúcho after provocations from both sides in the days leading up to the derby.
The result lifted Flamengo to 18 points, now in 18th place, but with two games in hand. Fluminense ends the first half of the season with 26 points, in 11th place.
In the war of provocations waged by the coaches in the first half, the Rubro-Negro proved to be right. Joel, who had said the rival still had a lot of polishing to do, organized his team better, while Renato replaced David at right back, removing Roger from the starting lineup.
While one was without Roger, the other, Flamengo, had a namesake ready to shine against his former club. Flamengo's number 8, in his first derby against the club that made him famous, showed surprising determination and his usual quality, with classy passes.
Despite playing worse in the first half, Fluminense had the big chance to open the scoring. After a Thiago Neves free kick, the ball fell to Romeu, who was free inside the penalty area, but his shot was over the top in the 19th minute. In fact, Fluminense only had that one opportunity and almost got another, after Ibson misjudged the ball, but he recovered and prevented the goal.
Flamengo, meanwhile, posed a threat down the left flank with runs from Juan and Maxi Biancucchi. In one, Messi's cousin twisted Luiz Alberto, but his shot was weak, leaving Ricardo Berna to make it easy. In another, they did everything by design. Juan stole the ball from Arouca, led the counterattack, and put Maxi in front of goal. With composure