THE GLOBE

Grêmio's stature makes Caio change Fla

Leonardo starts in defense and Tardelli will start in attack

For nearly 40 minutes, coach Caio Júnior exhaustively rehearsed Flamengo's plays and positioning for the match against Grêmio. Only the 11 starters who will face Grêmio tomorrow in Porto Alegre participated in the training. Among them, the big news was defender Leonardo. To face a tall team that, in the red-and-black coach's view, overuses set pieces, Caio also decided to increase Flamengo's average height.

In defense, he brought in Leonardo, a center-back by trade, to play alongside Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim. Defensive midfielder Jaílton, who had been playing as a third center-back, will now play in midfield. With the change, Toró left the team, among other things due to his height. Kléberson and Ibson will complete the midfield. In attack, without Souza, who has tendinitis, and Obina, who sprained his ankle yesterday in training, Diego Tardelli will pair with Marcinho. This, for Caio, makes Flamengo a leaner, faster team to counterattack.

Bruno recovers and faces Grêmio

Caio warned that Flamengo will now have a base team. However, the lineup may change with each game, according to the rival.

"We didn't change our tactics. Jaílton already played as a third defender. But Grêmio has a tall team, strong on set pieces. We increased our defensive stature with a natural defender. With Tardelli, we gained more speed in attack," said Caio. "In modern football, height is an important factor. If you look at São Paulo, two-time Brazilian champions, you'll notice this."

Goalkeeper Bruno, who had experienced lower back pain the day before, was treated yesterday. However, he traveled with the delegation and will play tomorrow.

SPORTS JOURNAL

Tactics change and Toró is taken off to make way for Leonardo.

Nina Lima/JS

Caio Júnior is worried about the height of Grêmio's attack

Concerned about Grêmio's aerial play and set pieces, coach Caio Júnior decided to increase the size of Flamengo's squad for this Saturday's match at the Olympic Stadium. To achieve this, he fielded defender Leonardo alongside Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim, forming a defense with three defenders. Toró is no longer in the starting lineup.

"Grêmio has a distinctive style of play. They're a strong team that relies heavily on set pieces. That's why I thought it would be interesting to increase the team's size and add another defender," said coach Caio Júnior.

Since arriving at Flamengo, Leonardo has failed to win over the Flamengo fans. Heavily criticized, the player acknowledged last week that he could have performed better than he had. Leonardo, however, didn't expect that, even with the return of captain Fábio Luciano, he would get another opportunity.

Happy with the new opportunity given by Caio Júnior, the defender hopes to live up to the coach's trust.

"Every Flamengo player must be prepared. I'll do everything I can to play a great game and meet Caio's expectations," said the defender, who assures he won't have any problems playing with a three-man defense: "Playing like this isn't new to me. At Goiás, I played with three defenders for a long time. I'm just not used to going out to fight, but I don't think I'll have any problems," he said.

Leonardo's confidence in playing a good game is increased by the presence of Fábio Luciano: "He uses his experience a lot and will help us a lot", he said.

Those who are left behind get an opportunity

Argentine Maxi gets a new opportunity to show his worth to a Flamengo coach

With Joel Santana's departure and Caio Júnior's arrival, the opportunity most players have been longing for is beginning to appear. Besides Jônatas, who wasn't even a starter on the bench under Joel, and who will be one of Caio's options by the second game, forwards Maxi and Éder promise to be more closely monitored by the new coach.

Éder, despite not being on the bench, had his contract renewed for another three months at the coach's request, and Maxi is expected to be an option for Caio Júnior in the South. With Obina's injury, the Argentine will have another chance to be among the reserves. According to Caio, Maxi deserves closer observation.

"Maxi is a good player and deserves to be watched more closely. With Obina's injury, he's going to the bench," he said.\ Erik Flores promoted\

Besides giving opportunities to some players who were on the sidelines, Caio Júnior has already pulled his first player from the youth ranks. Supporter Erik Flores, who will begin training with the group next Monday.

Fla without center forwards at the Olympic

The team already didn't have Souza and, yesterday, lost Obina for the match against Grêmio, tomorrow

Eduardo Lacombe, Bernardo Peirão and Thiago Bokel

Nina Lima/JS

Obina was almost confirmed to play tomorrow when he suffered a sprained ankle.

As strange as it may seem, it's still difficult to determine whether coach Caio Júnior is lucky or not during his time at Flamengo. While he has received confirmation that he will be able to count on goalkeeper Bruno, who suffered a back strain in training last Thursday, he also had to lament the unexpected absence of striker Obina from tomorrow's 16 p.m. match against Grêmio at the Estádio Olímpico.

Even though he seemed determined to field Diego Tardelli as Marcinho's strike partner, the coach still sought to maintain the mystery by also fielding Obina up front. However, while the striker was playing a recreational game with the other reserves, a challenge with Toró put an end to the doubt. Obina sprained his right ankle and, despite continuing to train, left the game limping ten minutes later.

On the other hand, goalkeeper Bruno, who was not guaranteed to play due to a back injury, confirmed that he will play tomorrow. "I stretched too much to make a save and hurt myself. But that won't be a problem. I'll rest tomorrow (today) so I can play," explained Bruno, who also recalled the match last year, when Flamengo lost 1-0 in the South:

"We were in a bad situation, fighting relegation, but we were playing well until we conceded a silly goal. Now it's a very different story. Of course we're going to win, but if we come back with a point, that's good too, because then we have four games in Rio," he reiterated.

The silly play Bruno mentioned was the own goal scored by defender Irineu. Also in that game, striker Souza was sent off for attacking midfielder Tcheco. This time, the "Destroyer" won't risk a red card, as he's banned. Furthermore, Caio confirmed that midfielder Toró will be ruled out, making way for Leonardo in defense. Renato Augusto will be the new addition to the bench. Therefore, the team should be: Bruno, Ronaldo Angelim, Fábio Luciano, and Leonardo; Léo Moura, Jaílton, Ibson, Kleberson, and Juan; Marcinho and Diego Tardelli.

Caio Junior approves the Marcinho and Tardelli duo

File/JS

Tardelli will have the chance he so desired in Flamengo's starting attack this Sunday, against Grêmio

With Obina injured in training this Friday, coach Caio Junior opted to field Diego Tardelli alongside Marcinho in Flamengo's attack for the match against Grêmio this Sunday at 16 pm at the Olímpico. However, the coach revealed after the training session that he was very pleased with the new formation, and believes the change has brought more speed to the team, which will face a well-positioned defense in Porto Alegre.

Thus, the commander hopes that the attackers will have an easier time overcoming the opponent's strong marking.

"I really liked Marcinho's training with Tardelli, which gave him more speed up front, and that's why I opted for this formation. My initial idea was to use Obina to maintain the team's character from recent games, but with his injury, I decided on this pairing," said Caio Junior in an interview with Rádio Globo.

Obina is injured and will not face Grêmio

File/JS

Obina twists his ankle and leaves Diego Tardelli in the starting lineup this Sunday

Flamengo will have a last-minute absence for its match against Grêmio, at 16 p.m., at the Olímpico Stadium. Forward Obina was injured during training this Friday at Gávea and is ruled out for the match in the South of the country. The Black Angel will not travel to Porto Alegre and will remain in Rio de Janeiro treating the injury, which initially does not pose a concern for the rest of the Brazilian Championship.

The injury suffered by the red-and-black favorite was in his right ankle. Thus, coach Caio Junior, who had been unsure about who would replace Souza, also injured, confirmed Diego Tardelli alongside Marcinho in attack.

Another doubt for Sunday's match is goalkeeper Bruno, who is suffering from a back injury. He didn't train on Friday but is expected to play. If the injury doesn't worsen, Diego will take over the No. 1 jersey.

Juan: 'The wounds are still open'

Full-back says elimination from the Libertadores still bothers

The wounds of the Copa Libertadores elimination are still raw in Gávea. At least, that's what left-back Juan thinks.

"Sometimes, watching the training session, you think everything is fine, but the wound is still open and will take a long time to heal. The best way to resolve this is to have a great Brazilian Championship, aiming for the title," Juan told Rádio Bandeirantes.

Regarding the option considered by coach Caio Júnior, of using him on the left wing, Juan was emphatic.

"I don't like playing in midfield. I prefer to come from behind, on the wing, and then drop into the middle or the wing," he concluded.

Juan wants to end a taboo in the South

Jair Mota/JS

Juan has bad memories of his matches at the Olímpico and wants to put an end to this writing.

In one of the best phases of his career, left-back Juan has been, even in defeat, one of Flamengo's best players in 2008. Brave and skillful, he will undoubtedly be a great offensive weapon in Sunday's match against Grêmio.

Despite all the attention, Juan will need more than three points to win at the Olympic Stadium. He will also have to break a taboo. Accustomed to accumulating victories in various Brazilian stadiums, he has never managed to defeat Grêmio in Porto Alegre.

"I don't have good memories of the Olympic Stadium. Grêmio is a team that plays with a lot of determination and has a lot of support from its fans. Anyway, they know how to use the stadium," said the player, who still doesn't know if he'll score a little more in this game: "It depends on how the match goes. Grêmio should come out on top and we have to be well positioned. But it all depends on the game," he said.

THE DAY

Caio Júnior names Leonardo and Tardelli among the starters

Coach, who set up Fla in 3-5-2, knows that, to win, you need to be bold

Janir Junior

Rio - As a player, Caio Júnior played for Grêmio from the ages of 15 to 23. Now, at 43, and having faced the Southern team as a coach, he knows tomorrow's opponent like few others. In the "Olímpico cauldron," as he describes the stadium, he knows he must be cautious, but without losing his boldness. That's why he fielded three center-backs—Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Leonardo—plus Jaílton to protect the defense. Up front, he opted for speed, with Marcinho and Diego Tardelli. Obina sprained his right ankle yesterday and didn't travel with the group.

"It's a very difficult game. Flamengo has to know how to defend, but they'll attack their opponent. We're going to win," the coach assured.

There's an explanation for Toró's exclusion and the option for Leonardo: Caio Júnior believes that one of Grêmio's strengths is the balls into the box and the good height of the opposing players. "I opted for a taller player. Furthermore, we'll have speed up front, as with Tardelli and Marcinho, the attack becomes a bit lighter," he analyzed.

When asked about the change in formation, Caio Júnior stated that Joel Santana's team also played in a 3-5-2 formation several times. "Jaílton played as the third center-back. I liked the training sessions where I set up the team according to how they'll play," the coach noted.

In addition to trying to balance a solid defense with a fast attack, Caio Júnior persistently practiced set pieces and free kicks, especially with Juan and Leonardo Moura.

Even before Obina's injury, Tardelli was tested in the starting lineup. "I regret Obina's injury, but Tardelli deserves this chance too," Caio said. Maxi Biancucchi benefited from this. The Argentine wasn't in the squad for the game, but packed his bags and traveled with the team to Porto Alegre.

Bruno guarantees that he will play on Sunday

Rio - One of Flamengo's leading goalkeepers, Bruno, has confirmed he will be on the field for Sunday's match against Grêmio at the Olympic Stadium. Bruno, the number 1, didn't train yesterday and today due to lower back pain, but said he will participate in the match in Porto Alegre.

"I'm going to play. I just felt a little pain, but it's nothing serious. I'm feeling strong and ready for the match," said Bruno.

The goalkeeper praised the choice of coach Caio Júnior, who will field the red-black team in a 3-5-2 formation.

"I like playing with a three-man defense. Caio Júnior is thinking about the best way to face Grêmio at the Olímpico. We have everything we need to put in a great performance. In the Brazilian Championship, it's important to get points away from home. We're going to win, but a draw is also a good result. We just can't lose."

For Bruno, Flamengo has everything it needs to win its sixth national championship title.

"Besides a very strong team, we have an excellent bench. Flamengo is well placed to compete for the Brazilian title. The club hasn't won the championship since '92, and this is our opportunity to win our sixth title," he concluded.

Tardelli is confirmed as a starter at Fla

Rio - Coach Caio Júnior confirmed this Friday, after training at Gávea, that Flamengo will face Grêmio with a 3-5-2 formation. Midfielder Toró was removed from the team, making way for defender Leonardo, who was heavily questioned for his performance in the Libertadores elimination. Up front, Obina, who was scheduled to replace starter Souza, sprained his right ankle and will not travel to Porto Alegre.

With Obina's injury, Diego Tardelli earned a starting spot, partnering Marcinho in attack. The coach spoke about the changes made to the team.

"I liked the training sessions with both of them (Marcinho and Tardelli), the team is lighter. And since it's a game that requires a bigger player, I opted for Leonardo in defense. Grêmio will play in front of a full stadium, which is to their advantage. So this speed in attack could be decisive. OBina was the option to replace Souza. But I think Marcinho and Tardelli can play well," he explained.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Obina gets injured and Tardelli is confirmed against Grêmio\ Gazeta Press\

Photo: Disclosure

Obina was injured this Friday

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Coach Caio Júnior already knows who will partner Marcinho in Flamengo's attack for Sunday's game against Grêmio at the Olympic Stadium. Obina, who was competing for the injured Souza's spot, was injured in training on Friday, leaving Diego Tardelli free to start. In addition to Diego Tardelli's entry, the Flamengo coach is also expected to field his team in a 3-5-2 formation. This Friday, at Gávea, Caio Júnior returned to training with defender Leonardo in place of midfielder Toró.

The person who didn't train this Friday, but is expected to face Grêmio, was goalkeeper Bruno, still recovering from lower back pain.

Flamengo and Grêmio fight for their second victory\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Victorious in the opening round of the Brazilian Championship, Grêmio and Flamengo will look to build on their strong start to the competition this Sunday when they face off at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Olympic Stadium in Porto Alegre (RS). While the Gauchos arrive buoyed by a victory over defending champions São Paulo at Morumbi Stadium, Flamengo is looking to get back on track after beating Santos last week. Acquitted by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) earlier this week, coach Caio Júnior has had the entire week to prepare Flamengo for the battle in the south of the country. With extensive knowledge of Grêmio, where he played for many years as a player, the Flamengo manager asks for respect for the Gaucho team, but dreams of returning to Rio de Janeiro (RJ) with a victory.

"We know that Grêmio thrives when it plays at home, with the support of its fans. Furthermore, they have a very high-quality team. But Flamengo also has a great team and is capable of delivering good results," he emphasized.

After the clash against Grêmio, Flamengo will play four consecutive matches at Maracanã. Still seeking to reconnect with its fans after its traumatic elimination from the Copa Libertadores, Flamengo hopes a good result in the south will ease the fans' distrust.

"It would be great if we could get a good result, because we have four straight home games after that and a win in the south would bring our fans together to help us get off to a good start in the Brasileirão," the red-and-black coach emphasized.

One of Flamengo's bets is on attacking midfielder Marcinho, one of the standout players in the first round, when he scored a goal and provided a beautiful pass for Ibson to score another. The player is enjoying a good moment at the Rio de Janeiro club.

"To play for Flamengo, you have to dedicate yourself constantly, because the pressure is enormous. And that's exactly what I try to do in every game, giving my all in pursuit of victory," he stated.

And Marcinho will have a new teammate this Sunday. With Souza suffering an Achilles tendon injury and ruled out by Flamengo's doctors, as did Obina, who was injured on Friday, coach Caio Júnior, giving Diego Tardelli a chance. Defender Fábio Luciano, who missed the first round due to injury, is back at Flamengo. The Flamengo captain will form a defensive partnership with Ronaldo Angelim, a partnership they've had since last year's Brazilian Championship.

At Grêmio, coach Celso Roth makes no secret of his satisfaction with the team's performance in the Brazilian Championship opener against São Paulo. So much so that the coach won't make any changes to try to secure a second consecutive victory in the competition. However, the manager warns that the team isn't yet at its ideal level.

"The championship is just beginning. We have a lot of things to fix, and once we do, we'll move on," he emphasized.

Defender Pereira, who scored the winning goal against São Paulo, warns his teammates that the team needs to do their homework. "Since this is a points-based competition, we have to keep adding points, especially when we play at home. But our squad knows where it can go, and we have to win at the Olímpico," the player believes.

Flamengo must define with Dininho by Monday\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's board has postponed a meeting for next Monday to decide whether or not to sign defender Dininho. Palmeiras has already released him to negotiate with other clubs, but the main obstacle for Flamengo is his salary – around R$120, equivalent to what Dininho earned at Palmeiras. Flamengo already has at least five defenders on its professional roster: Ronaldo Angelim, Fábio Luciano, Leonardo, Rodrigo Arroz, and Thiago Salles. While it could strengthen its defense, Flamengo is also working to improve its finances, which were shaken after its elimination from the Copa Libertadores.

Flamengo sold forward Pedro Beda, from its youth squad, to a club linked to businessman J. Hawilla. The deal netted Flamengo approximately R$1,2 million. Pedro is expected to be transferred to a European team.

Flamengo is also expecting a new cash injection soon. This is because the club is expected to receive a sum related to the transfer of midfielder Felipe Melo from Almería-ESP to Fiorentina-ITA. Felipe was discovered by Flamengo at the beginning of the decade.

PELENET

Obina will be out of the Flamengo squad against Grêmio\ From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo suffered an unexpected loss this Friday. During training at Gávea Stadium, Obina sprained his right ankle. The striker was examined and ruled out by the Flamengo medical department for the match against Grêmio on Sunday at 16 pm at the Olímpico Stadium in Porto Alegre, in the second round of the Brazilian Championship.

Obina is treated during Flamengo training; the striker will be out against Grêmio in the South\ CAIO JR. BETS ON A 3-5-2 TEAM\ PHOTOS OF TRAINING SESSIONS AROUND THE COUNTRY\ Without Obina, Caio Júnior decided to bring in Diego Tardelli alongside Marcinho. On Thursday, the Flamengo coach had already lost Souza, also injured.\

"I regret Obina's problem, but I think Diego Tardelli deserves it. Let's see how he performs in the match against Grêmio," said Caio Júnior.

Goalkeeper Bruno, with back pain, was left out of the action. However, the number 1 is expected to play normally. The only question is the formation: 3-5-2 or 4-4-2. With three defenders, Leonardo will replace midfielder Toró.

"I tested with three defenders. In fact, Flamengo already played like that with Jailton. That's my doubt. Leonardo increases the team's stature," warned the Flamengo commander.

Therefore, Flamengo can face Grêmio in this way: Bruno, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Leonardo (Toró); Leonardo Moura, Jailton, Ibson, Kléberson and Juan; Marcinho and Diego Tardelli.

Caio Júnior confirms Flamengo in 3-5-2 to face Grêmio\ From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Caio Júnior didn't keep his promise to keep the team built by former coach Joel Santana for long. After just a week in charge, Flamengo's new coach abandoned the classic 4-4-2 formation and will adopt a 3-5-2 for the match against Grêmio, Sunday at 16 p.m., at the Olímpico Stadium, in the second round of the Brazilian Championship.

In this way, midfielder Toró, an absolute starter with Joel, was removed from the team to make way for defender Leonardo, who will form the defensive trio alongside Ronaldo Angelim and captain Fábio Luciano.

Up front, Marcinho, who had already been playing, and Diego Tardelli will be responsible for the red-and-black goals. Souza, the starter, and his first-choice replacement, Obina, are both injured and ruled out by the medical department.

The Red-Black team will play with: Bruno, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Leonardo; Leonardo Moura, Jailton, Ibson, Kléberson and Juan; Marcinho and Diego Tardelli.

Despite the change of coach, Marcinho remains "untouchable" at Fla\ From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Caio Júnior has been at Flamengo for almost two weeks. During this time, the coach has already tested a 3-5-2 formation instead of the traditional 4-4-2, and has also hinted at the possibility of subbing some players. However, regardless of any changes, one player remains untouchable: midfielder Marcinho.

"Caio Júnior knows he can't make sudden changes to the team. The team is in sync and he's just putting in the players he likes. It's good to know I have his trust. That makes me feel more at ease about playing," he said.

Flamengo's top scorer this season with 11 goals, Marcinho is expected to be joined by Obina for Sunday's match against Grêmio at 16 p.m. at the Olímpico Stadium in Porto Alegre, in the second round of the Brazilian Championship. Souza, injured, will be out for the Red-Blacks. Diego Tardelli has a slim chance of starting.

"With Obina, we won't change our approach. He's a box-to-box player and plays a pivot role. With Diego Tardelli, we've gained a player with speed on the counterattack," Marcinho assessed.

If Caio Júnior opts for a 3-5-2 formation, midfielder Toró will be replaced by defender Leonardo. Goalkeeper Bruno, who was injured in training on Thursday at Gávea, is now in doubt.

With some uncertainties. Flamengo could face Grêmio in this way: Bruno (Diego), Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Leonardo (Toró); Leonardo Moura, Jailton, Ibson, Kléberson and Juan; Marcinho and Obina (Diego Tardelli).

]

Bruno: "The defeat to América-MEX still hurts in the chest"\ From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Nine days after Flamengo's traumatic elimination in the round of 3 of the Copa Libertadores, Bruno finally spoke out. Still dejected and unable to comprehend the unexpected 0-XNUMX loss to América-MEX at the Maracanã Stadium, the goalkeeper couldn't find the words to express his feelings about what happened. However, he hopes the team will learn from this episode for the future.

"I won't try to explain it, because it's something inexplicable. That's the truth. We have to grow up with this. The pages are turned, but it's still there. It still hurts in my chest," admitted Gávea's number 1.

With the early exit from the continental competition, Flamengo has no choice but to focus its efforts on the Brazilian Championship, a title that the red-black fans have not celebrated for many years.

"The club hasn't won a Brazilian Championship since 1992. We have this competition ahead of us and we need to do well. Football gives us the opportunity to bounce back every day. And that's what we have to think about," he said.

Flamengo debuted in the National Championship on Sunday, defeating Santos 3-1 at the Maracanã. In the second round, the opponent will be Grêmio, on Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Olímpico.

Roth predicts difficulties: "Flamengo plays the best football in Brazil"\ From UOL Esporte\ In Porto Alegre\

Grêmio coach Celso Roth predicts a very difficult match against Flamengo this Sunday afternoon in the second round of the Brazilian Championship. He makes the reason for his concern clear: "Flamengo is playing the best football in Brazil right now."

Roth heaped praise on his opponent\ READ MORE ABOUT GRÊMIO\ READ MORE ABOUT THE 2008 BRAZILIAN CHAMPIONSHIP\ According to Roth, who has already defined his team with the same formation as in the opening match, a 1-0 victory over São Paulo at Morumbi, the Rio team "plays modern football, with everyone marking and skillful, fast players."\

While heaping praise on Sunday's opponent at the Olímpico, the Grêmio coach even remembered to justify their failure in the Copa Libertadores. "Unfortunately, Flamengo stumbled in a game they considered already won, but they played a great Rio de Janeiro championship, with plenty of options and a balanced team."

To face a team he considers so qualified, Roth worked on a more defensive formation during Friday's training session. At the end of the training session, he took out center forward Perea and included defensive midfielder Makelele, although he made it clear that it was merely a test based on necessity. "It's a team option with more players in midfield, with Makelele on the right, Rafael - Carioca - on the left, and Roger more centrally, to facilitate his creation, which doesn't mean Roger will play further forward," explained the coach.

The team, Celso Roth makes no secret of it, will have Victor; Léo, Pereira and Réver; Paulo Sérgio, Eduardo Costa, Rafael Carioca, Roger and Hélder; Soares and Perea.

GLOBOESPORTE

After good debuts, Grêmio and Flamengo face each other at the Olímpico

Diego Tardelli gets a starting spot for the Rubro-Negro team. Celso Roth tries to win over the Grêmio fans.

Flamengo and Grêmio have faced difficult times in recent weeks. The Tricolor was eliminated from the Copa do Brasil and didn't even play in the Campeonato Gaúcho final. The Rubro-Negro lost at the Maracanã and said goodbye to the Copa Libertadores after losing to América-MEX. However, both clubs started the Brazilian Championship well. They beat Santos and São Paulo, respectively, in their opening matches. This Sunday, at 16 pm, at the Olímpico Stadium in Porto Alegre, the rivals hope to continue their march toward a new phase and the lead in the competition.

GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be following the match in real time. Rede Globo will be broadcasting the game live.

The match will be special for Flamengo, which is celebrating its 950th Brazilian Championship match. But the Rio de Janeiro team has problems. Souza and Obina are injured and will not play. This leaves Diego Tardelli open. The striker, who was instrumental in winning the Campeonato Carioca title, gets a starting spot alongside Marcinho.

"I have fond memories of the south. Last year, when I was at São Paulo, I scored one of the winning goals against Grêmio. It was the beginning of the title run," recalled Diego Tardelli.

Caio Júnior decided to change Flamengo's tactical formation due to Grêmio's strong aerial game. As a result, Toró lost his starting spot to defender Leonardo. The team will now play a 3-5-2 formation.

"We already played like this. The difference now is that we'll have three full-time defenders instead of one defensive midfielder (Jaílton). It's a change I decided to make for this match because Grêmio has three 1,90'XNUMX" defenders and knows how to exploit that very well," said the red-and-black coach.

As soon as the match against São Paulo ended, with a 1-0 victory at Morumbi Stadium, Celso Roth avoided the guillotine. If he failed, he would have been fired. With the good result, he gained prestige, but his situation is still not entirely comfortable. Much of the fans are not buying the coach. The fans' reaction will be measured this Sunday, in the first game at the Olímpico Stadium since the eliminations from the Campeonato Gaúcho and the Copa do Brasil. And it's precisely the match against the team that, according to Roth, plays the best football in Brazil right now.

"Flamengo has been doing very well since last year. And now they've added quality. They have skillful and fast players. I have the impression that they're the team playing the best football in Brazil right now, perhaps along with Cruzeiro. It's modern football, with everyone marking and going out to play," says Roth.

The team has no problems for the match against Flamengo. The tendency is to maintain the formation that beat São Paulo, but with a possible change in dynamics. Roth said that, with the same players from Morumbi, he can make the team more attacking. This is the change from 3-5-2 to 4-4-2. Réver moves from defense to the defensive midfield role, alongside Eduardo Costa. This gives young Rafael Carioca, a good pass rusher, more freedom and becomes an assistant to Roger in creating plays for forwards Soares and Perea. However, this is a more likely variation for the rest of the match. The team should indeed field three fixed defenders behind. Pereira is the sweeper.

The Tricolor board is banking on a packed stadium against the Red-Blacks. They believe that Inter's elimination from the Copa do Brasil will boost the Tricolor's spirits. Around 40 fans are expected to be present at the stadium.

Caio Júnior: 'Tardelli deserved a chance'

Coach wants to see the striker's performance as a starter

Thiago Lavinas From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Diego Tardelli will have a chance as a starter

After being one of the players responsible for winning the Campeonato Carioca in the final against Botafogo, Diego Tardelli will earn a starting spot this Sunday against Grêmio in the second round of the Campeonato Brasileiro. The striker was confirmed as a starter alongside Marcinho by coach Caio Júnior. Tardelli has made 20 appearances for Flamengo this season and scored six goals.

"Diego Tardelli deserved a starting spot. And he opened up a gap with Souza's injury. I've been monitoring his performance, and now we'll see how he'll perform starting from the start."

Caio Júnior is excited and shows great expectations for the performance of the Marcinho-Diego Tardelli duo in the match against Grêmio.

"With both of them, the team will be leaner and faster in attack. It will be a very tough game, with a full stadium and a lot of pressure. But this speed in attack could make the difference and give us the victory. They have everything it takes to form a good duo."

Tardelli enters the team favored by Souza's injury, who didn't even travel to Porto Alegre. Furthermore, Obina also injured himself in training on Friday and was ruled out by the medical department.

Leonardo: 'It's been a while since I've gone hunting'

Defender will come out of defense more to combat opponents

Thiago Lavinas From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Fábio Luciano will play as a libero for Fla

Defender Leonardo used a curious term when discussing the tactical role he will play on the field with a three-man defense in the match against Grêmio on Sunday at the Olímpico Stadium in Porto Alegre. Since Fábio Luciano will play as a sweeper, Leonardo will be positioned slightly behind the Grêmio forwards.

"At Goiás, we played a lot with three defenders. But after I left there, I haven't played as much. It's been a while since I've been out hunting, but I don't think it will be much of a problem. Fábio Luciano is a player who needs no introduction, and his experience will be a big help to us," he says.

Leonardo was signed by Flamengo this year. He came from Goiás, where he won the state championship in 2006. He has played six games for the club so far. On Sunday, the defender will also be watching crosses into the box.

"Their high-ball play is very strong. That's why we need to be alert. Flamengo doesn't normally play with three defenders, but tactically it's similar since Jaílton always plays that role. We won't have any problems."

After a poor performance away from Rio in 2007, Flamengo wants to cause trouble as a visitor.

The team only won three away games in the Brazilian Championship last year

Thiago Lavinas From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Caio Junior wants Fla to do well away from home

Flamengo finished third in last year's Brazilian Championship. However, they only won three away games: Goiás, Paraná, and América-RN. Therefore, to compete for the title this year, the players know that the team can't be feared only at Maracanã. They need to do well away from home, too.

The first challenge will be this Sunday at 16 p.m. against Grêmio at the Olímpico Stadium in Porto Alegre. With their victory over Santos in the first round, Flamengo is among the leaders of the competition.

"In the Brazilian Championship, it's important to get points away from home. We're going to win, but a draw is also a good result. We just can't lose," said goalkeeper Bruno.

In 2006, when he managed Paraná Clube, coach Caio Júnior achieved six away wins and led the Paraná club to the Copa Libertadores. To replicate his strong performance on the road, the club's manager will select the team based on the opponent's characteristics in matches away from Rio de Janeiro.

Against Grêmio, for example, Caio Júnior decided to drop midfielder Toró and bring Leonardo into the lineup. This gives the team more stature to combat Grêmio's strong aerial game. Furthermore, he wants to exploit the speed of Diego Tardelli and Marcinho up front.

"With Paraná in 2006, I won many away games. So, we'll capitalize on our speed. We also have to attack our opponents. It's a coach's responsibility to know the opponents and change the team depending on the game. You need to have a foundation, but you also need to make a few changes depending on who you're facing," said Caio Júnior.

For defender Leonardo, who was given a chance on the team even after Fábio Luciano's return, there's no point in just thinking about a draw in away games.

"In a points-based championship, every game is a decisive one. And winning away is very important. We won at home in our debut, and now we have to follow up to get off to a good start. There's no point in going to play away from Rio thinking only of a draw. We have to go there to win," said defender Leonardo, confirmed in the team in Toró's place.

Souza returns to ball training on Monday

The striker has practically recovered from the injury to the tendon in his right foot.

Thiago Lavinas From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Souza has scored just six goals this season

Souza is virtually free of the tendon pain in his right foot that kept him out of the match against Grêmio this Sunday at the Olímpico Stadium in Porto Alegre. The forward did not travel with the delegation and remained in Rio de Janeiro undergoing treatment. He is expected to return to training with the ball next Monday.

Having failed to score in eight games, Souza will once again be available to coach Caio Júnior for the match against Internacional at Maracanã in the third round of the Brazilian Championship. However, the club's manager is not guaranteeing the striker's starting position. He prefers to wait and see how Diego Tardelli performs against Grêmio.

Souza, who arrived at Flamengo at the start of last season, has six goals in 2008. But he hasn't found the net since March 22, when he scored one of the goals in the victory over Cabofriense, in the Campeonato Carioca.

Luxemburgo intends to become president of Flamengo after retiring from his career

Palmeiras coach says he is a co-owner of Rubro-Negro, a fan and admirer of the club where he was revealed to football

Luiz Ademar From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in São Paulo

Vanderlei Luxemburgo already has his mind set on what he intends to do once his coaching career is over. Initially, the 56-year-old Palmeiras manager has announced that he will only hold the position until he turns 60. But if he succeeds in implementing his plan to return to the Brazilian national team, he will hold the position until the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. After that, he intends to run for president of Flamengo (watch the video).

"I don't see myself working as a coach after I'm 60. Unless I take over the Brazilian national team and work until the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. But I don't intend to abandon football. If I stop, I'm sure I'll die of a heart attack. I want to stay in the business, but do other activities. And among my goals is running for president of Flamengo," says Luxemburgo.

The Palmeiras coach makes no secret of his avid supporter of the club. He follows the club's every move, exchanges ideas with former players, and maintains contact with current and former directors. Luxemburgo also pays his membership dues on time and hopes to run for president in the future.

"Everyone knows I'm a Flamengo fan. When I finish my coaching career, I intend to run for president of the club. I'm a partner and have the right to run for the position," explains the Alviverde manager.

Admiration for Beckenbauer

Luxemburgo admires German Franz Beckenbauer's love for Bayern Munich. After playing for his beloved team, he retired and became the club's president. And the Palmeiras coach hopes to do the same at Flamengo.

"Beckenbauer is a role model at Bayern Munich. I was also very happy to see Platini in charge of UEFA. These are former players who are doing something for football. I hope to do the same for Flamengo," Luxemburgo emphasizes.

But if he fails to secure the Flamengo presidency at the polls, Luxemburgo has another role in mind within football. Just as Uruguayan businessman Juan Figer, owner of Uruguay's Atlético Rentista Club, does, signing numerous players and then passing them on to other teams, the Palmeiras coach believes he can do the same.

"Doesn't everyone say I make money brokering player deals? They didn't prove anything at the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry (CPI), but the malicious rumors continue to this day. But when I finish my coaching career, I can buy a club, acquire the federation rights of several athletes, and place them in clubs within and outside Brazil. Another possibility is to open a sports consulting firm," says Luxemburgo.

Bruno: 'I'm going to play, it's nothing serious'

Goalkeeper guarantees presence in the team on Sunday against Grêmio

Thiago Lavinas From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Bruno believes he will face Grêmio

Bruno didn't train this Friday due to lower back pain. The goalkeeper remained in the physical therapy room. He's also likely to be rested this Saturday in Porto Alegre for the team's final training session before the match against Grêmio.

But Bruno guarantees he'll be on the field on Sunday for the match at the Olympic Stadium. If he's unfit, Diego will take over the No. 1 jersey.

- I'll play, yes. I just felt a little pain, but it's nothing serious - he said.

Flamengo made a strong debut in the Brazilian Championship with a 3-1 victory over Santos at Maracanã. For the match against Grêmio, coach Caio Júnior opted to field Leonardo in defense alongside Ronaldo Angelim and Fábio Luciano. As a result, Toró is out of the lineup.

"I like playing with a three-man defense. It's a great way to face Grêmio at the Olímpico, as they're strong in the air. We have everything we need to put in a great performance."

Maxi Biancucchi gets a chance and travels to Porto Alegre

Argentine player remains on the bench against Grêmio

Thiago Lavinas From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

With Obina's injury during training this Friday, in Gávea, Argentine striker Maxi Biancucchi was given a chance and was called up for the match against Grêmio, next Sunday, at 16 pm, at the Olímpico stadium, in Porto Alegre, for the second round of the Brazilian Championship.

Maxi was out of the match but was eventually called up for the trip. Obina was ruled out of the match, and Souza is still recovering from an injury. As a result, the striker had to quickly leave the club and go home to pack his bags for the trip with the group. Diego Tardelli and Marcinho will be the starters.

Maxi, 23, has been with Flamengo since July of last year. He has played 29 games and scored three goals for the club.

After good debuts, Grêmio and Flamengo face each other at the Olympic Stadium

Diego Tardelli gets a starting spot for the Rubro-Negro. Celso Roth tries to win over the Grêmio fans.

Thiago Lavinas From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Flamengo and Grêmio have faced difficult times in recent weeks. The Tricolor was eliminated from the Copa do Brasil and didn't even play in the Campeonato Gaúcho final. The Rubro-Negro lost at the Maracanã and said goodbye to the Copa Libertadores after losing to América-MEX. However, both clubs started the Brazilian Championship well. In their opening matches, they beat Santos and São Paulo, respectively. This Sunday, at 16 pm, at the Olímpico Stadium in Porto Alegre, the rivals hope to continue their march toward a new phase and the lead in the competition.

Marcinho and Diego Tardelli will form Flamengo's attack in this Sunday's game

GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be following the match in real time. Rede Globo will be broadcasting the game live.

The match will be special for Flamengo, which is celebrating its 950th Brazilian Championship match. But the Rio de Janeiro team has problems. Souza and Obina are injured and will not play. This leaves Diego Tardelli open. The striker, who was instrumental in winning the Campeonato Carioca title, gets a starting spot alongside Marcinho.

"I have fond memories of the South. Last year, when I was at São Paulo, I scored one of the winning goals against Grêmio. It was the beginning of the title run," recalled Diego Tardelli.

Caio Júnior decided to change Flamengo's tactical formation due to Grêmio's strong aerial game. As a result, Toró lost his starting spot to defender Leonardo. The team will now play a 3-5-2 formation.

"We already played like this. The difference now is that we'll have three full-time defenders instead of one defensive midfielder (Jaílton). It's a change I decided to make for this match because Grêmio has three 1,90'XNUMX" defenders and knows how to exploit that very well," said the red-and-black coach.

Grêmio at full strength

Roth (back) guides Grêmio players for the match against the team that 'plays the best football at the moment'

As soon as the match against São Paulo ended, with a 1-0 victory at Morumbi Stadium, Celso Roth avoided the guillotine. If he failed, he would have been fired. With the good result, he gained prestige, but his situation is still not entirely comfortable. Much of the fans are not buying the coach. The fans' reaction will be measured this Sunday, in the first game at the Olímpico Stadium since the eliminations from the Campeonato Gaúcho and the Copa do Brasil. And it's precisely the match against the team that, according to Roth, plays the best football in Brazil right now.

"Flamengo has been doing very well since last year. And now they've added quality. They have skillful and fast players. I have the impression that they're the team playing the best football in Brazil right now, perhaps along with Cruzeiro. It's modern football, with everyone marking and going out to play," says Roth.

The team has no problems for the match against Flamengo. The tendency is to maintain the formation that beat São Paulo, but with a possible change in dynamics. Roth said that, with the same players from Morumbi, he can make the team more attacking. This is the change from 3-5-2 to 4-4-2. Réver moves from defense to the defensive midfield role, alongside Eduardo Costa. This gives young Rafael Carioca, a good pass rusher, more freedom and becomes an assistant to Roger in creating plays for forwards Soares and Perea. However, this is a more likely variation for the rest of the match. The team should indeed field three fixed defenders behind. Pereira is the sweeper.

The Tricolor board is banking on a packed stadium against the Red-Blacks. They believe that Inter's elimination from the Copa do Brasil will boost the Tricolor's spirits. Around 40 fans are expected to be present at the stadium.

THROW

Eating from the edges, Marcinho is Gávea's number 10

From a supporting role at the beginning of the year, the striker is now a highlight for Fla

LANCEPRESS!

His stints at Cruzeiro and Atlético-MG lead most to believe he's from Minas Gerais. And this notion makes sense. After all, it's by utilizing his own Minas Gerais style that Marcinho, from the city of Irapuã, has been carving out a place for himself at Flamengo. Without the hype surrounding his name, he's been proving his worth on the field with his surprising, goal-scoring performance.

A little over four months into his time at Gávea, Marcinho has been a standout performer, surpassing Ibson, Kleberson, and Jônatas—all considered Brazilian national team-caliber players. A midfielder by trade, Marcinho has excelled even more in his goals (he's Flamengo's top scorer this season, with 11).

Much talked about when he played for Atlético Mineiro for being the brains of the midfield, Marcinho admits that the wider range of options in the red-black squad means he has more space, as other players also need to be constantly monitored by opponents.

"Flamengo's squad is a match for few in Brazil. We have a quality squad. At Atlético, we didn't have a strong bench. I've had a lot of freedom, and I think I've made the most of it, which is by scoring goals," he said.

Enjoying this good run of form, surely the best of his career, Marcinho doesn't forget to highlight the good work of his teammates, who have contributed to his success at Flamengo: "If I'm scoring a lot, it's because they've been playing an excellent role. Souza hasn't been scoring, but he helps the team a lot. He holds off two or three defenders, and I end up free. Obina and Tardelli have also been crucial."

Obina leaves injured and 'makes life easier' for Caio

Striker sprains right ankle and will miss Grêmio match. Flamengo could count on Bruno

Obina is out of the game against Grêmio (Credit: Cleber Mendes)

LANCEPRESS!\ If Caio Júnior had any doubts about Souza's replacement in attack, they ended this Friday. Obina was injured and is ruled out for this Sunday's match against Grêmio in Porto Alegre. The striker had already been training with the reserves, with Diego Tardelli among the starters, when he sprained his right ankle.\

Along with Obina, Souza is also out of the game against Grêmio. The forward is still recovering from pain in his right foot. Bruno, who underwent physical therapy this Friday, is traveling to Porto Alegre and is expected to play.

Bruno 'selects himself' for the game against Grêmio

Goalkeeper underwent physiotherapy this Friday and did not train with the group

LANCEPRESS!\ Bruno, who underwent physical therapy this Friday for lower back pain and did not train, made sure he would be in the starting lineup against Grêmio during an interview. He also explained that it would be best not to participate in Saturday's training session in Porto Alegre, at Internacional's training center.\

"I overstretched my knee to defend a ball (in training the day before yesterday), but it's nothing serious and won't keep me out of the game. Ideally, I'd be spared from training today so I don't overexert myself and can play," he said.

The coach already said he was counting on the player, but gave the goalkeeper a 90% chance of playing.

radio l! - I'm counting on Bruno. He had a muscle injury, which kept him out of training today, but he still has time to recover - said Caio Júnior.

With Bruno absent yesterday, Diego defended the starting goal. Bruno assured that Caio Júnior authorized him to take free kicks.

Flamengo's lineup will depend on the opponent

Against Grêmio, the team will have three defenders to prevent aerial play\ LANCEPRESS!\

Caio Júnior's decision to go with three defenders against Grêmio at the Olímpico doesn't mean Flamengo will always play this formation. According to the coach, the team's lineup will depend on the opponent, but without changing the way they play.

Against Grêmio, Caio Júnior's main concern is aerial play. That's why the coach opted to add an extra defender (Leonardo) and take off Toró.

"In today's football, you need to know your opponent to build the best possible team. But I can't change their characteristics. Each game is different. The opponent debuts at home, and we have to have a system that works, and I thought it was interesting to have three native center-backs. We increase the defense's stature and add speed to the attack," said Caio Júnior, referring to the new attacking duo of Marcinho and Diego Tardelli.

- The speed of this duo could be interesting.

Fla trains in 3-5-2 and with Diego Tardelli in attack

Caio Júnior is starting to shape the team. He opts for Leonardo in place of Toró. Bruno is undergoing physical therapy.

Leonardo could continue as Flamengo's starter (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)

LANCEPRESS!

Flamengo may have a new formation against Grêmio on Sunday in Porto Alegre. Caio Júnior trained the starting lineup with three defenders, with Leonardo replacing Toró and Diego Tardelli alongside Marcinho in attack. Diego replaced Bruno in goal.

The starting team trained alone on three-quarters of the field, while the reserves participated in a recreational session. Caio Jr. prioritized attacking the ball with the new formation, but also practiced set pieces. Without a defense, Diego was bombarded.

Souza, with pain in his right foot, did separate physical training. Bruno, suffering from lower back pain, didn't take the field and instead underwent physical therapy at the club.

The starters were formed by: Diego, Fábio Luciano, Leonardo and Ronaldo Angelim; Léo Moura, Jaílton, Ibson, Kleberson and Juan; Marcinho and Diego Tardelli.

Fla will have three changes compared to the debut

Fábio Luciano returns, the plan changes and Tardelli gets a chance on the team\ LANCEPRESS!\

Regarding the Flamengo team that debuted in the Brazilian Championship against Santos, Caio Júnior made three changes for the match against Grêmio. In defense, Fábio Luciano returns to the team after a right thigh injury, and Leonardo continues in place of Toró, changing the formation to a 3-5-2. Up front, Diego Tardelli replaces Souza, recovering from pain in his right foot.

"I tested a few formations. First with Obina, then Tardelli, and with three defenders. Tardelli deserves a chance, and Souza's injury opened up a gap," said Caio Júnior, who sees no problems with the three-defender formation.

"Actually, Flamengo has been playing this formation, but with Jaílton playing the role. Grêmio is a tall team and very strong in the air. Set pieces can be decisive in this game, which is why I opted for Leonardo. Jaílton will have a different position."

The team will be formed by: Bruno, Leonardo, Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim; Léo Moura, Jaílton, Ibson, Kleberson and Juan; Marcinho and Diego Tardelli.