THE GLOBE
With sweat and no tears, Botafogo gets revenge
Once again in a thrilling and challenging match, the black and white team defeated Flamengo 3-2 and broke a four-year losing streak against their rival. This time, the red and blacks lost their heads.
Photo caption: JORGE HENRIQUE heads the ball and scores Botafogo's third goal in their thrilling 3-2 victory over Flamengo last night at the Maracanã: goalkeeper Bruno could do nothing
Fellipe Awi
With different players and a different score, Flamengo and Botafogo resumed last night the match that ended more than 20 days ago. This time, however, the roles of victors and out-of-control rivals were reversed. Even without a trophy awaiting the winner, Botafogo defeated Flamengo 3-2 at the Maracanã stadium, under the same level of tension as the Guanabara Cup final. Although without the same practical significance as the Flamengo victory, the black and whites celebrated their 100% record in the Rio Cup and the end of a four-year, 15-game winless streak against their rival.
As has been the case in recent years, Flamengo and Botafogo played an electrifying derby, with plenty of goals but, unfortunately, punctuated by brawls and rough plays. The raw rivalry could be felt even in the special seats, an area without fan divisions, from where, due to an exchange of insults, two Botafogo fans had to be removed by the police. Among the players, the lack of control also shifted: it was the Flamengo fans who went overboard late in the game with aggression and unfair challenges. For mistaking bravery for violence, Jônatas and Obina were sent off. For giving goalkeeper Castillo a peck, Toró deserved the same fate.
Even with the teams equal, Botafogo controlled most of the match—despite frequent complaints to referee Marcelo Souza Pinto. Botafogo had the best chances, starting with a shot from a near-angle angle by Wellington Paulista, well saved by Bruno. In the 22nd minute, Gavilán lost the ball in midfield, and Welligton Paulista had a golden opportunity to open the scoring. He tapped it past Bruno: 1-0. Flamengo, which was proving sluggish from midfield forward, only threatened the black-and-white goal in the 27th minute, when Castillo and Diguinho saved two consecutive shots by Renato Augusto. Flamengo found its goal thanks to an unnecessary penalty by Renato Silva on Obina. Leonardo Moura converted in the 39th minute to equalize. Five minutes later, Jailton awarded a necessary penalty to Lúcio Flávio, and Zé Carlos put his team back in front.
Castillo starts a new fight by looking for the ball inside the goal
In the second half, Botafogo continued to outperform the sluggish Flamengo team. Jorge Henrique skillfully headed the third goal in just seven minutes. Shortly after, coach Joel Santana was criticized for being "stupid" when he substituted Max Biancuchi for Renato Augusto. Once again, Flamengo scored a goal when they were the worse side. In the 23rd minute, Thiago Salles sent Castillo past with a beautiful header. The Uruguayan goalkeeper and Flamengo defender then battled for the ball in the goal, and, just like in the Guanabara Cup final, the melee began. That's when Toró hit Castillo. No one was booked.
The goal not only reignited the match but finally made Flamengo play a little more football. Based on sheer willpower, they even threatened Botafogo's victory, but with four minutes remaining, their determination turned to desperation. Jônatas headbutted Jorge Henrique and, already on a yellow card, was sent off. André Luis also hit Jônatas and received only a yellow card. In the 45th minute, Obina still found time for another blunder: he tackled Lúcio Flávio from behind and also received a red card. The game ended shortly thereafter—unless Botafogo and Flamengo decide otherwise again in their next meeting.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Salles, and Egidio; Gavilan (Leo Medeiros), Jonathan, Jailton (Marcinho), and Toro; Renato Augusto (Max Biancuchi), and Obina. Botafogo: Castillo, Alessandro, Renato Silva, Andre Luis, and Triguinho (Adriano Felicio); Tulio (Eduardo), Diguinho, Lucio Flavio, Ze Carlos (Wellington Jr.); Jorge Henrique and Wellington Paulista. Referee: Marcelo Souza Pinto. Yellow cards: Jonathan, Jailton, Andre Luis, Triguinho, Tulio, Jorge Henrique. Red cards: Jonathan and Obina. Revenue: R$296.733,00. Paying audience: 21.010.
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: He wasn't to blame for the black and white goals and made some important saves. But he almost got into trouble with his emotional outburst. In the second half, he hit Wellington Paulista with his forearm and was lucky not to be punished. 5.
LEONARDO MOURA: A training-paced first half, with little support and, when he did, leaving space in behind. He improved in the second half and was a good option for the red-and-blacks on the right. 6.
LEONARDO: Technically weak, inconsistent in marking, and lacking in chemistry, he was outclassed by Wellington Paulista in most of the matches. His consistent effort and seriousness with the ball at his feet are worthy of praise. 5.
THIAGO SALLES: He struggled in his marking due to a lack of connection with Leonardo. But he demonstrated his excellent ability to use high balls into the box, scoring Flamengo's second goal with a header. 6,5.
EGÍDIO: Juan's replacement had a lackluster first half, but played a key role in the team's pressure in the second half. He delivered the cross for Thiago Salles' goal. 5,5.
JAILTON: Bureaucratic, he paid dearly for his carelessness in leaving Lúcio Flávio free and ended up bringing down his opponent inside the box, when Flamengo had just tied the derby. 4. MARCINHO came on in the second half, gave the team speed, but barely bothered Castillo. 5.
GAVILÁN: He made a mess of things by trying to dribble into the box and losing the ball, which fell to Wellington Paulista to open the scoring. 4. LÉO MEDEIROS came on in his place and improved the marking in the middle. 5.
JÔNATAS: Distracted with the ball at his feet and out of control without it. Not only was his lack of initiative bordering on drowsiness, he also created a commotion and was sent off. 1.
TORÓ: He seems to have not learned his lesson after the stupidity he committed in Uruguay, where he attacked a ball boy and was sent off. Besides having a disagreement with Túlio for not showing fair play and dribbling during a jump ball, he took advantage of the confusion in the black and white box after Flamengo's second goal to kick Castillo in the head, while he was down. 2.
RENATO AUGUSTO: Moving well at the edge of the box, he created some good plays, but needs to improve his finishing on goal. 5,5. MAXI ran a lot, showed skill, but did little to help the team with players sent off. 5.
OBINA: At the moment when Flamengo most needed a goal from him, he lost his head in the second half and was sent off for a violent tackle. 1.
JOEL SANTANA: His decision to field reserves in the derby proved to be a mistake, and his players lacked emotional control. 4.
ARBITRATION
Referee Marcelo de Souza Pinto failed to award a penalty to Jorge Henrique early on but acted correctly in the expulsions of Jônatas and Obina.
Fla under threat of its own imbalance
Faced with expulsions and the decisive game in the Libertadores, players may be punished
Pedro Motta Gueiros
In its last two matches against traditional opponents, Flamengo has lost both the game and its composure. With four players sent off and six goals conceded against Nacional and Botafogo, the team heads into the season's decisive moment without answers for its lack of control. One of the most lucid players on the field yesterday against the black and whites, Leonardo Moura found a late calm. Due to a kick he delivered to an opponent's ribs, he is out of Wednesday's Libertadores match against Nacional, which the team is obliged to win and perform well. Otherwise, the damage will go beyond the team's classification. According to vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, any repeat offense will be grounds for punishment.
"This wasn't necessary," lamented Léo Moura, after Jônatas and Obina were sent off, when Flamengo had a chance to prevent Botafogo's victory. "Our team already won the first round, there was no reason to worry. We knew Botafogo would provoke us. This is hindering us."
Training for the match against Nacional begins tonight
For the full-back, the team's discomfort in adverse situations causes players to rush to win the ball back and also react irritably to the opponents' passing and trick plays. Perplexed, coach Joel Santana couldn't find an explanation. Just as in the pre-match talk against Nacional, yesterday the players were repeatedly told not to accept provocation.
"They talked a lot before the game about the chaos and the desire for revenge. The player has that in mind and goes in ready to show the fans he's got grit," said Joel.
In the stands, Obina's tackle on Lúcio Flávio was greeted with applause and shouts of approval. On the field, once again, the atmosphere of intolerance overcame Joel's gentle words before the game.
"In Uruguay, I ended the pre-match talk by saying I was certain we'd only lose that game if we fell into their trap. I was criticized for not having the nerve, but I was warned," said Joel.
Regarding Obina's second red card in the two derbies he started, Joel found a sociological explanation. Against Fluminense, the forward was angered by a clever play and kicked Anderson. Yesterday, he tackled Lúcio Flávio after a high one-two with Diguinho.
"I don't know if it's life today, the stress, but a player loses a game and it feels like the world has ended. That's not what sports are about," the coach lamented.
Kleber Leite was embarrassed. Besides apologizing to the fans, he tried to assure them that the outburst wouldn't happen again and brought forward the training camp, which begins tonight.
"The dialogue phase is over. Next time, we will take administrative action. The environment is good, the salary issue has been resolved, and there is no reason for the bad temper. This will not happen again."
The board can dig into their pockets, but not into the players' minds. On the eve of their most important game of the season, Flamengo is a team under threat.
Fla wins 13th victory in the National Championship
Team beats Londrina and coach of the Brazilian basketball team praises point guard Hélio
Photo caption: NATIONAL TEAM COACH, Moncho Monsalve watches Flamengo's victory over Londrina, in Gávea
Sanny Bertoldo
With a 34-point lead, Flamengo defeated Londrina 95-61 (50-28 in the first half) yesterday in Gávea, securing their 13th consecutive victory in the National Men's Basketball Championship. With the result, the red-and-black team remains undefeated in the competition with 26 points. Once again, Marcelinho was the standout, with 23 points and four assists.
"Despite the score, this was one of the toughest games of the championship. We faced a balanced, quality team, and our defense was crucial in opening up a lead. In fact, it's been the key to our team's balance," said the winger.
Moncho will only call up the national team after May 20th.
Just like last Friday, when he watched the red-and-black victory over Rio Claro, also at Gávea, Spaniard Moncho Monsalve, the new coach of the Brazilian men's national team, watched the match. Excited by the performances of Marcelinho and his brother Duda, who scored ten points, he also expressed interest in another red-and-black player on the court.
"I really liked Hélio. I'd seen him play before. He has great defensive ability, as does the entire Flamengo team," commented the coach, who congratulated the point guard after the match and arranged to meet him later this week.
"I'm very flattered to receive praise from the Brazilian national team coach. It's an extra motivation. I think everything is working in my favor, and if the opportunity to be on the national team comes along, I won't waste it," replied the player, who scored 13 points in the match.
Before returning to Spain, Moncho intends, among other commitments, to go to the Federal District tomorrow to watch the match between Brasília and Saldanha da Gama, mainly because of point guard Valtinho—who he points to as another player who could be on the Brazilian national team—and to speak with the home team's coach, Lula Ferreira. The national team's call-up, he warns, won't be released before May 20th:
"I'm also going to the United States to talk with Anderson Varejão (of the Cleveland Cavaliers) and Leandrinho (of the Phoenix Suns). I need to wait until the Brazilian, European, and NBA championships are over before I can get the team together."
Flamengo returns to the court on Friday to face Cetaf in Vila Velha. On Sunday, they face Saldanha da Gama in Vitória. For coach Paulo Chupeta, the team's technical prowess is making all the difference.
"The team is aware that there is no attack without a solid defense. And I have a very strong squad; I can rotate players without the level dropping," he says. "We have two tough games now. Everyone wants to beat us. But no one at Flamengo will admit defeat."
SPORTS JOURNAL
Eduardo Paes threatens to leave Fla and Flu without a stadium
The Secretary of State for Sports threatened to no longer allow Maracanã stadium to host matches between major and minor clubs in the Campeonato Carioca. In that case, Flamengo and Fluminense would have to find another venue.
Paes is not satisfied with the small crowds at these matches and said that the stadium would no longer be open for matches with an estimated crowd of less than 25.
"It is unacceptable to open a stadium of this size to receive such a small audience," declared the secretary, who is also president of Suderj, the administrator of Maracanã.
According to him, the small number of fans is due to the price charged for tickets.
"It's not fair to charge R$30 or R$40 for a ticket (grandstand), especially with this huge number of games," he explained.
However, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, said he did not believe in such an attitude on the part of the secretary.
"The matter is resolved. Nothing like that will happen. Eduardo Paes is a balanced person and I'm sure he will take the right action." (DM)
Léo Moura issues warning for Wednesday
After long having Vasco as its main rival, it seems that Flamengo now has another worthy competitor. So much so that right-back Léo Moura can no longer hide his rivalry with Botafogo.
"It will be like this against them from now on. Even because of the provocations created by both sets of fans. We need to be calm to beat them, because the rivalry created is strong," warned Léo Moura, who also warned his teammates: "Clássicos are always decided by the details. We can't give two goals to the opponents like we did today. We lost to ourselves," he criticized.
Even though he was out of Wednesday's game against Nacional after being sent off in Montevideo, Léo made a point of emphasizing the difference between the Copa Libertadores and the Campeonato Carioca.
"It will be a completely different match to this one. Our fate in the most important competition of the year is at stake. We have to always win at home to go far," said the full-back, who scored the first goal for the red-blacks yesterday, with a penalty kick.
Besides not yet having named Léo Moura's replacement, coach Joel Santana still has to decide who will replace Toró. The former is the coach's biggest headache, as Luizinho hasn't been able to convince him that he can start in such an important match as this one against Nacional. (TB)
Kleber Leite takes a hard line
Diego Marrul and Thiago Bokel
Nina Lima
The first confusion of the match began after Flamengo's second goal was scored, when goalkeeper Castillo tried to stop the ball from returning to the field.
Once again, Flamengo lost a match due to its team's lack of control. Just like in the match against Nacional de Montevideo, two players were sent off for unexplained reasons. This lack of control was the most discussed topic in the locker room after yesterday's loss to Botafogo. And if it's up to Vice President of Football Kleber Leite, it won't happen again.
"I want to apologize to our fans for what we saw today (yesterday). I know they'll say it was a lack of action on our part, but it wasn't. In the pre-match talk in Uruguay, I asked to speak at the end to mention that our trickery would have been to finish the game with 11 players. Now something similar is happening, in a match that was worthless for Flamengo, since we are the Guanabara Cup champions. This is not a spectacle our fans enjoy, and it won't happen here again, I guarantee that. It's clear that pure and simple dialogue is no longer possible," the director criticized.
Kleber also said that the training camp for Wednesday's match has been moved up to this morning and that he will meet with the players to resolve the issue. He declined to elaborate on whether any of them could be fined.
"I can't understand why this is happening. The environment here is the best it can be, and we're making a huge effort to keep salaries up to date. But we lack the intelligence to address the problem. This can't happen anymore," he warned.
Coach Joel Santana preferred not to lament the defeat, but rather to highlight some positive points seen yesterday:
"Despite being a mixed team, this team was better than the one that played against Mesquita. We finished better than our opponent, wanting to attack. We made it big in a classic against one of the best teams in the Championship. But we can't take away their merit. There are no complaints here. But they always portray Flamengo as little devils," he said.
Joel also revealed that today he'll have a training session against the juniors at Gávea, to begin defining the team that will face Nacional. Renato Augusto, who impressed, may start. (TB)
Joel regrets mistakes made during the second half
Despite the loss, coach Joel Santana believes the red-and-black team performed well. In his opinion, the team made silly mistakes and declined to comment on the officiating.
"We weren't doing badly and didn't deserve to go into halftime behind. But we messed up in the second half. Jorge Henrique, at his height, managed to get ahead of our defense and score the third. Flamengo played well, but Botafogo won. Congratulations to them. I'm not going to talk about the refereeing. Flamengo doesn't complain. Flamengo plays," Joel declared.
Mengão remains unbeaten in the National Basketball Championship
Team wins 13th consecutive match in the competition
File/JS
Pivot Coloneze steps up to score two more points for Flamengo
Playing at their home stadium in Gávea, Flamengo had no trouble defeating Inesul/FEL/Londrina yesterday by a score of 95-61, achieving their 13th win in 13 games in the National Basketball Championship and maintaining their lead. Once again, the standout performer was winger Marcelinho Machado, the tournament's standout performer and the game's top scorer with 23 points.
Showing great determination and a strong defense, coach Paulo Chupeta's team entered the court determined to put the game away early, and that's what happened. Led by forward Marcelinho, Flamengo's players gave their opponents no space on defense and quickly launched counterattacks, opening a 17-point lead at the end of the first quarter: 29-12.
In the second period, Londrina still tried to hinder the red-and-black team's actions, preventing them from increasing their lead. But once again, showing their strong squad, the Rio de Janeiro team increased their lead at halftime: 50-28.
In the second half of the match, coach Saviani's team was unable to find their feet on the court to try to reduce the lead, and with increasingly better aim in attack, Flamengo increased the difference even further, closing the game at 95 to 61.
Marcelinho praised the team's performance. "The match against Londrina in the first half was one of the toughest we've had in the National Championship. That's why we went in today with the goal of playing a strong defense. And it paid off. With an excellent defense, the attack flowed smoothly, and we felt confident making plays," he said.
José Antonio Gerheim
Free pass
The best Championship is here
José Antonio Gerheim gerheim@jsports.com.br
Another great match between Botafogo and Flamengo at the Maracanã, with controversial plays, five goals, drama from start to finish, and a fierce rivalry—everything fans love and pay to see. This time, after four years of waiting and 15 games, all of them thrilling, Botafogo emerged with the victory, the three points, and, most importantly, their legitimate championship ambitions: qualification for the Taça Rio semifinals, very close to being secured.
It doesn't matter that Flamengo, forced by the schedule to compete in two extremely difficult competitions, was forced to field a team that wasn't their starting lineup. The victory, achieved with justice and suffering by Cuca's team, is all the more meaningful because it was precisely over their greatest rival, who, as best they could, tried in every way possible to make it difficult, playing with passion, heart, and never giving up, even when Botafogo was 3-1 up and, due to their evident superior technical strength, seemed poised for a rout. Even the sending off of Jônatas and Obina was somewhat understandable, given the atmosphere surrounding the match beforehand, still tinged with the aftershocks of the Guanabara Cup final, which Flamengo won.
The standout players in the match? Wellington Paulista, Lucio Flavio, Jorge Henrique, and goalkeeper Castillo, for the black and white team. Renato Augusto, while still not at his best and with adequate match rhythm, made some beautiful plays and is undoubtedly a powerful weapon for Flamengo in the fight for revenge, Wednesday at Maracanã, against Nacional, in the Libertadores. They accompanied the talented number 10 from Gávea, Léo Moura, unfortunately out of the match against the Uruguayans, and goalkeeper Bruno.
Those who criticize the championship (I think they do so out of habit) seem to be going against the grain of the fans. They want proof: Vasco fans are excited about the team's momentum, having already scored 14 goals in four games, regardless of whether they were against the so-called "small teams" or at São Januário. They left the game against Cardoso Moreira (4-1) singing with joy, a preview of the celebration that will be the big classic on Easter Sunday at Maracanã.
Even more so if Tricolor wins its game on Wednesday in the Libertadores, in Asunción, against the dangerous Libertad.
THE DAY
Botafogo beats Flamengo: 3-2
Nilo Junior
Rio - It wasn't a final, but that didn't stop the classic between Flamengo and Botafogo this Sunday at Maracanã from being thrilling. Once again, the clash between the rivals featured goals, controversy, penalties, and red-and-blacks. In the end, Botafogo prevailed, refusing to accept the red-and-black "mixed" team's provocation, winning 3-2 and ending a four-year (or 4-game) winless streak. Wellington Paulista, Zé Carlos, and Jorge Henrique scored for Flamengo, with Leo Moura and Thiago Sales scoring goals. Flamengo finished the match with nine players, as Jônatas and Obina were sent off.
Rate Fla and Bota players
Flamengo started the game attacking, with Tóro giving goalkeeper Castillo a hard time in the first minute. Botafogo retaliated with Wellington Paulista in the next play. From then on, the game became very competitive in midfield, and the pace dropped. In the 15th minute, Flamengo pressed with three consecutive corner kicks, but never managed to create any real danger.
In the 22nd minute, Botafogo opened the scoring in a very challenging play. After a fierce battle at the edge of the box, the ball fell to Wellington Paulista, who passed it to Bruno, leaving him with no chance.
The goal didn't dampen Flamengo's spirits, as they nearly equalized in the 25th minute with two consecutive saves from Renato Augusto, both of which were saved by Castillo. Flamengo's goal didn't come until the 38th minute, when Obina was brought down in the box by Renato Silva. Leo Moura's well-taken penalty equalized.
Just when it looked like the first half would end in a draw, Jaílton brought down Lúcio Flávio inside the box, and it was Botafogo's turn to be awarded a penalty. Zé Carlos took the penalty with great skill, even stopping it, and broke the tie.
In the second half, Toró scored for Flamengo after just two minutes, but the player was offside and the goal was disallowed. In the seventh minute, the goal stood, but it was Botafogo's. Wellington Paulista crossed from the right, and Jorge Henrique headed in the third.
The rout could have come in the 13th minute, again with a header from Jorge Henrique, but this time Bruno made a great save. In the 16th and 17th minutes, Alvinegro could have also increased the lead, with Triguinho and Zé Carlos, but Bruno, again, prevented it.
When Botafogo was playing better, the old football saying came into play: if you don't score, you concede! And that's how Flamengo pulled one back in the 23rd minute, with Thiago Sales heading in a cross from Egídio.
Recalling the Guanabara Cup final, there was a scuffle in Botafogo's goal, again involving the Uruguayan goalkeeper, who prevented the players from receiving the ball. No one was sent off.
The game was fast-paced, with both teams looking for a goal and both having chances to score. However, what spiced up the end of the classic was a brawl between the players and Flamengo's emotional outburst, which resulted in two players being sent off.
After Egídio fouled Jorge Henrique, Jônatas went to get his opponent's satisfaction, sparking a brawl. The midfielder was sent off. Shortly after, in the 46th minute, it was Obina's turn to receive a red card for a criminal tackle from behind on an opponent.
Joel: 'There's no crying here'
Rodrigo Lima
Rio - Coach Joel Santana chose to dismiss Botafogo's victory. Resigned to the defeat, the Flamengo manager preferred to highlight his team and even taunted his rival. "There's no whining or idle chatter here. I don't look for other people's reasons to explain defeats. If we lost, it was because the other team was better. I don't have to blame the refereeing. Flamengo is the devil and they are the angels," Joel quipped.
The coach, however, was unhappy with the recent back-to-back ejection of players, especially Obina. "I've already warned him that hitting him doesn't do any good. He was sent off unnecessarily. This game was worthless," he complained.
Supporter Toró, meanwhile, was outraged by referee Marcelo de Souza Pinto. The player accused the referee of threatening to harm Flamengo at the end of halftime. "Everyone saw what happened in the match. The proof is there," Toró stated.
Kléber Leite promises to punish indiscipline
Rodrigo Lima
Rio - The team's bad temper, which has seen four players sent off in the last two games—Leonardo Moura and Toró in Wednesday's Libertadores match against Nacional, and Obina and Jônatas yesterday—has angered Flamengo's board. Vice president of football Kléber Leite apologized to the fans and announced that there will be no further dialogue with the players.
"They will be subject to administrative punishment if this happens again. I can't tolerate any more expulsions for temper tantrums. There's no reason to lose your temper every game," the manager vented.
Kléber announced that he will have a meeting with the squad today before training and admitted that if the team engages in provocations again and has players sent off, the players will feel the consequences, with fines and even removal from the team.
"This won't happen again. If talking things through isn't working, we won't sit idly by. We could have drawn or won the last two games if the team had the cunning to keep all eleven players on the field," he stated.
Full-back Leonardo Moura admitted that the players are on edge. "This was a game for the team to keep things cool, since we've already qualified for the State Championship final. Wednesday is the decisive match. Every match from now on will be a nerve-wracking game, and we have to relax. We can't afford to be provocative anymore," warned the player, who is out of the Copa Libertadores match against Nacional.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Botafogo beats Flamengo and breaks four-year taboo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The drought is over. Botafogo defeated Flamengo 3-2 on Sunday night at the Maracanã in the fourth round of the Taça Rio, breaking a four-year streak without a win against the Rubro-Negro da Gávea. With the result, the black and white team reached 12 points and tied Vasco for the lead in Group B with 12 points, although the São Januário club has the advantage in terms of goals scored. Flamengo, on the other hand, dropped to second place in Group A with nine points, one point behind leader Fluminense.
In the next round of the State Championship, Botafogo will face Macaé, while Flamengo will face Cabofriense. Before that, in the Libertadores, Flamengo will face Nacional of Uruguay.
Botafogo's victory, which represented a small measure of revenge for their defeat in the Guanabara Cup final, also represented Cuca's first victory over Flamengo. And the result was deserved because Botafogo always seemed more organized than their opponent. Flamengo, however, fielding a reserve team, showed considerable nervousness and ended up having two players sent off late in the match.
Both teams started the match with great determination, and within the first minute, Welington Paulista forced goalkeeper Bruno into his first difficult save of the derby. Flamengo responded the following minute with a powerful run from Toró, who struck hard and frightened Castillo. Cuca's team showed greater organization and threatened the Flamengo defense more.
Even with a mixed lineup, as Joel decided to rest his starters for the Libertadores match against Nacional, Flamengo tried to level the playing field by relying primarily on Renato Augusto, who was starting for the first time since the facial injury that sidelined him for two months. In the 15th minute, Wellington Paulista beat the defenders to a cross and headed the ball dangerously past goalkeeper Bruno. In the 22nd minute, Jorge Henrique battled with four opponents at the edge of the box, but the ball fell to Wellington Paulista, who burst free and slotted it past Bruno.
Flamengo wasn't discouraged and launched a comeback. In the 25th minute, Renato Augusto dribbled past André Luís inside the box and shot low, but Castillo saved with his feet. On the rebound, Triguinho saved another shot from Renato Augusto.
In the 36th minute, Flamengo equalized. Obina was released into the box, tangled with defender Renato Silva, and the referee awarded a penalty, sparking protests from the Flamengo players. Leonardo Moura fired a lofted shot to equalize. Botafogo remained undeterred and continued pressing until they scored their second goal in the 46th minute, a penalty conceded by Jailton on Lúcio Flávio. Zé Carlos scored with skill to break the deadlock.
Both teams returned unchanged for the second half, and Botafogo renewed the pressure on the red-and-black defense. They scored their third goal in the eighth minute when Wellington Paulista crossed from the left, and Jorge Henrique got ahead of Gavillan and headed the ball into the net. Immediately after conceding the goal, coach Joel Santana brought on Maxi and Marcinho to reinforce the attack, but it was goalkeeper Bruno who returned to work in the 14th minute to save a dangerous header from Jorge Henrique.
With Botafogo dominating the match and looking set for a fourth goal, Flamengo scored their second from a set piece in the 23rd minute. Leonardo Moura took a free kick from the edge of the box, and defender Thiago Salles headed it in for his fourth goal of the season. After the goal, goalkeeper Castillo held the ball, and the players once again clashed in the penalty area, as had happened in the Guanabara Cup final.
The second goal gave Flamengo more encouragement, and they set out decisively in search of an equalizer, while Botafogo only tried to defend themselves as they were unable to organize counter-attacks, mainly due to Toró's individual marking of Jorge Henrique.
In the 40th minute, Jorge Henrique was brought down and pushed by Flamengo players at the corner flag. In the ensuing melee, Jônatas blatantly shoved the Botafogo player and ended up receiving a second yellow card, resulting in his exclusion from the match.
Soon after, Obina fouled Lúcio Flávio on the touchline and was also sent off, leaving Flamengo with no chance of a comeback. Botafogo, even eager for the end of the match, exchanged passes to capitalize on their superiority and secure the victory that broke a long drought.
PELENET
Botafogo beats Flamengo, avenges "crybaby" and ends writing
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Botafogo avenged the "crybaby" and shattered its four-year winless streak against Flamengo. In a tumultuous derby played this Sunday at Maracanã, the Alvinegro defeated the Rubro-Negro 3-2 in a match valid for the fourth round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. While Wellington Paulista, Zé Carlos, and Jorge Henrique scored for the team from General Severiano, Leonardo Moura and Thiago Sales scored for the team from Gávea.
BOTA GIVES BACK THE REVENGE ON FLA
With the result, Botafogo reached 12 points and remains joint-top of Group B alongside Vasco, who has the advantage in tiebreakers. Flamengo, meanwhile, remained on nine points and sits in second place in the other group.
The Red-Black team returns to action on Wednesday against Nacional-URU at the Maracanã stadium at 21:50 p.m. for the Copa Libertadores da América. They then face Cabofriense at 16 p.m. on Saturday, also at home, in the domestic competition. The Black-and-White team will host Macaé at the same time, but on Sunday, at the Engenhão stadium.
Advantage of the black and white team in the first stage
Despite the expected balance in ball control, it was Botafogo who had the best chances early on. Just two minutes in, Wellington Paulista forced Bruno into a powerful save. In the 15th minute, Alessandro created a scare with a good header.
The Alvinegro's more insinuating start translated into a goal in the 22nd minute. Wellington Paulista capitalized on a spirited play by Jorge Henrique and opened the scoring, much to the delight of the Botafogo fans. Three minutes later, however, Flamengo missed a golden opportunity with Renato Augusto.
In the 37th minute, Obina was brought down by Renato Silva in the box. Referee Marcelo de Souza Pinto awarded a penalty, which Leonardo Moura converted and scored a minute later. However, in the 46th minute, Alvinegro regained the lead through the same foul. Jaílton fouled Lúcio Flávio. Zé Carlos took the penalty with skill and scored.
Confusion, two expulsions and two goals in the second half
Just seven minutes in, Botafogo threw a wrench in the works for the red-and-blacks. Jorge Henrique headed in a cross that was headed toward goal. The striker nearly doubled his lead in the 12th minute with the same play.
After Flamengo's third goal, Flamengo lost its way, especially in its marking. Bruno had to double down to avoid a bigger score. In the 16th minute, the goalkeeper played a key role in Triguinho's shot.
However, when Glorioso was in control, a defensive blunder led to Flamengo's second goal. Thiago Sales headed in to reduce the deficit in the 23rd minute. After that, just like in the Guanabara Cup final between the two teams, the Flamengo players got into a scuffle with goalkeeper Castillo.
The goal revived Flamengo, who were pressing but unable to equalize. Meanwhile, Botafogo retreated defensively and held on to the result.
In the 40th minute, Jorge Henrique handled the ball on the right wing and was fouled. The play led to a scuffle that culminated in Jônatas's ejection. Soon after, Obina left the Red-Blacks with nine men after a violent foul on Lúcio Flávio.
Flamengo and Botafogo players may be indicted again
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Just like in the first-round final, Flamengo and Botafogo players played a great game in the fourth round of the Taça Rio (a 3-2 victory for the black and whites). Another similarity may be the fact that players from both teams are at risk of being indicted for Sunday's incidents at Maracanã.
They could be punished by the Sports Justice Court (TJD-RJ). Prosecutor André Luís Valentim said he will request a tape of the game so that appropriate action can be taken.
Flamengo midfielder Toró kicked Castillo in the head after the Flamengo team's second goal. His teammate, Jônatas, and Botafogo forward Jorge Henrique, who was involved in the brawl during the Taça Guanabara final, may also be charged.
In the play that resulted in Jônatas's ejection, for example, Flamengo and Botafogo players clashed minutes earlier. Jorge Henrique handled the ball on the right side of his attack. The Flamengo fans became irritated, and Egídio committed a hard foul on the opposing forward, who retaliated with a push.
Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, made clear his irritation not only with the expulsion of Jônatas, but also of Obina, who left the match after a hard tackle on Lúcio Flávio.
"That won't happen here again. We lost a good opportunity to draw or win a game today because of the imbalance," he said.
Léo Moura and Joel Santana complain about the attitude of the Fla team
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's second defeat in the State Championship could have been avoided, according to right-back Leonardo Moura and coach Joel Santana. This Sunday, at Maracanã, Botafogo defeated the team from Gávea 3-2. Previously, the Rubro-Negro had lost 4-1 to Fluminense, also with a second-string team, in the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the domestic competition.
"When you lose, the whole team loses. But the ball was at our feet and fell to Wellington Paulista for the first goal. For the second, it went past everyone. We have to be more alert, because we gave the ball to them and no one does the same to us," said Leonardo Moura.
Coach Joel Santana, however, preferred to comment on Obina's childish behavior, as he was sent off after a rough tackle on midfielder Lúcio Flávio. The coach criticized his player's behavior.
"He behaved the same way against Fluminense. He was sent off unnecessarily. Making a tackle like he did doesn't solve anything. That's not what sport is about," he commented.
Joel Santana: "Flamengo doesn't complain, it plays"
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Despite Flamengo's 3-2 loss to Botafogo, Joel Santana was pleased with the team's performance this Sunday at Maracanã in the fourth round of the Taça Rio. The match was marked by goals, fights, and a lot of determination on both sides, and for the coach, the Rubro-Negro left the field with the will to win, despite being two players down (Jônatas and Obina were sent off).
BOTA GIVES CHANGE IN FLA
CHECK OUT THE RIO CUP TABLE\ "We played well. We lost, but in the end, we were even better than our opponent, because we attacked. We showed the fans that we wanted to win," said Joel, who didn't complain about the refereeing and praised his rival's performance.\
"Botafogo won, congratulations and life goes on. I'm not complaining. Flamengo doesn't complain, it plays," he added.
Toró also didn't argue and went further. Despite the team's loss, the versatile player was pleased with Flamengo's performance. "It was a good derby. They scored the goals they needed and deserve congratulations. Unfortunately, we didn't win. I think we were defeated because some players lacked rhythm," he assessed.
Joel Santana shared the same view regarding the inactivity of some substitutes. But he believes the team has improved. "We were able to tighten up the game against one of the best teams in the league," he concluded.
GLOBOESPORTE
Botafogo defeats Fla in tumultuous classic
Alvinegro controls his nerves and ends his four-year streak against Rubro-negro
In the first meeting after the thrilling and controversial Guanabara Cup final, Botafogo got their revenge, defeating Flamengo 3-2 this Sunday at Maracanã Stadium in the fourth round of the second half of the Campeonato Carioca. Wellington Paulista, Zé Carlos, and Jorge Henrique scored the goals for the black and white team, with Léo Moura and Thiago Salles scoring.
The victory didn't yet have the taste of revenge for Botafogo, but it served as a taste of revenge. With its sights set on the Libertadores Cup clash against Nacional from Uruguay, Flamengo took the field with only four players compared to the team that won the Guanabara Cup final: Bruno, Leo Moura, Jaílton, and Toró. The black-and-white fans even heard a chant of "Mommy, I Want It," but took the opportunity to respond to the "crybaby" taunt from the red-and-black fans after the Guanabara Cup final. Botafogo fans sang the song from the Rio Cup victory over Volta Redonda in the stands: "You are a team of braggarts, you win by getting your hands dirty, what a disgrace... I will never shut up, wherever I am I will shout, 'Catch the thief.'" The victory also ended a 15-game streak. Botafogo hadn't beaten Flamengo since 2004. They had lost seven and drawn eight during that period.
With the result, Botafogo remains hot on Vasco's heels in the battle for the lead in Group B. Both teams have 12 points and a 100% record in the Taça Rio. However, Vasco has the advantage in goal difference: 13 to Botafogo's 8. Flamengo, meanwhile, moved into second place in Group A with nine points. Fluminense, which beat Americano on Saturday, took over first place with ten points.
In the next round of the Rio Cup, Flamengo faces Cabofriense on Saturday at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium. Botafogo faces Macaé on Sunday at 16 p.m. at Engenhão Stadium.
Wellington Paulista puts Botafogo ahead
Obina and Renato Silva fight for the ball in the classic between Botafogo and Flamengo
Flamengo's first dangerous play came through Toró. The midfielder took a shot from the edge of the box, but goalkeeper Castillo saved it well in the left corner. The black-and-white response came soon after from Wellington Paulista. The forward received the ball in the box and, despite the tight angle, took a shot. Bruno palmed it away for a corner.
In the 15th minute, Botafogo had another good opportunity. Alessandro crossed into the box and headed dangerously wide. Botafogo was playing better, and Jorge Henrique complained about a penalty after being brought down by Egídio. Referee Marcelo de Souza Pinto didn't award anything. But the goal would come minutes later. After a challenge at the edge of the box, Gavilán made a mistake, and Jorge Henrique managed to touch the ball with a sliding tackle. The ball fell cleanly to Wellington Paulista in the box, who beat goalkeeper Bruno with a low shot into the right corner and made it 1-0 to Botafogo.
After conceding the goal, Flamengo began to attack more. Renato Augusto made a good play and shot after entering the box. Goalkeeper Castillo saved it with his foot. From the rebound, the Flamengo midfielder attempted another shot, but the ball rebounded off the defense and went out for a corner.
As if controversy couldn't be left out of another Botafogo and Flamengo match... A jump ball in midfield after the referee stopped the match to treat Renato Augusto. Túlio, the black and white team's defender, announced he would return the ball to the red and black team. After the referee dropped it to the ground, the defensive midfielder controlled the ball and, just as he was about to kick it to the Flamengo defenders, was surprised by Toró. The midfielder arrived quickly and stole the ball. Túlio held off the red and black team's midfielder, who was quickly advancing on the attack. The black and white team received a yellow card and complained to the referee. Flamengo took the free kick, and Renato Silva brought down Obina in the box. Penalty! The black and white team protested. Léo Moura picked up the ball and struck well to tie the match in the 39th minute. In celebration, the full-back made a heart with his hands in honor of his girlfriend and singer Perlla, who was at the Maracanã.
The draw didn't faze Botafogo. In the final minute of the first half, Lucio Flavio was brought down in the box by Jaílton. Penalty! Zé Carlos fired a well-placed shot into the right corner, beating goalkeeper Bruno, who didn't even jump. Botafogo 2-1. And the first half ended with Túlio complaining about Toró.
What happened was a disgrace. I told him I was going to kick the ball to Bruno. And he did. There's no fair play. Túlio on the jump ball with Toró before the red-black goal.
The atmosphere heats up and Flamengo has two players sent off
The second half started with a bang. In the second minute, Toró scored the equalizer by dribbling past goalkeeper Castillo. But referee Marcelo de Souza Pinto correctly called offside and disallowed the goal. The Black and White fans' nervousness, however, was short-lived. In the seventh minute, Jorge Henrique appeared well in the box and capitalized on Wellington Paulista's cross. The forward headed the ball into Bruno's right corner for Botafogo's third goal. The Red and Black goalkeeper didn't even jump.
The fourth goal almost came shortly after in a very similar play. Jorge Henrique appeared behind Egídio and headed the ball. However, Bruno managed to palm it away for a corner and made a difficult save. Botafogo was better organized on the field and easily reached the attack. Diguinho took a shot from the edge of the area, and goalkeeper Bruno stretched to reach the ball, which went into the left corner.
Coach Joel Santana decided to take a risk and put Marcinho and Maxi on the team. In the 24th minute, a free kick was awarded near the Botafogo box. After Egídio's cross, Thiago Salles headed the ball and scored Flamengo's second goal. Goalkeeper Castillo ran to retrieve the ball from the net along with four Flamengo players. And yet another scuffle ensued, reminiscent of the Guanabara Cup final. But this time, no players were sent off.
The atmosphere was heated. In a play on the sidelines, Jorge Henrique was subjected to a heavy tackle by Egídio. Jônatas arrived pushing and complaining, and the brawl began again. There was a lot of pushing and shoving on the field, and this time the referee sent Jônatas off. Shortly after, Obina tackled Lucio Flavio and was also sent off. The black and white fans chanted "timinho" (little timinho) in the stands. And football was forgotten. In the end, Botafogo won a well-deserved victory.
Classic could end up in court, again
The Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice (TJD-RJ) prosecutor will analyze the images and may punish Toró, Jônatas, and Jorge Henrique.
Cahê Mota
Once again, Flamengo and Botafogo players starred in a thrilling and controversial derby. Just like in the Guanabara Cup final, the derby featured red cards and allegations of assault. However, while on that occasion, six Flamengo players, plus coach Cuca, were indicted by the Rio de Janeiro Sports Justice Court (TJD-RJ) against just one Flamengo player, this time the loss is likely to be greater for Gávea.
Only selected because he couldn't face Nacional from Uruguay next Wednesday in the Copa Libertadores due to a red card in the first leg, midfielder Toró could miss Flamengo's Copa Rio. In the confusion after Flamengo's second goal in Glorioso's 3-2 victory, the player took advantage of goalkeeper Castillo being obscured by players from both teams and kicked the Uruguayan on the head while he was on the ground (watch the video below). This action is likely to make him another victim of the TJD (Defense Court of Justice).
"Certainly, if the footage proves the assault, it's punishable. There's no point in me saying anything now, because I haven't seen the incident yet," says TJD-RJ prosecutor André Luís Valentim.
Valentim says he has already requested the tapes with the controversial plays from the match and that he will analyze the plays in detail.
- I was at Maracanã, but from up there you can't see very well. This Monday the material will arrive for me late afternoon and on Tuesday I will have a position.
In addition to Toró, Jônatas and Jorge Henrique may also be charged in the altercation that resulted in Flamengo's number 5 being sent off. The midfielder headbutted Jorge Henrique, who in turn pushed Egídio from behind (watch the video below).
Joel: 'We are always the little devils'
Coach criticizes the treatment given to Fla and says the team doesn't complain about anyone
Eduardo Peixoto
During the week leading up to the Flamengo-Botafogo derby, the word "rematch" was prominent in the news. At Gávea, coach Joel Santana avoided any controversy and warned his players not to "fall for the trap" of their rivals. But the warnings were in vain.
Obina and Jônatas were sent off, and Botafogo's four-year unbeaten streak ended with a 3-2 defeat. Disgusted in the locker room, coach Joel Santana avoided complaining about the refereeing, which Flamengo fans considered "good." But he did mock Botafogo's "crying" in the Guanabara Cup final.
"Ultimately, we're always to blame. Flamengo is the little devil, and they (Botafogo fans) are the little angels. There's no point wasting words in a situation where the insinuated controversy has been happening. But we don't complain here. Flamengo plays," he states.
The Flamengo coach criticized Obina, who made a violent tackle on Lucio Flavio in the 45th minute of the second half (click and watch the play).
"The player keeps showing the fans how strong he is. Obina was warned that this type of tackle won't lead to anything. But it didn't help," he declares.
Fla shows bad temper again
Obina and Jônatas receive 'silly' red cards and hinder the team's reaction
Eduardo Peixoto
Characters changed, but once again Flamengo was hampered by its players' excessive irritation. In Sunday's derby against Botafogo, Jônatas and Obina lost their heads in the final minutes of the second half, halting the red-and-black comeback.
When Fla was already losing 3-2 and pressing their rivals in the defensive field, Jorge Henrique started to hold the ball and Jônatas could not stand what he considered mockery and gave a light headbutt to his rival.
Soon after, Obina tackled a black and white player violently and also received a red card. With nine players on the field, the chance of a draw was all but gone.
"There was no need for that. Don't worry. We're already in the final. We knew they would provoke us," says right-back Leo Moura.
The red-and-blacks' emotional outbursts are nothing new this year. Against Nacional in Montevideo, Leo Moura and Toró were also sent off.
Fla apologizes for imbalance
Kléber Leite warns that silly expulsions will no longer be tolerated at the club
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, appeared in the Maracanã interview room after the 3-2 loss to Botafogo. However, instead of criticizing or blaming others, the director focused his attention on the behavior of the Flamengo players.
According to him, the actions of Jônatas and Obina, who were sent off for actions considered silly, will no longer be tolerated.
"That won't happen here again. Flamengo missed a good opportunity to draw or win a game today (Sunday) because of the imbalance," declared the vice president of football.
The players' repeated offenses were what angered Kléber Leite the most. In the match against Nacional in Montevideo, despite warnings to avoid engaging in foul play, Toró and Leo Moura were sent off. Now, the warning has been issued again. And so has the temper.
"We warned the team to be very careful with their emotions. Flamengo had no reason to lose control. We're already in the final, and the result is worth it in the statistics," said the manager, who apologized for the players' behavior.
"I want to apologize to Flamengo fans for what happened at Maracanã. This is not the kind of spectacle we want to provide."
This Monday, there will be a meeting at the club's training center to inform the players of the decision. Kléber Leite did not say whether the players involved will be punished. He simply said the issue is an "internal matter."
THROW
Botafogo beats Flamengo and the writing
In a game surrounded by controversy, Alvinegro wins 3-2
Zé Carlos celebrates Botafogo's second goal (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)
Danilo Santos RIO DE JANEIRO
The drought is over. After four years and 15 games, Botafogo defeated Flamengo 3-2 this Sunday at Maracanã in a great match, surrounded by controversy. Thus, the Alvinegro maintained its 100% record in the Rio Cup, while its rival remains with nine points.
In the next round, Botafogo faces Macaé on Sunday at Engenhão Stadium. Flamengo plays Cabofriense on Saturday. Before that, however, they face Nacional (URU) on Wednesday in the Copa Libertadores.
The first half was good and surrounded by controversy, just like the Guanabara Cup final. Despite the mixed lineup, Flamengo played well, but so did Botafogo. Goalkeepers Castillo and Bruno had their work cut out and demonstrated their competence. The former, from a shot by Toró. The red-and-black, from a bomb by Wellington Paulista.
Then came the first controversial play. Jorge Henrique defended the ball in the box and, as he was leaving it, was brought down by Egídio. In the referee's view, there was no foul, and the striker was even shown a yellow card. But two minutes later, he would go down again, and the referee would opt for the advantage. Andre Luis challenged, Gavillán made a mistake, and the ball fell cleanly to Wellington Paulista, who opened the scoring in the 20th minute.
Renato Augusto had the chance to equalize soon after. But he hit twice with his left foot; Castillo saved once, Triguinho the other. Botafogo retreated, starting to give space and play solely on the counterattack. As a result, they conceded the equalizer. But not without controversy.
Túlio accidentally stepped on Renato Augusto, and the referee stopped the game. At the restart, the midfielder would have returned the ball, but Toró ignored fair play, stole the ball, and was fouled. Túlio was booked. Obina took advantage of a loose ball in the box and was brought down by Renato Silva. The penalty was awarded, which Léo Moura skillfully converted to equalize in the 38th minute.
There wasn't even time to breathe. Wellington Paulista was grabbed by Leonardo at the edge of the box. A foul and much protesting from Flamengo. But Lucio Flavio's shot hit the wall. Then, in the 44th minute, the defender himself was involved in another challenge. He entered the box and was brought down by Jailton. A penalty, which outraged the Flamengo fans. Curiously, the referee was holding a yellow card but backed down when he saw Jailton already had one. As Lucio was being attended to by the medics, Zé Carlos took the free kick and broke the tie in the 47th minute.
The second half begins, and another questionable play emerges. Obina backheels the ball, which Toró dribbles past the goalkeeper and sends into the net. The assistant referee flagged for offside and ruled it out.
Botafogo then began to dominate the game, especially in midfield. They scored their third goal. Wellington Paulista received the ball on the right and crossed perfectly for Jorge Henrique, who got ahead of Gavillán and headed the ball into the corner in the 7th minute.
The black and white fans' celebrations began, taunting their rivals. But Bruno also made some great saves. A header from Jorge Henrique and a long-range shot from Triguinho prevented the score from being extended.
While Botafogo, once again, failed to kill the game while they were playing better, Flamengo decided to fight back. They lacked inspiration, but they did score their second goal from a set piece. Egídio crossed, and Thiago Salles, in a dubious position, headed the ball into the corner in the 23rd minute. Then, just like in the Guanabara Cup final, Castillo held onto the ball, and the chaos began, with Flamengo's reserves on the field. This time, the situation was resolved, with no red cards.
Flamengo tried to press, but only with crosses. Botafogo defended and counterattacked. The game was very open, with both teams very tired. But there was still room for controversy. Jorge Henrique held the ball close to the baseline and was brought down by Egídio. Jônatas got involved and was rightly sent off.
There was still time for Obina to make a rude tackle on Lucio Flavio and be sent off in the 45th minute. End of game and end of writing!
Joel explains Renato Augusto's departure
Coach will define the group that will face Nacional this Monday\ LANCEPRESS!\
In Sunday's 3-2 loss to Botafogo at the Maracanã in the Taça Rio, Flamengo supporter Renato Augusto was the first to be substituted, in the 11th minute, to be replaced by Maxi. But, according to coach Joel Santana, the player wasn't out of sorts, just under-strength.
"He wasn't tired, he was coming. I just didn't want to expose a player who had been out for a long time and could get injured again or experience muscle pain, which would be bad for us."
Joel also said that he will define the team that defines this Monday the group that faces Nacional, from Uruguay, at Maracanã, next Wednesday, for the Libertadores.
"We'll see how it goes. I have more or less the team ready. Renato is part of the group. Tomorrow (Monday) I'll define the group for the game against Nacional," he concluded.
Joel does not get involved in controversy with arbitration
Flamengo coach still praises team, despite defeat\ LANCEPRESS!\
Despite losing 3-2 to Botafogo this Sunday in the Rio Cup, in a game full of controversial plays, Flamengo coach Joel Santana chose not to question referee Marcelo de Souza Pinto's calls. According to the coach, his team has a duty to play, not to complain, and he even congratulated his rival.
"I'm not going to talk about the refereeing, because sometimes one person sees a play one way and another another. For example, Túlio had a yellow card and tackled me. Flamengo doesn't complain, they play. It was a good game, within our expectations. Botafogo won, congratulations to them. Life goes on," he said.
Joel, who, thinking about next Wednesday's game against Nacional, from Uruguay, for the Libertadores, at Maracanã, selected a mixed team against Botafogo, praised the players who took to the field.
"The team performed well. We could have gone in with the main team and lost. We played one-on-one the whole time, lost, but we finished even better than our opponent, going on the attack," he explained.
Léo Moura complains about Fla's lack of attention
Right-back says Rubro-Negro gave Botafogo two goals in the classic\ LANCEPRESS!\
Angry with the 3-2 defeat to Botafogo, this Sunday, at Maracanã, in the fourth round of the Taça Rio, Flamengo right-back Leonardo Moura complained about the team's lack of attention, which according to him, failed to save two of the opponent's goals.
"We lost to ourselves. We conceded a goal from a rebound and another from a ball that went past everyone. We have to be more alert. But we conceded goals from two balls that were at our feet. That's what making mistakes in a derby is all about," the player roared.
Leonardo Moura will not be on the field next Wednesday against Uruguay's Nacional at the Maracanã stadium in the Copa Libertadores. The full-back, like Toró, is serving a suspension after being sent off in the last round.
Toró says Flamengo's team lacked rhythm
Supporter remembers that the team is competing in two competitions\ LANCEPRESS!\
Competing simultaneously in the Copa Libertadores and the Taça Rio, Flamengo has been fielding a mixed lineup in the State Championship. After the 3-2 loss to Botafogo this Sunday at Maracanã, fan Toró stated that the constant changes have caused the team to lose some of its rhythm.
"Our team isn't at its best. Some players end up having to be rested due to suspensions or injuries," he explained.
Toró, suspended, will not be on the field next Wednesday, when Flamengo hosts Nacional, from Uruguay, at Maracanã, for the Libertadores.
German with a Red-Black heart at Maracanã
Jorg Klais has been to Flamengo games more than 20 times\ LANCEPRESS!\
German fan Jorg Klais, 39, lives in Karlsruher and has been married to a Brazilian woman for 11 years. Although he supports Karlsruher, currently in eighth place in the German Championship, he has fallen in love with Flamengo and always attends the club's games when he comes to Brazil.
"I've been to the stadium about 20 times in my life for Flamengo matches. I've been in Brazil for three weeks on vacation, and in two weeks I'll be back in Germany. It's always great to come to Maracanã," said Klais, accompanied by his Brazilian wife, Marcelle.