The Globe
NATIONAL BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
After a meeting in São Paulo, it was decided that the National Championship will begin on January 6th, with Flamengo and Iguaçu (RJ), Minas and Uberlândia (MG); Cetaf and Saldanha da Gama (ES), Lajeado/Univates (RS); Joinville (SC), Londrina (PR), Universo/BRB (DF), FTC EAD (BA) and Ulbra/São Bernardo (SP), the only team from São Paulo. Today, at 19:30 pm, for the State Championship, the Macaense League hosts the Campos team.
JADE CARRIES TORCH
After competing in a contest on the website www.carregueatocha.com.br with swimmer Thiago Pereira, gymnast Jade Barbosa was chosen to represent Brazil in the Olympic torch relay for the 2008 Beijing Games. A standout performer in Brazilian gymnastics, Jade will take part in the relay on April 11 in Buenos Aires, the South American city through which the Olympic flame will pass.
Renato Augusto takes the lead to play the classic
Flamengo coach praises supporter
Renato Augusto could be the surprise Flamengo coach Joel Santana has prepared for Vasco's match tomorrow at Maracanã at 21:45 p.m. The midfielder started yesterday's training session at Gávea with the reserve team. He showed excellent football and was promoted to the starting lineup. In the end, he left a doubt in the Flamengo coach's mind.
"Renato Augusto will play this match. My question is whether he'll start or come on during the game. But the training he did today (yesterday) blew me away. He played fantastic," said Joel Santana.
The starting lineup began training with Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, Rodrigo Arroz, and Juan; Rômulo, Toró, Cristian, and Ibson; and Maxi and Sousa. Renato Augusto replaced the Argentine Maxi.
Joel didn't make a mystery about the team, but he left doubts about the attack.
"The important thing is that the foundation is already set. As for Renato Augusto's use, I'll decide calmly. I sense he's very eager," Joel stated.
Having not played for a month, Renato Augusto said he had time to recover well and is ready to return for the derby against Vasco.
"There's no better time to return to the team than in a game like this. I know I can't play all ninety minutes, but I can participate in a good portion of the game. I'll talk to Joel and see what's best for the group: starting or being an option on the bench," said Renato Augusto.
Maxi was unable to participate in the first leg match against Vasco due to injury. Now, he's waiting for his chance.
"It's a fiercely competitive derby, and I heard Romário might be on the bench. All of this encourages a player to go all out," Maxi commented.
Power struggle splits Club of Thirteen
Botafogo, along with Flamengo, is part of a dissident group within the organization
Founded in 1987, the Clube dos Treze is currently experiencing its most serious crisis. Botafogo, São Paulo, Flamengo, Atlético-MG, and Cruzeiro were absent from yesterday's General Assembly, creating an unprecedented rupture in the organization's history. The five clubs believe that their proposed changes to the bylaws "were not treated with due respect."
Flamengo and São Paulo had been leading a movement opposing Fábio Koff, president of the Clube dos Treze. Yesterday, at a meeting to discuss the organization's new bylaws, the dissident group intended to present a proposal that included the creation of a commission of eight clubs to negotiate, for example, TV quotas. This would reduce the power of the current board.
Botafogo close to signing Túlio, from Coritiba
In an official statement, the five clubs explained that "a proposal to amend the bylaws was presented to create a channel for member participation, ensure compliance with corporate governance principles in the management of the entity and respect democratic values."
Because they believed the proposal was not "treated with due respect," the five clubs withdrew from the meeting and declared themselves in "permanent session."
My unforgettable Maracanã
Players facing Ecuador today recall great moments at the stadium
Fabio Juppa and Mauricio Fonseca
It's been seven years of separation, which felt like an eternity. But the wait is over, and today is a day of celebration at Maracanã. The Brazilian national team faces Ecuador at 21:45 p.m. in the second round of the South American qualifiers, and Rio fans, eager to see the country's greatest stars, hope the reunion will be as spectacular as Brazil's last performance at Maracanã, a venue that is a global reference.
On September 3, 2000, in the 2002 World Cup qualifiers, Brazil thrashed Bolivia 5-0, with Romário scoring a hat trick, and Marques and Rivaldo completing the scoring. Of the current team, only Ronaldinho Gaúcho was on the field that day. But even those who never played at Maracanã in a national team jersey have an unforgettable day at the stadium.
RONALDINHO GAÚCHO: "I've had memories of Maracanã since I was very young. A memorable moment for me was receiving the U-17 World Cup sash there in 1997. I was also there with Grêmio, not to mention the match against Bolivia in 2000. We always watch the celebration from afar whenever there's a game here, and now we have the chance to experience it."
JUAN: "I've played at Maracanã several times, but for me, no moment compares to the 2001 State Championship final against Vasco. Petkovic's goal, a free kick in the last minute, securing the third championship, was the most emotional moment of my career. I remember being in the wall trying to get in the way of the Vasco players and realizing the free kick had been very well taken. When I turned around, I had time to see the ball go into Hélton's top corner. After that, I don't even remember what happened."
ROBINHO: "Since I was a kid, I always dreamed of playing at Maracanã, and I finally realized my dream in 2003. It was in the 2-0 victory over Flamengo in the Brazilian Championship. There was a lot of anticipation surrounding the match. I was 19 years old, and I still remember the excitement when I stepped onto the field. I played well, but didn't score. After that, I played a few more times at the stadium, but I never scored a goal at Maracanã."
GILBERTO: "My unforgettable day at Maracanã was in 1996. It was my first year as a professional and I was the Carioca champion for Flamengo, playing alongside my brother Nélio. There were almost 120 people in the stadium and we drew 0-0 in the final. We were undefeated champions, as we had won the first game 2-0."
KAKÁ: "My first game at Maracanã brings back great memories. I came on during the match against Botafogo, in the final of the Rio-São Paulo Tournament. We won 4-1 and practically secured the title. I was doubly happy, for the victory and for finally playing in the stadium that is a reference point all over the world."
DUNGA: "I played for Vasco in 1987 and had some great moments at the Maracanã. But the game that left the biggest impression on me was against Uruguay in 1993, in the 1994 World Cup qualifiers, which we won 2-0. The first half, especially, was a true football spectacle. Uruguay couldn't get past the midfield. But the curious thing is that we only scored in the second half. The fans' celebration was beautiful. Cariocas have a joy, a special way that ends up infecting everyone."
MINEIRO: "I've played at Maracanã many times and I think I've lost more than I've won. I don't remember anything special. But I'm sure this game against Ecuador will be an unforgettable moment for me."
QUALIFYING: Confederation VIP box will have 1.200 guests in the blue chair, with the presence of artists
Coveted by the CBF, Maracanã will have a night of celebration tonight
Eduardo Paes says he hopes the organization wins the bid
Photo caption: A FAN shows off his skills in front of a poster about the 2014 World Cup: CBF wants to take over Maracanã
Gian Amato
Eduardo Paes, State Secretary of Sports, Leisure, and Tourism and president of Suderj (Rio de Janeiro State Football Association), confirmed the CBF's interest in managing Maracanã, as Ancelmo Góis reported in his column yesterday. During the Brazilian national team's training session at the stadium, he explained that the organization will participate in the bidding process, along with other interested parties. One of them would be Flamengo, but even its directors have reportedly recognized that it is unfeasible for a single club to manage Maracanã.
"We'll hold a bidding process, and the CBF should compete. Flamengo's own board admits that a single club can't manage the stadium. Maracanã's anchor is the Brazilian national team. I really hope the CBF manages the stadium because it manages the calendar," said Paes, emphasizing that ticketing is the biggest issue the organization needs to solve.
In this sense, today's game is proving to be a good test for the organization, which announced the sale of 71.900 tickets. The total number of tickets sold is 86, the difference being due to free tickets, perpetual seats, and guests. The CBF VIP box will have 1.200 seats in blue seats. The guest list includes the Minister of Culture, Gilberto Gil, as well as actresses Luana Piovani, Carolina Dieckman, and Fernanda Torres. Also on the list are singer Gabriel O Pensador, "Tropa de Elite" director José Padilha, and Fluminense coach Renato Gaúcho. The popular DJ Janot will host the party after the final whistle.
Suderj, in turn, is preparing a similar scheme to the Pan American Games to welcome the public to a grand celebration. A team of 859 employees will help fans find their seating areas. Inside the stadium, two large screens will show images of the team's highlights at the Maracanã and in World Cups, as well as footage from Canal 100.
Flags for adults and entertainers for children
The Brazilian and Ecuadorian national anthems will be played by 180 men from the Marine Corps Band, and then ten thousand green-and-yellow footballs will be released. In the stands, two immense flags, measuring 35m x 35m, will be unfurled to cheer on the fans. Smaller flags will be distributed to ensure a green-and-yellow celebration.
For children, a group of 120 entertainers will organize activities such as face painting. Children will also be identified with wristbands to prevent them from getting lost from their parents. The Military Police will have a contingent of 1.200 officers. Cet-Rio is mobilized to control traffic around Maracanã Stadium. The Fire Department and Municipal Guard will also be working to assist fans.
Before the match against Ecuador, the Maracanã will host a series of events. Former player Bebeto, a 1994 World Cup champion in the United States, will lead a massive wave against poverty, an initiative of the UN Development Program. The organization is currently promoting a series of demonstrations around the world against inequality and poverty. The UN aims to surpass last year's numbers, when the initiative had a record 23,5 million people in over one hundred countries.
"The event at Maracanã during Brazil's match will show that we Brazilians want a better life. We want to end hunger and poverty, we want education, healthy children, respect for the environment, human rights, and work for all," Bebeto stated.
Sports Journal
Rice and mystery on Fla's menu
Joel confirms Rodrigo Arroz's starting lineup in defense, but does not reveal the team's lineup.
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Joel Santana talks to Rodrigo Arroz before training. The defender will play against Vasco.
On the eve of a crucial match between Flamengo and Vasco, coach Joel Santana begins to unleash one of the trump cards a true football winner needs: experience. With the knowledge gained over the years, the coach once again embraces mystery to surprise his opponent. After yesterday's training session at Gávea—a 4-1 win for the starting lineup—the coach confirmed Rodrigo Arroz at center back, leaving out Thiago Sales. On the other hand, he also raised another question: whether or not Renato Augusto will start from the start.
Away from the team since injuring his right thigh in the derby against Vasco, the midfielder had a performance that pleased the coach a lot, who admitted that he had not yet decided how to use him.
"I have 12 players to field 11. Renato performed well and surprised me. He's getting into top form and will be used, but I need to see if he starts the game or comes on later," explained Joel—who declined to say who would replace the midfielder.
"That's another story. It's a question I'll be pondering until hours before departure."
Palermo, Italy
In reality, the red-and-black manager has two spots for three players. In addition to Renato Augusto, Toró and Maxi Biancucchi are competing for the starting spot. Joel is likely to opt for the latter two, leaving the 19-year-old midfielder on the bench. The red-and-black revelation also tried to avoid controversy regarding the coach's likely choice.
"Joel is the one who decides. I'm here to help, not to pressure him into starting me. Last week I wasn't feeling ready, but now things are different. Of course, I'm not in my best shape and wouldn't last the full 90 minutes, but I'm physically fit enough to play a large portion of the match," said Renato Augusto, who also stated that he was unaware of any interest from Palermo, Italy, as reported by Corriere dello Sport on Monday.
Maxi wants to face Romário in the classic
Upon arriving in Brazil, Argentine Maxi Biancucchi (pictured) was compared to Vasco's striker Romário. And yesterday, two days before the Clássico dos Milhões, the "petite rubro-negro" (red-and-black) got excited when he heard the rumor that he could face the shorty tomorrow. After the training session led by coach Joel Santana, the striker said he greatly respects the São Januário's number 11 and shared his thoughts on Romário.
"Everyone knows what Romário means, but we're thinking about ourselves. He was a star once," Maxi said, before trying to correct the situation.
"It's hard to speak Portuguese, right? I meant that he is," he explained — avoiding controversy with Baixinho.
Regarding the Argentines' clash, Maxi said he thinks Conca is an excellent player, but hopes to win this duel with his compatriot.
“I hope whoever wins this duel is Maxi,” joked the Argentine.
In the last Brazilian Championship match between the two teams, Biancucchi was Flamengo's great hope, but due to an injury, he was unable to participate. Virtually a starter for tomorrow's game, the Argentine knows the responsibility of playing in such an important match.
"I know the rivalry between these two great teams. I couldn't play in the first match due to an injury, but I'm calm for this one," said the striker, who lamented his lack of goals for Flamengo.
"I think every striker thrives on goals, and I'm working to get back to that. Because every player likes to score goals," he added.
Maxi Biancucchi has played 11 games for Flamengo and scored just two goals.
Roger's pains are still mysterious
The cause of the pain in midfielder Roger's right thigh remains mysterious. Despite Flamengo's medical department doing everything possible to determine the cause of the discomfort the player has been experiencing in recent weeks, the midfielder, who was signed as a solution for Flamengo's midfield, remains unable to play.
Yesterday, the club received the results of the athlete's series of tests, and, as expected, no injuries were detected. Walter Martins, one of the club's doctors, commented on the situation.
"The results of all the tests are in. Roger is clean. He has no clinical problems. Now, he's in the hands of the physical trainers," said the doctor—who then warned that Roger will only recover by playing.
"It's normal game pain. He'll only get better once he's back on the field," said Walter Martins.
Another player causing concern for the club's medical department is striker Leonardo. The player, who was signed from Paraná, has had an unusual series of injuries, and the pain he's been feeling in his shin is also mysterious.
Juniors face Villa Rio in the OPG
Flamengo's youth team faces bottom-of-the-table Villa Rio today at 13 p.m. on Rua Bariri in the fifth round of the Octavio Pinto Guimarães Tournament (OPG). Trying to maintain its lead in Group A, coach Adílio's team needs a win to avoid a stumble from São Cristovão, who has the same nine points as Flamengo but a three-goal difference.
The main news for the match is the return of midfielder William Amendoim, who has recovered from a torn cruciate ligament in his left knee and will be on the bench. The team's doubt is goalkeeper Paulo Victor, who suffered a knock during training. If he is unable to play, Marcelinho, who trained with the Brazilian national team on Monday at Gávea, will take his place to complete the squad.
The team for the game
The only surprise in the team's lineup is the entry of defensive midfielder Antônio, in place of the overlooked Diego Moura.
Flamengo's lineup for the match is: Paulo Victor (Marcelinho), Davidson, Anderson Oliveira, Wellinton and Léo; Antônio, Vinicius Colombiano, Diguinho and Vander. Carlinhos and Diego Oliveira. Coach: Adílio.
Official letter and video against Alício Pena Júnior
Angered by referee Alício Pena Júnior's mistakes against Flamengo, vice president of football Kleber Leite showed the press a video of the referee's mistakes in the matches against Figueirense and Paraná. The video was approximately 10 minutes long. Flamengo will send a letter to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). During training, the director vented about the incident, after losing two players (Fábio Luciano and Léo Medeiros) to suspensions for a penalty that didn't exist.
"This referee is being harmful to Flamengo. If they use images to punish the athletes, why don't they do the same with the refereeing? I want this referee far away from Flamengo," the director raged, before adding his response.
"I don't know if he's bad, but against Flamengo, he's been acting with bad intentions," said Kleber Leite.
Seeking to avoid conflict with the entity, Kleber adopted a diplomatic stance regarding the protest.
"Flamengo trusts the work of the CBF's refereeing department, especially because the people there are in the field," the director added.
Leo Moura doesn't forget the last classic against Vasco
Gabriel Santos gsantos@jsports.com.br
The match between Flamengo and Vasco has already marked the lives of many players, for better or worse. In the last match, the hero of the 1-1 draw was Flamengo's full-back Leo Moura, who scored the equalizer. For the number two, who previously played for the São Januário club, this last derby was the most memorable, due to the importance of scoring at the right time.
"The last game was the one that impacted me the most, because when our team needed a goal most, my little goal came. I'm happy to have helped, but unfortunately we didn't get the victory we wanted, but I hope we win in this next match and continue climbing the table," said the full-back.
The player commented on the teams' good moment, coming off a victory in the last match and they will enter the field this Thursday very motivated.
"It's a super important derby, with both teams fighting to climb the table. Flamengo won away despite their difficulties, and Vasco won the derby on Sunday. It's going to be a very motivating game."
He also took the opportunity to classify the match as crucial for the red-and-blacks' hopes in this Brasileirão. If they win, they can dream of the Libertadores; if they lose, the relegation zone will continue to haunt Gávea.
"This game will decide whether or not we move up the table. We have to approach this game as if it were our last, to get away from this danger zone," concluded Leo Moura.
Match between Flamengo and Liga Macaense is postponed
The match between Flamengo and Liga Macaense, scheduled for next Sunday, has been moved to Monday the 22nd at 19 p.m. in Gávea. The match is part of the first round of the State Basketball Championship.
The Rubro-Negro's next opponent will be ACF/Campos, at 18 pm this Friday, at the Hélio Maurício Gymnasium.
The Gávea team has a 100% success rate in the first round of the State Championship.
O Dia
Flamengo: Argentine irony in the air
Maxi, who will make his debut in the classic, takes a dig at Romário: 'He was a great player'
Rodrigo Lima
Rio - The rivalry between the clubs has even reached those who have never played in the derby. Yesterday, it was Flamengo's Argentine striker Maxi Biancucchi's turn, who will face Vasco for the first time, to take a dig at star player Romário, who is unlikely to be in action tomorrow.
Despite his admiration for Baixinho, the red-black 'Chapolim' mocked the longevity of the hero of the four-time world championship.
"Romário is saying goodbye to football. He was a great player," said Maxi, putting the little one's achievements in the past.
Just as he scored his first goal for the red-and-black team against Fluminense, Maxi hopes to score against Cruzmaltinos as well. "I'd like to score not just one, but two goals," said the 'brother'.
In the last training session before the derby, Renato Augusto, who played in the reserve team for most of the time, was the standout and received praise from coach Joel Santana.
The coach revealed he may give the midfielder a chance, as he's recovering from a right thigh injury. "He surprised me, but I'll be skeptical until the game," said Joel, who will field Rodrigo Arroz at center back in place of the suspended Fábio Luciano.
Flamengo sent a video yesterday to the CBF Refereeing Committee, highlighting mistakes made by Minas Gerais referee Alício Pena Júnior against the club. "I hope I never see him refereeing Flamengo games again," said vice president of football Kleber Leite.
FLA FANS NOW HAVE THEIR DAY TOO
On Saint Jude Thaddeus' Day, a tribute to Flamengo fans. A bill, proposed by Councilman Jorge Mauro (DEM), signed into law yesterday by Mayor César Maia, establishes October 28th as Flamengo Fan Day throughout the city of Rio de Janeiro. "The fan base is by far the largest in Brazil. So, there's nothing better than them having their own day. It's a fitting tribute," said Jorge Mauro, a Flamengo fan at heart.
On that day, directors, players, and fans usually fill the church of the patron saint, in Cosme Velho, to pray for Flamengo. "Now, everyone has another reason to attend. What can we do? It's the largest in Brazil, really. The club's fans asked me, and I created a day just for them," the councilman added.
The law is just one more piece of good news the club's fans have received in recent days. First, it was the number 12 jersey, retired by vice president of football Kléber Leite; then the CNT/Sensus poll, which confirmed the club's dominance in Brazil; and now, it's the day of the red-and-black fan. To complete the celebration, nothing better than a good victory over Vasco da Gama tomorrow in the Brazilian Championship.
And, if October 28th is Flamengo Fan Day, November 15th is Flamengo Regatta Club Day throughout Rio. The law was signed into law by Governor Sérgio Cabral on March 17th.
For Kléber, the initiative to honor the fans is always worthwhile. There's no fan base more beautiful than Flamengo's. Even more so lately, with the fans demonstrating their love for the team, cheering them on at games, and putting on a spectacle in the stands.
CLUB LEADS REBELLION
The Club of Thirteen may split. Yesterday, after a meeting in São Paulo, the five clubs whose proposal for a new bylaw was defeated by the current board's proposal formalized their union against the organization's leadership.
The rebel clubs are: Flamengo, Botafogo, São Paulo, Atlético-MG, and Cruzeiro. Their representatives did not participate in yesterday's meeting and formalized an official document outlining the new direction they have decided to take.
The official statement, titled "We need to rethink the Club of Thirteen!", was released yesterday and explains that the signatories want to "create a permanent channel for member participation, ensure compliance with corporate governance principles in the management of the entity, and respect democratic values."
The organization's president, Fábio Koff, downplayed the split. "Time is the best medicine for things, and dialogue conquers everything. Tomorrow or the day after, we'll sit down, talk, and overcome this," the leader said.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo and four other teams protest against the Club of 13
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Atlético Mineiro, Botafogo, Cruzeiro, Flamengo, and São Paulo created a new rift with the Club of 13 this Tuesday. Unhappy with the rejection of a new statute for the organization, the five clubs issued a protest statement, stating that from now on they will make decisions among themselves. Despite this, the president of the Club of 13, Fábio Koff, downplayed the issue. According to the five teams, the proposal to make the organization more democratic and with greater participation of all members "was not treated with due respect." Because of this, the representatives of these teams chose to absent themselves from the extraordinary assembly called this Tuesday. According to directors of these clubs, the idea was to make the Club of 13 more democratic.
Despite the protests, Koff, who has held the position since 1995, is confident that the parties will reach an understanding. "I've been president of the Club of 13 for a long time, and I've lived with this situation. It's not the first time it's happened," he stated. "Time is the best medicine for things, and dialogue conquers all. Let's sit down, talk, and overcome this."
According to the organization's president, there was no reason for so much complaint. "They presented a proposed amendment to the bylaws that, through the democratic process, was not approved. As with any association, the vote always prevails," he stated.
The Club of 13, among other things, is responsible for negotiating television contracts. Twenty clubs are currently members of the organization, which is also responsible for redistributing funds from deals with television networks. This, in fact, is one of the reasons that has also led to internal conflicts in recent years.
Check out the protest note, signed by Atlético Mineiro, Botafogo, Cruzeiro, Flamengo and São Paulo, in full:
The signatory clubs submitted a proposed amendment to the bylaws to create a permanent channel for member participation, ensure compliance with corporate governance principles in the organization's management, and respect democratic values. This proposal was not treated with due respect!
For this reason, the signatory clubs, exercising the right granted to them by the statute of the club of thirteen, in articles 7, paragraph 1, and 45, decided to be absent from the extraordinary general meeting called for this day, October 16, 2007, at 14:XNUMX p.m.
From now on, these clubs will be in permanent session and, together, will take the necessary measures to defend their interests, always open to dialogue and with other clubs.
São Paulo, October 16, 2007.
Atlético Mineiro Club\ Botafogo Football and Regatta Club\ Flamengo Regatta Club\ Cruzeiro Sports Club\ São Paulo Football Club\
Tests do not indicate injury and Roger can play against Grêmio
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After receiving the results of his medical exams, Flamengo's medical department has cleared Roger to train normally with the rest of the squad. Since no injury was found in the midfielder's right thigh, he may even be able to play in the match against Grêmio, scheduled for next Sunday. Fitness coach Ronaldo Torres will decide whether the player will be included in the squad for next weekend's match. The athlete had been complaining of thigh pain and has been out of the Rio de Janeiro club's recent games.
Before that, Flamengo faces Vasco in a postponed derby from the seventh round of the Brazilian Championship. With a win, Flamengo will surpass its rival and move closer to the top four, with 4 points, five behind Grêmio.
Rodrigo Arroz trains among the starters\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Although young Thiago Salles admitted he's looking forward to facing Vasco on Thursday, coach Joel Santana is expected to confirm Rodrigo Arroz as Fábio Luciano's replacement at Flamengo. At Tuesday's training session in Gávea, he trained alongside Ronaldo Angelim. In midfield, the coach still doesn't know whether to keep Toró in the starting lineup or give Renato Augusto a chance, as he's been showing commitment in training, as he did on Tuesday afternoon. Having not played in a month, the midfielder will likely be unlikely to play the full 90 minutes of the derby, but his manager still wants to think things through before making a decision.
"He's not playing, but he's really eager. We're going to the training camp and talking to the coaching staff and the physical trainers. He'll definitely play in the game, I just don't know how," Joel commented.
Midfielder Jailton, who didn't participate in training on Tuesday, is expected to remain out. He worked separately as he felt pain in his right foot again.
Joel says victory in the classic will give Flamengo morale\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's surge in recent weeks of the Brazilian Championship has led mathematicians and fans alike to begin calculating the Rubro-Negro's chances of qualifying for next year's Copa Libertadores. At Gávea, however, coach Joel Santana has been consistent, consistently stating that he will only make predictions when his team reaches 50 points – currently on 43. But despite all the caution ahead of Thursday's derby against Vasco, a delayed game from the seventh round, the coach admits that a good result against their rival could give Flamengo even more momentum in the remaining games in the Brazilian Championship.
"It's a dangerous derby. Whoever wins will gain morale and personality for the final stretch of the championship. But we're still in a position where eight or nine teams are very close. Any slip-up could be fatal. So we'll have to be very careful and attentive to avoid being surprised," analyzed the Flamengo coach.
To try to defeat Vasco, Joel Santana must once again rely on a system in which his two full-backs have plenty of freedom to attack. Winger Leonardo Moura, who scored the red-and-black goal in the 1-1 draw with Vasco in the first round of the Brazilian Championship, echoes the coach's message and avoids thinking about qualifying for the Libertadores.
"It's an important derby, which could help determine our progression in the standings. But for now, our focus is on a spot in the South American. I think it's still too early to talk about the Libertadores," said the Flamengo defender, who doesn't expect his opponents to defend aggressively. "Celso Roth was my coach, and I know he'll enforce a tough defense, but without violence. Vasco isn't just a team that plays hardball; they have a lot of talent and will give us a hard time," added Léo Moura.
PeléNet
Rodrigo Arroz prepares to replace Fábio Luciano
From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Rodrigo Arroz is expected to win the battle with Thiago Sales and inherit the suspended Fábio Luciano's spot in the derby against Vasco da Gama on Thursday at 21:45 PM (Brasília time) at the Maracanã stadium, a postponed match from the seventh round of the Brazilian Championship. And if he is indeed chosen, he says he is more than prepared to fulfill the role successfully.
"I don't know what's going through the coach's mind. But since I trained with the starting lineup, I believe I have a good chance of playing. If that happens, I'll do my best to help the team. And I know I'm fully prepared for it," said Arroz, also emphasizing the need for massive attendance by the red-and-black fans.
"We're counting on them. Especially because they've been fundamental to our recovery in the Brazilian Championship. Their presence will give us an extra boost," emphasized the Flamengo defender.
Banned from the classic, Roger will know this Tuesday when he returns to Fla
From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\
This Tuesday will be "D-Day" for midfielder Roger's return to the Flamengo team. Already ruled out of Thursday's derby against Vasco, the Flamengo playmaker has a chance to face Grêmio next Sunday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time) at Maracanã.
Roger underwent imaging tests, and the results will be available to the Gávea club's medical department this Tuesday. According to Dr. Walter Martins, only after such analysis can a more accurate prognosis be made.
Still not fully established at Flamengo, Roger has been recovering from a left thigh injury. The player's last appearance was in the 1-0 victory over leaders São Paulo in the 29th round, when he came on during the match and felt the muscle problem again.
Flamengo defender claims to know how to get rid of special marking
From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Leonardo Moura will need a lot of creativity to stand out in Vasco vs. Flamengo next Thursday at 21:45 p.m. (Brasília time) at Maracanã, a postponed match from the seventh round of the Brazilian Championship. A longtime acquaintance of opposing coach Celso Roth, the Flamengo fullback knows he'll need something extra to break free from the heavy marking he'll certainly face.
"Celso worked with me here at Flamengo in 2005, and he knows me very well, he knows a lot about my football and he'll do everything he can to try to neutralize me, just like he did Juan. But I can get out of this. I'm capable of getting away from a stronger marking," he said, leaving a bit of humility aside.
In contrast to the words of coach Joel Santana, who only thinks about avoiding the possibility of relegation, the player is already talking, albeit timidly, about securing one of the spots in the Copa Libertadores.
"It's still a little early. We have to win the games and then see. But it doesn't hurt to dream. We have a chance," the full-back emphasized.
With 43 points, Flamengo is in ninth place. Grêmio, the last team in the "G-4", has 51. Leader São Paulo has 63 points.
BalloonSport
Exams clear Roger to play
Flamengo player still feels pain in his thigh, but will be released to train normally
Eduardo Peixoto
Roger opens up in an interview at Gávea
Flamengo's medical department received the results of Roger's battery of tests on Tuesday. None of the tests revealed any injury to the midfielder's right thigh.
As a result, doctors have cleared him to return to training normally. Roger is initially fit to face Grêmio next Sunday, but his participation still depends on the approval of fitness coach Ronaldo Torres.
"It's normal pain, from playing. He'll only get better when he gets back on the field," says doctor Walter Martins.
Roger spent the last week complaining of thigh pain and undergoing treatment there. However, on the 12th holiday, he was at Barra da Tijuca beach and was photographed running on the sand.
Officially, the supporter's behavior was considered normal. But behind the scenes, the comment was that an injured player should be more cautious and avoid exposure to avoid being labeled a "slipper." His contract with Flamengo ends at the end of this year.
'Nobody threatens Flamengo', says director
Ricardo Hinrichsen sees statements by São Paulo fans about fan rankings as 'jokes'
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo fans with Zico's flag
São Paulo and Corinthians dream and discuss the possibility of ousting Flamengo's lead in the Brazilian soccer fan base. Meanwhile, in Gávea, the São Paulo teams' excitement generates disdain, yawns, and irony.
While vice president of football Kléber Leite says that the difference for Corinthians fans is much greater than that revealed by the CNT/Sensus survey, vice president of marketing Ricardo Hinrichsen classifies the statements made by the São Paulo club's directors as a "joke."
"Gebran said the gap is 600 fans. That's a complete joke. The gap is several million. These polls have been conducted for 20 years, and there hasn't been any significant change in the top spot. They don't threaten us," says the leader.
"If you take a car and leave São Paulo, no one supports Corinthians. It's a regional club. Flamengo is a national club, with 80% of its fans outside of Rio"\ Ricardo Hinrichsen, vice president of marketing at Fla\ According to Ricardo, there is a huge gap between Flamengo and Corinthians: the first is a national club and the other is only regional:\
If you take a car and leave São Paulo, no one supports Corinthians. It's a regional club. Flamengo is a national club, with 80% of its fans outside of Rio de Janeiro. They (Corinthians) are the opposite and have no national appeal.
"Title doesn't increase fan base"
Regarding São Paulo and its marketing strategy for national growth, the vice president of marketing for the club is complimentary, but categorical.
- Titles don't increase fan base. In the 60s and 70s, Santos and Botafogo dominated Brazilian soccer, but that didn't mean they had the largest fan bases in their states. São Paulo has indeed grown a bit nationally, but they're still 20 million fans behind Flamengo. Only if there were a selective bomb that killed only Flamengo fans so they could overtake us.
According to the CNT/Sensus survey released last Monday, Flamengo's fan base is the largest in Brazil, with 14,4%. Corinthians comes in second with 10,5%, followed closely by São Paulo with 8%.
Vice president mocks Tricolor and promises to surpass Fla
Antoine Gebran questions the numbers and guarantees that São Paulo's growth is not a problem
Carlos Augusto Ferrari From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in São Paulo
Diário de S.Paulo
Antoine Gebran: Timão's vice president
Corinthians isn't at all worried about São Paulo closing in on the Brazilian fans. For vice president of football Antoine Gebran, Corinthians is not only ignoring the Tricolor but is also betting on overtaking Flamengo soon.
"The difference between Flamengo and Corinthians is much smaller. Based on the numbers I know, their advantage is only 600 fans. In the coming years, we'll be able to make up for that. It's just a matter of time," he says.
According to the CNT/Sensus survey released last Monday, Flamengo's fan base is the largest in Brazil, with 14,4%. Corinthians comes in second with 10,5%, followed closely by São Paulo with 8%.
Gebran, however, asserts that the growth of the Tricolor fan base doesn't bother him, and even mocks statements made by São Paulo's football superintendent, Marco Aurélio Cunha. According to him, "nobody roots for a losing team," taunting his rival about the crisis they've experienced in recent years.
"Marco Aurélio really needs to think about growing up because he's so short (laughs). There's no chance we'll be overtaken by São Paulo. Corinthians fans grow in good times and bad. How can they possibly overtake us if we're about to take first place from Flamengo?" he asks.
In the collective, Joel puts Arroz in defense
Defender expected to replace Fábio Luciano. Coach leaves Renato Augusto on the bench
Eduardo Peixoto
In the final training session before the match against Vasco, coach Joel Santana chose Rodrigo Arroz to replace Fábio Luciano, who is suspended, in the defense. He was competing for the spot with Thiago Sales.
There were no surprises in Flamengo's midfield. Joel retained the four players who played against Paraná: Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró. Renato Augusto started on the reserves. Juan and Souza opened the scoring for the starters.
Second
In the second half of the training session, Joel made a few changes. He took off Ibson and Maxi to bring on Thiago Sales and Renato Augusto, respectively. Thiago added another goal for the starters, and Egídio pulled one back for the reserves.
Mayor sanctions 'Flamengo Fan's Day'
The date will be celebrated on the 28th and was authored by councilor Jorge Mauro
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo fans get their own day
The tributes to Flamengo fans continue. Following the retirement of number 12, Mayor César Maia has declared "Flamengo Fan Day." The commemorative date will be October 28th, the same day as the club's patron saint, Saint Jude Thaddeus.
The new Rio de Janeiro law came into effect last Monday and was authored by Councilman Jorge Mauro. "Flamengo Fan Day" is now part of the city's official calendar.
Friendship: music and strength by Renato Augusto
Supporter finds inspiration in friends and the lyrics of the group Bom Gosto to bounce back
Eduardo Peixoto
Renato Augusto has recovered from injury and returns to Flamengo against Vasco. 'It's in bad times that we know our true friends.' Who hasn't uttered the well-worn saying? Renato Augusto certainly isn't in that situation. After a dark period of boos, criticism, and defeats, the Flamengo supporter is smiling again. And, of course, with the help of his friends.
"Everyone goes through a bad time in life. And mine was like that. But it was good because I saw who my true friends are. The support I received from them was crucial," he says.
Toró and Leo Moura, the friends
The friendly shoulders weren't limited to outside Gávea. Among the squad, Toró and Leo Moura, in particular, were instrumental in restoring confidence. The "resenhas" (conversations, in soccer slang) took on an air of encouragement for the player who, at 19, faced intense pressure from a fan base that considered him a "star" even before seeing him in the professional ranks.
The soundtrack features the evocative samba song "A Amizade" by Rio de Janeiro group Bom Gosto. (Click here to hear an excerpt of the song)
"I like the part that says 'not even the force of time will destroy friendship.' They encouraged me a lot, and now I feel great and confident. I want to play again, see a full Maracanã stadium, and relive the good times I had at Flamengo. I miss them," says Renato Augusto.
Against Vasco da Gama this Thursday, the player will likely be benched, all for fitness reasons. But if the boos interrupt the samba melody again, he already knows what to do.
- I've only been in the pros for a little over a season, but I feel fully prepared for the pressure. If it were last year, I might not have been able to handle it.
Check out the lyrics of the song "A Amizade": Friend, today my inspiration\ Got a hold of you\ And in the form of samba\ Told you to tell you\ So another argument\ Which at this moment\ Makes me penetrate\ For all our friendship\ Clarifying the truth\ Without fear of acting\ In our intimacy\ You will listen to me\
It was very early in life that I sought\ To find new directions in a better world\ With you, be sure that I never failed\ Because I gained a lot of strength making\ Friendship greater...\ Not even the force of time will destroy\ We are true...\ Not even this samba of love can sum us up\
I want to cry your tears\ I want to smile your smile\ Thanks for your existence, friend\
São Paulo protests against the Club of 13
Alongside Cruzeiro, Atlético-MG, Botafogo and Flamengo, Tricolor leaves the meeting room
There was a stalemate at a meeting held Tuesday afternoon in São Paulo to propose a change to the bylaws of the Club of 13, chaired by Fábio Koff. Outraged, the leaders of São Paulo, Botafogo, Flamengo, Cruzeiro, and Atlético-MG walked out, and a split appears inevitable.
São Paulo's directors want to end Fábio Koff's full power. The club has proposed that a Board of Directors, made up of eight clubs, participate in all meetings. Tricolor, along with Botafogo, Flamengo, Cruzeiro, and Atlético-MG, also refuses to allow Mustafá Contursi, former president of Palmeiras, to serve as vice president of the Club of 13 and president of another entity.
In an official statement released Tuesday night, São Paulo's board of directors stated that the signatory clubs presented a proposal to amend the bylaws to create a permanent channel for member participation, ensure compliance with corporate governance principles in the organization's management, and respect democratic values. However, the proposal was not treated with due respect. São Paulo's directors claim that due to the impasse, the signatory clubs, exercising the right granted to them by the Club of 13's Bylaws, in articles 7, paragraph 1, E 45, decided to abstain from the Extraordinary General Assembly.
From now on, São Paulo, Botafogo, Flamengo, Cruzeiro and Atlético-MG are in permanent session, and together they will take the necessary measures to defend their interests, always open to dialogue with the other clubs.
Maxi shows off with 100% at Maracanã
Argentinean participated in six Flamengo games at the stadium and won them all: 'This isn't luck'
Eduardo Peixoto
Maxi at Flamengo training
Until the Fla-Flu match, Flamengo had a 12-game unbeaten streak at Maracanã. The 2-0 defeat shattered one taboo, but reinforced another: with Maxi Biancucchi on the field, the red-and-black team doesn't know what it's like to drop points at the "Biggest Stadium in the World." Since the Argentine arrived, he's played six games at the stadium and won them all.
When the striker was absent, the team's performance plummeted. They played six games, with two wins, three draws, and one loss.
Speaking to GLOBOESPORTE.COM, Maxi commented on his 100% success rate. He also spoke about his anticipation of playing the first derby against Vasco and the pressure to score.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM: Do you know how many games you played at Maracanã?\ Maxi: Five? Six?\
Six matches. Remember Flamengo's performance in these games? Of course! They won them all. I don't even know what a draw is. But that's not luck. I don't believe in it. I work hard to get the wins and try to help Flamengo as best I can.
Empty Maracanã is another thing you didn't see...
That's right. Flamengo fans have turned out in great numbers for every game I've played. And with the fans present, our team gains even more strength. I personally get... (Maxi puts his hand on his right arm at this point and makes a goosebumps gesture). It's very special to play at Maracanã.
In the only derby he played in, he scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Fluminense (watch the video below). Can he repeat that against Vasco? That goal against Fluminense was wonderful. It's etched in my memory. But it's gone. There's no point in dwelling on the past and not achieving anything else. I hope to have a good debut against Vasco, since I was injured in the first game (the match ended in a 1-1 draw).
In 11 games, you've scored two goals. The last of them was on August 23rd, against Juventude. Does the drought bother you? It's what I said before. There's no point in me reminiscing about the goal in the Fla-Flu match and then stopping scoring. Strikers thrive on goals, and I need to score them as often as possible.
Maxi at Maracanã\ Fla 2 x 1 Nautico\ Fla 1 x 0 Fluminense\ Fla 4 x 0 Juventude\ Fla 3 x 1 Goiás\ Fla 1 x 0 Atlético-MG\ Fla 1 x 0 São Paulo\
Fla's games at Maraca without Maxi\ Fla 1 x 1 Botafogo\ Fla 1 x 1 Sport\ Fla 4 x 1 Figueirense\ Fla 3 x 1 Cruzeiro\ Fla 1 x 1 Vasco\ Fla 0 x 2 Flu\
Throw
Joel has only one doubt for the classic
Coach hopes to have Renato Augusto back against Vasco
With Rodrigo Arroz named as Fábio Luciano's replacement (suspended for a third yellow card), Joel Santana has only one question mark for Thursday's derby against Vasco. The coach liked Renato Augusto's performance in the training session and is considering starting him.
Without Jaílton, who was ruled out due to pain in his right foot, the midfield consisted of Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró. The latter could lose his spot if Renato Augusto returns to the team. But Joel Santana still doesn't know if he'll make the change:
"The training was very enjoyable. I have 12 players to choose from. Renato Augusto really impressed me on Tuesday, and so I'll keep this in mind until the game. One way or another, he'll be in," the coach stated.
Fla can close the year with a win against its rival
The club hasn't gone a year without beating Vasco since 2002
Joel will try to avoid a negative mark on Thursday (Credit: Felipe Gabriel)
Fred Gomes
If Flamengo's performance in classics this year is poor - the club won only one of the 11 games it played against its arch-rivals -, the Rubro-Negro could end the year with another negative mark if it does not beat Vasco next Thursday: since 2002, the club from Gávea has not failed to beat the Gigante da Colina at least once in a year.
In 2007, of the three matches played between Flamengo and Vasco, the Cruzmaltinos won once (3-0) and on the other two occasions the games ended in a 1-1 draw. It is worth noting, however, that in one of these ties, Fla won on penalties and qualified for the final of the Taça Guanabara, a tournament they won after beating Madureira 4-1.
Exactly five years ago (16/10/2002), with a 2-1 victory over Rubro-Negro, the São Januário club recorded its third triumph against its biggest rival that year. There were four games between Fla and Vasco, in 2002, and the Gigante da Colina only failed to win once (0-0, in the State Championship that year).
Check out the 2002 games:
Rio-São Paulo Tournament: Flamengo 1 x 3 Vasco - 10/3
State: Flamengo 0 x 1 Vasco - 25/03 Flamengo 0 x 0 Vasco - 26/05
Brazilian: Flamengo 1 x 2 Vasco - 16/10
Maxi looking forward to the first Fla X Vasco
Argentine striker was unable to play the first leg of the classic
Maxi Biancuchci missed the first match between Vasco and Flamengo in the Brasileirão due to injury. Now, the Argentine doesn't want to miss the opportunity to play in one of Brazilian football's biggest derbies.
- I followed the classic and I know the rivalry between the two clubs - he said.
Regarding the game, the striker is not worried about the number of fouls Vasco might commit (against Botafogo there were 45) and even remembered Argentine football:
"Today's football has a lot of fouls. It's normal. In Argentina, there are even more fouls. Football is more physically demanding," he said.
Hoping to play against Romário, Maxi praised Baixinho, but didn't want to talk much about him:
"Romário is a star. He's playing his last games, but the most important thing is to think about Flamengo," he added.
Flamengo goes to the CBF to report the referee
Club will deliver DVD with mistakes by Minas Gerais native Alício Pena Júnior
HUGO PERRUSO
Flamengo will deliver to the CBF this Tuesday a DVD containing footage of referee Alício Pena Júnior's mistakes in the last two matches he officiated in this Brasileirão (Figueirense and Paraná). In about ten minutes, 17 errors are shown, with refereeing commentary from a television channel.
Of the ten errors in the 4-0 defeat against Figueirense, in Santa Catarina, three of them resulted in goals, in addition to Alício Pena Júnior failing to award a penalty in favor of Flamengo and sending off Souza.
Against Paraná, they made seven errors. The main one was the non-existent penalty awarded, which also led to Fábio Luciano and Léo Medeiros receiving their third yellow cards, resulting in both being suspended for the derby against Vasco da Gama this Thursday.
"He didn't just make mistakes in those games. What we did was spare you and the president of the Refereeing Committee (Sérgio Corrêa). In fact, he made mistakes in all seven games, and we lost six and drew one. This is so everyone understands how damaging he is to Flamengo," said Kleber Leite.
Outraged by Alício Pena Júnior's mistakes, the manager called for the referee's suspension:
"If the images are used to punish the players, they should also be used to punish the referees. He took off two players for the match against Vasco. In other words, he continues to harm us. That's why we sent a letter to the CBF," the official said.
Kleber Leite hopes that, with these images, the referee will never referee Flamengo games again:
"He was harmful and inelegant to Flamengo. I hope he doesn't even come near the stadium where Flamengo is playing," he added.
At Fla, the defense scores more goals than the attack
The team's top scorers in the Brazilian Championship are the full-backs
For those who believe that the best defense is attack, the opposite is true at Flamengo. In this Brazilian Championship, Flamengo's defenders have scored more goals than the club's own forwards.
Of the 44 goals scored in the 30 matches played so far, the defense contributed 16 goals, one more than the attack. Midfielders, meanwhile, have scored 12. The Red-Blacks also had an own goal from Chicão, of Figueirense.
Flamengo's defensive performance is only better than that of Figueirense itself, which scored 18. What's more: only América-RN's defenders scored more than their attacking teammates.
At Flamengo, the defensive scoring isn't a problem. Quite the opposite. For Joel Santana, the important thing is that the team keeps scoring goals, regardless of who's playing.
"Football is a whole. There are 11 players on the field. If my goalkeeper goes forward and scores, it counts. Rogério Ceni doesn't score? Then..." he stated.
Léo Moura, one of the team's top scorers in the Brazilian Championship with five goals (the other is Juan), agreed with the coach and also defended his attacking teammates:
– They're not having any luck, but they're helping tactically and that's what makes it easier for us to score goals – said the goalscoring full-back.
Renato Augusto hopes to play against Vasco
Supporter can return to play after injury to his right thigh
Renato Augusto could return to the starting lineup for Flamengo after exactly one month. On September 16, the midfielder suffered a right thigh strain against Vasco and is now hoping to play in Thursday's derby. Even if he doesn't start, Joel Santana assured that the midfielder will play.
Renato Augusto thinks it was worth not playing Saturday's game against Paraná, to improve his physical condition and become more confident:
radio l! - It's a good time to come back. It's a classic and I'm feeling good. Of course I'm not 100%, but I'm much better than before the Paraná game. I can't play 90 minutes yet, but I can hold out for a while - he said. (Click and listen)
Unsure whether he will start or come on later in the game, Renato Augusto isn't bothered by it and just wants to get back to playing and help Flamengo:
radio l! - I was a little scared last week, but now I'm confident. I'll talk to Joel and see what's best for the group. The important thing is that Flamengo wins - he said. (Click and listen)