THE GLOBE

EIGHT TIMES

Flamengo's 2-1 victory yesterday was their eighth consecutive win over Vasco in decisive matches. The red-and-black team had previously defeated their rival in three other Taça GB semi-finals (2001, 2004, and 2006) and also won in the Copa do Brasil final (2006) and three state championships (2000, 2001, and 2004) – 2-5.

The same ending for Vasco and for Edmundo.

Just like in the 2000 World Cup, the star player missed a penalty and lost the duel to Fábio Luciano in the 2-1 defeat against Flamengo.

Photo caption: With the "Créu" dance, Obina (left), Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson and Souza celebrate Flamengo's qualification after Alan Kardec celebrated Vasco's goal in the same way.

Pedro Motta Gueiros

In recent years, Vasco fans have hesitated to attend crucial matches against Flamengo. Yesterday, hopes were renewed by an old idol. With Edmundo, his fans returned as well. On a civic day, from early morning, Vasco supporters from all corners marched in unison to the Maracanã. Before the Flamengo fans took their part, the green stands were already packed on the opposite side. On the field, what was seen was the epitome of a player of extremes. In the first half, Edmundo played like a maestro and initiated the play that led to Alan Kardec opening the scoring. In the second half, with the game tied, he faced a reunion with the past. As in the 2000 Club World Cup, he missed a penalty and saw Vasco fall, this time to Flamengo, 2-1, yesterday, in the Guanabara Cup semi-final.

Eight years ago, his shot flew through the air along with the hopes of an unprecedented title. Yesterday, the low, weak shot was saved by Bruno. What the two matches had in common was the triumph of defender Fábio Luciano. A world champion with Corinthians, he arrived at Gávea determined to lead Flamengo down the same path. He scored the equalizing goal when Vasco was winning and had chances to extend their lead. To complete the supremacy of the Flamengo defense, the winning goal was scored by defender Ronaldo Angelim.

A tiebreaker after five draws with Botafogo

In the first half, Vasco surprised everyone by announcing one starting lineup and then fielding another, which, according to FIFA rules, implies a penalty. Flamengo tried to apply the punishment. In the 22nd minute, Tardelli delivered a perfect cross for Souza to head against the post. Under pressure, Vasco revived their attack with Alan Kardec, who won a challenge against Fábio Luciano before Calisto fired a dangerous cross-shot in the 24th minute. Shortly after, the Flamengo defender fell in a challenge and received a kick to the arm from Edmundo.

"I prefer to believe it was unintentional," said Fabio.

When it came time to strike the ball, the Vasco player lacked precision after a corner kick where Bruno misjudged the ball, it hit Edmundo, and Ronaldo Angelim cleared the danger. Dropping back to receive the ball, the star found Amaral, who passed to Alan Kardec, who dribbled past Angelim and shot with skill to make it 1-0 in the 31st minute. Despite three months of inactivity, Edmundo conveyed the feeling that his relationship with the derby is timeless. With him, the confidence that allowed Alex Teixeira to dribble past Fábio Luciano and shoot low was also returning, forcing a good save from Bruno. Later, the idol played a one-two with Morais, whose shot was weak.

With his arm and pride wounded, the Flamengo defender went forward. On his first attempt, he controlled the ball with his chest but was dispossessed. In the 42nd minute, Juan took a free kick from the right and Fábio Luciano rose alone to head in the equalizer.

The goal didn't stop Vasco. Four minutes into the second half, Edmundo took a free kick to Morais, who entered the area and was brought down by Ibson. Goalkeeper Tiago, the penalty taker, didn't even dare leave his area, much to the chagrin of the fans who were calling for their idol. Capable of overcoming three months of inactivity and playing as if no time had passed, Edmundo also showed that he hadn't changed emotionally. In the same goal where he threw away the world title, this time he shot to the other corner, but equally poorly, in the 7th minute. The repetition of the drama had a domino effect. With the idol's dejection, the fans and Vasco dwindled.

Meanwhile, Flamengo gave voice to its megalomania, starting with the fans' chants praising Bruno as the best goalkeeper in Brazil. The onslaught began with a powerful shot from Ibson, which Tiago parried. At 31 minutes, Juan shot just wide of the post. After a long-range free-kick taken by Cristian, Tiago made a mistake and conceded a corner. At 34 minutes, after a quick corner, Leonardo Moura crossed, Angelim headed the ball against the goalkeeper's left post, and while trying to parry the ball, Tiago ended up putting it into his own net.

In the end, Cristian missed the chance to increase the lead, but there was no longer any doubt about the victory. The tiebreaker will be on Sunday against Botafogo, against whom Flamengo won the last State Championship on penalties. In five matches last year, all ended in a draw. In two Guanabara Cup finals, Botafogo won 4-1 in 1968 and lost 3-2 in 1995. Against Vasco, statistics and Edmundo are the deciding factors. Against Flamengo, with Fábio Luciano and another decisive penalty, even Vasco fans can already imagine the outcome. Since 2000, Flamengo has won all eight of the last decisive matches. Ironically, the number lying on its side represents infinity, but in football everything changes quickly, to the point where the star of the game ends up being the worst player on the field.

Vasco: Tiago, Rodrigo Antônio, Jorge Luiz, Vílson and Calisto; Jonílson, Amaral, (Andrade), Morais, Alex Teixeira, (Xavier), Edmundo, Alan Kardec (Abuda). Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Ibson, Jônatas (Cristian) and Kleberson (Obina); Diego Tardelli (Marcinho) and Souza. Referee: Gutemberg de Paula. Yellow cards: Morais, Edmundo, Rodrigo Antônio, Souza and Jônatas. Revenue: R$1.141.995,50. Attendance: 56.806 paying spectators (61.309 present).

VASCO

TIAGO: He wasn't at fault for the first goal, but he gave away the corner that led to the second goal by getting into trouble on a free kick taken by Cristian. In the sequence of play, he sent the ball into the net, surprised by the rebound off the post. 5.

RODRIGO ANTÔNIO: Showed personality but lacked precision in the first half. In the second, he struggled with the opponent's pressure in his area. 4,5.

JORGE LUIZ: He started well but ended up getting caught out. The two headed goals reveal the fragility of the entire defense. 4.

VILSON: A crucial tackle, several long clearances, and helplessness to stop Flamengo's comeback. 4.

CALISTO: He tried to launch an attack and took a very dangerous cross-shot. After that, he disappeared from the game. 4,5.

JONÍLSON: Too much drive to disarm opponents but no quality in playmaking. 4.

AMARAL: He knew how to control the ball before making a good pass for Kardec to score. He dropped back with the team until he left when the game was 1-1. 5,5. He was replaced by ANDRADE who came on because he shot well in the event of a penalty shootout, but he could only take one free kick, which Bruno saved in two stages. 4,5.

MORAIS: He took most of the corner kicks, was always present in the runs through the middle, but his best contribution was winning the penalty. 6.

EDMUNDO: He started in great style and ended melancholically after missing a penalty. He kicked Fábio Luciano's arm and made a foul tackle that deserved a red card. 5.

ALEX TEIXEIRA: He had one chance in each half. In the first, he did the right thing and shot hard. In the second, he shot weakly when Edmundo was expecting the pass. 5. He was replaced by XAVIER who tried to hold the draw, without success. 4.

ALAN KARDEC: Scored a beautiful goal after dribbling past Jaílton and shooting with class. Only troubled the defense in the first half. 6,5. He was substituted by ABUDA who was isolated. No rating.

ALFREDO SAMPAIO: Your team had good moments in the first half, but was punished with defeat when it opted only to play for a draw. 4.

FLAMENGO

BRUNO: He saved the penalty which, in addition to preventing a potential defeat, served to knock Vasco out emotionally. No blame for the first goal. 8.

LEONARDO MOURA: He had difficulty overcoming the tight marking set up to contain him, but he didn't shy away. 6.

FÁBIO LUCIANO: He rose with style to get the team out of trouble. In defense, he imposed himself with seriousness. His only mistakes were being dribbled by Alex Teixeira and complaining too much to the referee. 8.

RONALDO ANGELIM: By scoring the winning goal, he recovered from the dribble he suffered in Vasco's goal. With Flamengo at a disadvantage, he was one of the first to lead the team forward. 7,5.

JUAN: He took the free kick that led to the equalizing goal and was a constant option in the attack. Even without shining, it was through him that the team began to apply pressure until they scored the winning goal. 7.

JAÍLTON: He was involved at one point, but he reconciled with his teammates and the team ended up dominating the midfield. 5.

JÔNATAS: Correct in his passes, but lacking the offensive aggression and dedication to defense that a decisive derby demands. He left during the second half. 5,5. He was replaced by CRISTIAN who brought more energy to the team. He showed more attitude than precision, as in the unassuming free kick he took that led to the second goal. 6.

IBSON: Showed skill but lacked productivity in the first half, but improved with the team and was important in the comeback. 6,5.

KLEBERSON: Has good technique and movement and strikes the ball with style, but hasn't yet found his place in midfield. He came off at the end. 5,5. He was replaced by OBINA who tried to increase the pressure. 5,5.

DIEGO TARDELLI: Good positional interchange and a beautiful pass to Souza. 6,5. He was substituted at halftime for MARCINHO, who occupied the right side of the attack well. 6.

SOUZA: One header hit the post, another went wide. He fought hard, but didn't finish much. 6,5.

JOEL SANTANA: He managed to regain control of the midfield without losing his aggressiveness. 7.

ARBITRATION

Gutemberg de Paula did not make any decisive mistakes, but he erred due to a lack of authority.

Defense as the best offense

Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim decide the match with set pieces.

FÁBIO LUCIANO, between Ronaldo Angelim and Souza, scores the first goal with a header.

One is more talkative, like Fábio Luciano. The other, a little more reserved, Ronaldo Angelim. What they have in common is that they form a sharp defensive unit with a powerful jump capable of unsettling any defense. Yesterday, both left the field as heroes of a victory achieved through set pieces, with two unstoppable headers, the kind good strikers usually make, sealing the win for Flamengo.

Fábio Luciano preferred to attribute yesterday's victory over Vasco to the collective effort.

- The forwards help us a lot in marking. It's only fair that the tall defenders, in set-piece situations, try to resolve the play in attack. We scored the goals and took advantage of the set-piece opportunities well, but the marking in attack helped in the victory. It's a collective effort.

The effort can be symbolized by Fábio Luciano himself. At one point in the match, he received a kick to the arm from Edmundo and thought he had suffered a fracture.

"When I fell to the ground, I thought I had fractured a bone. Thank God, it was just a dislocation. I was able to return and contribute to the joy of this unique fanbase. They show up even when facing all sorts of difficulties. That's why I went to thank them at the end of the game," said the player.

Ronaldo Angelim, from Ceará, had another concern on his mind. It was his father, Antonio Angelim, a fanatical Vasco supporter, as were many of his family.

- When I scored the goal, I imagined my dad suffering back in Ceará. He's a die-hard Vasco fan, as are some cousins ​​and family members. But I was born a Flamengo supporter. I'm sure that at the end of the game, even though he was sad about the result, he was happy about my goal. What father doesn't root for his son?

A conscientious and respectful player towards his fellow professionals, Ronaldo Angelim declined to participate in the "créu" dance at the end of the match when invited by Ibson.

- Dancing the "créu" (a type of dance) leads to nothing. In life, we should always respect others - he said, although he didn't disagree with Ibson, who heavily criticized Fluminense midfielder Thiago Neves for doing the dance in the match where the tricolor team beat Flamengo 4-1.

- Ibson said it was disrespectful of Thiago Neves, and I agree with him. Football is decided on the field. Thiago played very well and scored three goals, but he didn't have to mock the fans. Besides, it wasn't the first time he did that. I remember last year he said Flamengo would be relegated. Why? Players have to respect their teammates on the other team.

The success of the defense leaves coach Joel Santana at ease.

We worked on this type of play, and they both know exactly what to do. That's how the game was decided.

Joel prepares his weapons for the final.

The coach speaks respectfully of Botafogo, but is betting on Flamengo's organization and tactical work to win the Taça Guanabara.

Joel hugs Íbson during the celebration of defender Fábio Luciano's goal, Flamengo's first goal.

Marcos Penido

Coach Joel Santana demonstrated maturity and experience after the victory over Vasco, which qualified Flamengo for the Guanabara Cup final. He said that the team's planning, giving players rest when necessary, good tactical work, and a strong squad were the fundamental factors that allowed them to reach the final against Botafogo with the stamina to compete.

"Many people mocked us when we fielded a reserve team against Fluminense. It seemed like an avalanche after the defeat. Well, that rest was fundamental. Notice that both Flamengo and Botafogo, the two teams that qualified, were the ones that rested players when they could," said the coach, keeping an eye on Sunday's opponent, when he may make changes to the team.

"I have an idea and we'll work on it during the week. The most qualified players have been out of action for a long time. I don't need to say anything because everything became very clear in the last few matches," he stated.

The question is whether to keep the same squad as last year.

The coach is keen to emphasize the quality of the players he has available. His doubt lies in the fact that, when the team played with practically the same core group as last year, in the second half against Vasco – with the exception of Marcinho – the team performed better.

- Cristian, Marcinho, and Obina came in very well, not only because Cristian and Obina know the team well, but also because they were rested. I put Marcinho in to close down Vasco's right side. Cristian closed down the space where Edmundo and Morais usually moved in. Obina had excellent movement.

But the coach is not giving up on the quality of those who left. According to him, Jônatas and Kleberson are very skilled and are getting in shape.

"I'll be working during the week and I hope to have the lineup ready to face Botafogo by Wednesday or Thursday," said Joel.

The coach made a point of highlighting the victory over Vasco, which was very demanding.

It was a tough game against a well-organized opponent. We managed to win thanks to a penalty saved by our goalkeeper, but our victory was deserved because Flamengo was already the better team.

According to right-back Leonardo Moura, the team showed grit and turned the score around in true Flamengo style.

"This is Flamengo!" he shouted at the end of the match, pointing to the fans.

Forward Souza was one of those who celebrated the most.

We're in the final. Now it's time to go onto the field with renewed determination to win the Guanabara Cup.

Praised by Joel Santana, Cristian highlighted the dedication of all the players.

Flamengo showed a cohesive team capable of giving that extra something in decisive matches. Everyone contributed their part on the field.

Responsible for the decisive moment of the game, when he saved a penalty from Edmundo, goalkeeper Bruno celebrated with his feet on the ground.

It was an important save that helped the team win. Now it's time to think about the final.

In the classic rivalry, the kiss of peace and love.

Vasco fan Leonardo kisses his Flamengo-supporting girlfriend Débora, cheering on the affection.

SUPERHERO in the blue seats of the Maracanã: the fan opens his arms and displays a Vulture Man costume to support Joel's team.

Prepared, fan Luciana Azambuja (above) carries her Flamengo shirt in her bag to avoid problems when exiting the subway. Next to her, passion overcomes rivalry, with Leonardo and Débora. Below, the police help a mother and her son leave the area surrounded by Vasco fans.

On one side, Flamengo fans were forming their samba circle in front of the Bellini statue. The simple lyrics caught on quickly: "I'm Flamengo's number 12/I am, I go, wherever Flamengo is/I'm there, I go, no matter the place/Nor the day nor the hour, I'll certainly be there/Flamengo in first place." In costume, Spider-Man, accompanied by a Spider-Woman doll and Vulture Man, joined the circle and added to the festivities. More intense police activity only occurred when the cavalry intervened to restore order to a provocation by a faction of fans against Vasco supporters at gate 18. The work was carried out professionally.

Nearby, at UERJ (Rio de Janeiro State University), where Vasco fans were entering the Maracanã stadium, a chant echoed constantly: "Ah, it's Edmundo!" Two hours before the game, Vasco fans, yearning for idols, placed immense hope in the striker.

"With him at Vasco, the team will be much better," said 10-year-old Lucas Kochenborger, waving his flag and then shouting, "Ah, it's Edmundo!"

Suddenly, a woman and a child wearing Flamengo shirts appeared. The police acted quickly. Amidst taunts from Vasco fans, they removed them from the area and took them to a police car which promptly transported them to the entrance of Flamengo's stadium.

Journalist Luciana Azambuja was more cautious. She went to Maracanã by subway and passed near the Vasco entrance.

"I'll only put on my Flamengo shirt when I get inside the stadium," she said.

A happy ending for winners and losers alike.

Luciana's concern was the same as that of the couple Leonardo and Débora. He was a telephone technician, she was a telecommunications operator. Leonardo was wearing the traditional Vasco da Gama shirt, Luciana, an all-red Flamengo shirt.

"I'm always a little worried. But it's a must-see game and we're taking it in stride," explains Luciana.

With their rivalry displayed only on their club jerseys, the couple's bet exemplifies a love for both sport and life. At the end of the game, the prize for the winner was a kiss for each goal. Luciana left smiling. Leonardo, with faith in love.

Fernando Calazans

Great game

A day for a great classic, a day for a good game at the Maracanã. And a victory, after all, deserved for Flamengo, mainly because of the second half, more precisely after goalkeeper Bruno saved Edmundo's penalty when the score was 1-1. It was a crucial moment in the match because, from then on, Edmundo and Vasco faded, and Flamengo took control of the field and the game.

But, judging by the first half, Vasco could have secured a draw that would have led to a penalty shootout. Vasco had more scoring opportunities then, and in fact, scored the most beautiful goal of the game.

The first few minutes, or rather, the first 19 minutes, worried the football fan. It was incredibly boring. Nineteen minutes, or rather 19 minutes and 59 seconds, passed without a single play, a single move, a single goal-scoring opportunity. Nothing.

At the 20-minute mark, Diego Tardelli finally entered the penalty area, but goalkeeper Tiago closed down the angle and saved the corner.

And the game began.

At 21 minutes, Souza headed the ball against the post after a precise pass from Tardelli. At 23 minutes, Calisto shot wide after a play by Alan Kardec; and at 31 minutes, Alan Kardec scored a fantastic goal (finally!), in a play involving Edmundo and Amaral. Edmundo gave a great pass to Amaral. Amaral advanced and gave a great pass to Alan Kardec. Alan Kardec made a great dribble and a great shot. Everything was great. Vasco 1-0.

And the game was great too. Edmundo played very well, with brilliant passes. Morais was as incisive as ever. Even Amaral was performing well.

Flamengo struggled up front because Leonardo Moura wasn't as accurate as in previous games, and Souza wasn't getting anything right.

But the team increased the intensity of the game, and defender Fábio Luciano went forward to try and achieve what the forwards couldn't. And he succeeded. Not on the first attempt, at 40 minutes, because he tried to control the ball with his chest inside the area and lost control, but a minute later, at 41, heading in a free kick taken by Juan.

Flamengo returned for the second half with a substitution that, in my opinion, was a bit hasty: Marcinho in place of Tardelli.

Vasco had the first chance. Just four minutes in, the referee, who had a good performance until then, awarded a penalty against Íbson, which I'm not sure about. And the game paused for its climactic moment. Edmundo, the ball, and Bruno. Edmundo shot weakly, Bruno saved well – and the game changed, the game turned around, the game was transformed. After his excellent first half, Edmundo faded, I don't know if it was because of the poorly taken penalty, fatigue, or both. I know he had already warned coach Alfredo Sampaio that he wouldn't be able to last the whole time.

Joel Santana replaced Kleberson with Obina, who is starting to get into good form. He pushed the team forward. Alfredo Sampaio replaced Alex Teixeira with Xavier. He pushed the team back.

Flamengo pushed forward and, in the 34th minute, Ronaldo Angelim, another defender, once again with a header and once again unmarked by Vasco, scored the winning goal from a cross by Léo Moura.

Flamengo scored two goals, both by defenders, because if it depended on Souza and Obina yesterday, Flamengo wouldn't have scored at all. But Ronaldo Angelim did, as a reward for his seriousness and determination, and Flamengo is in the final next Sunday against their great rival Botafogo.

Splendid performances by goalkeepers Bruno and Tiago. Good performances by Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim (the goalscorers), Juan (second half), Íbson (throughout the game) and Kléberson, for Flamengo; Edmundo and Amaral (first half), and Morais, for Vasco.

Joel Santana was right at the end, complaining indignantly about the repeated fouls committed by Flamengo's defense. But couldn't we ask Jaílton to get involved in the play, just once, without using his arm on the opponent, without grabbing, without pulling, without kicking? Is that all he knows how to do in football? Is Jônatas the same?

The team that really needs to play a big game midweek is Botafogo's medical department. The squad is small, it's insufficient, and if Jorge Henrique and Zé Carlos can't play, then we'll have a truly decisive derby with Flamengo as the favorite.

SPORTS JOURNAL

A save that decides the game for Flamengo.

With goals from Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim, the team secures qualification.

Diego Marrul and Thiago Bokel

Ronaldo Angelim greets his teammate Fábio Luciano.

Before yesterday's derby, little was said about defender Ronaldo Angelim. Always very discreet, on Saturday, after the recreational training session, he was one of the last players to leave Gávea. Even so, he ended up not being asked for an interview. After being the hero of the victory, the number 4 was one of the most sought-after players, something unusual on training days.

Besides being decisive, Angelim had another reason to celebrate. The player's father, Antônio Leite Angelim, is a Vasco fan, as are his nephews.

"He was definitely there in Juazeiro (Ceará) watching the game. This is a nice moment for me, because I've always been a Flamengo fan and I can joke with him, he's sad there and I'm happy here. But I know he's rooting for me a lot and he's used to it, because since I arrived, we've won all the matches against Vasco," Angelim joked.

Despite being very happy to be the 'life of the party', the defender made a point of not participating in the celebration with the other players when they danced the 'Créu' with the fans. In the press conference, Angelim explained why he refrained from celebrating.

"That has nothing to do with it, matches are decided on the field, and you need to respect your opponent. Against Fluminense, Thiago Neves had already scored three goals and provoked us unnecessarily. He did the same thing last year, saying we would be relegated. You can't do something like that, because there are still many derbies ahead," criticized the defender.

Now, looking ahead to the final against Botafogo, the cautious Angelim expresses great respect for coach Cuca. He also doesn't believe Flamengo will be the favorite in this final.

"Every team coached by Cuca is very well-organized. He has an interesting game plan, and the Botafogo players run a lot. Therefore, I don't believe there's a favorite; they are two great teams, both in good form, and have great players. The team that makes fewer mistakes will be champion," predicted the player, who confessed to liking this new format of a two-legged tie with only one match. According to him, this way, the teams don't hold back for the second game and enter with more determination.

Angelim predicts a very close final.

Author of Flamengo's second goal in the semifinal against Vasco, defender Ronaldo Angelim praised the team's performance in the second half and predicts a very balanced match against Botafogo next Sunday.

"The team deserves congratulations because they knew how to play intelligently in the second half. Botafogo has a well-organized team with quality players. Certainly, whoever makes fewer mistakes will be the champion," Angelim said in the post-match press conference.

Regarding the controversy surrounding Thiago Neves' statements, Angelim echoed Ibson's words. Last Sunday, the Flamengo midfielder declared that the Fluminense midfielder disrespected Flamengo's fans with his celebrations.

“I completely agree with Ibson. Football is decided on the field. He had a very good performance, scored three goals, and deserved the win. But he shouldn't be mocking our fans. Besides, it's not the first time he's had this kind of attitude. Last year, he said we would be relegated in the Brazilian Championship,” he concluded.

Medallions will lose their spot at Flamengo.

Coach Joel Santana is observing the performance of some players and promises changes to the team.

Having just finished a difficult game against their biggest rival, Flamengo is already turning its attention to next Sunday's match, the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo. Proof of this is that Flamengo's coach, Joel Santana, spoke immediately after the derby about their next opponent, pointing out the main difficulties his players will face.

For him, the players' performance against Alvinegro will be crucial to overcome the team's weaknesses and win the title.

"Botafogo, like Flamengo, came with a plan. They rested some players in the last few rounds to arrive well-prepared for the final. So, it will be a difficult game, especially because they have a strong and well-organized team. Here at Flamengo, there are still players who are far from their ideal rhythm. That's clear. Therefore, we need organization on the field. Without it, it's impossible," explained Joel.

Changes: The coach ended up letting slip that he might make changes to the team for next weekend's derby. It seems Joel is losing patience with the inconsistent performances of some players, especially midfielders Jônatas and Kléberson and striker Diego Tardelli, who haven't been performing as expected, as the coach himself acknowledges.

"We have an idea and we're going to work on it during the week. The most qualified players have been out of action for a long time, and football isn't solved overnight. I don't need to say anything, especially since everything became very clear in the last few matches," said Joel, taking the opportunity to praise midfielder Marcinho's performance against Vasco.

Captain Fábio Luciano praises goalkeeper Bruno.

The author of the first goal for Flamengo in yesterday's victory, defender and captain Fábio Luciano, made a point of praising one player in particular: goalkeeper Bruno, who saved a penalty taken by Edmundo when the game was tied 1-1.

"It was the crucial play of the match, which was very balanced, and it was decided by three set pieces: those of our two goals, and Bruno's save. Joel has been talking to us a lot about these plays that can be decisive, as they were today (yesterday). I was lucky to score at the end of the first half, and that motivated us even more. In the same way that the attackers help us defend, we have the mission of going on the attack to try to score. Angelim and I managed to do that and Flamengo left the field victorious," celebrated captain and defender Fábio Luciano.

Despite being outplayed in the first half, Flamengo fought back to equalize in the 41st minute through sheer determination. The captain explained why they never give up:

"We know the suffering our fans go through to get to the games, often spending money meant for food at home," said the player, who suffered a dislocated right elbow but shouldn't be a problem for the Guanabara Cup final.

Support - The Flamengo players showed solidarity with the drama experienced by striker Ronaldo, who suffered a serious injury to his left knee and is expected to be out of action for at least nine months. They entered the field with a banner that read: "Ronaldo, Phenomenon of grit, Flamengo believes in you."

Flamengo at the top

Defenders score, Flamengo beat Vasco in a comeback victory and will face Botafogo in the Guanabara Cup final.

Alexandre Souza and Bernardo Peirão

After Juan's free kick, Fábio Luciano(3) heads it in and equalizes the classic.

Brightened by the colorful displays of both fan bases and the intense rivalry between the two teams, who battled throughout the match, the Clássico dos Milhões (Classic of Millions) lived up to the expectations of the fans who went to the Maracanã. Flamengo's 2-1 victory, coming from behind, not only secured their place in the final but also maintained their recent winning streak against Vasco in decisive matches. Fábio Luciano and Angelim scored for Flamengo, while Alan Kardec scored for Vasco (who had a penalty missed by Edmundo).

The first half started evenly, but the intense heat slowed the game down and neither team could penetrate the defenses. As time went on, the sun disappeared and the game improved. Flamengo dominated, with Íbson and Tardelli leading the attacks. In the 22nd minute, Tardelli made a good play and crossed the ball to Souza, who unfortunately headed it against the right post.

However, what seemed to be the beginning of Flamengo's dominance turned into a Vasco comeback. Led by Edmundo, Vasco began to pressure. At 28 minutes, Bruno came out but couldn't find the ball, which fell to Edmundo, with no goalkeeper to beat, to finish. But the striker was surprised by the goalkeeper's mistake and saw the ball hit his chest and be cleared by the defense. But the Animal didn't give up and in a beautiful play in midfield, found Amaral who passed to Alan Kardec who controlled, turned and shot into the corner: Vasco 1-0.

After the goal, Alex Teixeira almost increased the lead with a play on the left, but Flamengo improved again and eventually equalized. Juan took a free kick and Fábio Luciano headed it in to tie the game.

Turnaround: Flamengo returned for the second half with Marcinho replacing Tardelli, but it was Vasco who pressed forward. Morais made a good play, entered the area and was brought down by Íbson. Edmundo took the penalty kick; the moment of reunion between the player and the Vasco fans seemed perfect, but the Animal took a very poor shot and practically rolled the ball, an easy save for Bruno.

The play deflated Vasco's team and encouraged Flamengo, who grew stronger and began to apply pressure. Souza, Juan, Kleberson, Íbson, and Marcinho all got tired of missing goals. Thiago was becoming Vasco's hero until, with ten minutes to go, Ronaldo Angelim headed the ball, it hit the post and went into the hands of the Vasco goalkeeper, who was startled and ended up fumbling, letting it go into the other corner, allowing Flamengo to turn the game around.

In the end, a well-deserved victory for a Flamengo team that played with character, dominated in the second half, and goes into the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo full of confidence.

Flamengo defeats Brasília in the Men's National Basketball Championship.

Flamengo's winger Marcelinho put on a show yesterday morning in Fla's victory over Universo.

Spectacular. That's how Flamengo's victory, their ninth in the Men's National Basketball Championship, could be described. This time the victim was Universo/BRB, the current Brazilian champion: 106 to 102 in overtime (92 to 92). Special mention goes to Marcelinho, the game's top scorer, who had a sensational performance with 46 points.

Taking advantage of the opponent's silly mistakes, and the excellent shooting efficiency of their star player, forward Marcelinho, who scored 19 points in the first half, Flamengo managed to open up a good lead and it seemed like another easy victory, winning the first quarter 23-19.

However, reinforced by the entries of Ratto and Estevam, who had a very good game, the Brasília team corrected their mistakes, improved their defense, neutralized Marcelinho's shots during the period, and went into halftime with a one-point lead: 47 to 46.

Returning for the second half, the Planalto Central team maintained the same intensity and good offensive performance, closing the third quarter at 75-65.

But the game was far from over and still held plenty of excitement until the end. With good performances from Duda, Fernando Mineiro and, especially, Marcelinho, coach Chupeta's team closed the gap on the scoreboard and kept the game balanced until the final whistle.

That's when the star of the experienced Flamengo forward shone. With 20 seconds left in the game, the team from Gávea was losing by five points, and after a timeout, Marcelinho returned to the court and scored the points needed to force overtime.

In overtime, with a very solid defense and executing excellent counter-attacks, Flamengo managed to win 14-10 and closed out the game.

José Antonio Gerheim

Free pass

Edmundo decided the final.

José Antonio Gerheim gerheim@jsports.com.br

When Botafogo and Flamengo, already qualified for the semifinals, fielded reserve teams and lost to Madureira and Fluminense in the last round, the spotlight of favoritism shifted a little more to Laranjeiras, home to most of the superstars of Rio de Janeiro football, and also to São Januário, where, in addition to Romário, always a celebrity, there was Edmundo, preparing to return to Vasco, in the classic of the biggest rivalry in Rio.

While Botafogo spent a week quietly preparing, as their coach Cuca likes to do, rehearsing plays to stop the Tricolor Machine, Flamengo had to travel to Tacna, Peru, midweek to debut in the Libertadores Cup against the modest team of Colonel Bolognesi. They returned under a sea of ​​criticism and distrust.

Once the ball was rolling, the expected individual plays from Fluminense didn't materialize; the team's collective effort and determination quickly prevailed. The fans impressively witnessed the players' marking and fighting spirit, all perfectly aligned with the strategy Cuca had planned and rehearsed during the week. A victory that was deservedly celebrated, both on the field and in the Botafogo stands.

In yesterday's classic match, the decisive player was none other than Edmundo. In the first half, the veteran star had complete freedom to roam and create good plays. As a result, the intimidated Vasco team grew stronger on the field. The outcome: Alan Kardec scored a goal after coming from behind, and could even have scored another, were it not for the extraordinary goalkeeper Bruno, the best in Brazil, as the Flamengo fans rightly chant.

The unexpected draw, given the way the game was going, came in the first half. Unfair, but it seemed like a warning of what was to come in the second half. However, even with Flamengo playing slightly better, the player who had the chance to perhaps seal the game, to change the outcome of the final, was Edmundo. In a fraction of a second, however, he went from hero to villain, so weak was his penalty kick. Bruno easily saved it and, unlike Edmundo, left the Maracanã as the hero of yet another Flamengo comeback against Vasco.

While Edmundo faded from the game, Angelim scored the second goal, unsurprisingly, securing a spot in yet another final against Botafogo. The numbers don't lie: they are the two best teams in the Taça Guanabara.

THE DAY

Defenders take Flamengo to the Guanabara Cup final: 2-1

Genilson Junior

Rio - Just as the "script" dictates, the classic match between Flamengo and Vasco this Sunday was full of emotion, grit, beautiful goals, and controversial moments. In the end, Flamengo won 2-1, with goals from defenders Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim. Next Sunday, Flamengo will face Botafogo for the Taça Guanabara title and a place in the State Championship final.

The game started at a frantic pace; within three minutes, both teams had already launched attacks. At 5 minutes, Juan received a through ball but couldn't quite reach it.

Diego Tardelli, in the 20th minute, received a pass from Jaílton, the defense failed, and he was face-to-face with goalkeeper Tiago, but the goalkeeper managed to save the shot with his right arm. A minute later, the same Tardelli made an individual play and crossed the ball; Souza, unmarked, headed it against the right post of the Vasco goal.

Vasco didn't back down; in the 23rd minute, a cross into the box found Alan Kardec, the striker got tangled up, and the ball fell to him at the edge of the area. Calisto shot across goal, powerfully, but it went out of play.

At the 25-minute mark, the Flamengo captain began to stand out in the match. After getting involved in a play with Edmundo, the number three player received a kick to his right arm, left the field to receive medical attention, and returned, even with a dislocated arm.

Four minutes later, at the 29th minute, a corner kick for Vasco. Bruno failed to clear the ball and Edmundo, startled, missed a chance to score.

Vasco were the better team in the match and the goal came soon after. In a counter-attack, Edmundo found Amaral in midfield, the midfielder passed to Alan Kardec, who dribbled past Angelim and shot towards the goal, giving Bruno no chance, who could only watch the ball go into his left corner.

The game was end-to-end, and in the 41st minute, the equalizing goal arrived. Ibson was fouled on the right side of the attack. Juan took the free kick, finding Fábio Luciano's head, who, unmarked, headed powerfully into the top left corner of Tiago's goal.

After the break, Flamengo showed more determination. Marcinho, who had come on for Diego Tardelli, was causing problems for Vasco's defense. Four minutes into the game, the crucial moment of the match occurred. Morais and Ibson tangled inside the penalty area, and referee Gutemberg Fonseca awarded a penalty to Vasco. The fans and players called for Edmundo, but the number 10 took a weak shot to Bruno's right, who jumped and caught the ball without giving up a rebound. The Flamengo fans mocked him, chanting "Ah, it's Edmundo!"

Defender Fábio Luciano, who returned from halftime with his right arm bandaged, remained on the field in pain and was cheered by the Flamengo fans.

Flamengo was being pushed on by the roar of the stands. In the 27th minute, Ibson reached the byline and crossed; the ball went across the entire area. Then Marcinho outmuscled Jonilson and crossed to Souza, who headed wide.

But Flamengo's winning goal only came in the 35th minute of the game. After a corner kick, Ronaldo Angelim, without jumping, headed the ball, which then hit the right post before finding its way into the Vasco net. 2-1 Flamengo.

Vasco still tried to equalize through set pieces. Goalkeeper Tiago and midfielder Andrade unsuccessfully attempted to score the equalizer.

Before the referee's final whistle, Cristian, alone, still missed a goal when his shot was saved by the Vasco goalkeeper. Celebrations erupted in the stands, with Flamengo fans dancing to the rhythm of the "créu" (a popular Brazilian dance), just like the Botafogo supporters, celebrating their place in the Guanabara Cup final.

Souza: 'when the attack fails, the defense does'

Rio - Still on the pitch celebrating Flamengo's qualification for the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo, striker Souza commented on the red-and-black victory, built through goals scored by the defenders.

"The important thing is the victory. When the attack fails, the defense does," the number 9 exclaimed.

Flamengo's goals came from set-piece crosses. Fábio Luciano, in the first half, and Ronaldo Angelim, in the second half, found the back of the Vasco net.

Changes on the horizon

Janir Junior

Rio - Today, the team has a day off. During the week, Joel Santana promises to work hard and has already admitted that he may make changes to the team for Sunday. The below-average performance of Jônatas and Diego Tardelli may lead the coach to make changes.

“We’ll work during the week. Some players have been out of action for a long time. Football isn’t solved overnight. I don’t even need to say anything, because everything became very clear in the last few matches,” said Joel, aware that Tardelli, Jônatas, and Kléberson hadn’t performed as expected.

Cristian, Marcinho, and Obina came on and improved the team. “The moment I made the substitutions, I knew Cristian was right about what he should do. Marcinho, despite his short time at the club, isn't yet at his peak, but he performed very well. With the changes, the team improved. I could have even conceded a goal, but everything turned out alright,” said Joel, who praised the Botafogo team, calling them a brilliant squad.

According to Joel, Flamengo's biggest problem was when they were behind on the scoreboard and showed nervousness.

Ronaldo uses laptop to watch Fla

Paulo Celso Pereira

Paris - Striker Ronaldo watched Flamengo's 2-1 comeback victory over Vasco in the Guanabara Cup semi-final online via his laptop. While the star player struggles to recover from yet another surgery, his ex-wife, Milene Domingues, and his son, Ronald, are cheering him on from Madrid, hoping everything goes as well as possible.

The duo received a team from Esporte Espetacular and revealed their faith in Ronaldo's recovery. According to Ronaldo, his father will soon return to the pitch and leave many goalkeepers on the ground.

"It doesn't matter how many goals I score, but I want to score at least one so I can dedicate it to my dad. He's going to come back and he's going to leave a lot of goalkeepers on the ground. I have faith in that," says Ronald.

Police have their work cut out for them at the end of the classic match.

Rio - At the end of the match, the police had trouble preventing fights between the organized fan groups of the two clubs. There was a lot of running around and minor disturbances. To avoid further conflict, the Military Police escorted part of the Flamengo fans to the Novo Rio Bus Station.

On Avenida Brasil, the Special Roads Police Battalion (BPVE) was called in to calm down fans who were provoking each other from cars, near Bonsucesso. Security on the road was reinforced.

Creu unintentionally

Janir Junior

Rio - Even if unintentionally, Ronaldo Angelim, who scored the goal that qualified Flamengo for the Guanabara Cup final, gave a 'créu' (a playful, suggestive dance move) to Vasco, Thiago Neves, and even his own father, who is a Vasco supporter. However, the defender who made Edmundo and company dance is not a fan of twerking to the rhythm of funk music.

“The ‘créu’ dance doesn’t lead anywhere. Thiago Neves, for example, wanted to show off to the Flamengo fans and it backfired. Football is decided on the field, and we proved that,” stated Ronaldo Angelim, who, despite being the hero of the game, maintained the humble style that is his main characteristic.

At 32 years old, Angelim was born in São Paulo, but moved to Fortaleza when he was three months old. After yesterday's goal, besides feeling nostalgic, the defender left behind bitterness. “My father is a Vasco fan, as are many of my friends. They are sad, but I am happy. I upset my father, but it's part of the game,” said the player, referring to his father, Antônio Leite Angelim.

When commenting on their opponent in the Guanabara Cup final, Ronaldo Angelim kept his feet on the ground. "We have to have a lot of respect for Botafogo, a team that also earned its place in the final," he stated.

On a day when Flamengo's defense was their best offense, Angelim scored a goal, but he stayed far away from any kind of provocation towards Botafogo. "We're going to work hard. We'll play a great game, and may the best team win," he said.

In the 'créu' craze, Angelim prefers not to lose her rhythm; her thing is to just keep things light and collected.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Flamengo wins after coming from behind and will face Botafogo in the final. (Gazeta Press)

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo capitalized on their superior performance in the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the Campeonato Carioca, defeating Vasco 2-1 on Sunday. After falling behind to a goal by Alan Kardec, Joel Santana's team secured the victory and qualification for the final against Botafogo next Sunday, again at the Maracanã. The Flamengo goals were scored by defenders Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim. With plenty of sunshine and heat in Rio de Janeiro, the classic match at the Maracanã began cautiously, with both teams studying each other. Flamengo and Vasco tried to maintain possession and exchanged many passes, but both teams marked tightly in midfield and neither took risks. The game only started to heat up after 15 minutes. At 19 minutes, from a free kick just outside the Flamengo penalty area, Edmundo took a low shot but the ball went wide to Bruno's right.

Flamengo responds in the following minute. After a mistake by Amaral, Diego Tardelli takes advantage of the loose ball and enters the area. Tiago bravely comes out of his goal and smothers the striker's shot. Two minutes later, Tardelli crosses into the area for Souza's header. Goalkeeper Tiago can only watch the ball hit the post, in the best chance of the game so far.

The next two dangerous plays were by Vasco. At 24 minutes, Calisto receives a pass from Alan Kardec and shoots across goal, but Morais can't reach it and the ball goes out of play. Calisto reappears with a free kick at 27 minutes. The powerful shot goes through the wall and forces Bruno into a fine save to keep Flamengo in the game. From the resulting corner, the defense fails and Edmundo almost scores, but Fábio Luciano makes the save.

Vasco's pressure paid off in the 31st minute. Edmundo passed to Amaral, who delivered a perfect pass to Alan Kardec. Just outside the penalty area, the striker evaded his marker and fired a shot into the top corner, leaving Bruno with no chance and opening the scoring at the Maracanã.

With the lead, Vasco continued to play the ball well and create better scoring opportunities. At 36 minutes, it was Alex Teixeira's turn to make a good play and shoot towards Bruno's corner, but the goalkeeper was alert and made the save.

Determined not to go into halftime trailing, Flamengo tried to react in the final minutes of the first half. In the 40th minute, Fábio Luciano attempted a shot on goal but was blocked. The same Fábio Luciano received a gift from the Vasco defense in the following minute. Juan took a free kick from the right, lifting the ball into the area. The Vasco defense failed to clear, and goalkeeper Tiago didn't come out, allowing the Flamengo defender to enter the penalty area unmarked and head the ball into the back of the net.

Flamengo was the only team to make a change at halftime, with Marcinho replacing Diego Tardelli. And the game heated up right from the start. In the 4th minute, Íbson brought down Morais in the area and the referee awarded a penalty. Edmundo, nicknamed "The Animal," stepped up to take the penalty, but Bruno jumped and saved Flamengo once again.

The missed penalty shook the Vasco fans' spirits and boosted Flamengo's morale, who then took control of the game and pressed forward in search of a comeback. The game became more open and fast-paced, with both teams trying to quickly launch attacks. In the 12th minute, Íbson unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the area, and Tiago made a startled save, sending the ball out for a corner.

Around the halfway point of the match, Vasco lost Alan Kardec to injury. With the game paused, coach Joel Santana made two changes for Flamengo: Kléberson and Jônatas were replaced by Cristian and Obina, a clearly offensive move. Meanwhile, Alfredo Sampaio, after bringing on Abuda to replace Alan Kardec, opted to take off striker Alex Teixeira and bring on midfielder Xavier.

Flamengo continued to dominate the match and create dangerous chances against Vasco's goal. First, with a cross from Marcinho, which Souza headed wide. Then, with a run from Juan, who shot across goal and the ball went just wide of the post. In the 34th minute, the turnaround came. Léo Moura crossed into the area and Ronaldo Angelim headed towards Tiago's left corner. The ball hit the inside of the post and bounced back towards the goalkeeper, who couldn't intercept it and watched the ball nestle into the back of the net.

Vasco tried to react, but came closer to conceding a second goal in the 46th minute when, in a beautiful counter-attack, Juan passed to Marcinho, who set up Cristian in front of goal. The midfielder shot, but Tiago saved Vasco by sending the ball out for a corner, in what was the last dangerous play of the game.

Ibson, who conceded the penalty, reveals "pressure" on Edmundo.

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Amidst the joy in the Flamengo locker room after the 2-1 victory over Vasco, which secured their place in the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo, Ibson celebrated in a special way. The midfielder was responsible for the penalty that Edmundo missed. And he revealed that he had "pressured" Edmundo. Before the Vasco number 10 stepped up to take the penalty, Ibson tried to distract his opponent by whispering in his ear. And he succeeded. "I was telling him he was going to miss, that Bruno was going to save it," revealed the Flamengo player, showering Bruno with praise. "I ended up conceding the penalty, but, thank God, Bruno saved it. If he hadn't saved it, it would have complicated my life."

In addition to celebrating the penalty save, the Flamengo squad praised the change in the team's behavior after halftime. According to the players, the conversation with coach Joel Santana was crucial in scoring the second goal and securing their place in the final of the first round of the Campeonato Carioca.

“Our willpower paid off. The newcomers also did very well, and everyone gave their all. We came back more focused and managed to get the victory,” commented midfielder Cristian.

“Once again, we proved that we have a very united group. We don't have eleven, we have 30 players, all capable of playing. The team deserves it, everyone worked hard for the spot and we have to celebrate,” added Ibson. “The victory is for this wonderful crowd,” concluded the “hero” Bruno.

PELENET

Flamengo beat Vasco and will face Botafogo in the Guanabara Cup final.

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

In a thrilling classic match, complete with a missed penalty by Edmundo, Flamengo reached the Guanabara Cup final by defeating Vasco 2-1 in a comeback victory this Sunday at the Maracanã, in the semifinals of the first round of the State Championship. Flamengo defenders Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim stole the show, scoring for the Gávea team. Alan Kardec scored for Vasco.

Flamengo will face Botafogo in the first-round final, after Botafogo beat Fluminense 2-0 on Saturday. The match is scheduled for next Sunday at 16 pm (Brasilia time) at the Maracanã. Vasco will only play again on the 27th against Itabaiana-SE, at São Januário, for the second leg of the first phase of the Copa do Brasil.

Vasco scores a beautiful goal, but Flamengo equalizes with Fábio Luciano.

The match started evenly, with excessive eagerness in some plays. While Flamengo sought to advance through Leonardo Moura's attacks, Vasco relied on the strength of Calisto and the genius of Edmundo, who was making his return wearing the number 10 shirt for Vasco.

Vasco, however, was already showing signs that it would feel the absence of right-back Wagner Diniz and midfielders Beto and Leandro Bomfim, all ruled out by the medical department.

However, it was Vasco who had the first chance. In the 19th minute, Edmundo took a free kick on the right. Flamengo responded soon after. Diego Tardelli entered the area and shot, but Tiago caught it in the chest. In the 21st minute, Flamengo missed an excellent opportunity. After a cross, Souza hit the post.

However, after these two Flamengo plays, Vasco began to dictate the pace, led by Edmundo, who almost took Fábio Luciano out of the game after kicking the Flamengo captain's arm.

At 27 minutes, Animal allowed Calisto to take a free kick, but Bruno made a great save. Four minutes later, Edmundo passed to Amaral, who delivered a good through ball for Alan Kardec to open the scoring. However, just when Flamengo seemed to be feeling the impact of the goal, Fábio Luciano equalized with a header at 41 minutes after a free kick taken by Juan.

At the end of the first half, Edmundo congratulated the team, but lamented the fact that they conceded the equalizer shortly before the end of the first half. "The game is being very competitive, but we could have had better luck. What we can't do is concede a goal from a set piece, a play we've practiced so much," he said.

Fábio Luciano commented on the incident with the number 10. "I thought I had broken my arm, but I want to believe that Edmundo did it unintentionally. I expect the team to improve in the second half," he stated.

Edmundo misses penalty and Angelim "kills" Vasco.

At halftime, Joel Santana substituted Marcinho for Diego Tardelli. However, it was Vasco who missed a golden opportunity. After Morais, wearing the number 98 jersey in reference to that year's Libertadores title, was fouled in the sixth minute, Edmundo took the penalty carelessly, and Bruno made the save.

The play ignited the team and the Flamengo fans. At 12 minutes, Ibson made a good shot and Tiago parried it away. Sensing the team's good moment, Joel went on the attack, taking off Jônatas and Kleberson and bringing on Cristian and Obina. Meanwhile, Abuda replaced the injured Alan Kardec.

At 27 minutes, Marcinho crossed the ball and Souza missed with a header. Four minutes later, Juan shot just wide of the post. Despite Alfredo Sampaio substituting Alex Teixeira for Xavier, Vasco defended poorly and conceded space to Flamengo.

The opportunity proved fatal in the 34th minute. After a cross from the right, Ronaldo Angelim headed the ball in to score. From then on, Flamengo controlled the game, simply passing the ball around to the sound of their passionate fans.

Fábio Luciano dedicates victory to the "sacrifice" of the fans.

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Defender Fábio Luciano was decisive in Flamengo's comeback victory over Vasco, 2-1, this Sunday at the Maracanã, qualifying them for the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo. He scored the equalizer with a header in the 41st minute of the first half, at a time when the rival team was overwhelmingly dominating the match.

"Today was the afternoon of the goal-scoring defenders. We are very happy to have put Flamengo in the final, which is where the team always deserves to be. We know the sacrifice our fans make to attend the games at the stadium, leaving their families at home, so our sacrifice is worthwhile for them too. We are happy to have made them satisfied," commented the team captain, referring to his goal and that of his defensive partner, Ronaldo Angelim, which secured the victory.

Before Fábio Luciano scored his goal, an incident startled everyone watching the match. The defender was kicked in the right arm by Edmundo, and it looked like a fracture had occurred.

"It's quite painful, but for Flamengo it's worth sacrificing. The board does everything to keep its commitments to us and we have to reciprocate in the best way possible," he continued.

The defender praised Vasco's performance on the field and stated that the goals from set pieces were no accident.

"Today, Vasco was well-organized and played well, but Flamengo was more successful in two set-piece situations. Joel has been emphasizing how important it is to deliver a strong set piece. We managed to do that today, and I think that just as the forwards help defensively, we have to help offensively," he concluded.

Ronaldo Angelim does not consider Flamengo the favorite in the final.

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Sunday was a special day for defender Ronaldo Angelim. He scored the winning goal in Flamengo's 2-1 comeback victory over Vasco, a result that put the Rubro-Negro in the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo. The defender doesn't consider his team the favorite for the title, as they have a squad with more renowned and cohesive players since last year.

"Keeping the core of the team intact doesn't make Flamengo the favorite. We've been following Botafogo and we know that Cuca sets up the team very well, that they run a lot and will certainly have many set plays. It's going to be a great final and whoever makes the fewest mistakes will be champion. The game will certainly be difficult," he commented.

The defender also stated that he prefers the Guanabara Cup final to be decided in just one match, as it is now, and not in two matches like last year, when Flamengo won the title against Madureira.

"I think it's better to decide in a single game, because otherwise the teams end up conserving energy in the first one," he pointed out.

According to Angelim, Flamengo changed their approach after halftime against Vasco and, as a result, began to dominate the game.

"We were conceding a lot of counter-attacks in the first half. We became aware of this in the locker room and organized ourselves better. I knew my moment would come. That's why I always remained very calm," the player commented.

Angelim mentioned a family member and friends who support Flamengo's biggest rival.

"My father and some friends support Vasco. I've been a Flamengo fan since I was a child, and I hope they're happy, at least for my sake," he continued.

Joel Santana says Cristian's entry was crucial.

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Coach Joel Santana made three changes to the team during the 2-1 victory over Vasco on Sunday at the Maracanã, a result that qualified Flamengo for the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo. He considers all three important, but one in particular: the introduction of midfielder Cristian in place of Jônatas in the 25th minute of the second half.

"Putting in three rested players was crucial, as the other team was younger and performed better in that sense. We made a change and brought on Cristian, who neutralized Morais and Edmundo's plays. The team found a way to continue attacking, and Vasco stalled," explained Joel, who also brought on Marcinho and Obina, replacing Diego Tardelli and Kleberson, respectively.

According to the coach, some players on the roster are still not in top form.

"We had a proper preseason, just like Botafogo followed their plan. But some players had been out of action for a long time. And you can't fix everything overnight," he continued.

Joel believes that in this aspect Botafogo is slightly ahead.

"Botafogo already has its own rhythm of play, it already follows the rhythm that its coach wants," he concluded.

Botafogo won the 1968 final, and Flamengo got their revenge in 1995.

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Botafogo and Flamengo will face each other next Sunday at 16 pm (Brasilia time) at the Maracanã, in the final of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the State Championship. It will be the third time the rivals have met in a final of the traditional Trophy, contested since 1965, and each has won once.

Botafogo became champions against Flamengo in 1968. At the time, Flamengo's title was considered a sure thing after the two teams drew 0-0 in the last round. Both teams were tied on points, but Flamengo had a postponed match against Bonsucesso, which they ended up losing 2-0, forcing a tiebreaker. Botafogo, who were touring the interior of Brazil, returned from their trip and won 4-1, with goals from Gérson (2), Zequinha and Roberto Miranda. Dionísio scored for the losing side.

Flamengo got their revenge in 1995, when the Taça Guanabara was just a trophy to be contested by the two best teams in the qualifying phase. Romário scored three goals and Flamengo won 3-2. Adriano scored both of Botafogo's goals.

In 1989, Flamengo won the Taça GB and Botafogo finished as runner-up, but there was no final match. The winners had 19 points, one more than the second-placed team, after 11 rounds.

The Taça Guanabara was played separately from the Campeonato Carioca or Rio State Championship between 1965 and 71 and in 1980. Between 1972 and 79, 81 and 93 and from 1996 onwards it was the first round of the major competition and in 1994 and 95 it brought together the two best teams from a classification phase.

Flamengo holds the record for titles with 17, while Botafogo has only won four, but has always been state champion. Vasco (11), Fluminense (8) and América, Americano and Volta Redonda, one each, are the other champions.

Flamengo's titles: 1970, 72, 73, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 84, 88, 89, 95, 96, 99, 2001, 04 and 07.

Botafogo's titles: 1967, 68, 97 and 2006

Ibson celebrates being "saved" by goalkeeper Bruno.

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Midfielder Ibson was one of the most relieved players for Flamengo after the 2-1 victory over Vasco on Sunday at the Maracanã, which secured the team's place in the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo. When the game was tied 1-1, Flamengo conceded a penalty to Morais. Edmundo's penalty kick, however, was saved by goalkeeper Bruno six minutes into the second half.

"I ended up conceding the penalty, but thank God Bruno saved it. Otherwise, it would have complicated my life," commented the player, who was whispering in Edmundo's ear during the penalty kick. "I was telling him he was going to miss, that Bruno was going to save it," he explained.

Ibson highlighted that Flamengo is experiencing a period of total harmony between players, coaching staff, and the fans, who once again put on a beautiful show in the stands of the Maracanã.

"We proved once again that we have a very united group. We don't have eleven players, we have 30. Everyone is capable of playing," he concluded.

GLOBOESPORTE

Flamengo beat Vasco and are in the final.

Edmundo misses penalty, and defenders give the victory to Flamengo. The final is against Botafogo.

Marcio Iannacca

It was a practically perfect Sunday for Flamengo fans. Flamengo beat Vasco 2-1, coming from behind, at the Maracanã. With this result, they qualified for the Guanabara Cup final next Sunday against Botafogo. To complete the joy of the Fla fans, Edmundo missed a penalty when the game was tied 1-1 at the beginning of the second half. (Watch the goals of the match alongside).

Alan Kardec opened the scoring for Vasco, but Fábio Luciano equalized before halftime. Ronaldo Angelim scored the winning goal in the second half. At the end of the match, the Flamengo players went to the sidelines and celebrated with the fans with the 'créu' dance.

Since 2000, Flamengo hasn't lost a decisive match to their rival, when they were defeated in the Guanabara Cup final by a resounding 5-1 victory, orchestrated by Romário, on Easter Sunday. They've also played three state championship finals, four Guanabara Cup semi-finals, and one Brazilian Cup final, all with a happy ending for Flamengo.

Equality in the initial stage

The match was balanced in the first half. Flamengo started better, imposing their rhythm and with greater ball possession. They even threatened after a mistake by the Vasco defense in the 22nd minute. Diego Tardelli spotted a gap in the rival's defense and crossed to Souza, who headed the ball against Tiago's post.

Flamengo's attack seemed to wake up the Vasco da Gama team. They started to threaten with free kicks. At 24 minutes, Calisto took a shot and Bruno made a great save. Seven minutes later, Vasco scored. Edmundo launched a counter-attack and passed to Amaral. He played a through ball to Alan Kardec, who cut past Ronaldo Angelim and shot into the left corner past Bruno, who didn't even move.

From then on, Vasco had two more chances to score. In the first, at 36 minutes, Alex Teixeira received the ball at the edge of the area, cut past Ronaldo Angelim and shot. Bruno caught it without problems. In the other, two minutes later, Morais shot first time and the Flamengo goalkeeper made another save. However, in a defensive error, Fábio Luciano took advantage of a free kick by Juan and equalized for Flamengo at 41 minutes.

Edmund's fatal mistake

Returning for the final stage, coach Joel Santana substituted Diego Tardelli, who wasn't playing well, and brought on Marcinho. The substitution, at least initially in the second half, had no effect, and Vasco took advantage.

Just five minutes in, Morais made a good play and got past Ibson, who brought him down in the area. Penalty.