The Globe
Lula sanctions Timemania bill
Clubs will have to drop lawsuits against the government
BRASILIA. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed into law yesterday, with two vetoes, the bill regulating Timemania, the lottery created by the federal government to clean up the finances of soccer clubs in debt to the public coffers. The proposal allows clubs with debts to the Federal Revenue Service, the Severance Indemnity Fund (FGTS), and Social Security to refinance their debts over a period of up to 20 years.
The clubs will have to drop their lawsuits. This was one of Lula's vetoes. At the request of the Ministries of Social Security and Social Development, Lula vetoed the article that extended the validity of the Certificate of Charitable Social Assistance Entity (CEBS) from three to five years, which characterizes an institution as a philanthropic entity.
Timemania, which is expected to come into effect in three months, will benefit 104 clubs. Bettors won't choose numbers, but team crests, which grant the government the right to exploit their image.
Fla plays its fourth 'home' match in Minas Gerais
Reinforced, the red-black faces Paraná in Uberlândia with the support of its fanatical Minas Gerais fans.
Photo caption: BRUNO: The GOALKEEPER returns to the Flamengo team in Uberlândia
UBERLÂNDIA, MG. Still without a win in the three home games it played in Rio de Janeiro this Brazilian Championship, Flamengo will try to break this streak at the Parque do Sabiá Stadium in Uberlândia against Paraná at 20:30 p.m. Playing in Minas Gerais, since Maracanã is on loan for the Pan American Games, doesn't change much the concept of playing at home. Everyone in the Flamengo delegation is certain the team will be playing in front of its home fans.
The stadium, built in 1982 and with a capacity of 75, is expected to hold at least 30 people. Most of them will be rooting for the red-and-black team. The day before yesterday, at Uberlândia airport and later at training, fanatical Minas Gerais fans were thrilled to see their idols up close.
Reports that around 32 tickets had been sold indicate that at least 30 will be supporting the team tonight, in the difficult task of helping them escape the uncomfortable 18th place, in the relegation zone with only eight points, against an opponent that is in ninth place, with 16 points, and is debuting a new coach. Gilson Kleina replaces Pintado, who will work in the United Arab Emirates.
Obina is on the bench ready to play.
Neither team has won in several rounds. At Flamengo, coach Ney Franco has the return of Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Juan, and Renato Augusto. On the bench, the coach has a respected asset: top scorer Obina, who has been creating emotional moments since the delegation arrived in Uberlândia. With his down-to-earth demeanor, Obina is a captivating attraction for fans. The top scorer, who recovered from left knee surgery in less than five months, despite being expected to return in six months, says he's ready.
- I completed all the recovery stages and now I just need to play to get back into the swing of things - guarantees Obina.
Ney is optimistic about a surge in this final stretch of the first round:
"Our team is stronger. The fans' presence at training demonstrated Flamengo's prestige, and I believe we'll be playing as if we were at home. We trained well and just need to repeat that in the match."
Without the starting defense, with Irineu and Ronaldo Angelim suspended, Ney would have fielded Moisés and Thiago. However, Moisés was medically injured, and Rodrigo Arroz ended up getting another chance and earning Ney's trust.
"Rodrigo had offers, and I talked to him and warned him: the opportunity would come soon, which is what happened now. He's an excellent defender and just needs to be confident and play."
Referee: Leonardo Gaciba (RS).
Completing the round, at 20:30 pm: Palmeiras x Santos, at Parque Antártica; and Goiás x Grêmio, at Serra Dourada.
TRANSMISSION: Sportv and Rádios Globo and CBN
Sports Journal
Roger: 'It's incredible to play for Flamengo'
The star opens up and says he wants to win over the fans and titles for the club.
Leo Schabbach and Thiago Bokel
Roger is training in Gávea, trying to regain his fitness as quickly as possible. He wants to bring forward his return to the field, initially scheduled for the 29th.
In a very relaxed atmosphere, fan Roger gave an exclusive interview to JORNAL DOS SPORTS yesterday afternoon in Gávea. The recently signed player is one of the great hopes of the Flamengo fans and is expected to debut in the match on the 29th against Corinthians at Pacaembu Stadium. During the chat, he seemed very comfortable and spoke openly about his career, his departure from the São Paulo club, and the enormous expectations he now has upon arriving at Flamengo.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - What do you expect for Flamengo with the arrival of the new signings?
Roger - It's certainly possible to build a good team. But it won't happen overnight, as it takes time. Only with a series of games will the team gain form and take off.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - Your hiring was very quick and surprising. Did you have any conversations with Vice President of Football Kleber Leite beforehand?
Roger - Kleber had called me when the problem with Corinthians arose. But it was more to offer encouragement, a kind word, a genuinely friendly gesture. The problem with my departure from Corinthians was that, since they held my federation rights, they were asking for a very high fee for the transactions, and things didn't happen. I said I wanted to resolve the situation quickly so I could return to playing, and they agreed to loan me out. After two weeks of negotiations, we settled on a transfer fee that was affordable for Brazilian clubs, and then I called Kleber.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - You've always shown a strong connection with the clubs you've played for. What do Fluminense and Corinthians represent in your career?
Roger - I really connected with both. I don't like switching clubs, so much so that I've already prepared to stay at Flamengo for another three years if they want. Because if you only stay at one club for a short time, they won't remember you. I guarantee that in about 30 years, they'll still remember me at Fluminense and Corinthians.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - How was your relationship with coaches Paulo César Carpegiani and Emerson Leão?
Roger - I have no relationship with Carpegiani. He arrived saying I was the star of the team and a week later called me to tell me I was being released. I have a good relationship with Leão. He's a personal friend.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - How do you see this new opportunity that Flamengo is giving you?
Roger - It's incredible to play for Flamengo. It's a unique opportunity, but we have to be careful with the praise. Here, if you win, you're the best in the world, and if you lose, you're the worst. The most important thing is that I come here with the intention of winning titles and also the fans.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - You're an athlete who's always in the media, having your personal life exposed. How do you deal with this?
Roger - I don't like that kind of thing. So much so that I don't give interviews to these kinds of magazines and I don't talk about my personal life. It doesn't affect my professional life. I wake up early and train every day, but I can't avoid being photographed.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - When you hear the word Flamengo, what's the first thing that comes to mind?
Roger - Sweet. This is where I took my first steps, and my sister too. This time around, all the wardrobe assistants, masseuses, and staff have seen me play since I was a kid, and that's really cool. They even showed me their membership card from when I was younger and played here.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - What do you see as different between the Flamengo you started with and the current situation?
Roger - I know they're building a good training center (Ninho do Urubu) where the boys train every day. It's already better than when I was there. Furthermore, if the stadium they want to build here (Gávea) comes to fruition, it will be very good for Flamengo. Modernity is everything, and I think Kleber and Márcio Braga (president), with their vision, will go very far in this regard.
JORNAL DOS SPORTS - You've never been one to choose your jersey number, so much so that at Fluminense you even wore number three. At Flamengo, would you have a preferred number?
Roger - No, I don't. I think the Flamengo jersey alone is worth more than any number. Besides, when you score a goal and it's in the newspaper, you're unlikely to leave with your back turned.
Are you already dreaming of Maracanã packed with red-and-black fans shouting your name?
Without a doubt. I think this is the thing every player who comes to Flamengo dreams of most.
Obina's likely return boosts Flamengo's performance against Paraná
The moment fans have been waiting for has arrived. Striker Obina, who hasn't played since February 25th, is very close to coming back. In today's match against Paraná, at 20:30 pm at Parque do Sabiá stadium in Uberlândia, for the twelfth round of the Brazilian Championship, the player is expected to start as a substitute, but coach Ney Franco has said he will likely give him a chance in the second half.
That's not the only good news for tonight's game. Midfielder Renato Augusto, who was out for over a month while playing for the U-20 national team, will be back on the field.
With the number 10 back and Obina, the fans' favorite, also back, Flamengo has everything it needs to get a good result, which will be very important to start the push to escape the relegation zone.
In Paraná, defender Nem will make his debut in a Paranense jersey. However, coach Pintado will lead the team for the last time, having signed with Emirates Sport Club in the United Arab Emirates.
MATCH MAY BE POSTPONED - According to information from Rádio Globo, the Paraná delegation, which was scheduled to depart yesterday afternoon for Uberlândia, was stuck at Curitiba airport. If the team couldn't board by the early morning, they could request a postponement of the match until tomorrow. This would mean that Flamengo's match against Grêmio, scheduled for Sunday, would be postponed due to the law that prohibits games less than 48 hours apart.
Renato Augusto finds new Fla after U-20 World Cup
Back from Canada, where he played for Brazil in the U-20 World Cup, midfielder Renato Augusto returned to Flamengo and found a very different atmosphere than the one he left just over a month ago. The arrival of Ibson and Roger has boosted the spirits of the Flamengo players, and the number 10 noticed this during training sessions throughout the week.
"I noticed a big difference between the day I left for Canada and when I arrived. The group is more excited, competing in training with more enthusiasm, and it has to be that way at Flamengo," said Renato Augusto in an interview with Rádio Globo.
The Rubro-Negro faces Paraná this Thursday in Uberlândia. The Gávea team is in 18th place, with eight points from the same number of games. Paraná are in ninth place with 16 points.
Cristian trains, but should only play against Grêmio
Flamengo's next Brazilian Championship match is this Thursday against Paraná in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, but midfielder Cristian, recently signed from Atlético-PR, will not be able to play because he is not yet registered. Flamengo is waiting for the club to submit some documents to the Paraná Federation.
"We're still waiting for Atlético's clearance. I want to play as soon as possible. I think everything will be ready by Thursday. The hope is to play against Grêmio," explained Cristian, who trained with the group on Wednesday.
Flamengo and Grêmio face each other next Sunday, at 16 pm, at the Olympic Stadium.
Bruno celebrates his return to Fla
With his situation resolved, goalkeeper Bruno will finally return to the Flamengo squad. This Thursday, he will defend the Flamengo goal in the match against Paraná in Uberlândia. Having not played since June 16th, in the 2-2 draw with Internacional, the goalkeeper is celebrating his return to the field.
"I'm happy to have decided my life. I think players should have peace of mind to come back and do their job," said Bruno.
O Dia
Roger wants to bring forward his debut for Flamengo
Rio - Roger is eager to put on the Flamengo jersey and get on the field. Hired to fill the vacancy left by Renato, who left for the United Arab Emirates, the midfielder will make his Flamengo debut against Corinthians on the 29th. However, he wants to move things up a gear and take the field against América, from Natal, next Wednesday.
"They've prepared a 15-day training session for me. My debut is scheduled for the 29th, but I want to play as soon as possible, on Wednesday," says Roger, who played his last official match in April.
Flamengo: Obina, back, is on the bench
The striker is the biggest new addition to the team, which will also have Bruno, Leonardo Moura and Renato Augusto
UBERLÂNDIA (MG) - Obina's presence on the bench should be the main news for Flamengo today, in the game against Paraná, at 20:30 pm, at Parque do Sabiá, in Uberlândia. On Monday, upon landing in the Minas Gerais city, the player received the loudest applause from approximately 70 fans waiting for the team.
Obina warned that he's not the nation's savior, but said that if he does join, he hopes to help the team escape the relegation zone quickly. "Flamengo means everything to me today," he said.
He said he's happy to be back playing and to have the support of the fans. "People stop me on the street and speak highly of me. I hope to repay them with goals."
To start, Flamengo will have the return of goalkeeper Bruno, who renewed with the club for three months, right-back Leonardo Moura, recovered from injury, and midfielder Renato Augusto, who was in Canada with the Brazilian under-20 team.
Coach Ney Franco announces some other changes. The central defense will be formed by Rodrigo Arroz and Thiago, as Irineu and Angelim are suspended.
Ney Franco is excited about the fans. "Flamengo will be playing at home in Uberlândia," he said, thanks to the support of the Minas Gerais fans, who are expected to fill the stadium for the match later today.
With eight points, Flamengo is in the relegation zone. The team hasn't played since the 7th, when they drew 0-0 with São Paulo.
Paraná, which has 16 points, promises a victory as a gift to coach Pintado, who is leaving for the United Arab Emirates. The only change from the previous game is expected to be Nem's entry into defense, after his situation with the CBF has been regularized.
Cristian awaits release to play for Flamengo
Rio - This Wednesday, midfielder Cristian, formerly of Atlético Paranaense, had his first training session with his new Flamengo teammates. The new signing could debut against Grêmio at 16 pm at the Olímpico stadium next Sunday. Despite only having completed a few laps around the pitch, he claims to be in good physical condition.
To be able to play, the Furacão still needs to release the necessary documentation. He will be regularized once the Paraná club submits the paperwork to the local federation.
"I want to play as soon as possible. I think everything will be fine by Thursday. The hope is to play against Grêmio," he said.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo returns to the Brasileirão needing to beat Paraná
Uberlândia (MG) - Having not played since July 7th, when they drew 20-30 with São Paulo, Flamengo returns to the Brazilian Championship this Thursday, facing Paraná Clube at 13:16 pm (Brasília time) at the Parque do Sabiá Stadium in Uberlândia (MG), in the 1th round. The match was supposed to take place at the Maracanã, but the stadium is being leased for the Pan American Games, so the Rubro-Negro will play outside the state. Also because of the event, Flamengo has played only eight games in the Brasileirão, three fewer than most participants, which may explain why the Rio de Janeiro team sits in the relegation zone with eight points. Paraná Clube, which has 0 points, is in freefall and is coming off two straight home losses: 2-1 to América-RN and XNUMX-XNUMX to Figueirense.
Flamengo coach Ney Franco believes his team is only in the relegation zone because it has played fewer games than most of its rivals, but acknowledges that only a string of good results will convince others of his theory. He fears, however, that the upcoming games will be quite difficult.
"Our position in the table isn't the best, and our schedule from now on is unforgiving, as we play away against Atlético-MG and São Paulo, we'll face Paraná on neutral ground, and then we'll face Grêmio in Porto Alegre. But against Paraná, we're home-field advantage, and in the Brasileirão, we can't afford to drop points at home," said Ney Franco.
For the Flamengo coach, Thursday's opponent is very dangerous because they play the same way at home as they do away. "Paraná Clube has a defined style of play and changes very little, even when there are changes in their coaching staff. They play the same way at home as they do away. Therefore, they are not intimidated by anything and strive for victory," he stated.
For this match, the manager will still be without the reinforcements signed in recent days: midfielders Ibson, Roger, and Cristian, who are not registered for the competition. Recovered from muscle fatigue, right-back Leonardo Moura has been confirmed, as well as Rodrigo Arroz and Thiago Gosling, who will form the starting central defense due to suspensions between Ronaldo Angelim and Irineu.
In midfield, Ney Franco has gained a significant boost, as he will have midfielder Renato Augusto back, having been reinstated after playing for the Brazilian U-20 team at the World Cup. In attack, after being fined by the board for indiscipline, Souza is scheduled to join Leonardo in the midfield. With his documentation in order with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), goalkeeper Bruno returns.
Another piece of good news is the return of striker Obina, who hasn't played since February 25th, when he was injured in the 1-1 draw with Vasco in the semifinals of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the Campeonato Carioca. The player, who underwent surgery on his right knee, surprisingly recovered in such a short time and will be an option on the bench, expected to start later in the match.
For Tricolor da Vila, today will be a farewell day. Coach Pintado will lead the team for the last time before departing for the United Arab Emirates and handing over the reins to Gilson Kleina. And with a poor run of results that has dropped the team in the standings, the goal is to leave a positive impression with a positive result.
"I want to leave the door open, so that one day, who knows, I can return to the club that gave me this very special opportunity," said the coach, who still believes in Paraná's renewed push in the competition. "I'm only leaving for financial reasons. But I have no doubt that this group will be exciting again," he analyzed.
For the match, the 3-5-2 formation is confirmed, but with a new addition to the defense. Veteran Nem makes his debut in his second stint with the Paraná team. Released by the CBF, the player wants to help the team get back to winning ways. "It's important that we get back to winning ways as soon as possible. Everyone felt the effects of the recent results, but there's no point in just lamenting. We need to react," he said.
The other change will be at right back. After testing Parral and Léo Matos, this time Alex will have the chance to prove his worth, aiming to improve his performance in the position. The player wants to take advantage of the coaching change to remain in the starting lineup. "I'm entering an important period. With the change in coaching, the competition for positions is even more intense," he concluded.
Moisés released to play for Flamengo
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The report that Flamengo can no longer field defender Moisés in this Brazilian Championship because he is suspended from football by FIFA was denied on Wednesday afternoon by the athlete's attorney, businessman Rodrigo Carboni. The athlete had been locked in a legal battle with Krylya Sovetov of Russia, and lost out 20 days ago, when the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the official body of world football's governing body, imposed a four-month ban on him. However, this sentence will only begin on January 1, 2008, when the defender's contract with Flamengo ends.
"People need to investigate before publishing things. Moisés isn't punished from now on. This legal situation, which Flamengo knew about even before signing the player, was resolved 20 days ago. But he's free to play until December," said Carboni.
Speculation began after coach Ney Franco announced that Moisés would not be selected for Thursday's match at 20:30 pm (Brasília time) at the Parque do Sabiá Stadium in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, for the 12th round of the Brazilian Championship. The fact caused surprise because the starting duo, composed of Irineu and Ronaldo Angelim, is suspended, having received their third yellow cards in the goalless draw with São Paulo.
"Moisés suffered a cut on his forehead, and perhaps that's why Ney Franco chose to keep the player safe. But Moisés is legally free to act," the agent stated.
If Moisés is guaranteed until December, after that date he should be concerned. To secure the player, any club will have to pay the Russians US$1 million (approximately R$2 million), as determined by the CAS. A reserve at Flamengo, the Rio de Janeiro club is unlikely to pay this amount, and the player will likely be released.
PeléNet
'Recent' rivals, Fla and Paraná play in search of recovery
Flamengo and Paraná face off this Thursday at 20:30 p.m. at the Parque do Sabiá stadium in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, in the 12th round of the Brazilian Championship, following two clashes in the 2007 Copa Libertadores. Sitting in different positions in the standings, both teams have the same goal: recovery. While the Rio de Janeiro team, in 18th place, hasn't won in six rounds, the Paraná team, in ninth place, hasn't earned three points since the seventh round.
This match will pit two clubs against each other, at least in terms of their ties, as both were in Group 5 in the second phase of the continental competition. In both matches, held at Vila Capanema and Maracanã respectively, Flamengo defeated their opponents 1-0. Both teams advanced to the round of XNUMX but were eliminated—the Rio representative by Defensor-URU, and Paraná by Libertad-PAR.
In the relegation zone since its sixth game in the competition, the Rio de Janeiro team has eight points and has played only eight matches in the competition, precisely because some of its matches were postponed due to the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro. Therefore, the squad and coaching staff intend to win these three matches, which the team has a disadvantage over most of its opponents, to advance in the competition.
Back in the squad after a stint with the Brazilian U-20 team, which kept him out of the Brazilian Championship for three rounds, midfielder Renato Augusto believes in the Rio club's quick recovery: "From the day I left here until my return, I've noticed a big difference. The training sessions have been more intense, the players have more desire, everyone wants to win. This reflects a group that intends to go far in the championship."
With 16 points in the standings, the Paraná team is three points behind second-placed Goiás, but is experiencing a "freefall" in the championship: in the last eight games played, they have only managed one victory and, after two consecutive defeats at home, they are looking to get a positive result away from home, which they achieved in the second and third rounds of the competition.
Flamengo lost its main player, midfielder Renato, who transferred to Al-Nasr, in the United Arab Emirates, but it is hopeful that the reinforcements hired to fill his absence - especially midfielder Íbson and midfielder Roger - will inject some spirit into the team's recovery process, despite both not being able to play immediately - the first only after August 3rd, because he came from abroad, and the second because he is recovering physically.
Paraná will see the farewell of a key player on its bench: coach Pintado will lead the team for the last time against Flamengo. Coincidentally, the coach will also be heading to the United Arab Emirates, where he will work at Emirates Sport Club. His replacement has already been chosen: Gilson Kleina, who coached Ipatinga-MG last Tuesday in their 2-1 victory over Santo André-SP, will be watching this Thursday's match at Parque do Sabiá.
"I have a lot of confidence in the team and I believe they will continue to have a great Brazilian Championship. It's a club I've developed a great affinity for despite the short time I've worked there, and I hope to manage it again one day," said Pintado, who replaced Zetti (currently at Atlético-MG) from the third round of the championship, achieving, until the clash with the red-black team from Rio de Janeiro, two wins, three losses and four draws, or a 37,04% success rate.
Flamengo is the home team for this match, but it will be played in the Minas Gerais city due to the Pan-American Games being held in July, and the event uses Maracanã Stadium, the club's usual venue in the state capital, as one of its venues. Another match with the home venue transferred was the one against América-RN, which will also be played in Minas Gerais, but in the city of Juiz de Fora, on the 25th.
BalloonSport
Fla is eighth in the medal table
Red-and-black athletes have three golds, two silvers and two bronzes at the Pan American Games
Flamengo's Official Website
Reproduction of Flamengo's website: Check out the medal standings. Flamengo isn't just successful in soccer. As the medal standings on the club's official website show this Wednesday, the red-and-black nation can also be proud of its Pan-American athletes, such as those in artistic gymnastics, like Diego Hypolito and Jade Barbosa. At 10:30 a.m., Flamengo was in eighth place. (See the illustration on the side).
Both shone in artistic gymnastics at the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro. Diego won two gold medals, on the floor and vault, and a silver in the team event. Jade won gold in the vault, silver in the team event, and bronze in the floor event. And let's not forget that Daniele Hypolito took bronze on the balance beam.
The situation could be even better if other athletes, who have played for the club, still wore the red and black shirt, such as swimmer Kaio Marcio, gold medalist this Wednesday morning, and judoka Flávio Canto, who competes next Saturday.
Check out the list of red-and-black athletes at the Pan American Games:
Rowing - Thiago Almeida, Leandro Loureiro, Thiago Gomes, José Carlos Sobral Júnior, Renata Görgen, Kissya Cataldo, Nilton Alonço and Deborah Amorim (reserve).
Synchronized Swimming - Caroline Hildebrandt, Gláucia Héier, Michelle Frota and Giovana Stephan, in addition to coach Roberta Périllier.
Women's Water Polo - Marina Canetti, Cecília Canetti and Manuela Canetti.
Artistic Gymnastics - Daniele Hypólito, Jade Barbosa, Diego Hypólito and Victor Rosa, plus the men's coach, Renato Araújo.
Judo - Leonardo Leite (reserve in the light heavyweight category).
Football - Marcelo (goalkeeper), Lucas (defender) and Michel (full-back).
Lula sanctions Timemania
Of three controversial amendments, two are vetoed by the President of the Republic\ Fabrício Costa\
President Lula at the opening of the Pan American Games at the Maracanã Stadium. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has finally decided to lend a helping hand to the country's soccer clubs. On Wednesday, July 18, he sanctioned Timemania, a lottery featuring the emblems of 80 teams from Series A, B, and C, which aims to raise R$500 million per year. With this, he hopes to pay off part of the clubs' debts to the INSS, FGTS, and Federal Revenue Service, which totals around R$900 million.
"It's the government's first gesture to help clubs. This happens all over the world, including in Europe, where teams are wealthy. It's a smart move that benefits everyone: managers, fans, and the government," says Juvenal Juvêncio, president of São Paulo.
Of the three controversial Timemania amendments, two were vetoed by Lula. The right to opt, rather than be forced, to transform the club into a corporation was maintained. However, the request for installment payments without withdrawing legal action and the extension of the tax exemption for philanthropic entities from three to five years were rejected by the president.
"What we achieved was a major achievement. The repayment period for our debts was extended from 15 to 20 years. Although we don't have the right to withdraw from the lottery, only those who want to participate in Timemania can do so. And if a club is expelled, it will continue to honor its commitment to the federal government, since it ceded its image to Caixa Econômica Federal for the same 20 years," reflects the director of the Tricolor Paulista.
The implementation of Timemania is crucial for clubs to acquire investment and financing capacity, which is expected to happen early next year. Although Sports Minister Orlando Silva promised to regularize the lottery on July 30th, clubs will still have 90 days from the date of regularization to join the federal government's game.
"I'm very pleased with what was approved. Once we declare our debts negative, everything will be easier," believes Flamengo president Márcio Braga.
Understand Timemania:
The clubs will receive 25% of the proceeds: 65% for Serie A, 25% for Serie B, and 10% for Serie C. The remaining 46% will go toward prizes. The remainder will be used to cover lottery expenses (20%), social projects run by the Ministry of Sports (5%), the National Penitentiary Fund (3%), and social security (1%).
The tickets will be sold at newsstands and lottery shops for around R$2.
Clubs are not required to participate in Timemania. However, those that opt for financing may be punished if they fail to fulfill their responsibilities agreed upon with Caixa Econômica Federal.
Tremble, defenders! Obina is coming back
Fans are thrilled online with the return of their favorite, who was away from the team for five months\ Rafael Cardoso\ Obina at Flamengo training\
It's been nearly five months of agony, with Flamengo fans unable to see one of their greatest favorites on the field. Obina's ordeal began on February 25th, in the Guanabara Cup semifinal against Vasco. The player tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, precisely in the play in which he opened the scoring for Mengo. Time has passed, and his rivals are already trembling with fear at the shocking news: the Black Angel is returning!
If the opponents' fear is great, the red-and-blacks' joy is even greater. On the social networking site Orkut, celebratory messages and jokes are already part of the main discussion forums. And the traditional "facts," phrases praising the player, are back in full force. Some even dream of a commentary of Obina's goal against Paraná this Thursday.
"Obina is back! He comes on now in the 37th minute of the 2nd half, in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, the city of queeeeijo bread. The Black Angel receives the first ball, applies a beautiful egg on the Paraná defender. He is coming back with everything. He invaded the area, pretends to shoot, dribbles the goalkeeper... He just does it... He touches it in... How beautiful! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOL... IT'S FROM MENGÃO, IT'S FROM MENGÃO, IT'S FROM MENGÃO... OBIIIIIIIIIINA IS HIS NAME..."
"Obina facts" gains new momentum
The red-and-black optimism is even clearer in other examples of 'facts'. There was even some left for linesman Ana Paula...
In the beginning, soccer was an individual sport. Until the day Obina felt alone and asked for a friend of his own to help him. Ten came. Obina doesn't need to campaign for jersey numbers. The numbers should campaign for Obina. Obina was called to see lineswoman Ana Paula's photoshoots for PLAYBOY. She took off her clothes, but the cameras focused on the Black Angel, who ended up being the main attraction. Ana Paula posed nude because she learned that Obina had fought with his wife. When news broke that Obina had returned to training, the CBF banned Flamengo from using the Maracanã stadium during the Pan American Games, fearing the Black Angel would destroy the pitch. Eurico was outraged by the postponement of the first Fla-Vasco match because he knew Obina would be fit to play by then. If Romário keeps up this pace, Obina will score 10 goals before him... Obina's knee ligaments only tore because the earth tried to spin backward to see his goal against Vasco. The truth has been revealed! The ill-fated referee who stopped the game to run to the bathroom didn't leave because his cheese sandwich didn't go down well, but because Obina pointed at him and said, "You're the one who ate my acarajé, aren't you, my king?"
Alexandre Pires attends Flamengo training session
Singer, a passionate Flamengo fan, insists on watching the team at Parque do Sabiá
Among the more than a thousand fans who attended Flamengo's training session at Parque do Sabiá in Uberlândia, one stood out. Singer Alexandre Pires took advantage of the team's visit to the Minas Gerais city to see his favorite club's players up close.
The singer, who is from Uberlândia, arrived from Puerto Rico this Tuesday and wasted no time.
"I'm a die-hard Flamengo fan. I always go to Maracanã. I arrived today (Tuesday) from my trip and made a point of seeing the team. It will be an honor for Flamengo to play at Parque do Sabiá," he said.
Ten reasons to believe in recovery
Flamengo fans have more than enough ingredients to calmly wait for better days
Rafael Cardoso From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro, get in touch
Obina believes in Mengão's recovery in the Brazilian Championship. Do you also believe in the red-and-black team's strength?
Read below the ten reasons why Flamengo fans cannot lose hope in the team and its run in the Brazilian Championship.
Roger arrived to add more quality to the red-and-black midfield. What's more, he's already won over the fans with his statement about the sacred jersey.
Ibson and Cristian arrive to bolster Flamengo's defense. The former is already a hometown player and well-liked by Flamengo fans.
Renato Augusto returned in good shape from the U-20 team and will face Paraná this Thursday in Uberlândia.
Gávea's darling, Obina, has recovered from his injury, and Neymar has confirmed his entry for the match against Paraná. Opponents will be trembling with fear!
Leo Moura also no longer feels anything in his right thigh and is confirmed as the absolute starter on the right side of Mengão.
If Maxi Biancucchi plays at least half as well as his cousin Messi, Mengão will have an excellent attacking option.
With new tactical options, Ney Franco will have no excuse not to field a competitive team in the Brazilian Championship.
12 days without official games: the coach had a reasonable amount of time to fix the mistakes and get the team more in sync.
Mengão has three games in hand over the top 12 teams in the standings. Three wins will see them climb 11 places!
On paper, the Flamengo squad is second to none. If everyone lives up to expectations, Flamengo will take off in the Brazilian Championship.
Fla x Paraná: sales in full swing
The match will be played on Thursday night in Uberlândia, due to the Pan American Games in Rio.
From news agencies in Uberlândia
In addition to being present at the airport and at training at Parque do Sabiá - more than a thousand people were at the stadium - Flamengo fans are promising another party this Thursday, at the game against Paraná Clube, in Uberlândia.
Of the 50 tickets on sale, approximately 32 have already been sold at all lottery outlets in Uberlândia. This Wednesday, however, sales are expected to take place only at the stadium.
The box office revenue goes to the city council, which, in addition to covering all expenses, paid R$150 (net) to the club.
- If the game were in Rio, our estimate would be to raise only around R$50 - says Flávio Pereira, Fla's fundraising director.
Throw
Fla begins marathon in the Brasileirão against Paraná
Obina is the new addition and could come on in the second half against the team from Paraná
Obina could come on in the second half after almost five months out (Credit: Paulo Wrencher)
Rafael Ximenes and Tiago Pereira
Flamengo kicks off this Thursday against Paraná at 20:30 p.m. in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, a veritable marathon in the Brazilian Championship. Over the next two months, there will be 17 matches, with very little time in between. The frequency of midweek and weekend matches will only end after the derby against Vasco on September 16, when the team will have a week off, returning to action on the 23rd against Juventude in Caxias do Sul.
With so many games in such a short period of time, there's nothing better for coach Ney Franco than having more options in his squad. And for the match against Paraná, he'll have the return of key players.
The defensive sector will see the return of Leonardo Moura, who was out with a right thigh injury. Renato Augusto is also returning. The midfielder was with the underachieving Brazilian U-20 team at the World Cup in Canada and will be instrumental in the team's development, which was lacking, as Léo Lima failed to live up to expectations.
But the main return is off the field. At least for now. Striker Obina made a surprising recovery, traveled to Uberlândia, and has a real chance of coming on in the second half.
"His problem is his game rhythm. That's why he's on the bench, and the game will decide whether he'll play or not," said Ney Franco.
Obina was injured against Vasco in the Guanabara Cup semifinal on February 25th and required surgery on his left knee. The attack will be formed by Leonardo and Souza, who had a disciplinary issue in Saturday's training session but apologized and will return to the team. He has yet to score in this Brasileirão.
Flamengo's defenders Irineu and Ronaldo Angelim are suspended. Rodrigo Arroz and Thiago are in. Arroz hasn't played since March 18, in the Campeonato Carioca match against Volta Redonda.
"The important thing is to be prepared, and I always have been. Ney is giving me this opportunity, and I want to repay him in the best way possible," said the defender.
In Paraná, this Thursday's match will mark the farewell of the second coach of 2007. After Zetti's departure to Atlético-MG, the team will be led for the last time by Pintado, who will be moving to Emirates Sports Club in the United Arab Emirates starting Friday. Gílson Kleina, formerly of Ipatinga, will be watching the match and will take over as Paraná coach after the match. Motivated, Pintado wants a victory before his farewell.
"I'll leave Paraná with three points for the team. I trust this team and know that even after my departure, they'll have a good run in the Brazilian Championship. We have an excellent group, and the fans can trust us," said the coach.
However, the pressure for good results also contributed to the coach's departure. Pintado has coached Paraná for nine matches so far, but his performance hasn't been the best: only two wins, four draws, and three losses. Winless in four games, attacking midfielder Vinícius Pacheco knows the importance of beating the Red-Blacks.
"We're not in a good phase, but with a win over Flamengo, everything will return to normal. In such a balanced Brasileirão, it's normal for teams to go through a rough patch," admitted the player, who plays for Flamengo but is on loan until the end of the year.
The team will once again field three defenders in this match. Without the injured Daniel Marques, Nem will make his debut after arriving from Sporting Braga. In midfield, Goiano will remain in the starting lineup, as will Vandinho, despite his poor form. Up front will be Josiel, the Brasileirão's top scorer with ten goals and the only player spared criticism in recent games.
Flamengo wins and advances in the Macaé Cup
Under-17 team thrashes Friburguense and qualifies for the quarterfinals
Flamengo thrashed Friburguense 6-1 this Wednesday and qualified for the quarterfinals of the Macaé Under-17 Cup. Midfielder Bruno Paulo (two), forwards Vinícius and Diego Maurício, defender Fabrício and midfielder Guilherme Machado scored for the Rubro-Negro.
On Thursday, Flamengo will face the winner of the match between Independente and Profute in the quarter-finals of the competition.
Thiago, from Fla: 'We'll have to overcome ourselves'
Defender asks for caution with Paraná, especially with Josiel, the Brazilian's top scorer
With Ronaldo Angelim and Irineu suspended—they both received their third yellow cards—Thiago will have another chance to start for Flamengo in the match against Paraná this Thursday, and he doesn't want to miss another opportunity to prove himself. The defender also urged caution around Josiel, the Brazilian's top scorer with ten goals.
"We'll have to outdo ourselves and be careful, especially with their striker, who is the league's top scorer. But the whole team is good," he stated.
Ney Franco complains about the time without games
Flamengo went 11 days without playing in the Brazilian Championship and has at least three games less than other teams
After an 11-day layoff (the last match was on the 7th, against São Paulo), Flamengo finally returns to play a Brazilian Championship match, against Paraná, in Uberlândia. Coach Ney Franco, now in the relegation zone, has complained about the downtime, which is hurting the team.
However, according to the coach, now is the time to take off.
"Now is the time to think about winning and making a run at the championship. It's a hassle having to watch other Brazilian league games on television and not being able to play," he said.
With time standing still (Flamengo went 18 days without playing), Ney Franco's team remained in the relegation zone, with eight points in just eight games, compared to 11 for most clubs.
Flamengo would be eighth in the Pan rankings
The club is ahead of countries like Argentina, Chile and Puerto Rico
Check out the medal table of the red-black athletes (Credit: Disclosure)
Flamengo's athletes are performing very well at the Pan American Games in Rio. So much so that they're ahead of countries like Argentina, Chile, and Puerto Rico in the medal table.
Argentina has: (3 gold, 1 silver and 7 bronze), Chile (2 gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze) and Puerto Rico (2 gold, 1 silver and 5 bronze).
Diego Hypólito secured two gold medals (floor and vault), in addition to the team silver medal. Jade Barbosa won a gold medal (vault), a silver medal (team), and a bronze medal (floor), and Daniele Hypolito took the bronze medal, in addition to the team silver.
The number of medals won by Flamengo athletes could increase, as this Thursday three finals will be held with the participation of Flamengo rowers, at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas.