THE GLOBE
Two challenges under the basket
Marcelinho wants to help Flamengo win the title and the national team secure an Olympic spot.
Photo caption: MARCELINHO POSES with the Brazilian basketball team's jersey and confesses that he will feel very frustrated if he ends his career with the national team in 2008 without having been to the Olympic Games at least once.
Claudio Nogueira
Marcelinho doesn't mince words. While he's fully committed to the national basketball title match between Flamengo and Universo/Brasília, in which the red-and-black team is seeking a first-ever title, the winger emphasizes that this year he has another goal: to help the Brazilian men's national team secure an Olympic berth, something they haven't achieved since Atlanta 1996.
Today, at 12:30 pm, at Maracanãzinho, Flamengo and Brasília will face each other again in the second match of the best-of-five series, after on Friday, the red-black team crushed their opponent by 93 to 66.
"This has to be my year. In 2008, I have two goals. The first is to win Flamengo's first national title because we can write our name in the club's history. And going to the Olympics is something I've been aiming for for a long time," he says.
According to Marcelinho himself, the World Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Athens in July will be a new attempt to qualify for the Games, following the 1999, 2003, and last year's Americas Olympic Qualifying Tournament. With ten years of experience with the national team and three Pan American Games titles under his belt in 1999, 2003, and 2007, the Rio native hopes to secure one of the three spots for Beijing.
"Regarding the Olympics, I'm very demanding of myself. Before, it was a dream; now, it's a goal. It would be a huge disappointment to say goodbye to the national team without ever having been to the Olympics," he says, having never missed a call-up from the national team, except once at the Friendship Games, due to an injury. "It's my last year with the national team, and I want to say goodbye at the Olympics. It's a pleasure, it's an honor to wear the national team jersey. Being at the Olympics would be a perfect end to this period."
Moncho Monsalve analyzes the final
In the fight for an Olympic spot, Marcelinho finds it very positive to have Spaniard Moncho Monsalve leading the team. He previously worked with the coach in Spain, in Cantabria, between 2002 and 2003.
- Moncho values training time a lot and has a European style, with strong defense, man to man, and a measured attack, to find the best shot - he explains.
Regarding Brazil's disappointing campaign at the Americas Pre-Olympic Games in Las Vegas last year—when reports of a split squad surfaced—Marcelo denies this occurred. He believes winger Marquinhos was wrong to say the squad was divided and that there was a poor relationship between the players and the coaching staff (led by Lula Ferreira, current Brasília coach):
- The group always got along well.
More experienced after having played in Italy, Spain, and Lithuania, Marcelinho, 33, says that while he lacked experience during the 2003 Pre-Olympic Games, today everyone is well-seasoned:
- Tiago Splitter, 23, has the experience of a 30-year-old player. We see Brazilian basketball at the level of the best in the world, but there are many high-level teams.
From Spain, by phone, coach Moncho Monsalve emphasizes that the Flamengo winger has great scoring ability and is improving every day in team play, rebounding and assists.
"Marcelino has improved a lot in his off-the-ball game and is now a more skilled player than when he worked with me. He's the best active player in Brazil, although each position is different. He'll be one of the team's leaders in the Pre-Olympics," he comments.
Moncho will arrive in the country on the 5th. On the 8th, he expects to meet with the entire pre-Olympic team. Regarding the NBA players, he hasn't yet been able to speak with Leandrinho, who may undergo surgery on his right knee on the 12th. Anderson Varejão has already confirmed his desire to play in Athens, and he leaves Nenê (who underwent surgery for testicular cancer) free to accept the call-up.
Moncho has been watching videos of Flamengo and Brasília.
"Home advantage will be crucial, and Flamengo will be able to play three home matches. Players coming off the bench will also be crucial, as no team can field fewer than eight players. The best players on the bench will make the difference," he predicts, adding that he hopes to watch the eventual fourth and fifth matches, on June 5th and 8th.
BROADCAST: Sportv
Opposites enter the field
Trajectories in 2008 and ways of approaching the Brazilian Championship differ between the Fla-Flu duo
Photo caption: DIEGUINHO, 18 years old, is Júnior César's replacement in tonight's classic
Photo caption: VICE-PRESIDENT OF MARKETING Ricardo Hinrichsen shows the shirt with the three question marks: the idea is to create suspense until the launch of the new uniforms.
Carlos Eduardo Mansur and Marcos Penido
The second Fla-Flu match of the year, today at 18:10 p.m. at Maracanã, bears similarities to the first, in the State Championship. In that match, both teams rested starters, and the Tricolor won 4-1. Today, in the fourth round of the Brazilian Championship, the match will again be marked by absences, but this time, the responsibility seems to be entirely on Flamengo. With its main squad, Flamengo will face a Fluminense team consisting almost entirely of reserves. Just one of the many differences that marked the rivals' trajectories in 2008.
When assembling the squad, Fluminense banked on stars. Flamengo, in the 2007 season, enjoyed its greatest moment in the state championship, winning its second title. Fluminense, on the other hand, had to deal with setbacks and challenges. But the Tricolor's breakthrough would come in the Libertadores, where it is three games away from the title. The same tournament that, for Flamengo, represented its greatest agony of the year.
Fla has Jônatas; Flu bets on young players
The result is a contrasting set of circumstances in the Brazilian league. The in-demand team, Fluminense, is saving itself for the Libertadores and has only one point in the national competition. Flamengo, on the other hand, sees the Brazilian league as a chance to bounce back. With seven points, it's fighting for the lead.
In Gávea, facing reservations is treated with caution.
"Fans and public opinion may think it will be easy to face the reserves. But this Fluminense team has quality and will treat this match as the most important of their career," warns coach Caio Júnior, who, without Ibson and Kleberson, will have Marcinho and Jônatas.
Yesterday, Flamengo announced Olympikus as its new sportswear supplier. The theme of the campaign that will launch the brand's first clothing collection, the team's jersey for the Fla-Flu match will feature three question marks instead of the manufacturer's branding. The club filed a lawsuit in arbitration alleging breach of contract by Nike, which, in turn, issued a statement promising to take measures to protect its interests, as its contract with Flamengo expired in June 2009.
At Fluminense, coach Renato Gaúcho points to Flamengo as the favorite, but emphasizes that in a classic anything can happen.
"Since we can't field the first team, Flamengo is obviously the favorite. But nobody likes to lose. We're going all out," Renato says. "We're paying for being in the Libertadores as well. But I don't want that to be an excuse. The kids are motivated, and a game against Flamengo could be the fuel they need."
The one who should start playing for the first time among the professionals is midfielder Fernando, who in the final of the State Junior Championship helped the team beat Flamengo 3-2:
"At the base, I'm tired of facing them. It's always tough. For me, it'll be like a World Cup final: I have to prove I can hold my own," he said.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Toro, Jonathan and Marcinho; Diego Tardelli and Souza. Fluminense: Fernando Henrique, Carlinhos, Sandro, Anderson and Dieguinho; Fabinho, Mauricio (Roger), Romeu and Fernando; Dodô (David) and Allan. Referee: Pericles Cortez (RJ).
BROADCAST: Premiere, Rádios Globo and CBN
Fernando Calazans
Champion in check
Which Rio de Janeiro team is the most prominent these days? It's Fluminense, of course. Not a Rio de Janeiro team. I'd even say it's the most prominent Brazilian team. Why? Because it's the only one still in the running for the Copa Libertadores title. That's why. So, does that mean the Fla-Flu matchup will soon gain importance, pomp, and a special character?
It gains nothing. The most important team in the country, at the moment, will play with reserves and, perhaps, with juniors.
The match gains in importance, yes, but for Flamengo, and only for Flamengo, on whose shoulders falls a much greater weight of responsibility.
Ultimately, and as incredible as it may seem, Flamengo is the team seeking affirmation. As incredible as it may seem, why? Because Flamengo is, historically, the 2008 Rio de Janeiro State champion. And yet, there's no team more in doubt than it.
Because, after the most beautiful performance of all in the Rio Championship, came the embarrassment in the same Copa Libertadores in which Fluminense shines, and also came the change of coach.
From champion, Flamengo has become an unknown quantity. The most curious and symbolic of football's contradictions is that, now, all anyone talks about is the need for a change in Flamengo's lineup and formation.
It's curious because, during Joel Santana's time, the system was considered by managers, players, fans, and even much of the media to be the best of the best systems on the planet. Joel was consistently praised when he maintained the successful system in 2007, the year of his breakthrough. Even more so since, with it, he won the state title in 2008.
Because now, all anyone can talk about—at the club, in the stands, and even in the media—is the need to change the rigidity of the system. Isn't that funny?
Changing the formation and lineup became Caio Júnior's first task. Come on, folks: but Joel's formation wasn't that good; wasn't it responsible for the team's rise?
It seems that's no longer the case. The team and the strategy were so good that now Caio Júnior has to change both. That's what a good portion of the media, the man in the stands, and the man at the club expect. And if that's really what he has to do, let it be said that he's doing it with ceremony, delay, and caution that leaves everyone in suspense.
For all these reasons, the team being tested today, full of responsibility and surrounded by expectations, is Flamengo.
Flamengo's Team A faces Fluminense's Team B (or C). One could call it a practice match, but it's not. The young Tricolor players will do anything to prove their worth.
Today's Fla-Flu doesn't have the classic aura, the mythical aura, the legendary aura of the great Fla-Flus. But for Caio Júnior's Fla, it's worth much more than its weight in this Brazilian Championship, which is currently in its warm-up phase.
Good People
Even or odd
Mangueira will honor the winner of today's Fla vs. Flu match. Immediately after the game, the school's president will present the "80 Years of Glory" trophy to the winning team. If there's a tie, the winner will be chosen by drawing lots. It's yet to be decided whether it will be a thrilling odds-and-evens or a thrilling coin toss.
SPORTS JOURNAL
A Fla-Flu at the right price: no change
Souza guarantees: if he scores a goal in tomorrow's classic, he won't provoke the Fluminense fans
Eduardo Lacombe and Nathan de Lima
Public Relations
Obina, Fábio Luciano, Souza, and Thiago Sales compete for the ball during yesterday's training session at Gávea. The striker assures that no one at Flamengo is thinking about revenge.
"Fla-Flu is always important. It doesn't matter who plays on their side, we're facing Fluminense and we need to win." Striker Souza's words, spoken yesterday after training at Gávea, perfectly capture the Flamengo players' feelings about tomorrow's derby, at 18:10 PM, at Maracanã. It doesn't matter who coach Renato Gaúcho chooses. The idea is to go out on the field, win, and get as close as possible to the top of the Brazilian Championship.
To secure the victory, Caio Júnior fielded his best players and confirmed Marcinho's starting role. This means the midfield will consist of Toró, Cristian, Jônatas, and Marcinho. Renato Augusto, who had been training with the starters during the week, was substituted and is expected to be on the bench.
Having not scored a goal in regional derbies for eight games, Souza wants to take advantage of tomorrow's to put an end to this negative record, although he made it clear that it doesn't bother him at all:
"Of course I'm not upset about not scoring in classics for so long. I scored in the last game and I've been performing well for Flamengo. If the opportunity arises, I'll go out there and score," said the striker, avoiding any kind of controversy: "Indeed, in the last Fla-Flu match they danced around, we were a little upset, but that's in the past. It won't be a payback, we're only thinking about the future of the Brasileirão. If I score, I won't even dance. Nowadays everything becomes controversial and those who dance, end up dancing," he joked.
Considered the "Rubro-Negro" Daredevil by the fans, Souza knows that if Flamengo doesn't secure a good victory against Fluminense's reserves, the nation will once again turn against the team. However, he said that the opponents' reserve players would be starters for many First Division teams.
A new Sacred Mantle(???)
Fla will wear a shirt without the logo of the former uniform supplier in the classic
Paulo Rocha, Nathan de Lima and Gabriel Branco
President Marcio Braga announced yesterday in Gávea the club's new sports equipment supply company. Olympikus signed a contract with the club that will generate approximately R$173 million over the next five years, a new record in Brazil. The club will receive a fixed R$20,6 million per season plus royalties from ten stores throughout Brazil and will have a museum. This funding is estimated to generate an additional R$10 million per year.
"It's a contract to be remembered forever. From Mexico to Patagonia, there's nothing like it," said the president, explaining the reasons behind choosing Olympikus.
"It wasn't just because she was Brazilian that we were enchanted. This company has been growing a lot. What matters to Flamengo is selling shirts. We've already received a deposit as a down payment. We'll sign the contract on Monday (tomorrow)," Marcio added.
The new jerseys don't yet have a release date; the plan is to wait until all sales outlets are able to stock them before debuting them in stadiums and gymnasiums. Until the new model is released, the current jersey will have the previous supplier's branding replaced by three question marks.
The contract with Nike was unilaterally terminated, and the case is pending before the International Chamber of Commerce. Flamengo intends to receive a fine for failing to comply with the contract's clauses. The process is expected to take about three years.
New supplier generates record revenue for Fla
Board of Directors announces Olympikus as official supplier
Nina Lima/JS
Fla shirt with question marks
Flamengo's board of directors officially announced this Saturday that it has changed its sports equipment supplier. The contract with Nike was terminated after five years. The new company responsible for outfitting the Rio de Janeiro club is Olympikus, and the club is expected to earn a record R$173 million over the next five and a half years thanks to the new contract.
The president of Flamengo celebrated the fact and said that it is one of the best material supply contracts in the world.
"We have the largest contract in Latin America. It's a historic day for Flamengo," declared president Marcio Braga.
However, even though Olympikus has already been confirmed as its new supplier, Flamengo will not feature the company's logo on its uniform for next Sunday's game against Fluminense. The team will take the field with three question marks on its jersey.
Mengão seeks to extend its lead
Flamengo faces Brasília at Maracanãzinho and aims to open up a 2-0 lead in the National final
Eduardo Vieira
Wallace Teixeira
Wing/point guard Marcelinho Machado had a great performance
After easily winning the first game 93-66 on Friday, Flamengo will look to secure home court advantage and take a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series of the National Men's Basketball Championship final. Flamengo is counting on the support of its fans to beat Brasília today at 12:30 p.m. at the Maracanãzinho gymnasium.
The star of the team and the competition, wing/point guard Marcelinho Machado expects the same approach as in the first game, with an aggressive defense and speed and precision in the offensive system.
"It was an atypical match for a final. Brasília didn't put on a good performance in the first half, but they improved in the second half. Despite the victory, it's a tight series, and it's still too early to decide who will win. Flamengo deserves congratulations because once again, team play prevailed, with every player giving their all. For the second leg, it's crucial to maintain the same attitude, win two goals, and pass all the responsibility to them," said Marcelinho.
Coach Paulo Chupeta, as always, has already devised a new strategy to surprise Brasília. The various tactical variations are destabilizing opponents and leading Flamengo to title wins.
"We have to forget the first game and focus on the new challenge. If the defense plays with intensity, Flamengo has every chance of coming away with another victory. We can't be fooled by Friday's score. Brasília will have a different attitude," said Paulo Chupeta.
The return of Fred, who was injured, opened up new options for Flamengo's playmaking. This speed in transitioning from defense to offense was what practically defined the game in the first quarter. Especially with Hélio, who was well-assisted by Duda, who also made a difference with his three-pointers. The rhetoric, however, is the same as Paulo Chupeta's.
"As soon as the game ended, we gathered at the center of the court and talked about the need to maintain seriousness. Every game is a story," commented Duda, one of Gávea's star players.
THE DAY
Different heads
Flamengo is aiming for the Brazilian Championship, and Flu is only thinking about Boca Juniors. But it's a classic this Sunday at Maracanã.
Janir Junior
Rio - Flamengo's focus is on the Brazilian Championship. With two wins and a draw, the team could finish the round in first place if they win and Cruzeiro stumbles against Coritiba. This Sunday, at 18:10 PM, at the Maracanã, the Rubro-Negro faces Fluminense. With their sights set on another competition—Wednesday, the team plays the second leg against Boca Juniors in the Libertadores semifinal—the Tricolor will take to the field with a full complement of reserves.
Souza, who hasn't scored in a classic in eight games, sums up the spirit of the match well.
"If we win, everyone will say we did our job; if we lose, they'll remember the opponent had their reserves," said the striker.
Caio Júnior promises an attacking team, but emphasizes that the important thing is to win all three points. "Winning 1-0 is already good enough," said the Flamengo coach, who will give Jônatas a starting spot.
For Fluminense, Fernando Henrique and Dodô will be the only starters on the field. The others will be rested for the decisive match against Boca Juniors.
"Whoever is selected will do their part. Wearing the Fluminense jersey isn't for everyone," Renato Gaúcho emphasized.
The red-and-black coach shares the same opinion as Fluminense's coach. "What matters is the jersey. The result will go down in classic history," emphasized Caio Júnior, who will make his debut in a classic in Rio.
At Flamengo, the discourse is one of total respect for the Tricolor fans.
"They're in an uncomfortable situation in the Brazilian Championship. Regardless of who plays, we have to be respectful and serious," said team captain Fábio Luciano.
Respect on the field may not be reflected in the stands. Fla-Boca, a fan base created to "dry out" Fluminense against the Argentine team, promises to carry Boca Juniors flags, even after the Tricolor's 2-2 draw in the first leg.
While the team thinks about the Brazilian Championship, the red-black fans are still thinking about the Libertadores... but at the expense of others.
Dating and playing ball
Leonardo Moura has no doubt: his good form on the field coincided with the beginning of his relationship with funk singer Perlla
Ricardo Calazans
Rio - Until she began dating Leonardo Moura in May of last year, singer Perlla had only been to Maracanã twice. Since then, she's lost count of the number of Flamengo games she's attended at the stadium. But that doesn't happen often. This Sunday, for example, while he's on the field in the Flamengo-Flu match, she'll be in Fragoso, in the interior of Rio, performing. Although he works with his feet and she with her voice, their similarities led them to exchange engagement rings on the 12th. Léo has never been so fulfilled.
"My relationship with Perlla was reflected on the field. With her, I feel more focused and calm, both playing and living together," says the player, full of affection for his fiancée, during a visit to the O DIA newsroom — they were photographed in the studio for the cover story of the June issue of FM O DIA magazine.
Perlla took the opportunity to say that, thanks to her reputation as a 'hot girl', who doesn't give men any attention, Léo suffered a bit.
"At the beginning of their relationship, other players would tease him about 'Tremendo Vacilão' (in which the singer tells how she framed an 'ex')," she says. Léo laughs and confirms: "Even today, when that song comes on, the kids mess with me."
The two live in a house in Recreio, where they spend most of their free time dating, playing video games, and having friends over for dinner. "I travel a lot, and so does she. Sometimes I'm in Rio, and she's in Piauí. We take advantage of the opportunity to be together whenever we can," says Léo Moura, who declares himself an old-fashioned lover. "I think it's better this way. Date, then get engaged, spend time together, see what life is like together," he explains. Perlla smiles and gives him a kiss. It's his turn to embrace his passion.
"Léo also made me change. Before him, I only lived for work. Now, I value my personal life much more."
As the black and white Vinicius de Moraes would say, may it be an eternal love while it lasts.
New brand prints question marks on Fla's shirt
Rio - Flamengo confirmed this Saturday morning at its headquarters that it has changed its sports equipment supplier. The club, which was previously supplied by the American company Nike, has partnered with the Brazilian company Olympikus. The company will now be responsible for supplying the uniforms that the club's basketball and soccer teams will wear this weekend.
The shirts, however, will be emblazoned with three question marks. According to Tullio Formicola Filho, director of football at Grupo Vulcabras, which owns the Reebok and Olympikus brands, these represent "a healthy wait for Flamengo's new official sacred jersey." The company is still manufacturing the official uniform, which is currently undergoing approval and will be in stores the day after the first official match in which it is worn.
The club's vice president of marketing, Ricardo Hinrichsen, also commented on the new partnership.
"Our contract provides for the construction of a Flamengo museum of European standard, on the same level as Barcelona. Today is a historic day for the club and for Brazilian football," he emphasized.
This Sunday, Flamengo will face Fluminense, at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, in the fourth round of the Brazilian Championship.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo tests good campaign against Fluminense reserves\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Traditional rivals Flamengo and Fluminense will face off in another classic from their centuries-old history this Sunday, when they face off at 6:10 PM (Brasília time) at the Maracanã stadium in the fourth round of the Brazilian Championship. While Flamengo remains undefeated and has seven points from three games, Fluminense has just one and continues to prioritize the Copa Libertadores, once again fielding a reserve team. At Flamengo, the mood is more relaxed given the strong results the team has achieved in the first three rounds of the Brazilian Championship. But everyone at the club knows that a slip-up could bring back the threat of crisis, which almost loomed large after the club's elimination from the Copa Libertadores in early May.
"Here at Flamengo, we know the pressure is on all the time. But this group has quality and will fight for this Brazilian title," said striker Souza, who will enter the field feeling more relaxed after breaking a nine-match goalless streak. Against Inter last weekend, he scored the winning goal.
Aware that the Brazilian Championship is a 38-match competition, Flamengo's players admit that ups and downs will be common throughout the year. "We started well, but it's too early to analyze the campaign. The championship is long, but we've had the advantage of free weeks to work. It's difficult to maintain consistency throughout the championship," said left-back Juan.
Midfielder Toró remains untouchable at Flamengo, a target of some fans' criticism, but he was already one of former coach Joel Santana's trusted men. "I was really apprehensive when the coaching change happened, but Caio has also shown that he's a great coach and knows how to build a team. I know Flamengo has a very high-quality squad, and I need to keep working to stay on the team," said the Flamengo midfielder.
In midfield, Jônatas performed well against Inter and took Jaílton's place. Marcinho, meanwhile, recovered from a lower back problem, trained last Friday, and confirmed his presence in the derby.
For Fluminense, Renato Gaúcho believes the team needs to score points in the competition to avoid falling too far behind the leaders, given that the Copa Libertadores title isn't assured. However, he will field the reserves. Despite this, he remains optimistic.
"The kids will be able to give Flamengo a hard time. I'm fully convinced that my team will fight for a positive result until the end," said Renato.
The coach made a point of shifting the blame to the opponent. "Flamengo is fully responsible for the positive result, because they're in a complete lineup and more in sync. But that doesn't mean we're going to give up the victory," Renato said.
Renato Gaúcho defined the team and the only starter will be goalkeeper Fernando Henrique, who was already being used in the Brazilian Championship to maintain his game rhythm.
To prevent his team from becoming too vulnerable to Flamengo's attack, Renato Gaúcho opted for a cautious formation, with three defenders, six midfielders, and only Alan or Dodô isolated in attack. The goalscorer, due to muscle pain in his left thigh, will undergo a locker room test.
Flamengo confirms change of sports supplier
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In a press conference held this Saturday afternoon, president Márcio Braga confirmed Olympikus as Flamengo's new sportswear supplier for the next five years. Replacing Nike, the club's previous sponsor, three question marks will appear on the red-and-black jersey this Sunday, in the derby against Fluminense. "We adopted this strategy so that the new partner has time to supply the stores. It doesn't make sense to use a new uniform without our fans being able to buy it in stores. The three question marks serve to pique fans' curiosity," explained Flamengo's vice president of marketing, Ricardo Henrichsen, according to the club's official website.
Between sponsorship and equipment funds, Flamengo expects to raise R$31 million per year. By the end of the commitment, the club will have received R$173 million, making it the largest team contract in Latin America. "Never in the history of this club has there been a contract of this size. This is a historic day for Flamengo," said president Márcio Braga.
Henrichsen echoed the president's lead and also cited the agreement as historic. "Our contract provides for the construction of a Flamengo museum of European standard, on par with Barcelona. Today (Saturday) is a historic day for Mengão and for Brazilian football," he celebrated.
We have to win, says Souza before Fla-Flu
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Playing against Fluminense's reserves, Flamengo has a duty to win the derby. It's with this mindset that Flamengo striker Souza will take the field this Sunday for the fourth round of the Brazilian Championship. On the eve of the match, the striker confirmed his need to secure the three points. "We have to win. Because they'll hold us accountable; after all, they won't have their starting lineup. We have a huge responsibility," said the striker, who last scored in a Fla-Flu match in 2007, in the Flamengo's 2-1 loss in the Taça Rio of the Campeonato Carioca.
Although the Tricolor has confirmed the use of the reserve team, Souza denied any possibility that Sunday's game would be easy. The player urged seriousness so that the team can maintain its strong run in the Brasileirão.
"We have to be very serious. Because they're going to come here to win. They're saying it'll be easy, but I know it won't be. Classics are always tough," said the number 9, who will be on the field this Sunday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time) at the Maracanã stadium for the classic against Fluminense.
PELENET
Souza worried about the "obligation" to beat Fluminense
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Striker Souza admitted that Flamengo must beat Fluminense's reserves in Sunday's derby at Maracanã, in the fourth round of the Brazilian Championship. Tricolor coach Renato Gaúcho will rest his key players due to Wednesday's Copa Libertadores semifinal against Boca Juniors.
"We have to win. Because they're going to hold us accountable, after all, they won't have the starting lineup. We have this huge responsibility," said the number 9.
However, despite knowing he'll face a team made up primarily of young players, Souza knows the Red-Blacks must be careful not to be surprised. After all, this is a duel against one of their biggest rivals.
"We have to be very serious. Because they're going to come here to win. They're saying it'll be easy, but I know it won't be. Classics are always complicated," he stressed.
With his goal in the 2-1 victory over Internacional last Saturday, Souza gained momentum and remains a starter in the forward line, alongside Diego Tardelli. The team's new addition is Jônatas, who will replace Jaílton.
Marcinho, who had been complaining of lower back pain, trained normally this Friday and is also guaranteed to play against Fluminense. This means Renato Augusto will be an option on the bench.
Flamengo confirms Nike's departure and Olympikus' arrival
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
At a press conference this Saturday in Gávea, Flamengo confirmed the change of sports equipment supplier. Nike is leaving and "ceding" its place to Olympikus. Under the new contract, the red-and-black club will receive approximately R$21 million per year.
With the new uniform still being created, Flamengo will have a shirt with question marks
"Our contract provides for the construction of a Flamengo museum of European standard, on the same level as Barcelona-ESP. Today (Saturday) is a historic day for the club and for Brazilian football," said Flamengo's vice president of marketing, Ricardo Hinrichsen.
For this Sunday's match against Fluminense at 18:10 PM at Maracanã, the previous supplier's uniform will no longer be used. In place of the company logo, three question marks will be used.
"The three question marks mean that Olympikus is waiting for Flamengo's new official uniform. We are in a transition phase (it should hit stores in 60 days)," said Tullio Formicola Filho, football director at Vulcabras, which owns the Olympikus brand.
The partnership between Flamengo and Nike had been strained for some time. On the eve of the State Championship final (Rubro-Negro defeated Botafogo), the company manufactured and sold in stores a commemorative shirt for the Rio de Janeiro title. This situation was the final straw for the club's executives.
With different thoughts, Fluminense and Flamengo duel for the BR
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Fluminense and Flamengo face off this Sunday at 18:10 PM at Maracanã Stadium in the fourth round of the Brazilian Championship, with completely different goals. While Fluminense is focused on leading the competition, Flamengo is simply looking to "fill the bill."
Confirmed among the starters, Dodô is happy to be playing in his first Fla-Flu\ Fotocom/Divulgação\
Souza is worried about the "obligation" to win the classic against Fluminense
Despite occupying 19th and second-to-last position in the Brazilian Championship, with one point, Fluminense is focused only on the semi-final of the Copa Libertadores da América, when it faces Boca Juniors-ARG, next Wednesday, at 21:50 pm, at Maracanã.
Flamengo, with seven points, is just two behind leaders Cruzeiro. Therefore, a victory over Fluminense could vault the Red-Blacks into first place in the competition.
In Laranjeiras, coach Renato Gaúcho once again decided to field his reserves (with the exception of goalkeeper Fernando Henrique). Striker Dodô couldn't hide his satisfaction at playing in his first derby.
"I'm very happy to be able to participate in my first Fla-Flu. It will be unforgettable to be able to play. It will be my second game in the Brazilian Championship. I've already scored a goal and I'm very motivated," said the "scorer of beautiful goals."
Despite Fluminense taking the field without key players, Roger doesn't consider the team weakened for the derby. The defender emphasized the importance of the match.
"It's going to be a clash with equal stakes. The derby will be evenly matched. Flamengo only has this competition, but Fluminense also wants to win it. Our squad is qualified," he emphasized.
At Gávea, coach Caio Júnior benched defensive midfielder Jaílton and named Jônatas in the starting lineup. Midfielder Marcinho, who has recovered from lower back pain, is confirmed. This leaves Renato Augusto as an option on the bench.
"This is the team that trained. There's no reason to change. It's a matter of consistency. Marcinho is ready and Jônatas played a good game last Saturday (2-1 victory over Internacional) and deserves the opportunity," said the red-black commander.
Facing Fluminense's reserves has raised alarm bells at Gávea. Striker Souza, one of the most experienced in the group, is concerned about the "obligation" to beat their rival.
"We need to win, because they'll hold us accountable. After all, they won't have the starting lineup. We have this huge responsibility. They're saying it'll be easy, but it won't be. Classics are always tough," warned the Flamengo "killer."
GLOBOESPORTE
Fla confirms supplier change and puts question marks on the shirt
The club will use a temporary uniform for 60 days. It expects to earn R$170 million over five years: "It's the largest contract in Latin America," says Marcio Braga.
Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro
Flamengo unveils its temporary jersey. Questions about the replacement of its former sponsor
Flamengo confirmed this Saturday the signing of the largest sports equipment supply contract in Latin America. At a press conference in Gávea, president Marcio Braga announced that the club is expected to raise a record R$173 million over the next five and a half years thanks to the contract with Olympikus.
The club will receive a fixed R$20,6 million per season plus royalties from ten stores throughout Brazil and a 2.400 m² museum. This funding is estimated to generate an additional R$10 million per year.
"We have the largest contract in Latin America. This is a historic day for Flamengo," declares president Marcio Braga.
The contract with the former supplier was unilaterally terminated, and the case is pending before the International Chamber of Commerce, based in France. Flamengo intends to receive a fine for failing to comply with the contract's clauses, such as the proper delivery of sports equipment. The process is expected to take approximately three years.
Meanwhile, the club has already eliminated Nike from its daily use. Starting with this Sunday's Fla-Flu match, the Rubro-Negro will wear a uniform with three question marks in place of the former company's symbol. This new uniform was already made by Olympikus.
Within 60 days, the 40-piece Flamengo collection will be in stores across the country.
"We adopted this strategy to give the new partner time to supply the stores. The three questions serve to pique fans' curiosity," says Flamengo's vice president of marketing, Ricardo Henrichsen.
Fla has a plan to keep salaries up to date
The club's revenue is spread across the four quarters of the year to avoid financial strain. However, selling players will be necessary.
Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro
Juan is on the list of possible departures from Fla
The expression "advance payment" sends shivers down Flamengo fans' spines. After all, one immediately thinks that the money taken in advance will be missed later. But in 2008, the club's finance department devised a strategy to minimize financial difficulties and keep salaries up to date.
The year was divided into quarters, and in each quarter, some of the budgeted funds were used to pay salaries. In the first three months, Flamengo received half of its contract with Petrobras and paid its salaries.
Now it is the club's turn to use the R$10 million advance from the new material supplier to guarantee the fulfillment of salaries for April - paid last Friday -, May and June.
Selling is necessary
The next step will be television rights. Finally, the part that most concerns fans: player sales. So far, the club has raised R$10 million this year from the sale of player rights. Part of the money came from the departure of striker Pedro Beda, and the remainder was raised through the negotiation of stakes in certain players, such as Renato Augusto and Juan.
But to close the budget, Fla needs another R$8 million.
The approaching European transfer window, which opens on July 1st, increases concerns about the exodus of important athletes from Caio Júnior's team.
"We don't have any offers yet. But there's a chance we could sell players because it's included in the budget. We have replacement parts for that," says Flamengo's vice president of finance, José Carlos Dias.
One of the most likely players to leave the club is left-back Juan. His release clause is approximately R$10 million, and Flamengo is entitled to 50% of this amount.
Fla-Flu: fundamental for the red-blacks, secondary for the tricolors
Flamengo is battling for the lead. Their rivals forget about the Brazilian league and are only focused on the Libertadores semifinals.
Caio Junior faces Renato Gaucho in the classic
The red-and-blacks are anxiously awaiting the derby. After all, they have a chance to lead the Brazilian Championship after the fourth round. Meanwhile, the Tricolores are looking ahead to Sunday's Fla-Flu match at 18:10 PM at Maracanã with a look of boredom. It's fitting for a team that plays the second leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinal against Boca Juniors on Wednesday.
With no interest in the national tournament at the moment, coach Renato Gaúcho left the starting lineup out of the squad for the derby. The only exception may be goalkeeper Fernando Henrique, who has never lost to Rubro-Negro since his promotion to the professional team.\ \ Premiere will broadcast the match live, and GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be covering it in real time from 17:50 p.m.\ \
But despite the focus shifting, the Brazilian league table isn't exactly comfortable. In three games, Flu has earned one point and sits in 19th place, ahead of only Ipatinga.
Libertadores? In Gávea, it died
Twenty-five days ago, the Libertadores was also the main topic of conversation at Gávea. But, one embarrassment and three good games later, the word is banned among the players. By order of Captain Fábio Luciano.
"Enough. We recovered quickly, achieved important victories, and we no longer have to think about the Libertadores. This topic will only return to Gávea in 2009, preferably with the Brazilian title," says the defender.
Undefeated, with two wins and one draw, Flamengo is second in the Brazilian Championship. This year, there was already a Fla-Flu match, and the Tricolor won 4-1. On that occasion, both teams fielded mixed teams. But the word "revenge" doesn't exist in the red-and-blacks' dictionary.
More than revenge, the players want the three points that would guarantee the fans' support. "This game is worth three points, just like all the others. It's of fundamental importance to us," explains coach Caio Júnior.
Flamengo will be without two players for the match: Kleberson and Ibson have not recovered from thigh injuries and are out. In midfield, the Flamengo coach removed Jaílton and brought in Jônatas. The formation with Marcinho in midfield and Souza and Tardelli up front was maintained.
"Jônatas came on well against Internacional and deserves this spot. But the analysis continues," says Caio, who highlighted the good quality of the red-and-black squad throughout the week.
Chance for the youngest
For the Tricolor, the derby will be a challenge. With Fernando Henrique expected to be the only starter on the field, the reserves will want to show against Flamengo that they can be useful in Wednesday's decisive match against Boca Juniors and for the rest of the season.
This is the case, for example, of midfielder Fernando Bob, 19 years old, who had a single opportunity in the main team in 2006, under the command of Josué Teixeira, and could get a chance in the big classic if Renato chooses to rest Maurício, aiming at the match on Wednesday.
"The game means a lot to me. When I played in 2006, I was still very young; today I'm better prepared. And it's Fla-Flu, which is always Fla-Flu, the game of our lives," says Fernando Bob.
Much more experienced than the midfielder from Xerém, defender Roger knows that a good result against their biggest rival will motivate the team even more for the Libertadores semifinal.
"We have to give our best in this match, as we only have one point in the Brazilian Championship, and that can't be the case. Our squad is qualified, and whoever plays will try to show Renato that they have what it takes to play for the first team. And a Fla-Flu match on Sunday at Maracanã isn't just any game; it's an important derby for all of us. It's going to be an even match, because on one side, Flamengo wants to maintain its level of quality, and on the other, we want to leave the bottom of the table," he says.
On a roll, Flamengo tries to increase its advantage over Brasília in the final
After an easy victory in the first game of the series, the team is counting on the fans to be one victory away from the unprecedented title of Brazilian champion
GLOBOESPORTE.COM In Rio de Janeiro
Marcelinho is Flamengo's main weapon to secure another home victory
After crushing Brasília in the first game of the best-of-five series that will decide the 2008 Brazilian champion, Flamengo will once again rely on the strength of its fans this Sunday to defeat its opponents once again and move just one win away from the National Championship title, a first for the team. The match will be held at Maracanãzinho and will kick off at 12:30 p.m. (Brasília time). SporTV will broadcast the match live.
Brasília will look to bounce back after a disappointing performance last Friday. The reigning Brazilian champions only woke up to the match when their opponents were already in complete control.
Flamengo, meanwhile, hopes to repeat its performance from the previous game, which, according to winger and captain Marcelinho, was the team's best. The top scorer in the first match with 24 points, the player guarantees that the team is determined to go to Brasília with everything they need to make history for the club.
"We know the importance of a Brazilian title, especially for a club like Flamengo. It would be an unprecedented title, and we want to write our name in the club's history," the player stated.
American DJ declares love for Flamengo at Brazilian party before friendly
Starr animates the crowd for the Brazil vs. Canada match in Seattle
Marcelo Benevides Special for GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Seattle (USA)
Gringo Starr lived in Brazil for six months and ended up becoming a Flamengo fan
To the sound of samba, Brazilian fans began warming up for the national team's match against Canada this Saturday. Amid the merriment, in a bustling bar in downtown Seattle, a key figure appeared: Gringo Starr, an American DJ and, according to him, a passionate Flamengo fan.
After living in Rio de Janeiro for six months in 2005, Gringo said he couldn't resist his friends' invitations, who took him to see some of the Rubro-Negro's games up close.
"They convinced me to go to Maracanã, and I couldn't resist. Now, I'm a Flamengo fan at heart," declared the American, wearing a red-and-black jacket.
THROW
Leo Moura: 'Winning at Maracanã is an obligation'
Flamengo's standout bets on the strength of the fans to gain points
Léo Moura doesn't want Flamengo to lose points at Maracanã (Credit: Cléber Mendes)
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's next Brazilian Championship match will be this Sunday at the Maracanã against Fluminense. Despite being a derby, where there's usually talk of no favorites, Flamengo has the advantage, as their opponent will field a reserve team.
Full-back Leonardo Moura believes that Flamengo has an obligation to win, not just against Tricolor, but against any opponent when playing at home.
radio l! - At Maracanã, Flamengo has an obligation to always win, regardless of which team Flu plays against - said the full-back. (Click and hear more)
Flamengo and Fluminense face each other this Sunday, at 18:10 pm, in the fourth round of the Brasileirão.
Contract with Olympikus will pay back wages
Fla signed for five and a half years and will receive more than R$20 million annually
LANCEPRESS!\ Announced yesterday with fanfare by president Marcio Braga, the contract with the new sports equipment supplier, Olympikus, goes beyond the amount itself. The R$10 million advance will allow the club to pay salaries for April (paid on Friday), May and June.\
The contract is for five and a half years, and the club will receive R$20,6 million annually. In addition, the club will profit from royalties from ten stores in Brazil and from a 2.500 m² museum built by the company in Gávea. There will also be a store (approximately 1.500 m²) there.
Marcio Braga heaped praise on Olympikus, which, in his opinion, specializes in making and selling shirts.
He confirmed that the club had already received a deposit in principle of the agreement and was proud.
"It's the largest contract of its kind in Latin America. Never before has a contract like this been seen at this club," said Marcio, adding that the deal was only possible due to the union of Flamengo's powers and that no one objected.
Starting today, Flamengo will wear a uniform—already made (see photo)—with three question marks in place of the Nike logo. According to Vice President of Marketing Ricardo Henrichsen, this is part of Flamengo's marketing campaign.
This is a 40-piece collection that will be launched in July.
"The three question marks are a reference to the three rings of the Olympikus logo. It will serve to create curiosity among fans about what's to come," Ricardo stated, adding that Flamengo will only play with the Olympikus logo once the jersey is in stores, which he said should happen in mid-July.
Fla and Flu duel for the lead in the points race
Whoever wins will be the best carioca in the Brazilian championship competition.
Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO\ Guilherme de Paula\
Regardless of the lineup each team fields this Sunday, in a classic like Fla-Flu, the need to win is present on both sides. And this game will have an added element. The winner will hold the hegemony among Rio de Janeiro clubs in the Brazilian Championship since 2003, when the points system was introduced.
At this moment, Rubro-Negro has a one-point advantage over Tricolor (295 to 294) and will only be overtaken in this round in the event of a defeat to Fluminense's reserves.
Experienced in Fla-Flus, right-back Leonardo Moura, who has played four games for each team and won half of them, was pleased to learn about this interesting fact surrounding this huge rivalry.
"Statistics are always cool. Especially when it involves classics and rivalries. It's also a very important game to continue the momentum we've had at the start of the Brazilian Championship," explained Leonardo Moura.
An old monkey when it comes to pre-game trickery, coach Renato Gaúcho does not consider the dispute in points relevant and gave all the favoritism to Flamengo, mainly due to the fact that Rubro-Negro plays with the main team against its substitutes.
"Regardless of the numbers, we'll always strive for victory. In a derby, anything can happen. The responsibility for victory lies entirely with Flamengo, as we'll be playing with a reserve team. And a possible defeat won't affect our preparation for the final against Boca Juniors," assured the Tricolor coach.
Flamengo midfielder Cristian has a different take on his rival Renato Gaúcho and considers the red-and-black dominance to be an advantage. The goal is to remain better than Fluminense:
– It’s good to always be ahead of the title contenders.
One of the new additions to the Tricolor side, defender Sandro only thinks about winning and nothing else.
"We want to win, but we know how difficult it will be. We have a lot of respect for Flamengo. Their team is well-positioned on the field, and no one wants to lose. We'll give our all to get a positive result," said the 20-year-old defender.
Zico is honored by the Archdiocese of Rio
The greatest idol in Flamengo's history took to the field at the closing ceremony of the Peace Olympics at Maracanã.
Zico receives plaque from the Archdiocese of Rio (Credit: TV Lance!)
Daniel Pinton RIO DE JANEIRO
In an event packed with celebrities like Elba Ramalho, Stepan Nercessian, Roberto Dinamite, Thierry Figueira, Dado Dolabella, among others, the biggest artist was once again Zico.
Honored by the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro, the greatest idol in Flamengo's history starred in the closing ceremony of the Peace Olympics this Saturday and received a plaque from the organization for his participation on its stage, the Maracanã.
Besides the memories, Zico got to play alongside his sons Thiago and Bruno and his brother, also a former player, Edu, the eternal star of América. Edu, in fact, looked more like Zico. He was the maestro of the team of artists who faced a combination of priests and archbishops plus Roberto Dinamite.
"This is a celebration. The most important thing is to have peace among human beings," Dinamite explained.
Despite the calm atmosphere, a penalty awarded to Zico's team immediately caused a stir at the Greatest in the World. Everyone expected the eternal number 10, who, curiously, wore number 4, to take the penalty. But it was Thiago who took the penalty and scored for the team of artists.
"My time is up. Let the kid hit. The important thing is to play and be blessed by the priests," joked the Rooster.
Bruno Coimbra, another of Zico's sons, summed up the event's celebratory atmosphere well. Besides joking about his renowned father's defensive position, he downplayed his team's thrashing of the Santos squad.
"I'm the number 10 here, and I'm the one in charge. Whoever arrives now has to obey. Our team is close-knit. The point is to have fun," he said.
Souza has already scored a historic goal against Fluminense
Striker scored the winning goal in the 2003 Campeonato Carioca\ LANCEPRESS!\
This Sunday's derby between Flamengo and Fluminense will feature teams with opposing views. Flamengo is second in the Brasileirão, while Fluminense, with its sights set on the Libertadores, will field its reserve team.
Flamengo striker Souza, who scored the winning goal in the match against Internacional, has been confirmed for the Fla-Flu match. He will attempt to score against the Tricolor das Laranjeiras for the first time in the red and black jersey. Playing for Flamengo, the player's record is not encouraging at all. He has played two matches and lost two against the Tricolor.
But Souza has already scored important goals against Fluminense while playing for Vasco. One of them was a title-winning goal, the second in a 2-1 victory in the 2003 Campeonato Carioca final. In the 15th minute of the second half, he set up a play that began with a backheel cross from his friend Léo Lima and also included a header from Cadu.
This Sunday, Souza will try to find the net again against Fluminense, who have the same coach as in 2003, Renato Gaúho. Interestingly, Renato wasn't happy with Léo Lima's backheel in 2003 and argued with the player.
Ronaldo Angelim wants Flamengo in attack
Defender asks the team to impose itself on the field against Fluminense
LANCEPRESS!\ Flamengo, in next Sunday's game against Fluminense, has a great chance to firmly establish itself at the top of the table. Depending on the combination of results, the Red-Black team could finish the round in first place.\
Defender Ronaldo Angelim believes the team must take the initiative in the match to achieve a positive result.
radio l! - We have to be very careful. We'll try to impose our rhythm to get the victory. Flamengo will always look for the game - said Angelim. (Click and hear more)
Flamengo is second in the competition with seven points from three games. The Brasileirão leader is Cruzeiro with nine points.
Fla and Olympikus begin partnership with suspense
Club will use three question marks in place of the old brand
Flamengo's shirt will have new features (Credit: Paulo Sérgio)
LANCEPRESS!
At a press conference held this Saturday, Flamengo's Marketing Director, Ricardo Hinrichsen, announced a promotional campaign developed by the Rio de Janeiro club and Olympikus, the club's new sportswear brand, to attract the attention of its fans: starting this Sunday, with the derby against Fluminense, until the official launch of the new jersey, all the club's uniforms will feature three question marks in place of the old Nike logo. The goal is to allude to the new brand, as Olympikus's symbol is three intertwined rings.
"Our goal is to pique the interest of our fans. The new jersey will be released in 40 to 50 days. In the meantime, we'll use the soccer and basketball jerseys with these three questions," stated Ricardo Hinrichsen.
The five-and-a-half-year partnership will generate R$20.6 million annually for the Rio de Janeiro club. The brand has also committed to building a museum dedicated to the club at its official headquarters, located in the Gávea neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro's South Zone.
The Olympikus brand, owned by Vulcabrás, will also open 11 Flamengo stores across the country, the largest being, with 1.500 m², in the state of Rio de Janeiro.