The Globe

Diego Hypólito agrees on series for the Pre-Olympics

Gymnast adopts double pike twist to try to qualify for Beijing

STUTTGART, Germany. A day to correct mistakes in podium training and confirm the floor routine at the World Pre-Olympic Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Stuttgart, Germany, which begins today and runs until the 9th. Diego Hypólito spent yesterday afternoon evaluating the routine with his coach, Renato Araújo, and they both concluded that the movement he dubbed "Hypólito 2" will be replaced by the double pike twist. This means the athlete's starting score on this apparatus will be 16,80.

"Although it wasn't a tough workout, it was incredibly important," Diego assured, noting that his opponents also performed well on the eve of the World Cup. "It's going to be a good and exciting competition! But my focus has to be on all the equipment, because I want to help the team."

Women will start the competition tomorrow afternoon

The gymnast shaved his head the day before the competition.

- It's to bring luck and a lot of confidence - he explained.

In addition to Diego, the Brazilian team in Stuttgart includes Danilo Nogueira, Mosiah Rodrigues, Luís Augusto dos Anjos, Arthur Zanetti, Victor Rosa and Caio Costa, in the men's team; and Daiane dos Santos, Daniele Hypólito, Jade Barbosa, Laís Souza, Khiuani Dias, Ana Claudia Silva and Ethiene Franco, in the women's team.

The women begin qualifying for the team, apparatus, and individual all-around finals tomorrow afternoon. The men compete in the preliminary rounds on Monday.

At Fla, victorious identity lives on the other side of the fence

The last Brazilian champion, Carlinhos watches from afar the team that faces Sport

Photo caption: FORMER COACH CARLINHOS: discreet routine in Gávea, without contact with the football department

Pedro Motta Gueiros

Flamengo has a reverse debutante ball tonight against Sport, at 18:10 p.m., at Maracanã. Having gone 15 years without winning the Brazilian Championship, its fans have begun celebrating victories that keep them away from relegation. In '87, the fight against the Pernambuco team was for the legitimacy of the national title. In '92, the same Botafogo, with whom the red-and-blacks have drawn five times this year, fell victim to their fifth title in 12 years. Behind the fences, the victorious past still haunts Gávea. Coach of the last two titles, at 69, Carlinhos has never strayed from Flamengo, nor from the conviction that it is possible to be competitive, play beautifully, and maintain the red-and-black identity:

- Flamengo should always be close to the title. There are people capable of putting them there.

Discreet, as in the days when he would steal balls without committing fouls, Carlinhos prefers to stay out of the daily routine of the football department. He passes by daily, on the stretch from the entrance to the card room.

- I just want to fly a kite.

The joke is a figure of speech. Besides never having been expelled, he says he never flew a kite as a child in Botafogo. The youngest of six brothers, he didn't swear or roam the streets. His greatest transgression was climbing the smooth stone hill to pick jackfruit, jamelão, and chameleon. Today, under the almond trees of Gávea, he still enjoys living in the shade, always close to home. For many, he deserves a statue and deference similar to that received by Telê Santana for his commitment to soccer. Always dressed in jeans and sneakers, Carlinhos despises formalities:

- I managed Flamengo, and it was a big thing in my life. Having played here makes me happy.

Longtime friends and a renewed passion for the club

Carlinhos was already a Flamengo fan, winning a championship with Botafogo's youth team. His contact with stars began when he saw Garrincha. At Gávea since he was 13, he spent time with Zizinho, Dida, Gerson, Zico, Renato Gaúcho, and Romário, among others. The standards are high.

"I still enjoy football, but there are a lot of fouls these days. Players already think about the blow they're going to inflict," said the former coach, who believes marking isn't linked to anti-play. "It was hard to get past me, and I never had to hit anyone to keep the ball."

The synthesis of his game ended up serving as the foundation for the teams he assembled. In '87, the star-studded squad gained the support of Aílton and Zinho. Five years later, the marking began with forwards Nélio and Paulo Nunes, a harbinger of the current globalization of roles:

"It's disgusting when a player loses the ball and comes back with his hand in his pocket. If he doesn't want to be involved all the time, then put someone else in."

Romário was an exception to the rule, one he was proud to have worked with. Another lovable slacker was Gerson.

- I had to run like hell for him.

He cherishes memories and respect for his teammates. His true friends are those he still spends time with today, like former player Silva and his card-playing buddies. Every day, Carlinhos greets the janitor, Manoel. Head down, collecting dry leaves, few people know that the employee has 61 years at the club, worked in the stables of the former equestrian section, and saw Zico have his first training session on the field by the lagoon, where the playground now stands. Unlike Carlinhos, Manoel started out at Flamengo but has always been a Botafogo fan. At 78, he earns R$600, not counting the kindness of his friends.

"It's good to maintain these ties. See Manoelzinho? He's been here since I arrived," Carlinhos said, before looking away at the boys in red and black jerseys on their way to school. "Flamengo makes me happy, I've been here my whole life."

For fans who miss the red-and-black identity, it's still there every day. But there's no point in asking Carlinhos to cross the fence. Once, after leaving the team's management, he said someone would soon be knocking on his door. Now, there's no point in calling for him. Unless the visit is one of gratitude.

- Then, yes, you can hit.

In the 21st Century, the old mystery

Joel's strategy creates tension and insecurity in Gávea

Those were the good old days of Carlinhos, when he and the Flamengo fans knew the team by heart. Today, in the 21st century, coach Joel Santana, who has now taken charge of Flamengo for nine games, still clings to the outdated and questionably effective strategy of hiding the lineup. With each round, Joel creates mysteries and, with his worn-out tactics, even ends up contradicting the doctors. It happened with Maxi during the week of the derby against Botafogo and was repeated yesterday with Ronaldo Angelim, who was ruled out due to pain in his left foot. Annoyed that the veto had been made public, he repeated the tired phrase:

- You're the ones saying...

Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Rodrigo Arroz (Tiago Sales), Fabio Luciano and Juan; Romulo, Ibson, Cristian and Roger; Renato Augusto and Obina. Sport: Magrao; Igor, Gustavo, Durval and Diogo; Junior Maranhao, Romerito, Rosembrick and Dutra; Da Silva and Carlinhos Bala. Referee: Sergio Carvalho (DF).

BROADCAST: Premiere and Rádios Globo and CBN

Sports Panorama

Sleepy duo

Flamengo fans aren't the only ones concerned about Souza and Obina's lack of productivity in the Brasileirão. The coaching staff believes it's one of the reasons the team's rise in the table is hampered, having only just emerged from the relegation zone.

It's no wonder. The numbers show that the attacking group lacks competence, so much so that full-back Juan is the club's top scorer with five goals.

Souza and Obina, who were supposed to decide the matches, only scored twice, a disappointing number, even considering they didn't play in some games.

To give you an idea, midfielder Marcelinho, a Vasco reserve, played just 45m against Náutico, scoring twice in the 4-1 victory, in São Januário, last Thursday.

Sports Journal

Such small details

Argentine Colace depends on the release of Newell's Old Boys to be registered by Flamengo

Thiago Bokel

Hugo Colace spoke yesterday, in Gávea, with representatives of Flamengo fans

The saga surrounding the signing of Argentine defensive midfielder Hugo Colace gained another chapter yesterday afternoon in Gávea. The major obstacle to the deal's completion is the release of Newell's Old Boys, the club that holds 50% of the player's federation rights. The deal with Estudiantes has already been sealed, and since Estudiantes only had until yesterday to register the player with the CBF, Colace pre-registered, which will be validated if Newell's releases him.

The biggest obstacle lies in the midfielder's contract length with Flamengo. Flamengo's board wants to keep the player until the end of 2008, but Colace's contract with Estudiantes expires in June of that year—for the remaining six months, he would have returned to playing for the Rosario team. For this reason, Flamengo has not yet officially signed Colace, despite a pre-contract agreement already signed between the two parties.

Since the CBF will only reopen on Monday, there shouldn't be any news on the case until then. What weighs in favor of the Rubro-Negro is the Argentine's strong desire to play for the club. The relationship between him and Estudiantes coach Diego Simeone, who was once captain of the Argentine national team, is not the best. After winning the 2006 Clausura Tournament, the two had a few arguments, and Colace ended up losing his starting spot.

End of Reinforcements\ The likelihood of Colace not signing with Flamengo is slim. Proof of this is that he will be at Maracanã tonight supporting the team and is expected to go to the training camp to visit his future teammates. The uncertainty doesn't seem to shake the foreigner's confidence, who is optimistic about joining his new club.\

With his signing, Flamengo should end its reinforcement cycle for this season. After all, vice president of football Kleber Leite has already stated that it's very difficult to find good players without costing Flamengo any money. The Argentine legion is beginning to break new ground on Flamengo's territory.

With the support of the Red-Black Nation

With a weakened squad, Fla relies on the strength of its fans to regain its winning ways against Sport, at Maracanã.

Nathan de Lima

Joel guides Renato Augusto and Obina, who will form the attack

Last Thursday, the Superior Court of Sports Justice suspended Flamengo's attack, suspending Souza for two more games. Yesterday, the club's medical department vetoed two more players. As a result, Joel Santana had to rack his brains to choose the Flamengo team that will face Sport today at 18:10 PM at Maracanã. Without some players, the team hopes to once again count on the support of its passionate fans, who promise to fill the Maracanã.

Defender Ronaldo Angelim, who injured his right foot in the derby against Botafogo, and the fans' new favorite, striker Maxi Biancucci, still recovering from a grade one strain in his left thigh, will be out of the team.

Roger returns

Needing a win to escape the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo is counting on the return of midfielder Roger to reach 28 points and close in on the Pernambuco team, which has three more points and is in ninth place. The Rio de Janeiro champions are looking to maintain their strong run of results. The Gávea team is unbeaten in three games: two wins, against Náutico and Juventude, and a draw, in the derby against Botafogo.

Coach Joel Santana tried to keep things under wraps yesterday during training at Gávea, but Flamengo has already lined up for today's match. Replacing defender Ronaldo Angelim, the coach is counting on young Rodrigo Arroz, who gets another opportunity with the first team. Up front, Renato Augusto returns to replace Argentine Maxi Biancucci. The coach expects a tough match against the reigning Pernambuco champions, but knows Flamengo has a duty to beat Leão at Maracanã.

"Our responsibility to win is ninety percent different from the game against Botafogo, which was a classic. Sport is a quality, dangerous team, and we'll need to play seriously to beat them. If our players perform as expected, we have a huge chance of getting the three points," said the always good-natured Joel Santana.

Roger returns to the red-black midfield

Back in the Flamengo squad after serving a suspension for simulation, midfielder Roger intends to lead the Flamengo midfield to another victory. Roger said that Flamengo's upcoming matches at Maracanã, against Sport and Figueirense, will determine the team's true championship aspirations.

"We're going after these three points, which will be very important for our team. We have to take advantage of these two games to determine our position in the competition. These matches will show us whether we'll fight for the Copa Sudamericana or avoid relegation. I believe Flamengo has everything it takes to win both matches," said Roger, who took the opportunity to emphasize that today's match against Sport is not yet over. "The match against Sport will be different from the derby against Botafogo because they're coming from a different perspective. Their team will try to hold on, but we'll have to be cautious and play intelligently to come away with the victory," explained the supporter.

The importance of relaxation at Fla

It's common for coach Joel Santana to lead a recreational training session on the eve of games to loosen up the players and create a relaxed atmosphere within the group. But the "rachão," as this type of training is known, seems to be more important than people imagine. Supporter Roger explained that the recreational training session is much more than just a simple kickabout. "Within the rachão, there are possibilities that can be used in a normal match. When the substitutions are over, a defender needs to know how to play on the attack," said the supporter.

Coach Joel Santana praised the performance of left-back Juan, who often makes fine saves as a goalkeeper in recreational games. "Juan is small, but he's a good goalkeeper. The players are very relaxed, but we can't let up," he said.

Obina confirmed in Fla's attack

Striker Obina was confirmed this Friday as the starting player for the team that faces Sport, this Saturday at 18:10 pm. The favorite of the Rubro-Negro fans, who promises to pack the stadium, replaces Souza, who was suspended for seven games by the full Superior Court of Justice (STJD). The top scorer of the 2006 Brazilian Championship has already served five.

"Obina naturally fills Souza's shoes. Everyone knows how much I care about him, and I'm sure he's ready to return to his full potential. Roger will also return to midfield, and I'll decide on the rest of the team shortly before the game," said Joel Santana.

Contrary to what he usually does, Joel released the team's lineup, which will take to the field with: Bruno; Léo Moura, Rodrigo Arroz, Fabio Luciano and Juan; Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson and Roger; Renato Augusto and Obina.

Joel practices penalties at Fla and is irritated by the success

It seems that Souza's missed penalty kick wasn't well received by coach Joel Santana. He ordered all the players to practice taking shots during training. The result was quite negative. And the result wasn't good at all. The team's performance was very low, leaving the red-and-black manager with a temper.

He guarantees that he will insist on training the fundamentals and then, he will have to choose the team's official batter for the rest of the Brazilian Championship.

"Everyone performed poorly, even those who usually shoot well, like Juan. Everyone performed below expectations and left the field embarrassed. We'll keep training, but penalties are a matter of timing. There's no point in just doing them here," said Joel Santana in an interview with Rádio Globo.

Flamengo's next match in the Brazilian Championship is against Sport, this Saturday, at 18:10 pm, at Maracanã.

Rodrigo Arroz says he is ready to face Sport

Defender Rodrigo Arroz is the top choice to replace Ronaldo Angelim in the red-and-black defense for this Saturday's match against Sport at Maracanã. The player said he knows the role well and noted that since Joel's arrival, he has gained more space at the club.

"I have to wait for Joel's decision. Regardless of who plays, I'm ready. I know how to play the role well; I already know it. I had a really tough first half of the year, but that didn't stop me from continuing to work hard. Not that I didn't have chances with Neymar, but with Joel, I'm getting more opportunities, and now I have more peace of mind to develop my work," Arroz told Rádio Tupi.

Roger praises Toró's performance in the classic against Botafogo

Supporter Roger, who missed the derby against Botafogo due to suspension, said that Flamengo's next two games at Maracanã, against Sport and Figueirense, will determine the team's true ambitions in the championship.

"We're going after these three points, which will be very important. We have to take advantage of these two games to determine our position in the championship. Whether we'll fight for the South American Cup or avoid relegation. Flamengo has every chance of winning both matches," Roger told Rádio Tupi.

The supporter praised the performance of Toró, his replacement in the classic, and said that the match against Sport will be more difficult than the classic, as the victory is Flamengo's obligation.

"Flamengo played a good first half in the derby. Toró had a very good performance and showed great energy. He participated in the game and carried the ball well. The match against Sport will be completely different from the derby because they're coming from a different perspective. Their team will try to hold the game, and we'll have to be cautious to come away with the victory," explained the supporter.

Maxi and Angelim banned from match against Sport

Flamengo's medical department delivered two pieces of bad news to coach Joel Santana this Friday. Striker Maxi Biancucchi and defender Ronaldo Angelim are out of the match against Sport this Saturday at Maracanã.

The Argentine continues to feel the strain in his left thigh that forced him out of the derby against Botafogo last Sunday. He felt the injury during a sprint in the second half of the match against Goiás, also at Maracanã, two rounds ago. As a result, Renato Augusto is expected to remain in attack, this time alongside Obina, as Souza has been suspended for another two games.

Angelim, meanwhile, suffered a problem with his right foot and was also ruled out. The most likely replacement is Rodrigo Arroz, who came on in the final stage of Sunday's derby.

Mengão debuts with a victory in Futsal

Dudu secures a 1-0 victory over América in his debut in the State Futsal Championship

Rafael Oliveira

Flamengo and América played a very competitive classic

Mengão won the opening round of the State Futsal Championship. Flamengo defeated América 1-0 at Ginásio da Mangueira and got off to a flying start in their quest for the title. The winning goal was scored by captain Dudu. In the next round, both teams will face a tough challenge: while Flamengo travels to Macaé to face the local club, América hosts Cabo Frio, the current Rio de Janeiro champion. The match started evenly, with both teams looking to open the scoring. It was a back-and-forth affair.

And the one who came out on top was the Gávea club, who scored in the 5th minute of the game after a shot from Dudu, which deflected off the American defense and deceived goalkeeper Luís Antônio.

"I'm not much of a goal scorer, but I've been practicing finishing in the last few training sessions and I managed to get the shot right and help Flamengo. I don't go onto the court thinking I'm going to score, but of course I was very happy with today's goal," said the scorer of the only goal of the night.

The blow prompted América to invest more in attack. Until halftime, the red team had several missed opportunities, including one from winger Miguel, who missed a shot one-on-one with goalkeeper Breno.

If in the last minutes of the first half it was all America, in the second, the Americans dropped back and lost control of the match.

Flamengo was much more offensive and only didn't increase the score because they were lacking in finishing.

Breno saves Flamengo\ América narrowly missed the equalizer. With less than a minute remaining, Breno saved dangerous shots from Henrique and Miguel.

"For a debut match, the balance was positive. But I can't deny that the team performed below expectations, especially in terms of finishing," said the red-and-black coach Cid Escarlate.

Flamengo 1 x 0 America

Flamengo:\ Breno, Dudu, Passarinho, Michel and Gabriel. Entered: Charles, Helcinho, Victor Magrão, Octávio, Rafael and André.\

Coach: Cid Escarlate

America:\ Luiz Antonio, Xande, Ricardo, Miguel and Fabinho. Entered: Saulo, Fafá, Henrique, Otávio, Bernardo and Ricardinho.\

Coach: Alan Salino

Location: Mangueira Olympic Village\ Referees: Cláudio Fernando Lopes and José Antônio Storino\ Goal: Dudu in the 5th minute of the first half\

Iata Anderson

This Sports Justice Court is truly complicated. Flamengo is demanding the trial of Roger and Juan, who were sent off against Fluminense (August 16), a week after the Botafogo players (August 8) and tried a day earlier (August 28). Flamengo's case number is 89, and Botafogo's is 100. In the event of a suspension, Botafogo could face Flamengo. It's truly a mystery that's difficult to explain.

O Dia

Flamengo: Obina wants a goal for his little daughter

Martha Esteves

Rio - Sayonara's daughter turns 10 months old today. That's why striker Obina, who starts the match in the starting lineup, would love to score a goal to honor his little girl. Looking a bit thinner, Obina trained with enthusiasm.

After training, he chatted and posed for photos with a fan, who is often seen at Maracanã holding signs with messages for her idol. "I'm getting better and better. I want to regain my position and hope to help the team with goals and give this gift to my daughter."

While the team played a fun game, with the players swapping positions, the directors tried to finalize the transfer of Argentine midfielder Hugo Colace. The player was in Gávea.

Yesterday was the last day to register players playing abroad, and the club improvised a way around this deadline. Early in the evening, the board sent the CBF a document to register the midfielder by the end of this year. However, it still needs approval from one of the clubs that hold his federation rights.

"We're negotiating with Newell's Old Boys. Everything's in order with Estudiantes. We want him to sign a contract until the end of 2008," said football director Marcos Braz.

To get the momentum going today

The lucidity demonstrated on the field is the same under the intelligent gaze of supporter Roger, who returns to the team after serving a suspension. For him, the match against Sport, today at 18:10 PM, at Maracanã, will be a turning point for Flamengo.

If they defeat the Pernambuco team, the team will move further away from the relegation zone and could begin a new run in the Brasileirão. Without Souza, who is suspended for two games, the attack will consist of Renato Augusto and Obina. Maxi remains sidelined.

Defender Ronaldo Angelim is also out of the game after injuring his left big toe. Rodrigo Arroz is expected to take his place.

"A win boosts our confidence to beat Figueirense at home in the next round. That way, we'll know whether the team will fight to stay out of the relegation zone until the end or just fight for a spot in South American competitions," said Roger.

To win today, Roger highlights Sport's offensive prowess, boasting the sixth-best attack in the competition. He has the recipe to surprise his opponent. "Our team must be solid in defense, have an intelligent attack, and maintain tactical obedience. We can't relax against Sport, which has a well-organized team and a skilled attack," the supporter emphasized.

Coach Joel Santana, who hasn't confirmed today's lineup because he still believes mystery wins games, agrees with the red-and-black star. "That's right. We're 90% responsible for winning. For them, any point away from home is a bonus. Sport has a good team, which requires care," he stated.

Both Joel Santana and Roger hope the fans will flood the Maracanã to support the team. The board expects 45 fans to show up at the stadium today. "Flamengo fans always make a difference. They recognize our efforts and support us. I hope the Maracanã is packed," Roger hopes.

Sports Gazette

Flamengo faces Sport in a duel between red and black teams\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Trying to move further away from the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo hosts Sport this Saturday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time) at the Maracanã. The Rio de Janeiro club, which drew with Botafogo in the last round, has 25 points and is in 16th place, just one point above the relegation zone. The Pernambuco team, which wears the same colors as Flamengo, is in ninth place with 31 points and is riding high on a victory over Grêmio. Undefeated in seven matches at the Maracanã, a period in which it has accumulated four wins and three draws, Flamengo is once again counting on the support of its fans inside the Maracanã to leave the field with three more points. Even so, coach Joel Santana warned of the Lion of the Island's difficulties.

"Sport has been having a great campaign. It will be a very tough match for us. We can't fool ourselves into thinking it will be an easy game, but we're playing at Maracanã and we need this win," he recalled, before taking aim at the censorship being imposed on Brazilian football pitches by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (SJTD). "I've never seen mute football. Players have to be a reflection of their coaches, and I'm a coach who vibrates," said the coach, who was acquitted on Thursday and assured that he won't change his style on the sidelines.

One of Flamengo's weapons for victory is left-back Juan, who is in excellent form and has scored goals in each of his last three games. The player dreams of extending his momentum and making it to the Brazilian national team. "I'm experiencing the best moment of my career and I'm very happy here at Flamengo. I hope to continue helping the team climb even higher in the Brazilian Championship. Our group is strong and deserves to be in a better position," he emphasized.

For this Saturday's game, Flamengo will be without striker Souza, suspended for two more matches following his sending-off against Grêmio. Since Obina is still not at his best physically, young Paulo Sérgio is expected to earn a spot in the attack. Midfielder Roger, who has already served his suspension and returns to the Rio de Janeiro team, replaces Toró.

In the stands, recent fights between Flamengo's two main factions (Torcida Jovem and Raça Rubro-Negra) have prompted a response from the Military Police. During this Saturday's game, these fan groups will be barred from entering the Maracanã stadium with their flags and instruments.

On Sport's side, everyone preaches respect for Flamengo, but they guarantee they arrive in Rio de Janeiro focused on getting the three points. One of the most experienced midfielders, Romerito, explains how the Pernambuco team can achieve victory. "Flamengo is in the table and should come out a little more. We'll need speed on the counterattack to surprise," he commented.

Defender César and midfielder Éverton, who served a suspension against Grêmio, could return to the Pernambuco team this Saturday, but coach Geninho was pleased with the performance of Gustavo and Rosembrick in the last match and should only confirm the team in the dressing room.

Pelé Net

Flamengo wants to maintain its good form at Maracanã against Sport

This Saturday, Flamengo faces Sport, at 18:10 pm, at Maracanã, looking to maintain the excellent recent record at the stadium: in the last five matches, there were four victories, against Náutico, Fluminense, Juventude and Goiás, and a draw, with Botafogo.

"This game and the match against Figueirense will be decisive in defining our situation in the Brazilian Championship, seeing whether we will fight against relegation or for a place in the Libertadores or the Copa Sudamericana. Given our quality, I think a place in a South American competition is our path," said midfielder Roger, who returns to Flamengo this Saturday after a suspension.

The Pernambuco team aims to break a 2007 Brasileirão record, as they have yet to beat a Rio team in the competition. In the first round, they drew twice, against Flamengo and Botafogo, and lost twice, against Vasco and Fluminense. In the second round, they drew with Vasco. Playing away from home against the Rio team, Sport has yet to earn a single point.

Flamengo is in high spirits for this match, having finally managed to escape the relegation zone two rounds ago with a victory over Goiás. The Rio de Janeiro team sits 16th in the Brazilian Championship, still dangerously close to the bottom of the table, and needs a win to further move away from the danger of relegation.

Sport is also in good form. The Pernambuco team is coming off a 2-0 victory over Grêmio last Wednesday and sits in ninth place in the competition with 31 points. Now in the Copa Sudamericana qualifying zone, the team dreams of further advancement in the Brasileirão.

Flamengo has attacking issues for this match. Souza was suspended for two more games by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) and will not be able to play. Argentine Maxi, injured, was ruled out by the medical department. Coach Joel Santana could field Obina alone up front, with Renato Augusto and Roger on the wings, or use Paulo Sérgio or Leonardo.

The Rio de Janeiro team also has a defensive absence. Defender Ronaldo Angelim injured his left foot and is out of the match. His replacement will be decided between Tiago Sales, recently promoted from the youth team, and Rodrigo Arroz, who was recently praised by coach Joel Santana.

Sport will have the return of striker Everton, who served a suspension against Grêmio, but his starting lineup isn't guaranteed due to Rosembrick's strong performance in that match. Defender César is also available to coach Geninho after missing the team's last matchday, but he's expected to lose his place to Gustavo.

BalloonSport

Fla puts magic to the test against Sport

On the rise, the Rio de Janeiro team is in its honeymoon with its fans. Rivals want to get in the way.

The stands will be packed. This is nothing new in Flamengo's new phase. However, to repeat the success of previous rounds, the Rio de Janeiro team will need to maintain its strong performances at Maracanã and beat Sport this Saturday. The match, part of the 23rd round of the Brazilian Championship, kicks off at 18:10 p.m.

GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be covering the match live from 18 p.m. onwards. Premiere will also be broadcasting.

The Gávea club is on a great run in front of its fans. It has played five games, with four wins and one draw. The last draw was in last Wednesday's derby against Botafogo. But its position in the table, although out of the relegation zone, is still uncomfortable.

"We're in 16th place, and that's not what we want. The danger is imminent," says coach Joel Santana. He hadn't even arrived at Gávea yet for the first meeting between the two teams in this Brazilian Championship: a 2-2 draw at Ilha do Retiro (watch the goals in the video above).

Sport defeated Grêmio 2-0 at Ilha do Retiro. In ninth place with 31 points, the Pernambuco team's campaign is weak due to its poor away form, with eight losses in ten games.

Roger and Renato Augusto will start in this Saturday's game

Defaults and Roger

To continue climbing the table, Flamengo has three absences: defender Ronaldo Angelim and forwards Maxi and Souza. The first two are injured, while the latter is suspended.

Renato Augusto and Obina will form the attacking duo, and Thiago Sales and Rodrigo Arroz will compete for the defensive spot. But Joel Santana isn't the only one who's missing. After two matches out, Roger is available.

Almost a mystery of Geninho

For the Pernambuco Red-Black team, mystery reigns. Coach Geninho hasn't yet named all his starters. Or rather, he has. He just hasn't revealed who will play.

"I don't have many doubts, 90% of the team is right. Who knows, I might even repeat the lineup from the last match. I need to analyze the opponent to see how I'll line up. Against Grêmio, we didn't need defensive midfielders protecting the defense, so Junior Maranhão and Romerito were freer to play. Against Flamengo, that shouldn't be the case," says the coach.

Mancuso approves Flamengo's new Argentine

Former midfielder says Hugo Colace is a good player and usually enters the field with passion

Thiago Dias

This year, Colace played only five games for Estudiantes

Flamengo's signing of midfielder Hugo Colace has been approved by the club's last Argentine idol: Mancuso. According to the former player, who didn't know Maxi Biancucchi before the deal with Flamengo, the new signing has the potential to win over the stands.

- I know him, he plays with passion and is a good player when he has the ball - says Mancuso, online, to GLOBOESPORTE.COM.

In 1996, the former midfielder arrived at Flamengo in a trade with Palmeiras. He quickly won over the fans and inherited the nickname "God of Race" from former defender Rondinelli.

Hugo Colace, 23, underwent a medical last Thursday and is expected to sign a contract this Friday, the final day for international transfers to the Brazilian Championship. According to Mancuso, the midfielder is being underutilized at his current club, Estudiantes.

"My only concern is that he's not playing much here. I don't know why. His playing style is more or less similar to mine. Colace has played for Argentina's youth teams several times," he recalls.

Journalist Ezequiel Cogan of the daily newspaper "Olé" recalls that Colace began his career at Argentinos Juniors, a club with a tradition of developing defensive midfielders. Sergio Batista (World Cup winner in 1986), Redondo, Cambiasso, Gancedo, and Cristian Ledesma are just a few examples.

"It seemed Colace was headed that way; he had chances in the lower-level national teams under José Pekerman (coach). But he never established himself as a starter in the professional teams. So far, he's more of a promise than a reality. But he's young. Who knows, Flamengo might be his place in the world," the journalist analyzes.

Without Souza, Obina gets a new chance

Anjo Negro will be a starter in this Saturday's match against Sport, at Maracanã

Obina (left) and Juan hug during Flamengo's training session. Black Angel will play

Joel Santana will be without striker Souza for this Saturday's match against Sport at Maracanã. Suspended for two more matches by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), the player will have to watch the match from the stands.

But this time, Flamengo's coach didn't make a mystery and confirmed Obina as Renato Augusto's partner.

"Obina naturally fills Souza's shoes. Everyone knows how much I care about him, and I'm sure he's ready to give his all again. Roger will also return to midfield, and I'll decide on the rest of the team shortly before the game," he explains.

Roger agrees to take the penalties

Supporter says he accepts replacing Souza in this Saturday's game against Sport

Roger agrees to take penalties

Souza's missed penalty against Botafogo sealed a 1-1 draw in the Rio derby last Wednesday. With the striker suspended for two more games by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), Flamengo lost its official penalty taker for Saturday's match against Sport at 18:10 p.m. at Maracanã. One of the team's standout players, supporter Roger, said he's ready to replace his teammate.

"I've been a penalty taker for other teams. I even had a bad moment at Corinthians, when I missed a penalty that eliminated the club from the 2005 Copa do Brasil. But if necessary, I'll volunteer to take it," he says.

Roger, however, made a point of praising Souza:

"It's something that can happen to anyone. He only missed because he was there to shoot. I'm sure he'll score the next time he gets the chance."

Fla pre-registers Colace

The board forwards the document to the CBF, but does not present the Argentine player.

Eduardo Peixoto

The impasse over the signing of midfielder Hugo Colace was not resolved this Friday. On the last day to register players playing abroad, Flamengo improvised a way to circumvent the end of the transfer window.

Earlier this evening, the board sent the CBF a document to register the athlete by the end of this year. However, it still needs approval from one of the clubs that hold the athlete's federation rights.

"We still need to resolve the issue with Newell's Old Boys. Everything is clear with Estudiantes. We want him to sign the contract by December 31, 2008. But we haven't concluded the negotiations yet because of this issue," says Flamengo's director of football, Marcos Braz.

While waiting for the impasse to end, Hugo Colace remains in Rio de Janeiro awaiting authorization to be officially presented.

Botafogo and Flu out of FIFA's favors

Representatives of the entity received Vasco and Flamengo shirts at Maracanã

Thiago Lavinas

FIFA Commission during inspection at Maracanã

After all their commitments in Rio de Janeiro were completed, the FIFA delegation received gifts. Ambassador Romário gave each of the organization's five representatives special jerseys depicting Vasco's 1,000th goal. Soon after, they also received official Flamengo jerseys. The other two major Rio clubs—Fluminense and Botafogo—were forgotten.

The curious thing was when it came time to take the souvenir photo with the jerseys. Anything went to get a good result and avoid getting burned film. Governor Sérgio Cabral, a self-proclaimed Vasco fan, and Romário wanted to stay away from the Flamengo jersey. Meanwhile, CBF president Ricardo Teixeira held the jersey of the red-and-black team, a club he holds dear. And Hugo Salcedo, head of the FIFA delegation in Brazil, was forced to pose with both uniforms.

Board expects 45 at Maraca

In the last five games at the stadium, Flamengo has attracted more than 210 people.

Eduardo Peixoto

Saturday will be a packed house once again at Maracanã. According to Flamengo's board of directors, between 40 and 45 fans will attend the match against Sport, starting at 18:10 p.m.

In the last five matches of the Red-Black team at Maracanã, the fans have been supporting the team. In total, the paying attendance for these matches exceeds 210.

"Our fans are really supporting us. They deserve congratulations," says coach Joel Santana.

All 28 tickets for a dairy company's promotion were sold last Thursday. The remaining tickets will remain on sale this Friday at 17 p.m. at the following ticket locations.

• Gávea Ticket Offices (Flamengo)\ • RioSampa Ticket Offices (Nova Iguaçu)\ • General Severiano Ticket Offices (Botafogo Headquarters)\ • Caio Martins Stadium Ticket Offices (Niterói)\ • Fluminense FC Ticket Offices\ • Kappa Store: Av. das Américas, 4200 – Block 11 - Barra da Tijuca\ • Maracanã Ticket Office 08\

Bruno Mezenga returns to the juniors

After being released from Fortaleza, the striker will undergo special training at Gávea

Eduardo Peixoto

On loan to Fortaleza, Bruno Mezenga was not successful there.

One of Flamengo's top youth goalscorers in recent years will get another chance. After a less-than-successful stint at Fortaleza, Bruno Mezenga is back at Gávea.

Next week, he will be reinstated to the Rubro-negro youth team and will receive special treatment from coach Adílio.

"I'll talk and show him how important this experience at Fortaleza was. He's still young and can give a lot to Flamengo," he declares.

Mezenga turned 19 on August 8th and has yet to score a goal for the red-black professional team.

Joel Santana on Saturday Chat

Send questions to the Fla coach, who will be interviewed by GLOBOESPORTE.COM

Flamengo fans have the chance to ask Joel Santana what they've always wanted to ask: the coach is the next interviewee on GLOBOESPORTE.COM's "Papo de Sábado" and questions can now be sent to the email papodesabado@globo.com.

The best and most creative will be selected and answered by Joel. The interview will be published on Saturday. Join us!

Throw

Obina is chosen to replace Souza in the attack

Joel Santana reveals he has a special affection for the fans' favorite

Joel Santana will not be able to count on striker Souza for this Saturday's match against Sport, at 18:10 pm, at Maracanã, since he was suspended last Tuesday by the STJD and will have to serve another two-match suspension for his expulsion against Grêmio.

But this time, Flamengo's coach didn't make a mystery and confirmed Obina as Renato Augusto's partner.

"Obina naturally fills Souza's shoes. Everyone knows how much I care about him, and I'm sure he's ready to return to his full potential. Roger will also return to midfield, and I'll decide on the rest of the team shortly before the game," he explained.