The Globe
A debut of losses and gains for Flamengo
The team is without Renato Augusto for 45 days but beats Boavista 2-0, with goals from Souza and Fábio Luciano, and celebrates the providential entry of the newly signed Marcinho
SUPPORTED BY doctor José Luiz Runco and stretcher bearer Mike Tyson, Renato Augusto leaves the field with a sunken cheekbone while Souza celebrates his goal, the first in Flamengo's debut.
Pedro Motta Gueiros
In the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship, each game was celebrated like a title by 60 Flamengo fans. At the beginning of a new era, television broadcasts to Rio and a 50% increase in grandstand ticket prices reduced the crowd to less than half. Along with this, Flamengo lost some of its momentum, but gained new momentum with its Carioca debut with a 2-0 victory over Boavista yesterday at Maracanã. Suffering a bad malar injury that is expected to sideline him for 45 days, Renato Augusto left the field before last season's team had yet to open the scoring. In his place was Marcinho, who left a great impression and the certainty that Flamengo has options to face the challenges ahead.
Renato Augusto had been the best player until he was injured in a challenge for a header in the 17th minute of the second half. Two minutes later, Marcinho organized the play that ended with Boavista's defense and a goal by Souza. His introduction also served to mitigate the damage caused by his teammate's injury, who is expected to miss the team's first three Libertadores games. In the state championship, he will miss the entire Guanabara Cup and the qualifying round of the Rio Cup.
In his third season as a professional, Renato already knows both sides of the profession. Last year, after suffering injuries and the failure at the U-20 World Cup, the midfielder left the team and only showed signs of recovery in the final rounds of the Brazilian Championship. Yesterday, he was fresh again, ready for a great year, but he has another test ahead. Flamengo fans have already grown accustomed to them. In the first half, without the usual strength of their full-backs, his team insisted on playing through the middle, leaving space for their rivals to counterattack. They even complained about a penalty by Jaílton on Faioli, but the striker pulled the red-and-black player back before being brought down.
Boavista creates chances and asks for penalties in the first half
Besides Hélton's header, which narrowly missed in the 30th minute, Boavista also had a chance with a shot from Faioli. Flamengo only threatened with a free kick from Renato Augusto, which Erivélton parried at Leonardo Moura's feet and then made another save after the full-back's shot. In the 43rd minute, when Souza tangled with the ball, dissatisfaction could be heard in the stands.
In the second half, with Obina replacing Cristian, Flamengo congested the attack but continued to struggle to get there. Until, on his first play, Marcinho released Obina, stepped into the box to receive, and left Souza free to make it 1-0 in the 19th minute. Without Renato Augusto, his replacement became the bow and arrow of a previously harmless team. After a cross from Leonardo Moura, Marcinho nearly scored with a header. In the 40th minute, Fábio Luciano capitalized on the goalkeeper's rebound to make it 2-0. In the end, despite the loss of attendance, the former enthusiasm, and Renato Augusto, at least the red-and-blacks won the game. And Marcinho.
Yellow cards: Toró, Ronaldo Angelim, Obina, Souza, Jailton, Roberto Lopes, Rodrigo, Tiaguinho, Flávio Medina and Felipe. Revenue: R$374.932,00. Attendance: 23.779 paying spectators.
Player wears the shirt even in pain
Hospitalized in his game uniform, Renato Augusto will undergo surgery today
With his radio announcer's voice and the eloquence of a manager, it's rare to hear Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, speak in such a low and dejected tone after a victory. Coach Joel Santana's expression was comparable to a father's agony. With his disfigured cheekbones, Renato Augusto showed he's a Flamengo fan even in times of suffering. Still dressed in his sweaty match uniform, minus only his cleats, the supporter was admitted to a hospital in Méier, where he will undergo surgery today at 9 a.m. by Dr. Augusto César Lima.
With head injuries, the risk of infection is more severe, and the player spent the night in the ICU. Specialists predict he'll be back playing within 45 days.
Still shaken, the coach spoke in the locker room with captain Fábio Luciano about the risks of the team accidentally losing players.
"It was a sideline play, Renato didn't protect himself. We have to learn from this. You shouldn't elbow him, but you need to use your arm to defend yourself," the coach advised.
Besides the way defender Helton entered the match, Kleber Leite also lamented the significance of the loss. Symbolically and technically, there's nothing worse than losing your number ten and the player with the greatest potential on the roster, right on your debut.
- It's a loss that we're going to feel a lot, but those who don't have a squad aren't going anywhere - said Kleber.
During his vacation days, after spending New Year's Eve involved in negotiations, Kleber can enjoy his mission accomplished. Among several new signings, Marcinho was the first to show that Flamengo has strengthened.
"Renato will be sorely missed. He always took risks and showed up to play one-twos with me," Souza lamented. "But we have the quality to make up for his absence. Marcinho came in and improved the team."
For Joel, Flamengo began to grow with the arrival of Obina, but the possibility of keeping the attacking duo and Marcinho on Wednesday against Cardoso Moreira has not yet been confirmed. The only certainty is that Renato Augusto was the one who supported all Flamengo fans for a player who wears the jersey even in the most difficult moments.
In the first round, 70 thousand saw the big ones
Flu's game had the largest audience
For the start of the competition, without a derby and with more expensive tickets, the result was more than satisfactory: approximately 70 people paid to see the debut of Rio's four main clubs in the Campeonato Carioca – an average of almost 18 fans per game. Fluminense had the privilege of having the support of the most fans in its 2-0 victory over Cardoso Moreira on Saturday at Maracanã: 24.811 Tricolor fans supported the debut of forwards Leandro Amaral and Washington, raising R$469.235. The numbers would have been higher had there not been so many non-paying fans: almost XNUMX people.
Flamengo fans also turned out in good numbers: 23.779 paying fans, generating R$374.932. Interestingly, although it had been announced that there would be no ticket sales at Maracanã on match day, the stadium's ticket offices operated normally.
Botafogo beat Resende 2-0 at Engenhão, in front of 12.525 paying fans, earning R$228.987. Vasco fans seemed to be expecting the worst: 10.671 (R$112.622) paid to see the team defeated at São Januário by Madureira.
Flamengo comes from behind to defeat Londrina away from home
Rio de Janeiro team remains undefeated and achieves fifth victory in the Men's National Championship
LONDRINA (PR). Flamengo remains undefeated in the National Men's Basketball Championship. They came from behind to defeat Inesul/FEL/Londrina 78-71 last night at their opponent's gym. It was Flamengo's fifth win in the championship in five games.
The Londrina team dominated the first three periods but was eventually overtaken. In the evenly matched first quarter, the Paraná team won 21-20. In the second, Londrina reached 39-34 at halftime.
Fluminense faces Ourinhos in the women's competition
In the third period, Londrina led 55 to 52. In the last quarter, Flamengo won alone 26 to 16, securing the victory: 78 to 71. Flamengo's top scorer was Marcelinho, with 26 points, and Londrina's, Guto, with 17.
Londrina: Guto (17), Ricardinho (12), Leo (8), Azevedo (11) and João (15). Entered: Thiago (5), Haas, J. Eduardo (1) and L. Carlos (2). Flamengo: Fred (6), Helio (4), Marcelinho (26), Coloneze (18) and Wagner (2). Entered: Duda (9), Maicon, Amiel (7) and Alírio (6).
Also yesterday, Saldanha da Gama beat UTC/Uberlândia, 75 to 71. The game's top scorer was Jaz, from Uberlândia, with 29 points, and Saldanha da Gama's was Brian, with 27. Ciser/Univille/Joinville beat Universo/Brasília, 79 to 74. Joinville's top scorer was André, with 22 points, and Brasília's was Valtinho, with 16.
The women's national championship quarterfinals begin today. Away from home, Fluminense faces Colchões Castor/FIO/Unimed/Ourinhos (SP) in Ourinhos at 20 p.m., aiming to overcome the best team from the first round. Fluminense will remain without its star player, center Clarisse, who is injured.
Ourinhos finished first in the qualifying round with 31 points. Fluminense finished eighth with 19. In the championship, São Paulo won two games: 86-60 in Ourinhos and 101-48 in Rio.
Today at 20 p.m., Santo André (SP) hosts Sport/Maurício de Nassau (PE). Santo André finished the first phase in fourth place with 26 points, and Sport in fifth place with 25 points. In the first phase of the tournament, the São Paulo club won 75-68 (Recife) and 54-52 (Santo André).
Fernando Calazans
Flamengo, yes, repeated yesterday's victories over Fluminense and Botafogo, the day before. But, so far, it hasn't convinced. Renato Augusto, even theoretically playing in attack, played in the position and role he prefers, starting from the back, but in that first-half lineup, what happens? Souza ends up alone up front, like a condemned man.
In the second half, the lack of another striker was partially resolved with the introduction of Obina, but the team only really improved with the presence of Marcinho, who provided the assist for Souza's goal. Fábio Luciano took charge of the situation, scoring the second goal. Leonardo Moura also stood out. Íbson still seems out of shape, which is natural.
It's unnatural that Toró stayed until the end. Toró didn't make a single play. Instead, he committed fouls, fouls, fouls. Is that why he's on the team?
Sports Journal
Boavista's executioner, Souza gives Flamengo a six-point score
Jair Motta
Striker Souza once again proved to be Boavista's tormentor. On Sunday afternoon, he scored the opening goal in Flamengo's 2-0 victory over the team from the Lagos Region. In 2007, in his debut for Flamengo, against Boavista, the number 9 scored the only goal of the game.
After Sunday's game, Souza preferred to be cautious when analyzing Fla's performance, but was happy with the goal scored.
"I give the team a six. We really didn't play well in the first half, but coach Joel shook things up at halftime. I'm happy to have helped us win, and I think the team will be in good shape in the third or fourth round. Strikers thrive on goals. Since I wasn't feeling well, I preferred to stay in the box a little longer, and I ended up scoring," said Souza.
Fábio Luciano pays tribute to his son with a goal
Defender Fábio Luciano had a few reasons to celebrate beyond yesterday's goal. For the first time, the player's father, Antônio, attended Maracanã to watch his son play. He went to the stadium with his grandson, Gianluca, who was turning three. During the celebration, the Flamengo captain paid tribute to the birthday boy.
Confusion — Some photographers were hampered yesterday by a television crew that insisted on working in the designated photo area. They were threatened with removal from the Maracanã stadium, claiming the broadcaster was a sponsor of the Rio de Janeiro State Championship.
Souza celebrates luck against Boavista
Boavista is a rival that usually brings Flamengo luck, after all, the red-and-blacks have won both of their two games. But one player in particular has reason to call the Saquarema club a loyal customer.
Striker Souza, who made his Flamengo debut by scoring the goal that secured the three points against Boavista last year, was once again fortunate and left his mark on yesterday's victory. After the match, he celebrated his good fortune against his rival.
"I'm happy to score again against them. Since I wasn't feeling my match rhythm, I preferred to stay more confined inside the box. I was lucky enough to take advantage of the opportunity that came my way and pave the way for victory," explained the striker.
Souza knows the team will need to improve significantly to find the same form of play it had at the end of last year. He praised coach Joel Santana's halftime penalty as crucial to the victory.
"I know we didn't play well in the first half, but at halftime, Joel told us to go after the opponent, pressuring the ball out, and we ended up getting a good result. Obina came on very well and played a decisive role in my goal. It's good to have players of this quality in the squad, because when one is struggling, the other comes in and improves the team's performance. We can play together from the start," Souza said.
Coach Joel Santana was in favor of the idea, but made a point of explaining why he had not yet given this opportunity.
"They can play together, yes. It's just that since my arrival, I've never had a sequence where I could field the team with both of them together," the coach said.
The sad fate of Renato Augusto
Supporter suffers a sunken facial bone for the second time and must be out for 45 days
Thiago Bokel
Renato Augusto was doing well, but ended up getting injured and is out of the GB Cup
The 2-0 victory over Boavista took a back seat. The mood in the Flamengo locker room after the match was dejected. The reason for such dejection was the serious injury suffered by midfielder Renato Augusto, who collided with defender Helton and suffered a depressed cheekbone, just below his right eye. The Flamengo star is expected to be sidelined for 30 to 45 days. He will undergo surgery today at Pasteur Hospital in Méier.
Although injuries aren't common in soccer, Renato Augusto can complain that luck isn't on his side. In 2005, while competing in the U-17 World Cup in Peru, the player suffered the same injury and was sidelined for approximately 40 days. At the time of the challenge, doctor José Luiz Runco was already warning that the injury was a cause for concern.
"Renato Augusto suffered a serious trauma to his face, with the bone deforming. I prefer not to say how long he will be out of action," Runco assessed.
Renato Augusto's attacking partner, Souza seemed in disbelief at the number 10's lack of luck:
"I'm very upset. Renato Augusto was doing well in the game, helping me in attack, taking responsibility. I hope he won't be out for too long, as he's important to the team, but we have worthy replacements within the squad," said Souza.
Coach Joel Santana believes the defender was innocent in the play.
"I even spoke to Fábio Luciano after the game. The player has to protect himself in this type of challenge. It was unnecessary, the ball was on the sideline, the defender didn't need to come in like that," lamented Joel.
The incident ended up overshadowing Ibson's 100 appearances for Flamengo. He even played in the club's centennial jersey, which didn't bring much luck. His lackluster performance surprised even the Flamengo manager:
"I've never seen Ibson make so many mistakes as he did today (yesterday), not even in training. He even commented to me in the locker room that he had an unlucky day," said the coach, who, with Renato Augusto out, is expected to field Marcinho in the next match, against Cardoso Moreira, on Thursday.
Victory with a Minas Gerais accent
Former Atlético-MG striker Marcinho shines in Flamengo's debut in the Carioca Championship
Pedro Cavalcanti
Jair Motta
Supporter Marcinho, who had just come on, passes the ball to Souza's goal, the first
Flamengo began its journey toward its second state championship with a 2-0 victory over Boavista yesterday at Maracanã, with goals from Souza and Fábio Luciano. Still lacking match fitness, the Flamengo players produced little in the first half. In the second, after Marcinho's introduction, Joel's team came together and secured the three points.
The game started off technically weak, with both teams studying each other. Flamengo had the majority of possession but lacked creativity. The first chance didn't come until the 36th minute. Juan took a free kick, and Boavista's goalkeeper parried it away. Léo Moura forced another save from the rebound. Renato Augusto, despite playing in a position where he rarely performs, was one of the few who survived.
In the second half, coach Joel Santana replaced Cristian with Obina. The team came back a little stronger, pressing early, but lost momentum. The fans grew impatient and began booing. Renato Augusto, the team's only remaining inspiration, collided with a Boavista player and was substituted. The collision resulted in a sunken facial bone fracture and was quickly taken to the hospital. Marcinho replaced him and, in his first play, in the 19th minute, led a counterattack, passing to Obina, who passed the ball back to the defender. The former Atlético player set up Souza, who opened the scoring at the Maracanã stadium, sending the Red-Black Nation into a frenzy.
From then on, Flamengo took control of the match. In the 41st minute, Juan took a free kick into the box, Boavista's defense scrambled, and Fábio Luciano pounced on the rebound and slotted it past Erivélton. After that, Flamengo valued possession, waiting for the final whistle. The performance fell short of the fans' expectations, but they did witness a strong performance from one of their new signings for the 2008 season: Marcinho.
Mengão takes the fifth place in the National Championship
Rubro-Negro beats Londrina, its fifth victory, and maintains its lead in basketball
Point guard Fred, with six points, helped Flamengo win yet another match.
Flamengo remains undefeated in the National Men's Basketball Championship. The red-and-black team defeated Londrina, playing away from home, 78-71 (34-39). With a great performance from forward Marcelinho, who led all scorers with 26 points, the Rio de Janeiro team won the fifth game and remained in the lead.
On Friday, Paulo Chupeta's team will play a local match against Iguaçu. The Paraná team will host Saldanha da Gama on the same day.
In a match packed with players who had previously played for the opposing team on both sides, the former Flamengo players prevailed in the first half. Léo, Guto, and Ricardinho accounted for 22 points, more than half of what Londrina scored in the first half. Former Paraná defenders Duda, Hélio, and Coloneze scored only ten of Flamengo's first 32 points.
The hosts held the lead throughout the first half. Despite Marcelinho's excellent performance, the red-and-blacks couldn't impose their rhythm.
After halftime, everything seemed to indicate the situation would remain the same, but by the end of the third quarter, Flamengo began to rally. And it came with Coloneze's improvement. The center flourished on the court and, along with Marcelinho, began to lead the team.
The turning point came in the final quarter. Already exhausted, the home team couldn't keep up the momentum. The fans' support alone wasn't enough, and they watched Flamengo take a 60-59 lead. From then on, it was all hands on deck for the Rio de Janeiro team, who took off and notched their fifth consecutive victory.
O Dia
Flamengo debuts with victory in the Campeonato Carioca
Diogo Dantas
Rio - With goals from Souza and Fábio Luciano, Flamengo debuted in the 2008 Carioca Championship with a solid victory over Boavista on Sunday afternoon at the Maracanã Stadium. This brought them level with Fluminense, with three points, at the top of Group A of the Guanabara Cup.
The match was marred by a serious injury to midfielder Renato Augusto, Flamengo's best player on the pitch. Renato collided head-to-head with Élton and suffered a sunken cheekbone, according to doctor José Luis Runco. He was conscious and taken to the hospital for an MRI.
The game also saw a strong debut for new signing Marcinho, who led the play for the first goal and created some good chances. The team started the game with the core of the squad that secured a spot in the Copa Libertadores last year.
Marcinho and defender Rodrigo were the reinforcements available on the bench. Kléberson, Jônatas, and Diego Tardelli weren't even included in the squad because they still have outstanding paperwork. Goalkeeper Bruno was also not registered, and Diego took over as goalkeeper for the red-and-blacks.
The game
The match started with a lively atmosphere. Boavista came out with determination and showed from the start that they would be dangerous down the right. Full-back Medina's advances and the support of midfielder Rodrigo, who previously played for Botafogo, guided the Saquarema team's counterattacks. Flamengo also concentrated their attacking plays on the right flank with Léo Moura and the support of Renato Augusto.
The first clear goal-scoring opportunity came in the 19th minute. Flamengo started the play through the middle, with Léo Moura receiving the ball behind the defense and unable to control it, one-on-one with goalkeeper Erivélton.
Then, Renato Augusto stole the ball from Rodrigo, advanced on the right, passed Esquerdinha with a dribble between the legs and was brought down by Rodrigo, who tried to recover and committed the foul.
Flamengo wasn't as organized, but managed to create some good moves. Souza was brought down by Élton at the edge of the box after a dispute for the ball, and the referee called a foul. Léo Moura hit the wall.
The red-and-black team pressed relentlessly, with a slightly more refined touch in midfield, led by Renato Augusto.
Boavista responded in the 29th minute, with a header from Hélton that went just wide of goalkeeper Diego's left post. The game became more evenly matched, and Boavista even took the lead in shots on goal.
At 35, Renato Augusto, on an inspired day, created another beautiful play down the right wing. He passed two defenders on his way across the field and was fouled near the left edge of the penalty area. He took the shot himself, and goalkeeper Erivélton made a good save. Léo Moura took the rebound, but the goalkeeper palmed it away again.
In the 39th minute, Faioli charged down the middle and, with the goal uncovered, fired a powerful shot. Diego scored, proving that in Bruno's absence, the goal is in good hands.
The end of the first half was thrilling. Flamengo made the final sprint. Renato Augusto drove down the left and unleashed a powerful shot that Erivélton made a great save. In another play after the rebound, Toró passed well to Renato Augusto, who cut in and forced another save from the Boavista goalkeeper.
Obina in place of Cristian
As he had done in training, coach Joel Santana replaced Cristian, the club's favorite, Obina, for the restart. And in the second minute, Obina already threatened with a header from Juan's cross. The Black Angel offered good options on the left flank.
But the game began to get tense, with divided plays and harsher tackles. One of these tackles forced midfielder Renato Augusto out of the game. In a play with Élton, the two clashed heads.
Marcinho came in, goal
In the 20th minute, with Renato Augusto injured, Joel brought on debutant Marcinho. And the player showed his talent. He led the play through the middle, passed to Obina on the left, the striker advanced into the box, crossed into the middle, Marcinho controlled it, and passed it sideways to Souza, who, with virtually no goalkeeper, pushed it in. Flamengo 1-0. Souza took the opportunity to dance funk, a celebration he had promised.
In the 33rd minute, Marcinho almost scored. Léo Moura advanced down the right and delivered a perfect cross. Marcinho headed firmly, but Erivélton made a great save.
The game became more measured in the second half, especially after Flamengo opened the scoring. Boavista invested in some plays down the flanks, but the final pass was always anticipated by the Flamengo defense. Flamengo began to play on the counterattack, exploiting the advances of their full-backs.
And when Juan skillfully took a free kick from the left that Obina had won, Fábio Luciano pounced on the loose ball and sunk it into the net, extending the lead. And that was it. Flamengo 2-0.
Next Thursday, Flamengo takes on Cardoso Moreira, also at Maracanã.
Marcinho and Obina are fighting for Renato Augusto's spot, as he is undergoing surgery.
Janir Junior
Rio - Renato Augusto's sunken facial bone, which will see him undergo surgery and be sidelined for approximately two months, has raised a question mark in Joel Santana's mind. Despite having Obina as his first choice to play alongside Souza, the coach will still consider the best formation for Flamengo. Marcinho, who came on well in yesterday's game, is also fighting for a spot on the team.
Joel commented on Souza's new partner. "Obina came in, and the team improved. He might start, but then they'll say they'll play two twin towers up front. We'll see what's best, since Marcinho also performed well. Now, it's time to work and see how the team fits together best," said the red-and-black coach.
The coach used Renato Augusto's injury, after colliding with Hélton, to warn his players about how to react: "We suffered a big loss. The incident served as an educational opportunity. When a player goes to fight for a ball like that, he has to protect himself. Now, we'll be without him for at least two months."
Renato Augusto left Maracanã stadium and went straight to the hospital. Today, the player will be reevaluated by doctor José Luiz Runco. "The dent in the bone was serious. We'll wait and see how his recovery goes," said Runco.
Scorer of the winning goal, Souza knows the team still has room for improvement. "I give our debut in the Guanabara Cup a six. We were poor in the first half. Joel shook up the team during the break, but we came back stronger and got the win," said the striker.
Souza approved of both Obina and Marcinho's introductions. "Obina came on well and actively participated in the game. Marcinho showed his quality and participated in the goal," said the striker, who believes the Gávea team will only improve its performance in the third or fourth rounds of the State Championship.
Fábio Luciano dedicated his goal to his son. "It's my son's birthday, and my father also came to the stadium to support me," said the defender.
In the coming days, the club will expedite the regularization of goalkeeper Bruno, who was left out of yesterday's match because he is not yet regularized with the Federation.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo defeats Boavista at Maracanã\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The reigning state champion, Flamengo, struggled but made a winning debut in the 2008 Campeonato Carioca. On Sunday afternoon, with goals from Souza and Fábio Luciano, both in the second half, the Rubro-Negro defeated Boavista 1-0 at the Maracanã. The team thus earned its first three points in Group A of the Taça Guanabara. On Thursday, Flamengo plays again at the Maracanã, this time against Cardoso Moreira. The day before, Boavista faces Volta Redonda in Saquarema. Played under a light but persistent rain, the first half was not very exciting for the Rubro-Negro. Despite entering the field with the same starting lineup that had a strong campaign in last year's Brazilian Championship, Flamengo struggled to break through the opposition's defense.
Thus, set pieces became a weapon for the Gávea team. In the 24th minute, Leonardo Moura had a chance with a free kick in the semi-circle, but he hit the wall and wasted the chance to put Flamengo ahead.
Boavista, despite sitting back almost the entire time, created a threat with one of its first attacks. In the 29th minute, Hélton received a cross and headed it just wide of Diego's left post. Shortly thereafter, in the 32nd minute, the red-and-black goalkeeper made a good save from Anselmo.
The moves woke Flamengo up a bit. In the 36th minute, Renato Augusto took a free kick and Erivélton couldn't handle it; on the rebound, Leonardo Moura fired a powerful shot, but Boavista's goalkeeper was there to palm it away for a corner.
But Boavista came back to trouble with a counter-attack in the 39th minute, when Faioli advanced through the middle and shot, but goalkeeper Diego intervened, having been given the chance to start due to problems with Bruno's registration.
With Ibson well-marked and Souza lacking inspiration, Renato Augusto was left to try to lead Flamengo into attack. In a solo play in the 43rd minute, he took a long-range shot, but Erivélton prevented Flamengo's first goal.
Dissatisfied with Flamengo's lack of productivity in the first 45 minutes, Joel Santana returned for the second half with striker Obina replacing midfielder Cristian. The change, however, had no effect, and by the 15th minute, the Flamengo fans were already booing their team. One of the most targeted players was left-back Juan, who missed everything he tried.
In the 18th minute, Renato Augusto had to leave the field after clashing heads with opposing defender Hélton. In his place came Marcinho, who shone the first time he touched the ball. The player, signed from Atlético-MG, led a counterattack in the 20th minute and even appeared in the box to pass to Souza to open the scoring for Flamengo.
Marcinho nearly scored in the 33rd minute, when he latched onto a Leonardo Moura cross and headed the ball, drawing a superb save from Erivélton. But in the 41st minute, defender Fábio Luciano pounced on a loose ball inside Boavista's box, firing a powerful shot into the net to seal Flamengo's 2-0 victory.
PeléNet
Flamengo suffers, but begins its fight for the state title with victory
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo was far from a great performance, but it got off to a flying start on its journey to the state championship title for the second time. In its debut this Sunday at Maracanã, the Red-Black team defeated Boavista 2-0, with goals from Souza and Fábio Luciano, in Group A of the competition.
The sad news was for midfielder Renato Augusto, who suffered a head injury in a challenge with Boavista defender Hélton and may even require surgery.
In the next round, Flamengo faces Cardoso Moreira, this Thursday, at 19:30 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã.
The day before, at 16 pm (Brasília time), in Saquarema, Boavista hosts Volta Redonda.
Before the match, a tribute was paid to midfielder Ibson, who made his 100th appearance for Flamengo. "It's an honor to have a player of this caliber at the club," praised vice president of football Kleber Leite.
When the ball started, Flamengo took the initiative, but the team couldn't put together a single play. Flamengo centered heavily in the middle and only threatened from set pieces.
Boavista, despite playing at the Maracanã, was undeterred by Flamengo's strength. The team from the Lakes Region could have even taken the lead, but their players' poor aim was a drawback.
"We're still stuck. The heavy grass isn't helping either. But we'll talk at halftime to try to improve and come out with a positive result," warned Renato Augusto.
Flamengo returned for the second half with one change: striker Obina replaced midfielder Cristian. The team became more offensive and cornered Boavista in the opening minutes, but it didn't quite achieve anything.
In the 17th minute, Hélton and Renato Augusto battled for a ball in the air and clashed heads. The Flamengo player was replaced by Marcinho. In his first attempt, in the 20th minute, the midfielder initiated the entire play leading to Souza's goal.
Finally in the lead, Flamengo had a bit more composure. But, to avoid any surprises, in the 40th minute, Fábio Luciano scored the second goal for Flamengo, giving the final score to the match.
Renato Augusto has a sunken cheekbone and will undergo surgery.
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Renato Augusto gave Flamengo fans a big scare. The midfielder suffered a broken cheekbone after a collision with Boavista defender Hélton in the Flamengo's 2-0 victory this Sunday at the Maracanã, their debut in Group A of the State Championship.
The player was treated by Flamengo doctor José Luiz Runco and will be taken to Pasteur Hospital, where he will undergo a CT scan to determine the severity of the problem. The midfielder will undergo surgery on Monday morning.
"I believe he'll be back playing in 45 days, but it all depends on the player's progress. The player should be released from the hospital in two days," said Runco, in an interview with UOL Esporte.
Renato Augusto was replaced shortly before the halfway point of the second half by midfielder Marcinho, who stood out in the duel and provided the pass for striker Souza to score the first goal of the match.
Ibson receives tribute for his 100th game with the Fla shirt
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Ibson wore the number 100 jersey in Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Boavista this Sunday at Maracanã, in their debut in Group A of the State Championship. The player completed his XNUMXth match and also received a commemorative plaque from the vice president of football, Kleber Leite.
A self-confessed admirer of the supporter, the director praised the qualities of one of Flamengo's fan idols.
"It's an honor to have a player of this caliber, with this character. Our mission is to get him to 500 games for the club," said the director, who was reciprocated by the athlete himself.
"I'm thrilled with such a tribute. I want to stay at the club for a long time and live up to the expectations of this great shirt," said the red-and-black player.
Flamengo's board has already stated that acquiring Ibson's transfer is a top priority. The player belongs to Porto, Portugal, and is on loan to the Gávea club until June 30th.
BalloonSport
Fla suffers, but wins in the debut
The team is struggling, but goals from Fábio Luciano and Souza guarantee victory over Boavista
Eduardo Peixoto
The shaking and the kissing. With goals—and very distinct celebrations—from Souza and Fábio Luciano, Flamengo defeated Boavista 2-0 on Sunday afternoon at the Maracanã stadium. The match was the teams' debut in the Taça Guanabara, equivalent to the first round of the Campeonato Carioca.
While the score was satisfactory, the red-and-black team struggled throughout the match. Relief only came midway through the second half, with a goal from Souza. In celebration, he danced funk in honor of his friend Mc Frank. But with his swaying, the striker showed he still needs some lessons.
Scorer of the second goal, Fábio Luciano chose to give a kiss on the cheek to fitness coach Ronaldo Torres, who made the players "suffer" during the pre-season.
The saddest part of the Flamengo debut was Renato Augusto. He suffered a facial fracture in the second half and left the Maracanã stadium with a disfigured face. This Monday, the Flamengo player will undergo surgery and is expected to be out of action for 40 to 60 days.
Where is 2007?
The empty spaces in the stands may have shaken Flamengo's players. Accustomed to a packed Maracanã during the 2007 Brazilian Championship, the team slowed down. Souza backheeled inside the penalty area, Ibson misplaced short passes. Everything was different from last season.
And Boavista had the first chance. In the 13th minute, Medina took a free kick from the front that threatened Diego's goal. Bruno didn't play because the documentation wasn't ready in time.
In the first good exchange for Flamengo, in the 20th minute, Renato Augusto left Leo Moura in front of the goalkeeper. But the right-back miscontrolled the ball, and the ball went wide. Seven minutes later, Flamengo's defense watched Esquerdinha rise unmarked at the edge of the six-yard box and head the ball wide.
Gávea's best player in the first half, Renato Augusto took a free kick in the 35th minute, and Erivélton partially saved it. Leo Moura took a shot from the rebound, and Boavista's goalkeeper palmed it away for a corner. Flamengo's defense faltered in the 38th minute, Rodrigo took a powerful shot, and Diego made two saves.
In the end, Renato Augusto forced Erivélton into another good save. But it wasn't enough to prevent chants of "Obina" from the stands. Joel Santana heard and brought the striker on for Cristian at halftime.
Renato Augusto's goals and drama
But the Rubro-Negro's stance changed little. Shots were aimless from distance and dangerous spaces were created in behind. To make matters worse, Renato Augusto suffered a sunken face and was replaced by Marcinho.
In less than a minute, the debutant was crucial. He exchanged passes with Obina and passed to Souza to open the scoring in the 19th minute. In celebration, he fulfilled his promise and swayed to the funk beats of his friend Mc Frank.
Marcinho nearly scored in the 35th minute, but Erivélton saved. The second came in the 41st. Toró headed the ball, and captain Fábio Luciano fired a powerful shot to score.
Flamengo maintains leadership of the National Championship
Rubro-Negro defeats Londrina and remains undefeated; Joinville beats defending champion Brasília
In the men's basketball national championship this Sunday, Flamengo defeated Londrina 78-71 (34-39) in Londrina, with 26 points from leading scorer Marcelinho Machado. The Paraná team's leading scorer was point guard Guto, with 17 points. Flamengo turned the game around in the fourth quarter. The coach attributed the red-and-black team's good form to the quality of the squad.
"Londrina came out highly motivated, and their three-point shooting made all the difference in the first half. At halftime, I talked to the players, and we managed to improve our defense and rebounding. We maintained our 100% success rate and lead in the competition. We'll continue to improve our performance because the championship is long and very even. In any case, the bench has been Flamengo's greatest weapon because the players who come on keep the pace of the game going," explains Flamengo coach Paulo Chupeta.
Joinville defeats the defending champion
In another game played this Sunday, Joinville defeated defending champion Brasília 79-74 (36-39 in the first half) in the city of Santa Catarina. André Góes, from the home team, led the way with 22 points. For the team from the Federal District, Valtinho was the top scorer with 16 points.
"The two teams played a balanced match, only decided with 1:11 remaining. I'm very pleased with the performance of my players, who once again showed great grit, courage, and determination. We beat one of the title favorites, and this victory boosts the team's morale for the rest of the National Championship," says Joinville coach Alberto Bial.
Victory also triumphs
Vitória (ES) beat Uberlândia (MG) 75 to 71 (33 to 28 in the first half), in Vitória. The top scorers of the match were Jazwyn, from Uberlândia, and Brian, from Vitória, with 29 and 27 points, respectively.
"Both teams felt the intense heat here in Vitória. Our physical preparation was crucial to our victory against Uberlândia. Furthermore, the fans have played an important role in the matches. In both of these home games, the fans showed up and supported us to achieve victories," comments Vitória coach Ênio Vecchi.
In the last game of the round, Lajeado defeated Salvador 82-77 (41-36 in the first half), in Lajeado (RS). The top scorer of the game was Munoz, from the Bahian team, with 26 points.
'I've never seen Ibson make so many mistakes,' says Joel
Player completes 100 games for Flamengo, but does not have a good performance against Boavista
Eduardo Peixoto
Ibson didn't do well in Flamengo's debut
Ibson deserves credit, a lot of credit. But this Sunday, on the day he completed 100 games for Flamengo, the midfielder was merely a supporting player in his own celebration.
Wearing the number one hundred on his back and receiving a first-time visit from his two-and-a-half-month-old son, Ibson Júnior, the player misplaced several passes in the first half. In the second half, he retreated and disappeared from the match against Boavista.
"I've never seen Ibson make so many mistakes. That doesn't even happen in a team match. There were so many passes, and he even commented on them to me at halftime. That made the game even more difficult," says coach Joel Santana.
The one person who probably wasn't pleased with his son's performance is his father, Laís Silva. The two usually analyze matches.
- I really do criticize. I watch the games two, three times to see what he can improve - he says.
Fla regrets Renato Augusto's problem
Joel says the supporter didn't protect himself in the play where he suffered a sinking in the face
Eduardo Peixoto
In the very first game of 2008, Flamengo lost its first player for an extended period (watch the video below). Midfielder Renato Augusto suffered a sunken face and will likely be sidelined for 45 days.
He left the Maracanã stadium during the second half and went straight to a hospital in Rio's northern zone. The red-and-black player will undergo surgery this Monday. Coach Joel Santana expressed regret for the incident but issued a warning.
"Renato Augusto will be a huge loss for us. But this is actually educational for the other players. He didn't protect himself. A player has to jump with his arm. The guy came at him with everything and hit him. He'll be out for about two months," says the coach.
In the locker room, several players expressed concern about their teammate's health. Forward Souza, for example, inquired in detail about his condition.
"I'm very upset because Renato Augusto is a very high-quality player who comes to me to create a good mix-up. He'll definitely be missed," he says.
Joel eyes record number of titles
Coach wants to make Flamengo the biggest winner in the history of Carioca
Joel Santana seeks another state title
Accustomed to winning state titles, Flamengo coach Joel Santana stated that he intends to give greater importance to the Campeonato Carioca. The reason is that if they finish the competition as champions, Flamengo will equal Fluminense in terms of titles (Flamengo has 30, while Flamengo has 29).
"It's the history of Rio de Janeiro football. It's the first time Flamengo has had the opportunity to compete with Fluminense. This is a championship with great responsibility," says the coach.
Throw
Fla doesn't play well, but wins in the debut
Rubro-Negro beats Boavista 2-0 and shares the lead with Flu
Obina and Léo Moura celebrate with Souza the number 9's goal (Credit: Ricardo Cassiano)
LANCEPRESS!\ The debut wasn't perfect. Flamengo didn't play well, and the fans didn't turn out in such large numbers as they had in the 2007 Brasileirão, but at least they saw the Red-Blacks start the year with a victory: 2-0 over Boavista at the Maracanã, with goals from Souza and Fábio Luciano. With the result, the Red-Blacks share the lead in Group A with Fluminense.\
The negative point for Flamengo was the injury to Renato Augusto, who suffered a dented malar (a bone in the face) in a head-on clash. He was taken to the hospital.
Even playing with the same team that finished 2007, Flamengo struggled in the first half. Lacking rhythm, key players in Joel Santana's formation (such as full-backs Léo Moura, Juan, and Ibson) performed poorly, leaving the team with few playmaking options. Boavista could have capitalized but also struggled with a lack of creativity in midfield.
The two goalkeepers barely worked in the first half. Even with Flamengo dominating the game, Erivelton only made his first save in the 35th minute, following a free kick by Renato Augusto. On the rebound, the goalkeeper saved another shot, this time from Léo Moura. Until then, Flamengo's attack had attempted numerous passes without success.
For Boavista, Diego's biggest goal threat came in the 29th minute, also from a set piece. Following a corner, the left-footed player pounced on a rebound and crossed to Hélton's head. The ball went just wide of the left post.
In the end, Flamengo applied a little pressure, showing that if they had taken more risks, they could have opened the scoring. Renato Augusto, the best player in the first half, even tried a shot from outside the box, but Erivelton made a good save, keeping the score at zero.
For the second half, Joel Santana and Edinho made changes to their teams. Neither had much success in improving performance. At least the replacement of Cristian by the red-and-black coach Obina allowed Flamengo to have a stronger attacking presence, while Boavista limited itself to playing defensively.
But it took a change due to medical issues for Flamengo to open the scoring. Renato Augusto came off after clashing heads with the Boavista defense, and Marcinho came on. The midfielder, in his first play for Flamengo, stole the ball and started the counterattack. Obina passed it back to Marcinho, who left Souza free to score his first goal of the season in the 20th minute.
Instead of being thrilled by the goal, Flamengo ended up stalling, giving Boavista chances. Once again, the Saquarema team stumbled upon its own weaknesses and failed to capitalize. Flamengo revived itself again after 30 minutes, once again through Marcinho. The player capitalized on a good move by Léo Moura (the full-back's only one in the entire match) and headed the ball, but Erivelton saved. A minute later, it was Fábio Luciano's turn to come close to scoring a second goal with a beautiful header.
But the Flamengo captain didn't waste his second chance. In the 40th minute, Juan took a free kick into the box, Toró got tangled up with the defense, and the ball fell to Fábio Luciano, who fired home, leaving Erivelton no chance, and sealed the victory. The fans left happy with the victory, but knowing that Flamengo will need reinforcements to secure the state title.
Renato Augusto will be out for two months
Supporter suffers a sunken cheekbone after a head collision
Renato Augusto is supported to leave the field (Credit: Ricardo Cassiano)
LANCEPRESS!
The start of the year hasn't been good for Renato Augusto. After clashing heads with Boavista defender Hélton this Sunday, the Flamengo supporter got the worst of it. He suffered a depressed cheekbone and will require surgery this Monday. He's expected to be out of action for two months.
The midfielder already received support from his teammates after the 2-0 victory over Boavista. Upon learning what happened to the midfielder, Fábio Luciano was startled, but quickly showed camaraderie:
"It's just football, unfortunately. But now we have to pass on some positive energy so he can return to the group as soon as possible," he said.
The incident occurred in the 17th minute, when Renato Augusto went up for a head-butting challenge with Hélton and got the worst of it. The player fell to the ground, disoriented, but later regained consciousness. He left the field and was immediately taken to a hospital in Méier, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro, for an imaging exam.
Renato Augusto had already experienced a similar problem when he played for the Brazilian under-17 team.
Ibson receives tribute for his 100th game
Midfielder shows desire to stay at Flamengo
Ibson is one of Flamengo's highlights (Credit: Paulo Sergio)
LANCEPRESS!
One of the standouts of Flamengo's current squad, midfielder Ibson completed his 100th appearance for the Gávea club this Sunday against Boavista in the Guanabara Cup. The player received a commemorative plaque from Kléber Leite, vice president of football, for the achievement.
"It's an honor to have a player of this caliber, with this character. Our mission is to get him to 500 games for the club," said Kléber Leite.
Excited and happy, Ibson said that the most important thing is to be able to be useful to Flamengo.
"I hope I can deliver and stay longer at the club. What worries me now is this Sunday's game," the Porto player made clear.
Tardelli hopes to debut in a week
Flamengo striker recovers from right ankle injury
Diego Tardelli hopes to be on the field against Duque de Caxias (Credit: Paulo Sérgio)
LANCEPRESS!
Striker Diego Tardelli said in an interview with Rádio Globo on Sunday afternoon that he hopes to be on the field next weekend against Duque de Caxias. The player is recovering from a right ankle injury.
- I hope that by the weekend I'll be fine, able to train normally and be on the field with my teammates - he said.