THE GLOBE
Fla wins another and hopes against Flu to remain leader
With goals from Souza and Marcinho, the team effortlessly defeats Cabofriense
Photo caption: EVEN MARKED by Leandro Amaro, Juan crosses in the play that would result in the second goal, by Marcinho
Flamengo had no trouble defeating Cabofriense 2-0 yesterday at Maracanã. With 12 points, the team regained provisional leadership of Group A, a position it will retain if Fluminense draws or loses to Vasco in this afternoon's derby.
"We settled the game in the first half. Then we got into the swing of things for the Libertadores," said Juan.
With the full-back comfortable on the left flank, gaining the upper hand against the defenders, Flamengo opened the scoring in the seventh minute. Juan played a one-two with Renato Augusto and chipped the ball over goalkeeper Flávio. Souza, an opportunist, got there with a single effort, beating Leandro Amaro, to score. In the 15th minute, Juan crossed for Marcinho, who shot wide. The play was repeated in the 30th, but this time the forward beat Flávio to the lead and made it 2-0.
The red-black team slows down in the final stage
Cabofriense came out stronger in the second half and managed to get some good play. Bruno was a key player on headers from Marcão and Ênio, but especially on a free kick from Gérson in the 39th minute. With the lead firmly in place, Flamengo slowed down but came close to extending the lead twice, both times through Juan: in the 17th minute, with a free kick, and in the 43rd minute, when Flávio made a good save from a shot from the front.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Leonardo, Thiago Salles and Juan; Cristian, Kleberson (Toró), Ibson and Renato Augusto (Diego Tardelli); Marcinho and Souza (Maxi). Cabofriense: Flavio, Leandro Amaro, Enio and Douglas Assis (Weslei); Julinho, Marcão, Marcos Marin, Lucas Chiaretti and Têti (Charles); Vanderson (Gerson). Referee: Adriano Pereira Machado. Yellow cards: Marcão, Kleberson, Toró and Lucas Chiaretti. Paying audience: 12.398 Income: R$145.977,00.
Joel tries to make players forget the altitude of Cuzco
The club still harbors the remote hope of not playing in the Peruvian city.
Photo caption: JOEL SANTANA during a Flamengo training session: to avoid creating a ghost, the coach states that playing at altitude "is not something out of this world"
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
On the one hand, Flamengo's board still harbors a glimmer of hope that the CONMEBOL Executive Committee meeting on April 3rd will move the decisive Libertadores match against Cienciano away from Cuzco. On the other hand, doctors and physiologists are already preparing players with iron and vitamin supplements to face the 3.400m of the Peruvian city. Unaware of this, coach Joel Santana prefers to adopt another strategy: trying to demystify the altitude.
In a different approach to that adopted by the board, the coach has been working to avoid turning the rarefied air into an even greater adversary.
"We have to get ready to play. It's nothing out of this world. And for now, let's focus on the State Championship games. Now's not the time to dwell on that," said Joel.
Players who went to Potosí remember the drama
Unbeknownst to Flamengo, the Flamengo coach ended up giving the Peruvians ammunition. The local press gave the coach's statement wide coverage, precisely at a time when Flamengo claims that playing at altitude puts the players' lives at risk.
But Joel will have some work to do to achieve his goal. The players who were in Potosí last year remember the enormous difficulties Flamengo faced. The match in the Bolivian city was played at an altitude of 4.000 meters.
"Anyone who's been there knows it's not good. The altitude is always very challenging," says midfielder Renato Augusto, who showed symptoms of hypothermia in the locker room after the game against Real Potosí, causing concern among Flamengo's doctors.
To advance to the second round of the Copa Libertadores without relying on any other result, Flamengo needs to at least draw with Cienciano in Cuzco and beat Coronel Bolognesi at the Maracanã. The only way the team won't depend on the result of the match in Peru is if Cienciano loses to Coronel Bolognesi on Tuesday.
NATIONAL BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
Two matches take place today in the National Men's Basketball Championship. Flamengo, the league leader with 14 wins, visits Saldanha da Gama (ES) in Vitória at 11 a.m. Also today, at 20 p.m., in Rio Claro (SP), Ulbra/Rio Claro/ABCD/Bandeirantes hosts UTC/Uberlândia (MG).
SPORTS JOURNAL
Fla easily defeats Cabofriense
With goals from the attacking duo, Fla won 2-0
Roberto Murad rloureiro@jsports.com.br
Souza scored the first goal; Marcinho, who also scored, observes
Playing at Maracanã, the Rubro-Negro maintained their strong performance at home and comfortably defeated Cabofriense. The team needed only the first half to secure the victory. Souza and Marcinho scored both goals; Juan provided the assists for both goals.
The Red-Black team started the game with its starting lineup, except for the defensive duo. With Cristian, Ibson, Kleberson, and Renato Augusto in midfield, the team managed to move the ball around well. In the first half, the main plays came down the right side of Cabofriense's defense, especially with Juan.
Souza opened the scoring after just seven minutes. Renato Augusto delivered a beautiful pass to Juan, who beat the goalkeeper and crossed for Souza, who slotted home.
Flamengo slowed down the pace and controlled the match, Cabofriense was unable to reach the opponent's goal.
Thirty minutes in, Rubro-Negro doubled their lead, confirming their superiority. Juan once again went to the baseline, although this time played in by Souza, Marcinho capitalized on the cross and scored the second of the game.
In the second half, Flamengo did not try to increase the score and gave Cabofriense space to play, but the team from the Lagos Region did not have the quality to trouble the red-black defense.
Vanderson almost scored from a corner kick, but Bruno, well positioned, made a solid save. Chiaretti also tried to score, but the striker's shot was powerful but off target.
Joel Santana, disturbed by the attack's lackluster performance, made changes. Maxi and Tardelli replaced Souza and Renato Augusto. Both provided more movement, although they didn't score.
Gerson took a dangerous free kick for Cabofriense, the ball deflected, Bruno, alert, saved it.
Joel demands more attention
Coach says that, despite the victory, Fla made mistakes at some points in the match
Nathan de Lima and Alexandre Souza
Coach Joel Santana was pleased with the result, but even so, he pointed out flaws in the red-black team.
The 2-0 victory and provisionally regaining the lead in the Taça Rio brought a positive atmosphere in the red-and-black locker room after yesterday's match against Cabofriense. Coach Joel Santana analyzed the match and said he was pleased with the result, despite some defensive errors.
"We started well and quickly took the lead in the first half. Their team has a fast attack, with three players who move a lot. As my team began to tire, I started making substitutions. I know it wasn't a very easy victory, but at least it was convincing. I just think we're still lacking in some areas. Today (yesterday) we were already winning and our team started attacking in a completely disorganized way, more concerned with scoring the third goal than conceding the first, and that can't be the case," said Joel, who highly praised left-back Juan, one of the match's standout performers.
For the coach, Juan's excellent performance can also be explained by the weakness of Cabofriense's right-sided marking. "Juan is a great player and demonstrated that in today's (yesterday's) match. The player who played their right wing was improvised, and that's why we gained some good space there," commented the coach.
Press conferences were held at a brisk pace, as the entire Flamengo team will be off today. Joel Santana said he'll take advantage of his break to enjoy the lead he's secured.
"We're going to spend a Sunday at home, which is rare these days. This marathon of games is killing us. We're doing well in both competitions, and everyone knows that being ahead is always better," said Joel.
Regarding the recent controversies and arguments he had recently with his players, especially supporter Toró, Joel preferred to take out his anger on the Judas doll.
"Everything Toró does turns into a storm. Marcos from Palmeiras got into a complicated situation in São Paulo and I haven't heard anyone say anything. Rio de Janeiro football is turning into a game of gossip, so much so that I'm going home to prepare my club to beat up my Judas," joked Joel, who plans to field the starting lineup against Friburguense on Wednesday. "For today's game (yesterday), I decided to rest some players, but on Wednesday I plan to field the team I consider to be at full strength. But I'm still deciding," he added.
Game Character: Juan
Photo by Úrsula Nery
Left-back Juan was the best player on the pitch yesterday afternoon. He created Flamengo's best chances and had a hand in the goals.
If Flamengo failed to excite the fans, Juan made a point of putting on a show at left-back during yesterday's 2-0 victory over Cabofriense at Maracanã. Tireless, the player delivered fine passes, stunning dribbles, and was a constant support, both defensively and offensively. He was the one who sparked the team's key attacking moves. Despite not making his mark, Juan masterfully orchestrated the team's goals. In the first, early on, he showed great class by chipping the ball over goalkeeper Flávio, laying it off on a platter for Souza to open the scoring. On Marcinho's goal, Juan demonstrated that leaving him unmarked is a capital mistake. This allowed the full-back to deliver a perfect cross, and the number 22 returned the favor by tapping the ball into the back of the net. Even when Flamengo cooled down in the second half, Juan stood out.
Ibson's future, uncertainty that worries Fla
Midfielder Ibson (pictured) played well yesterday against Cabofriense, but the main topic of conversation in the locker room after the game was the comments he made to a Portuguese website. In the interview, Ibson discussed the possibility of returning to Porto in July. Despite trying to avoid discussing the topic, the player had to comment on it.
"I'm calm, I left it with my father and my agent. Of course, I end up being a little anxious for everything to be resolved soon. I know that staying at Flamengo won't be easy, but I haven't sat down with anyone to talk about it yet. I'll keep my head here until June, but my contract with Porto runs until 2011," said Ibson, without at any point stating whether or not he wants to continue at Gávea.
Regarding the match, the player considered the victory important, especially because the team took the lead in Group A of the Rio Cup. Ibson took the opportunity to warn everyone that, contrary to popular belief, the Campeonato Carioca is not essentially a four-team tournament between the big teams.
"It was a good game, especially because we managed to get all three points. I don't think playing only at Maracanã takes away from the fun of the Campeonato Carioca, especially because, besides having some good teams, it's difficult for some smaller teams, as they can't afford to host us in their stadiums. Not to mention it's much better for our fans, who don't have to travel to Cardoso Moreira, for example," said Ibson, forgetting that Flamengo's fans are spread throughout Brazil. In the city of Cardoso Moreira, for example, Flamengo fans are the majority.
Marcio Braga sparks Peruvian anger
Marcio Braga's request to ban high-altitude games is generating a diplomatic conflict. Juvenal Silva, president of Peru's Cienciano, is already considering suing the president of Flamengo. He believes Braga is damaging tourism in Cuzco.
On the eve of their match against Cienciano, at an altitude of 3400 meters above the city of Cuzco, Flamengo is witnessing a battle unfolding off the field. Juvenal Silva, president of the Peruvian club, expressed outrage at Marcio Braga's request to ban matches at altitude and harshly criticized the Flamengo president.
"He doesn't realize he's creating an atmosphere against Flamengo and intimidating his players," the director declared in an interview with the Folha de São Paulo website. For Juvenal Silva, Márcio Braga, by calling for a ban on games at altitude, is tarnishing the image of the city of Cuzco. "Marcio Braga doesn't consider the damage he's causing to our tourism industry. He's mistaken and is simply trying to create a silly confrontation with his words, simply out of fear of playing in the imperial city at an altitude of 3400 meters," said Juvenal Silva, who also added that the Peruvian club is considering appealing to international authorities to sue Flamengo's president.
Even with the controversy created, the president of Cienciano made a point of stating that security for the game on the 9th is guaranteed, and that there will be no hostility towards the red-black team.
Marcio Braga has been protesting against games at altitude since last year, and even stated that Flamengo would not play in Cusco or any other city with an altitude above 2.750m, which FIFA recommends.
Europeans threaten boycott
President of the European Parliament demands a solution to the conflict in Tibet before going to Beijing
Photos Disclosure
The Chinese people are excited, but the Europeans, through Pottering, threaten a boycott
The specter of Moscow 1980 and Los Angeles 84 has once again haunted the Olympic community. In both editions, political issues prevented athletes from various countries from participating during the Cold War era. In 1980, it was the capitalist bloc that didn't go, and in 1984, the socialist bloc, led by the Soviet Union.
Yesterday, in an interview with a German newspaper, the President of the European Parliament, German Hans Gert Pöttering, threatened China with a boycott of the Beijing Olympic Games, due to the strong repression against the Tibetan population, and called on the Chinese government to negotiate with the Dalai Lama.
Firm position
"We cannot rule out a boycott of the Olympics. We want the Games to be successful, but not if the price is the cultural genocide of the Tibetans that the Dalai Lama speaks of," commented the politician, who has great influence in the so-called European Community.
"Beijing must make up its mind and negotiate immediately with the Dalai Lama. If it sees no signs of rapprochement, I will consider the boycott measures legitimate," Pöttering said.
The Berlin government has set a deadline for China to account for what happened in Tibet. According to German Foreign Minister Franz Walter Steinmeier, China must be more open to public opinion, especially with the Olympic Games approaching.
Warning
"Making brilliant television shows while chaos reigns in your own country is something that can no longer happen today," Steinmeier told the German newspaper Bild.
The president of the International Olympic Committee, Swiss Jacques Rougge, said he does not believe that political issues will hinder the development of the Beijing Games.
"I think the Olympic movement has reached maturity, and politics and sport cannot be mixed. I'm convinced that everything will go well in Beijing. I'm not considering the possibility of a boycott by any country."
Quarry in Espírito Santo
Undefeated, Flamengo faces the strong Saldanha da Gama in the National Men's Basketball Championship
Eduardo Vieira
Public Relations
Unity has been Flamengo's strong point during the National and South American competitions
Flamengo will face another tough challenge to maintain its unbeaten record in the National Men's Basketball Championship: against Saldanha da Gama, at 11 a.m. in Vitória. Flamengo has 14 wins and, with a victory, will be very close to securing first place in the qualifying round.
A good result would boost the team's morale, as they face a tough match against Sol de América of Paraguay on Tuesday in the quarterfinals of the South American League. Teamwork has been Flamengo's strong point, according to coach Paulo Chupeta. So far, they have played 18 games and won 18 matches across both competitions.
The coach says that without the quality of his group, he wouldn't have achieved good results. "It's no use having just two or three good players. You need a quality group. That's Flamengo's strength. Furthermore, we have the right strategy to exploit the quality of our athletes, like Marcelinho, Duda, Amiel, and others," said Chupeta, who guarantees that not even the Dream Team wins with a basketball name.
"I don't consider the American team the favorite to win the gold medal. European basketball has evolved a lot, and several teams can surpass the Dream Team. Having so many stars on a team doesn't guarantee victory."
This group is well exemplified by Flamengo, which has two quality point guards (Fred and Hélio), shooting guards with good marking ability (Marcelinho, Duda, Amiel, and Fernando Mineiro), and centers who are efficient in fighting for rebounds (Coloneze, Wagner, and Alírio). However, it lacks a major title, after all, the club has never won the Brazilian Championship or the South American League.
Last Friday, Flamengo struggled but defeated Cetaf 80-78. Forward Marcelinho Machado highlighted the team's resilience. He is the competition's top scorer with 353 points:
"We beat a very tough team, which valued our victory, defended strongly, and held the score evenly throughout the game. We had a good last quarter, the team settled in again, we got our positioning right, and we hit the counterattacks. The victory was the most important thing, whether it was by two or 40 points, it wouldn't have mattered; we needed to win. Congratulations to the entire team for the will and heart we showed on the court."
Saldanha da Gama: Leandro, Alessandro, Daniel, Laurence and Brian\ Coach: Ênio Vecchi\
Flamengo: Fred, Duda, Marcelinho, Coloneze and Alírio\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\
Location: Saldanha da Gama Gymnasium\ Time: 11am\
Marcos de Castro
Gourd Bath
Lots of light
Marcos de Castro castro@jsports.com.br
Not long ago, Holy Week Wednesday was called Dark Wednesday. For Rio de Janeiro soccer, this Holy Week was a Wednesday of light. Fla and Flu, in their matches at Maracanã and in Asunción, displayed joy, foresight, dedication, grit, and class. In a word: their spirits are intelligently focused on the greatness of the Copa Libertadores.
Flamengo was coming off two sad moments: the loss in Montevideo to the same Nacional that now beat them at Maracanã and the match against Botafogo, in which, more than the defeat, the behavior of some players, especially Toró, was sad. A special mention is due to Toró. He's still a boy. I know he's coming of age, 21, but as a professional, he's still a boy. Because a boy, to become a Man, with a capital H, can't do what he's done.
First, he shoved a 13-year-old boy during the Uruguay game. It would be an exaggeration to say he assaulted the boy; a shove isn't enough. There was the heat of the game, the desire to win, but nothing justifies brutality against a 13-year-old. Even worse, much worse, was the kick he landed on Botafogo goalkeeper Castillo's head, while he was lying on the ground. Therefore, it was an act of cowardice. Now, I don't want to believe Toró is a coward. He even has a charming, childish manner, despite the spirit with which he plays. But he must restrain himself from repeating a thoughtless act like the one that, given the circumstances, is characterized as cowardice. May Toró seriously reflect on this matter, like the adult the boy is becoming. And never again confuse things in his little head so that he descends into cowardice. Channel your will, your struggle, towards good, towards the passion of victory with fair play: that, yes, will make him a Man.
Let's go back to Wednesday. How beautiful was Fluminense's determination to turn the game around in Paraguay! How beautiful was Flamengo's spirited reliving its best moments of 2007! How moving is the red-and-black fans providing the backdrop to this luminous scene!
And Santos? They wanted to beat San José on Saint Joseph's Day. It was too much, wasn't it?
THE DAY
Fla 'goes in with a bang' and beats Cabofriense 2-0
Rio - Not wanting to leave any room for misfortune, Flamengo decided to go all out against Cabofriense. And it was with a goal like that, from striker Souza, that the red-and-blacks' 2-0 victory began to take shape this Saturday at Maracanã. Marcinho scored the second goal, which sealed the match's final score.
Flamengo started the game at practice pace, giving the impression they wouldn't pressure the team from the Lagos Region. However, just seven minutes in, Flamengo opened the scoring. Juan went to the byline and crossed for Souza, who got ahead of the defender and scored with a single effort. Cabofriense coach Aílton Ferraz complained about a foul, but the referee allowed the goal.
In the 14th minute, Juan made another move down the left. This time, the cross found Marcinho's chest, who controlled it and shot wide. At this point in the game, Flamengo was more relaxed and looking for a second goal, but the team was lacking in finishing.
The second came in the 30th minute, in another good play by Juan, who was having an excellent match. The full-back crossed and Marcinho scored: 2-0.
In the second half, the Flamengo team came back sluggish, and Cabofriense finally arrived. Fabinho made a good play and passed the ball to Lucas in the box, but the defense managed to clear it. The game slowed down and became boring. Unthreatened by their opponents, Flamengo didn't increase the pace. Cabofriense only threatened again in the 39th minute, with a Gerson free kick that was well saved by Bruno.
Almost at the end, Juan, the best on the field, still had the chance to score the third, but Flávio appeared well and prevented another goal for the red-blacks.
Marcinho, the hero of the Libertadores
Janir Junior
Rio - Marcinho lost his starting spot for Flamengo, but not his desire to fight for it back. The player was rewarded and lived up to expectations. Substitute for Diego Tardelli in Wednesday's match against Nacional, he scored both goals in the 2-1 victory and became the top scorer in the Copa Libertadores with three goals.
"I never gave up, I always worked hard because I knew my moment would come. I was happy against Nacional and I hope to keep scoring goals," said Marcinho, who wears the number 22 jersey.
At Flamengo, Marcinho is playing as a true striker for the first time. "I don't see any problems; anything goes for the team," emphasizes the player, whose original position is the fourth midfielder. "Although I feel more comfortable as the man who comes in to serve the strikers, I'm well adapted." Before being the hero of the victory against Nacional, Marcinho had already scored the winning goal in the 2-1 victory over Cienciano.
“I was on the bench, Joel brought me on in the second half and I was lucky enough to score,” recalls the player.
Before arriving at Gávea, Marcinho was rejected by Atlético-MG. Prior to that, he had played for Grêmio, Turkish football, and Cruzeiro, where he won two Minas Gerais state championships, a Copa do Brasil, and a Brasileirão. With Flamengo, he got a taste of the Guanabara Cup.
"Flamengo is a great club that gives you exposure. I believe I'm at the best moment of my career," said Marcinho, who has received support from the children who frequent the club: "Their affection is sincere. It's great to be celebrated by the kids," the player concluded.
PELENET
Without the slightest effort, Flamengo beats Cabofriense in the Rio Cup
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo comfortably defeated Cabofriense 2-0 this Saturday at the Maracanã stadium in the fifth round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. Souza and Marcinho scored the goals.
With the victory, Flamengo reached 12 points in Group A of the Rio Cup and provisionally leads the table. Fluminense, with ten points, plays this Sunday against Vasco. Cabofriense, without the risk of relegation, remains stuck at four points in Group B.
In the next round, Flamengo faces Friburguense this Wednesday at 21:45 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium. On the same day, but at 20:30 p.m., Cabofriense hosts Macaé in Cabo Frio.
Flamengo started the game on top of Cabofriense. Souza opened the scoring after just seven minutes. Flamengo continued to press, always down the left flank with Juan, and could have even extended their lead.
Because the advantage was so great, Flamengo's performance dropped. However, when Cabofriense began to rally, Flamengo scored the second goal and went into halftime with all three points secured.
"We're doing well. Cabofriense even had a few chances to equalize, but we managed to get the second goal, which gives us a lot of peace of mind," said striker Souza.
Flamengo returned for the second half somewhat sluggish. As a result, Cabofriense "grew up" and dominated the first ten minutes. However, the far superior Flamengo team had complete control of the action.
Even with the win, Joel Santana wasn't satisfied. To revamp the team, the coach, in the 27th minute, took off Souza and brought on Argentine Maxi Biancucchi. Four minutes later, Diego Tardelli came on for Renato Augusto.
Joel Santana even replaced Kléberson with Toró. Flamengo had a chance to score a third goal, but the score remained unchanged. Goalkeeper Flávio ultimately saved Cabofriense.
Joel Santana descata: "It was a convincing victory"
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Joel Santana didn't want to rest his starters this Saturday against Cafofriense, in a fifth-round match of the Taça Rio, the second half of the State Championship. The result was evident in the second half. Flamengo's players clearly took their foot off the gas, and the 2-0 score, built in the first half, remained unchanged.
"I felt that some players were tired and I started making substitutions. It wasn't an easy victory, but it was convincing. What matters is the result. If we win the next two games, against Friburguense and Madureira, we'll be through to the Taça Rio semifinals," he analyzed.
At times in the second half, Flamengo faced threats from dangerous counterattacks from Cabofriense. Joel Santana said this was normal, especially given the quality of the opponent.
"It was a victory in which Flamengo quickly gained an advantage. Cabofriense, one of the smaller teams, is one of the best because they have a fast attack. The game was back and forth. That was the tone in the second half," said the coach, who intends to use his best players against Friburguense.
"On Wednesday, I intend to deploy maximum available strength. We have some scratches, but I hope that everything will be resolved by Tuesday," concluded the red-black commander.
Flamengo players admit to a "slow pace" in the second half
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo secured a 2-0 victory over Cabofriense this Saturday at Maracanã Stadium in the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship, in the first half. After Souza and Marcinho scored, the team slowed down and simply controlled the game, avoiding physical wear and tear.
According to Leonardo Moura, Flamengo did its job well. "It was a comfortable victory, which makes things easier for the midweek game. Our first objective was achieved," the right-back emphasized, referring to the duel with Friburguense, this Wednesday at 21:45 p.m., at Maracanã.
Ibson echoed his teammate's words. "The most important thing was the three points. It's normal to score two quick goals and slow down the pace. We have a tough game ahead of us against Friburguense," he commented.
Marcinho, who scored the second goal, was pleased to have followed coach Joel Santana's instructions. "He asked me to, and I did everything right. I scored a goal and kept moving the whole time," the Flamengo supporter remarked.
For now, Ibson forgets Porto-POR and focuses only on Fla
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Midfielder Ibson had a calm performance, as did the entire Flamengo team, in the 2-0 victory over Cabofriense this Saturday at Maracanã, in the fifth round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. The player, who could leave the club at the end of his loan (he belongs to Porto-POR) in June, says he is focused solely on the Rubro-Negro.
"The team did very well and is already thinking about Wednesday's game against Friburguense, which will also be difficult. As for my likely departure from the club, I'm calm, because my father and agent will sort everything out. I'll stay focused on the field," said Ibson, hoping that everything will be resolved as quickly as possible.
"I haven't spoken to them (father and agent) yet. I have to be in good shape to do a good job. My good performances could make it difficult for me to stay, as Porto's directors are aware of my performance at Flamengo," he recalled.
Coach Joel Santana says it's still too early to speculate about Ibson's departure. "There's a lot that can happen. He's a homegrown player. We haven't lost him yet, and if he wants to stay, he will. It's all up to him," the club's manager declared.
GLOBOESPORTE
Timemania's top prize rolls over
Anyone who matches seven numbers in the next contest could win a millionaire sum.
Anyone who guessed all seven numbers could win a prize of R$2,2 million. No one guessed all seven numbers in the Timemania draw 4, held on Saturday night, March 22nd, in Itaperuna, Rio de Janeiro. The prize expected for the next draw could reach R$03 million. The numbers drawn were: 2,2 – 66 – 71 – 15 – 38 - 70 – 68. The club drawn was São Raimundo, from Amazonas.
In the six-hit range of contest 4, three bettors got six numbers right and each will receive R$91.378,01. Contest 5 of Timemania will be drawn next Saturday, 29/03, in Nova Lima (MG).
To play, the bettor marks 10 numbers from the 80 available on the betting slip. Whoever matches all seven numbers wins the top prize. Prizes are also available for matching six, five, four, or three numbers. The bettor must also choose a favorite team from the 80 clubs on the slip.
In each contest, one team will be drawn, and the winner will receive a refund of their bet (R$2,00), regardless of the other prize categories. Bets can be placed until 19 p.m. (Brasília time) on the day of the draw.
Ibson: 'I'm looking forward to resolving this'
Steering wheel says he intends to decide soon whether he will go to Porto or stay in Gávea
Fred Huber
After Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Cabofriense (watch the highlights below) this Saturday, midfielder Ibson was present at the press conference. The player, however, spoke little about the match. All the questions were about his future, as his loan to Flamengo ends in June, and the club has not yet negotiated a possible stay with Porto. In an interview with a Portuguese website, he hinted that his return to the Portuguese club is very likely. This Saturday, at the Maracanã, he said he is very anxious to know where he will play.
"I'm eager to resolve this, but I'm thinking about Flamengo; my mind is on this right now. My stay won't be easy. I haven't talked much about it yet; my father (Laís Silva) and my agent (Eduardo Uram) will decide. I want to resolve my situation soon," he says.
Coach Joel Santana preferred to downplay the situation. He believes Flamengo's board still has time to resolve the situation and extend Ibson's tenure at the club.
"Ibson is a great player, he grew up here, he's a Flamengo player. His contract ends in June, and the board will try everything to get him to stay. It's all up to him," he says.
Joel Santana comes to Toró's defense
Against Cabofriense, player receives yellow card after just two minutes on the field
Fred Huber
On Friday, coach Joel Santana said he was considering starting Toró for Saturday's match against Cabofriense. He decided against it and kept Kléberson in the team. In the second half, Toró came on and, just two minutes into the match, received a yellow card for a foul from behind in the attacking half (see the incident in the video below). Coach Joel Santana, however, said they are pursuing the midfielder. He stated that now is the time to give the player support and complained that there is "too much gossip with Flamengo."
"I haven't seen Toró do anything. They're demanding too much, creating a soap opera, a nightmare. When Marcos (from Palmeiras, who assaulted an opponent in the Campeonato Paulista) was involved, no one said anything. Toró is 21 years old, a young man in development. Since I arrived, he's been important to the team. Instead of finding fault, we're trying to help. I didn't want to put him in from the start because they'd blame him for anything. Rio de Janeiro football is rife with gossip, especially when it comes to Flamengo," he says.
After delivering his message, Joel said goodbye to the journalists in good humor.
- I'm going home to work out Judas now - he says.
Joel: 'Victory was convincing'
Flamengo coach praises the team and says that, on Wednesday, he will likely field the starting players again.
Fred Huber
Cabofriense's fragility, which didn't demand much from Flamengo, made life easier for the Rubro-Negro this Saturday at Maracanã. The 2-0 victory pleased coach Joel Santana (watch the highlights of the match in the video below). He celebrated the fact that the team had added three more points, putting them atop Group A of the Taça Rio and closer to qualifying for the semifinals of the competition.
"It wasn't an easy victory, but it was convincing. Being ahead is always more satisfying. We took the field and built up the advantage. Cabofriense is a good team, they have a fast attack. Then it was back and forth, that was the tone of the second half. Then, I noticed some players were getting tired, so I started making substitutions. We were very worried about the third goal, and it couldn't be like that. It had to be more calm, calm. Things are going well, and we hope to qualify for the match against Vasco," he says, referring to the final round of the second half.
Midfielder Ibson said the team was a bit worn out, and the most important thing was getting three points. He noted that it's normal for a team to relax when it quickly opens up a lead.
"The most important thing is the three points. We had a tough game in the Libertadores, and the heat was intense today. In the first half, we scored the goals and then had to hold off Cabofriense's attacks. It's normal for a team to fall behind when you score two quick goals. Now we have time to rest and think about Wednesday's game," he says.
In training rhythm, Fla beats Cabofriense
Marcinho scores again, and the team takes provisional leadership of Group A of the Rio Cup
Fred Huber
Flamengo effortlessly defeated Cabofriense 2-0 this Saturday at Maracanã in the fifth round of the Taça Rio. With the result, Flamengo reached 12 points and provisionally took the lead in Group A. The team is now rooting against Fluminense, who have ten points and face Vasco this Sunday. The team from Cabo Frio remains with four. Marcinho, the hero of the Libertadores match against Nacional, scored again. Souza also found the net, but the ball was offside - the player went in with his heel during the challenge.
In the next round, on Wednesday at 21:45 p.m., at the Maracanã stadium, Flamengo faces Friburguense. On the same day, at 20:30 p.m., Cabofriense hosts Macaé.
From the opening whistle, Flamengo dominated the action with a captivating passing style in midfield. Just three minutes in, after a beautiful one-two between Souza and Ibson, the ball reached Cristian, who took a shot from outside the box. The ball sailed past goalkeeper Flávio's right post. It didn't take long for Flamengo's superiority to translate into a goal. In the seventh minute, Juan received a great pass from Renato Augusto inside the box and chipped the ball over the goalkeeper's head. Souza got in front of the defender and, with an irregular effort, slotted the ball into the back of the net: 1-0.
With the lead, Flamengo slowed down and gave Cabofriense space. The visitors perked up and pushed forward more. In the 21st minute, Julinho unleashed a rocket from outside the box, scaring goalkeeper Bruno. In the 26th minute, in the Cabo Frio team's best chance, Fabinho led a counterattack alone, entered the box, but shot poorly, missing a good opportunity to equalize.
The scares forced Flamengo to speed up the game. On the left flank, the team from Gávea was roaming and managed to extend their lead. In the 30th minute, Souza sent a great pass to Juan, who crossed from the baseline and found the foot of Marcinho, who outwitted the defender and slotted the ball into the net: 2-0, effortlessly.
In the second half, foot on the brake and no goal
Flamengo came back from the locker room more restrained. However, with their opponents struggling to reach the box, they weren't much of a threat. In the tenth minute, Renato Augusto burst into the Cabofriense box from the right, but, as goalkeeper Flávio came out, he shot low and wide. The Cabo Frio team responded with a set piece. In the 21st minute, Vanderson took a corner kick that Weslei headed, but Bruno made the save.
Souza, one of the players who showed the most determination on the field, nearly scored his second of the match in the 23rd minute. From the edge of the box, the number 9 shot; the ball deflected midway, but alert Flávio managed to palm it away for a corner. A minute later, Thiago Salles's header also scared the Cabo Frio fans. In the 39th minute, Toró came on for Kleberson, and two minutes later he was already booked for a foul committed from behind.
Near the end of the game, in the 43rd minute, Juan drew the final "uh" from the Flamengo fans. From the right, Maxi passed the ball to the left-back, who fired a first-time shot, forcing Flávio to scramble to make the save.
THROW
In training rhythm, Flamengo beats Cabofriense
No scares, the team does just enough to add three more points
Players celebrate Souza's goal, which paved the way for another Flamengo victory (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)
LANCEPRESS!
Led by Juan, Renato Augusto, and Souza, Flamengo defeated Cabofriense 2-0 at training pace and provisionally took the lead in Group A of the Rio Cup with 12 points. Souza and Marcinho scored the goals.
To stay at the top of their group, Rubro-Negro has to beat Fluminense this Sunday, when Tricolor plays the classic against Vasco.
Flamengo started the match by dominating every inch of the pitch. Just three minutes in, Cristian appeared in the middle of the Flamengo attack and unleashed a powerful shot just wide of Flávio's right post.
In the seventh minute, in a debatable play, the Red-Blacks opened the scoring. Renato Augusto delivered a beautiful pass to Juan, who outpaced goalkeeper Flávio and lifted the ball into the box. Defender Douglas Assis was slow to clear the ball and was surprised by Souza, who, with a single effort, opened the scoring.
Cabofriense, harmless to Flamengo in the opening moments of the game, only showed its face in the 21st minute: Julinho, from the left, unleashed a powerful shot that grazed Bruno's crossbar. Five minutes later, the team from the Lagos Region posed more danger: Fabinho, in a solo play, shook off several opponents and, with his right foot, nearly tied the game.
If Aílton Ferraz's team attempted a comeback, it fizzled out in the 30th minute. Souza returned to his own half and, with a beautiful pass, found Juan. The Flamengo number 6 delivered a perfect cross to Marcinho, who, with a light touch of his right foot, extended Flamengo's lead.
After the break, the tone of the match remained the same: it was all Flamengo. In the ninth minute, Kleberson made a beautiful individual play and crossed into the middle of the box, but Leandro Amaro prevented the third goal for Flamengo. A minute later, Renato Augusto almost scored.
Danger once again loomed over Cabofriense's goal in the 17th minute. Juan, with a beautiful free kick, almost scored.
In the 32nd minute, Renato Augusto, to much applause, gave way to Diego Tardelli. And just seconds after entering the field, Tardelli nearly scored the third goal, heading in from close range. Flávio, well positioned, made a stunning save.
Toró, who came on in the 39th minute, received a yellow card a minute later for a violent foul.
Juan, one of the best on the pitch, nearly scored in the 43rd minute. With a rocket, the full-back finished off a beautiful play by Maxi, but Flávio saved it.
Irritated, Joel returns to defend midfielder Toró
Against Cabofriense, player received yellow card after committing a violent foul\ LANCEPRESS!\
This Saturday, Toró received a yellow card one minute after coming on as a substitute in Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Cabofriense. The warning to Flamengo's number 21 was for a violent foul. Joel Santana, however, believes his favorite wasn't even fouled.
radio l! - He didn't do anything. I think he needs to stop and do something else. Nothing happened. He didn't make a single lump. Sometimes you headbutt a window and get a bruise. They're creating a very serious situation for the boy - vented the Man with the Clipboard. (Click and hear more)
To defend his pupil, Joel claimed that the yellow card was given in error and, when praising Toró, listed the qualities of the 21-year-old midfielder.
"I don't know why they gave him a card. Toró is 21 years old, a young man in development, who spent a year forgotten at Flamengo. He's dealing with some personal issues. He's a delicate, super cool guy. I'm taking care of him because of these things that are happening. Rio de Janeiro football is full of gossip," he said.
Goalkeeper Bruno says he had to be more focused
The goalkeeper's statement is due to the fact that Cabofrisne did not attack much\ LANCEPRESS!\
The fact that Cabofriense posed little threat to the red-black goal in this Saturday's game, won 2-0 by Flamengo, was seen by goalkeeper Bruno as something that required him to redouble his attention in the match.
- This type of game is more difficult, because the ball takes a while to arrive, you stay cold and have to redouble your concentration to avoid being surprised - he explained.
In Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Cabofriense, Bruno only appeared to block the opponent's aerial balls, in addition to making a good save from a free kick taken by Gérson, at the end of the game.
Vinícius Pacheco in Atlético-PR's sights
Flamengo's supporter may be announced in the coming days
Flamengo's board of directors will not hinder negotiations (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
Nelson Ayres RIO DE JANEIRO
Tiago Pereira CURITIBA
Still in the hunt for reinforcements for the 2008 season, Atlético Paranaense could sign attacking midfielder Vinícius Pacheco in the coming days. He currently plays for Flamengo and Paraná last season. When contacted by LANCENET!, the player confirmed the information, as did Kléber Leite, vice president of football for the Rio de Janeiro club.
"There was contact last week, but we're still negotiating. I'm happy with the interest; it's a great club, but nothing's finalized yet," said the player, who will have Flamengo's permission to negotiate.
"Atlético Paranaense officials have approached us, and I believe negotiations will progress in the coming days. Flamengo will not make the player's loan any harder," Kléber Leite added.
Flamengo recently loaned midfielder Claiton to Furacão in exchange for Cristian. Last Thursday, Léo Medeiros was signed on loan until the end of the year, having been with Flamengo until 2010.
Joel: 'We've reached 60% of our goal'
Coach aims for victories over Friburguense and Madureira\ LANCEPRESS!\
Concerned about securing a spot in the Rio Cup semifinals as quickly as possible, Joel Santana believes that with the victory over Cabofriense this Saturday, Flamengo is already more than halfway there. In the coach's view, victories in the next two games, against Friburguense and Madureira, will give Flamengo peace of mind.
"We've achieved 60% of our goal. If we win the next two games, we'll be in a very comfortable position. But they won't be easy games. Friburguense has a good team, and Madureira beat two big teams (Vasco and Botafogo)," he emphasized.
For Wednesday's game against Cabofriense, Joel intends to field a full-strength Flamengo squad, unlike what he did this Saturday, when he rested Fabio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim.
"On Wednesday, I hope to be at full strength. We have a few scratches, but I hope to finalize the adjustments I'll make by Tuesday. I know I can't wear out some players, but I want to be at full strength," he concluded.
Joel highlights the good performance of full-back Juan
Coach says he exploited Cabofriense's marking deficiencies\ LANCEPRESS!\
Pleased with Flamengo's performance in the 2-0 victory over Cabofriense, Joel Santana named Juan as his main attacking weapon in this Saturday's game.
"In today's game (Saturday), he was our main offensive weapon. They had a player who adapted as a winger, who's good with the ball at his feet, but doesn't mark very well. We were better equipped to play on their right side," the coach concluded.
Joel highlighted that Flamengo's attacking strength on the flanks is nothing new, stating that the team will continue to look for plays on the flanks.
"Juan is an attacking player. We have a team that knows how to attack. At Maracanã, we've always been able to score goals. Juan will continue to attack, just like Léo Moura," he concluded.
Juan evaluates his performance as positive
Left-back provided both assists for the red-black goals\ LANCEPRESS!\
Juan, who crossed for Souza and Marcinho's goals in Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Cabofriense, was happy with his performance, highlighting that he was successful in his attacks on the right side of the Lagos Region team's defense.
"I was able to get into our attacking left side well, and we killed the game in the first half. When I received the ball in good conditions, I was happy," he celebrated.
The red-black number 6, with six assists, is the player who has provided the most assists for Flamengo's goals in this State Championship.
Marcinho attributes success to tactical obedience
Attacking midfielder says Joel Santana asks him for movement and goals\ LANCEPRESS!\
After scoring another goal for Flamengo - this Saturday, he scored once in the red-black team's 2-0 victory over Cabofriense, Marcinho attributed his good form to the fact that he followed the instructions of coach Joel Santana.
"I try to do what Joel has been asking me to do, which is score goals and move. That's been bringing me luck," he celebrated, speaking to Rádio Globo.
In 17 games for Flamengo, the red-black number 22 scored five goals - three in the Libertadores and two in the State Championship.