The Globe
Youth, rain and cold, Fla's opponents in the South
Joel demands that the team forget about playing nice and think about winning ugly.
CAXIAS DO SUL, RS. Coach Joel Santana demands that Flamengo learn to play on the opponent's turf and, if necessary, even kick the ball high in the air when the situation gets tough. And he's right. The weather forecast for this afternoon in Caxias do Sul, where Flamengo and Juventude face off at 16 p.m., is cold and rainy. That's exactly what Juventude coach Beto Almeida wanted, knowing that Flamengo doesn't usually play well on heavy, wet pitches. Yesterday, due to the inclement weather, the Rio de Janeiro team trained at the hotel.
With 26 points and in the relegation zone, Juventude knows that today's game is one of those rare opportunities to improve their position. Joel shares the same sentiment, seeing Flamengo, with 33 points, in jeopardy.
"We're two points away from the Copa Sudamericana and the relegation zone. Our problem is serious. This is a six-point game, and we need to know how to play at our opponent's home ground," says Joel, worried.
A defender who wasn't shy about taking long shots, he demands that his defense put vanity aside and play with vigor:
"Football is math. My defense is one of the leakiest, so I have to protect the defense. And they need to know when to kick the ball. I hope it doesn't happen like against Inter. I warned them not to go out and play, and we conceded two goals like that."
Youth: Michel Alves, Nunes, Danilo, Julio Cesar and William; Marcão, Vanzini, Fabio Baiano (Renato) and Cazumba; Tadeu and Bruno. Flamengo: Bruno Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Romulo, Cristian, Jailton and Toró; Souza and Maxi. Referee: Evandro Rogério Roman (PR).
TRANSMISSION: Rede Globo and Rádios Globo and CBN
CARPET
STJD in the dock
Never has a Brazilian sports court been so powerful. Never has it been so contested.
Photo caption: OBINA HEARS the Disciplinary Committee's verdict: 120-day suspension. Punishment considered excessive even by a Superior Court of Justice (STJD) auditor.
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Last Tuesday, Obina sat in the dock. Across from him, Wladimir Cassani, an auditor at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), was preparing to vote. He seemed confident, convinced that the red-and-black player had assaulted Internacional's Índio. But when it came time to vote, his expression changed. He looked uncomfortable.
"What needs to change is the code. It's a lot for this guy to go 120 days without playing," he said, bound by the minimum sentence stipulated in Article 253, which punishes assault.
The case illustrates the woes of a court that has seen its power multiply, especially after the annulment of 11 matches in the 2005 Brazilian Championship. But this same court tries to deal with unresolved issues that lead to its challenges. The Superior Court of Justice (STJD) rules on those who weren't sent off, classifies as assault those who, in the referee's opinion, committed only a serious foul. It even rules on interviews.
- Sports Justice is an example in Brazil - says Rubens Approbato, president of the STJD.
But power masks problems. Starting with the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD), the basis for trials. Approved in December 2004 by a committee formed by the Ministry of Sports and revised in 2006, it was hailed as the toughest in history. Today, it is criticized. Approbato is working to force the Ministry to conduct a review:
"It's about time. There are harsh penalties, others lenient. Some, in monetary terms, are very high and the same for clubs in all divisions. Sometimes, even when convicted of guilt, the court acquits because the club can't pay."
One example is Article 213, which punishes pitch invasions and objects thrown by fans. Fines range from R$10 to R$200.
Clubs come together and want change
Disparities in rulings are common between the two levels of the Superior Court of Justice (STJD): the Disciplinary Committees and the full court, which only hears appeals. Many cases originate from prosecutors' complaints about violations overlooked by referees. Clubs complain.
"Grêmio lost Tcheco three games because of TV footage. He served his suspension. Days later, the full court acquitted him. And who pays for Grêmio's losses?" asks Kleber Leite, Flamengo's vice president of football.
He says that in the coming days, Serie A clubs will meet and propose changes to the court.
"There's abuse of power. In Europe, Felipão punched a player and was suspended for four games. Here, Obina retaliated during a game and was suspended for 120 days," says Kleber.
The disparate judgments multiply. Suspended for doping for 120 days by the Disciplinary Committee, Dodô was acquitted after an appeal. Mano Menezes, Grêmio's coach, went from a 30-day suspension to acquittal. The same applies to Dorival Junior, who was suspended for 120 days in the first instance. In the STJD plenary session on September 13, of the nine appeals heard, six overturned previous decisions.
"In ordinary courts, 20-year sentences are reduced to three. These are people with different views," argues Wanderley Rebello, president of the First Disciplinary Committee.
"Even between two commissions, there is incredible disparity in similar cases. But the facts are interpretative," notes Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho.
There are almost folkloric cases, and even criticism among auditors and prosecutors. Ten days ago, the full Superior Court of Justice (STJD) returned to Araguaína (TO) the 12 points it had lost in the Disciplinary Committee. It realized that the complaint, filed by Paysandu, had been filed after the deadline. Even so, the prosecutor's office filed a lawsuit, the club was tried, and eliminated from the first phase of Série C. When the full court reviewed the decision, Araguaína was unable to return because Série C was already in the third phase.
When FIFA intervened after Dodô's acquittal in the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), the difficulties of the Brazilian justice system in handling doping cases came to light. Today, the issue divides the STJD.
"One school of thought argues that the mere presence of the substance in the athlete's system is sufficient grounds for punishment. Another believes that punishment can only be applied with proof of guilt. And both have a legal basis," explains Approbato.
Given the controversies, some advocate the creation of a sentencing commission, as in Europe. Currently, this is unfeasible, as the Federal Constitution guarantees the right to a defense.
The tribunal members, who freely reveal their club names during the trial, are not paid. However, the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) generates costs that, by law, are borne by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
"There's no independence. It creates political involvement. The fines the court imposes go to the CBF," says a lawyer.
Wanderley Rebello responds:
"If the legal costs were transferred to the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), perhaps the agency would be able to sustain itself. Of course, that would be ideal. But in ten years here, I've never received a phone call from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF)."
The president of the STJD points out that the court does not have legal personality and cannot collect taxes.
- But this never took away our independence - Approbato guarantees.
The court has no annual budget. Five of the nine auditors in the plenary session are from outside Rio. Depending on the auditors' and prosecutors' travel needs for sessions, the CBF issues tickets. It also pays staff, room rental, and other bills. In a month with more sessions, the cost can reach R$50. In the Disciplinary Committees, most auditors are from Rio de Janeiro, which reduces costs but is a disadvantage for clubs from other states.
CARPET: Those responsible for the complaints are seen as villains by clubs
The discussed absolute power of prosecutors in court
They can even bring to trial athletes who have not even been expelled.
Photo caption: PAULO SCHMITT, STJD attorney general: "Now, the disciplinary issue is not just the referee's responsibility"
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Last Tuesday afternoon at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). While everyone follows Obina, who leaves the court after being suspended for 120 days, prosecutor Luiz Felipe Carrapatozo retrieves two DVDs from the court's office. It's a common scene.
Current legislation has given prosecutors the power to report to the court any infraction they observe, even if not reported in the referees' reports. As a parallel arbitration system, prosecutors have become household names, sought out by the media for every infraction or controversial interview. For the clubs, they are the current villains.
The entire process goes through prosecutors, who work under the command of Attorney General Paulo Schmitt. They are the ones who file the complaint with the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) and determine the article under which the accused will be tried.
"We haven't weakened the referee's power. If the prosecutor's office sees a violation, even in the media, it can't ignore it. Today, discipline isn't just the referee's responsibility," Schmitt says.
The accusation based on media coverage makes some clubs feel more targeted. They understand that high-profile games have more cameras.
- The most popular clubs are easy targets - says Michel Assef Filho, Flamengo's lawyer.
"Series A and B have TV. In Series C, there's even amateur video from the clubs. And they can file a complaint with us," says Schmitt.
In the court itself, the clubs' thesis provokes reflection.
"There are broadcasts with 18 cameras and others with four. Opening lawsuits based on video carries this risk. The image must be able to verify whether the referee saw the play and interpreted it. The prosecutor's office must take this precaution," says Marcílio Krieger, an auditor at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD).
In return, pleasure and visibility in the media
Today, Schmitt leads a team of 15 prosecutors. A roster divides them into five groups. Each round of Series A, B, and C is responsible for observing, receiving match reports, and collecting additional footage from a set of games.
"Football is a business. But within football, the prosecution is the largest volunteer effort there is," says Schmitt.
Like the auditors, none of the prosecutors are paid. Schmitt says that "more than half" of his time is dedicated to the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). Every day, there's a prosecutor present at every trial. They also analyze summary records, videos, and evidence, in addition to managing work outside of football. They all say that working in sports and in the courts is rewarding. And they admit that they gain visibility.
"We're increasingly called upon to give courses and lectures. There's a social and professional impact. But it's also a strain. With each process, you please some and displease others. Over time, you displease everyone," says Schmitt.
The Obina case exemplifies what Schmitt claims.
"The prosecutor who reported Obina was negligent. There was an assault on Ibson and Obina. Only Obina was reported," accuses Kleber Leite, Flamengo's vice president of football.
Marcílio Krieger says that the entire judiciary in the country recognizes the importance of football.
"A Supreme Court justice said that the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) provides more visibility than the Supreme Court. For me, sports justice is a hobby," says Krieger, an auditor at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). "I've developed a rhythm. At night, I handle soccer cases. I advocate for a separate session."
The STJD's 'public defenders'
Rio lawyers specialize in experiencing the day-to-day life of the court
Lawyer Eric Azevedo prepares to defend an athlete from Nacional (AM):
- Auditors, good evening. Once again.
That same night, Azevedo had already represented Guarani. The firm he works for serves more than 25 clubs across the country. He is a member of a group of lawyers seen almost daily at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), informally known in the corridors as the STJD's "public defenders." After all, distance and lack of financial resources prevent many clubs from sending a representative to Rio de Janeiro.
"I can't even count how many clubs we've represented off the top of my head. We've already represented Serie A clubs like Náutico and América-RN. From there, others approached us to work for more affordable prices," says Azevedo.
For Rio lawyers who specialize in this work, there's no shortage of market space. But there are challenges to be addressed.
"I've defended two clubs that played the same game. They were card penalties, with no conflicting interests. But I don't work on player-versus-club cases," says Mario Bittencourt, whose clients include Fluminense and Figueirense, among others.
In many sessions, clubs do not send a lawyer
Bittencourt admits that, in some cases, conflict of interest is an obstacle:
- In matters of point loss, we resolve them on a case-by-case basis. We have contracts with confidentiality clauses, and two lawyers in our firm work without exchanging information. Or we decline the case.
Some Superior Court of Justice (STJD) sessions show that there's still a market for Rio lawyers. Cases like the one on September 10th, in which two athletes from Ananindeua (PA) were suspended within minutes and had no defense attorney, are not uncommon. Last Tuesday, Tuna Luso (PA) also failed to provide a defense attorney for Hallyson, its athlete, in the case that opened the session.
"Is there a lawyer present?" asked Otávio Toledo, president of the Second Disciplinary Committee.
A lawyer attending the session took over the defense. She had a few minutes to read the case, which was then moved to the end of the agenda. However, Hallyson was suspended for two games. (CEM)
In Europe, decisions are made quickly
Disciplinary committees also use TV images
Eight days after trying to punch Serbian Dragutinovic in the Euro Cup qualifiers, coach Luiz Felipe Scolari learned that he was suspended for four matches, in addition to having to pay a fine of 12 thousand euros (approximately R$32 thousand).
The case illustrates how disciplinary matters work in Europe's most important championships. Besides being swift, decisions are made by committees that adopt similar penalties for similar infractions.
In Felipão's case, the punishment was imposed by the UEFA Disciplinary Committee. Two days before the Committee's meeting, the Portuguese federation submitted its defense. The decision was announced shortly after the meeting. The Portuguese federation can appeal.
In England, the Football Association maintains a disciplinary department for cases such as expulsions, which operates independently of the federation and is composed of four-member committees. Premier League matches sometimes have penalties announced within three days. The English federation also allows for penalties for incidents not reported by referees but confirmed by TV footage.
The Spanish federation maintains two committees that deal with more common disciplinary matters, such as expulsions. Cases are first submitted to the Competitions Committee. Decisions are usually announced before the round following the match. Appeals can be made to the Appeals Committee.
FIFA maintains a permanent Disciplinary Committee. In 2006, 373 cases were reviewed, and only six reached the appeal stage. During competitions like the World Cup, the Disciplinary Committee meets after incidents to issue punishments. Germany's Frings, who got into a fight with Argentine players after the quarterfinals, had his punishment announced three days later and did not play in the semifinals. (CEM)
Sports Journal
Souza happy to play with Maxi again
Souza said that Maxi completes him on the field
After serving a suspension, striker Souza returns to the Flamengo team against Juventude and celebrates for another reason: playing alongside Maxi, who was also sidelined. Souza was sidelined after receiving his third yellow card against Cruzeiro, and Maxi, with a left thigh injury, had not played since August 26th.
"Maxi is a high-quality player and complements me in attack, because he plays very well on the wings and allows me to play the way I like best, as a key player. I'm happy we can play together again, and I hope he comes back strong and creates the chances for my goals," said Souza.
With his attacking partner, Souza intends for Fla to play calmly, following the instructions of coach Joel Santana.
"We can't play like we do here there. They need the points and will come out on top. We have to play calmly, doing what the coach asked of us, without apathy or rushing," the striker assessed.
The match against Juventude, this Sunday, will be at 16 pm, at Alfredo Jaconi.
Fla à gaúcha against Juventude
The team faces Juventude away from home, and Joel wants the team to have the Southern football feel.
Nathan de Lima
Bundled up to protect himself from the cold, Joel Santana doesn't want to be surprised in the South
Flamengo faces Juventude today at 16 p.m. in Caxias do Sul, looking to break a nearly 10-year drought. Their last victory at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium was on October 1, 1997—1-0, with an own goal by Rodrigo. They have now played nine games, with five losses and only four draws. To break this annoying streak, coach Joel Santana intends to use the opponent's weapon and force Flamengo to play the gaucho style.
Criticized for using three defensive midfielders, the Flamengo coach explained that to beat teams from the south of the country, Flamengo will have to adapt and change the way it plays.
"In the South, you have to know how to play. We'll be paying attention to the opponent's approach. Juventude won't let Flamengo play the way they've been playing. We won't be able to keep passing the ball around in midfield. So, we have to adapt to their style. Juventude will play the same way from start to finish, playing a tight, defensive game, looking to exploit the wings. We already know this; it's up to our team to adapt to this type of play," said the coach—who still hasn't forgotten the mistakes made by the team in the 3-0 loss to Internacional in Porto Alegre.
"Some away games have left me very upset. Against Internacional, for example, I knew what was going to happen, and we were stubborn. I hope it won't be like that on Sunday (today). We have to go out there and play seriously for the full 90 minutes, because if we don't, we won't win," he said.
“It’s complicated in the South”
Striker Souza returns to the team after serving a suspension for his third yellow card and appears to have learned his lesson, promising to play more carefully to avoid unnecessary bookings. Souza said he expects a tough match today, but will do everything he can to secure his second away win in the Brasileirão.
"It's always tough in the South, and they'll want to win the game too. We know it's high time we got our second away win," the striker concluded.
Romulo received a warm welcome in the South
The southern region of the country is known for its cool temperatures and tough, highly competitive football. While teams often ignore their opponents on the field, fans in the stands maintain a strong connection with their former players. Midfielder Rômulo, who became Flamengo's starting player after the arrival of coach Joel Santana, said he has a special affection for the fans of Caxias do Sul. Last Friday, when the club arrived in the city, the player was greeted with a warm celebration.
"I had a lot of support from Juventude at the beginning of my playing career, so I have a lot of affection for the club and its fans. But now I'm at Flamengo, and I'm only thinking about helping this wonderful club, which made me who I am today. It will be an important match for me, as my family will be there, which gives me a lot of motivation. I hope we can leave the field with a good victory," said the midfielder.
Fundamental piece
Rômulo began his career in Juventude's youth academy and joined Flamengo when he was just 13. Today's match at 16 p.m. at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium is his first professional appearance in Caxias do Sul. The defensive midfielder is a key player in coach Joel Santana's defense—he sometimes drops out of midfield and plays as a third defender on the right, marking the opposing center forward, freeing up defender Fábio Luciano to play in the rebound and Ronaldo Angelim to move to the left.
Cold, wind and rain prevent Flamengo from training
Flamengo has already begun to feel the pressure of playing in Caxias do Sul. Yesterday morning, the training session scheduled for the Caxias stadium was moved to the Catarinense stadium due to bad weather in the Serra Gaúcha region. However, at the second stadium, the pitch was completely flooded—forcing the Flamengo delegation to return to their hotel for physical training and tactical training with videos.
The entire Flamengo team complained about the 35-degree temperature, the strong winds, and the rain that battered the city. When the delegation left Rio de Janeiro on Friday, the temperature in the capital was approximately XNUMX degrees.
The always good-humored coach Joel Santana complained about the weather, but warned that this problem cannot serve as an excuse for a possible stumble against Juventude, today, at 16 pm, at the Alfredo Jaconi Stadium.
"I've never played a match here in Serra Gaúcha with good weather or sunshine. This hinders our performance, but it's always been like that in Caxias do Sul. We have to adapt to the situation; we can't use this as an excuse, because we came here looking for victory. Our position in the Brazilian Championship requires overcoming any kind of obstacle," said Joel Santana.
Besides the cold, rain, strong winds, and the crowd, Flamengo needs to break an uncomfortable streak that has lasted almost ten years. The red-and-black team hasn't beaten Juventude in Caxias do Sul since October 1, 1997.
Flamengo's lawyer will try to reduce Obina's sentence
Gabriel Santos gsantos@jsports.com.br
File/JS
A favorite of Flamengo fans, Obina could return before the end of the Brazilian Championship
Flamengo is still fighting to have Obina in this Brazilian Championship. The striker was suspended for 120 days by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) for elbowing Internacional's Índio. If he serves his full sentence, he would only return during the next Campeonato Carioca in 2008. But Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, is confident that the fans' favorite will return sooner than expected.
"I'm very hopeful that I can reduce this penalty by months for departures. If that's not possible, the solution will be to request a reduction in half," said Assef.
The lawyer has already managed to reduce Souza's sentence to seven games, which the striker considered "a victory." On that occasion, the top scorer in the last Brazilian Championship assaulted Grêmio's Tcheco, both on and off the field. He also defended Joel Santana when the coach ordered the Flamengo players to "beat up" the Santos players if they were "clowning around."
"In my opinion, Obina's case should not be judged under Article 253 (assault). This is because he did not cause any pain or risk to the opposing athlete's safety. Furthermore, there was no intention to cause harm. The best article for him would be Article 255 (Committing an act of hostility against an opponent or teammate)," he concluded.
If the article under which the attacker will be judged is changed, the penalty will vary between one and three games of suspension, which Obina has already served.
O Dia
Fla: The friendly visitor
Flamengo tries to change its routine of losing away and not beating Juventude in the South
Marluci Martins
Rio - Four months have passed without a win away from home. And that's not the only taboo Flamengo will try to break today, starting at 16 p.m., when they face Juventude at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium. Flamengo hasn't beaten the Rio Grande do Sul team in Caxias do Sul since October 1997.
After Rodrigo's own goal in a 1-0 victory almost 10 years ago, Flamengo played nine matches in Caxias. They lost five and drew four. One of those matches, coached by Joel Santana, ended in a 2-2 draw in 2005.
While Flamengo, driven by its fans, has played well at Maracanã, away from Rio, its performance in this Brazilian Championship has been dismal: only one victory. On May 20, still in the second round of the Brasileirão, Flamengo defeated Goiás 3-1 and has never again known what it's like to celebrate a victory away from home.
Away from Maracanã, their favorite stadium, Flamengo played 11 games, scored just 10 goals and conceded 23. In Rio, they played 14 games, scored 29 goals and conceded 16.
"There's no point in the team playing away from home as if they were at the Maracanã. The players need to know how to adapt to the opponent's field, and they haven't learned that lesson yet. I hope they learn," said Joel, concerned about the team's poor performance.
Flamengo will have the return of Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, who has not played since August 26, when he suffered a muscle injury in the 3-1 victory over Goiás. Maxi, who has not yet scored an away goal, will have alongside him Souza, who has only scored one goal away from Maracanã: in the 2-2 draw with Corinthians, in July.
Sports Gazette
Juventude and Flamengo duel to leave despair
Caxias do Sul (RS) - In a head-to-head clash to stave off the specter of relegation to Serie B, Flamengo and Juventude face off this Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium in the 27th round of the Brazilian Championship. Flamengo, from Rio de Janeiro, has 33 points and is in 13th place. In a worse position is Juventude, with only 26 and second-to-last in the table. To leave Caxias do Sul with a good result, coach Joel Santana will have to break a drought. Since taking over at Flamengo, he has accumulated four losses outside of Rio de Janeiro. "We need to play with balance, similar to how we play here in Rio, and with the same desire and drive. We've failed to achieve good results more because of our own mistakes than because of our opponents' creativity," he stated.
Despite the fight for improvement, Joel remembers the difficulties he will face. "The games in the South are tougher, and the teams that play there struggle, but we have to adapt to this style of football. They know how to play there, but Flamengo has to fulfill its mission," the manager added.
To boost Flamengo's confidence that they can secure a victory, Joel Santana will have the return of attacking midfielder Maxi Biancucchi, who recovered from a muscle injury suffered in late August. "I'm ready to play, but I don't know for how long. I'll go out on the field and give my best as long as I'm fit. If I feel like I can't run anymore, I'll ask to be substituted," the Argentine added.
Up front, he'll be joined by Souza, who also returns to the team after serving a suspension against Vasco. "Souza is a great striker, and our styles mesh well together. I hope we can achieve the same chemistry as before. Beating Juventude will be very important," he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Flamengo continues to struggle. Midfielder Ibson has yet to be cleared by the medical department, Roger has a muscle injury again, and forward Obina is serving a 120-day suspension after elbowing Internacional's Índio.
At Juventude, coach Beto Almeida is working to keep the group motivated, despite the team's poor form. The manager believes his team has a good chance of leaving the field with a victory this Sunday. "Flamengo is ahead in the table, but they haven't been performing at the same level as Juventude. Regardless of recent results, we've been performing very well," said the coach of the Rio Grande do Sul team.
To improve his situation in the Brasileirão, Almeida will have to overcome some issues. Full-backs Barão and Zé Rodolpho, as well as defensive midfielder Lauro, are all suspended.
Bad weather changes Joel's plans for Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Caxias do Sul (RS) - Rain, strong winds, heavy fog, and temperatures of just 10 degrees Celsius (XNUMX degrees Fahrenheit). The unfavorable weather conditions changed the Flamengo coaching staff's plans this Saturday morning in Caxias do Sul, where the red-and-black team will face Juventude this Sunday. Upon learning that the pitch at Clube Catarinense, where the training session was scheduled, was unplayable, coach Joel Santana decided to take the group to train in a room at the hotel where the delegation is staying. The coach believes the change was unfortunate because it interrupted the work that had been planned since the group left Rio de Janeiro, but that this cannot be used as an excuse for a possible poor result in this Sunday's match. "I've never played a match here with good weather or a shining sun. But that's not an excuse. We need to adapt to the situation and seek victory tomorrow. Our situation in the Brazilian Championship requires overcoming any obstacle."
One of the most sought-after players since arriving in Caxias do Sul has been midfielder Rômulo, who started playing in Juventude's youth academy. In an interview with Flamengo's official website, the athlete acknowledged that this Sunday's match will be special. "I have a lot of affection for Juventude, for all the support I received at the beginning of my career, but now I only think about helping Flamengo. It's going to be a special match because my whole family will be at the stadium, and that makes me even more motivated," he stated.
Midfielder Toró, who felt pain in his left thigh during Friday's training session at Gávea, remains under observation and his full potential will only be determined on Sunday morning when he undergoes a final examination. If he is ruled out, Léo Medeiros will replace him. Argentine forward Maxi Biancucchi is confirmed, although he was spared from Friday's training session.
Joel Santana avoids lamenting absences\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Still in a worrying situation in the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo prepares for another match against a team also fighting relegation this Sunday, when they face Juventude in Caxias do Sul. Despite several absences for the Rubro-Negro, coach Joel Santana prefers to highlight the return of some key players such as attacking midfielder Maximiliano Biancucchi and top scorer Souza, as well as the good form of full-backs Leonardo Moura and Juan. "I can't count on Roger, Renato Augusto, and Ibson yet, but there's no point in lamenting. We're going with the best we have at the moment. The full-backs have been performing well in attack, and I need to protect them. Up front, the Souza-Maxi duo has performed best under my command," commented Joel Santana.
In the south of the country, Joel Santana will be looking for his first away win since taking over Flamengo. The coach has lost all four of his previous matches.
PeléNet
Bad in Brazil, Fla and Juventude confront their 'invincibility'
From the Editorial Team\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Juventude and Flamengo face off this Sunday at 16 p.m. in Caxias do Sul for the 27th round of the Brazilian Championship. Both teams are in a delicate situation in the competition, facing relegation. However, Juventude and Flamengo are looking to maintain their unbeaten streak at home, while Flamengo are looking to end their unbeaten streak on the road.
The green and white team from Rio Grande do Sul has 26 points in the league table, is second to last in the competition and will remain in the relegation zone regardless of the result of this duel.
However, the club hasn't lost in its last four matches at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium—two draws (against Fluminense and Corinthians) and two wins (these, the most recent, against Goiás and Cruzeiro). However, it's also coming off two negative away results, against Santos and Figueirense.
The forecast for the match is bad weather, rain, and low temperatures. For Juventude coach Beto Almeida, the home team can take advantage of this off-field situation to gain an advantage over their Rio de Janeiro opponent: "We're used to playing on heavy turf, and we'll try to make the most of it."
Flamengo sits in 13th place in the Brazilian league, but with 33 points, it's only two points ahead of the "best" placed team in the relegation zone, Paraná, in 17th place. To move away from the bottom of the standings, the red-and-black team needs to overcome its dismal performance away from Rio de Janeiro: in 11 games, it has won only one. And in its last four matches in this situation, all under coach Joel Santana, the red-and-black team has lost.
For striker Souza, who returns to the team, the club's recent history shouldn't influence the players' attitude: "Although we're playing away from home, we have to go for it, even with their fans pushing us. Of course, we need to be a little cautious, we know the difficulties, but we're going out there to win."
BalloonSport
Romulo is welcomed with a party in the South
Midfielder returns to his homeland and talks about the beginning of his career at Juventude
Fla's Rômulo started his career at Juventude and will face his former club
The Southern region has always been welcoming to players who have played for its teams. Just as Renato Gaúcho—who began his career at Grêmio and is now the coach of Fluminense—receives a warm welcome every time he visits Porto Alegre, Flamengo's Rômulo also enjoys the affection of Caxias do Sul fans.
The red-and-black defensive midfielder, who came through the Juventude youth ranks, remembers his feelings for the team, but shows professionalism and explains his objective in the 16 pm match at the Alfredo Jaconi Stadium.
"I had a lot of support from Juventude at the beginning of my career, so I have a lot of affection for the club. But now I'm at Flamengo and I only think about helping them. It will be an important match, as my family will be there, which gives me motivation," he told the club's official website.
Rain and wind disrupt Flamengo's training
With temperatures reaching ten degrees Celsius, players practice inside the hotel in Caxias do Sul
Flamengo's preparation for the match against Juventude, at 16 pm, at the Alfredo Jaconi Stadium, had a change due to the bad weather: the players had to train inside the hotel where they are staying, in Caxias do Sul, on Saturday morning.
The team suffered with the ten degree temperature, strong winds and rain in the city.
"I've never played a match here with good weather or sunshine. This hinders our performance, but it's always been like that in Caxias do Sul. We have to adapt to the situation; we can't use this as an excuse, because we came here looking for victory. Our position in the Brazilian Championship requires overcoming any obstacle," Joel Santana told the club's press office.
Flamengo wants a long-term contract for Bruno
Goalkeeper has the same desire, but Kléber Leite remembers that renewal is not so simple
Bruno wants to stay at Flamengo for the long haul. The club also wants the goalkeeper to stay, and the vice president of football says Bruno could go to the national team. Goalkeeper Bruno's current contract with Flamengo runs until the end of 2007. However, the goalkeeper wants to make a long-term deal with the club, which, in turn, has the same interest in the player.
"We also want him here for a long time. At the end of the year, we'll look for an alternative to a long-term contract," says vice president of football Kléber Leite.
Kléber, however, admitted that it is not so simple and took the opportunity to make a suggestion to MSI, owner of Bruno's rights.
"It's not just up to us, and it complicates the relationship if we don't have another club. Those who invested want to recoup their money. Here, he's on the rise and could make it to the national team. The owner of his rights needs to see this: to recoup the money, it's a good idea for him to stay at Flamengo," advises the director.
Throw
Flamengo: ten years without winning in Caxias do Sul
Rubro-Negro goes all out to break the record in this Sunday's game against Juventude, in Caxias do Sul
Joel will try to help Fla break the record against Juventude (Credit: Paulo Sérgio)
Rafael Ximenes
Flamengo's record against Juventude in Caxias do Sul isn't encouraging for Flamengo fans. This Sunday, at 16 p.m., at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium, coach Joel Santana's team will have the chance to break their ten-year winless streak against the Rio Grande do Sul team.
During this period, there were nine games with five losses and four draws. There were 13 goals conceded and nine scored.
Despite not having a win in a long time at Alfredo Jaconi, Flamengo fans have had two good moments in the Serra Gaúcha. In 2001, the Red-Blacks lost 2-1 in the Copa do Brasil, but won 3-2 on penalties and qualified for the quarterfinals.
Another fond memory was in 2005, when Joel Santana was in charge. After trailing 2-0, Flamengo equalized and began a fight against relegation.
The last victory was in 1997, in the Brazilian Championship: 1-0, own goal by Rodrigo. The Flamengo team was as follows: Clemer, Leandro Neto, Juan, Fabiano and Gilberto; Jamir, Bruno Quadros, Evandro (Jorginho) and Iranildo; Lúcio and Savio (Lê).
The factor that could make this task more difficult is the team's away record in this Brasileirão: just one win, five draws and six losses.
Messi also wants the Mantle
Barcelona striker has already asked his cousin Maxi for a Flamengo shirt
Messi said he will come to Rio to watch a Flamengo game at Maracanã
THIAGO ASMAR
When Messi said he was Flamengo's newest illustrious fan because of his cousin Maxi's signing, he wasn't joking. In an interview with LANCE!, the Argentina national team and Barcelona star assured that he follows the club's results online and even made a point of asking his cousin for a jersey from his new team.
Regarding Maxi's invitation for Messi to come to Rio to watch a Flamengo game at Maracanã, the Argentines' biggest idol at the moment didn't even stutter in his response:
"I'm going to Maracanã to watch Flamengo play. But Maxi has to be on the field. I just need to check when I can make this visit." Messi also spoke about the Flamengo fans' song, which says Maxi is better than him.
L! You told LANCE! during the Copa América that you'd be supporting Flamengo after your cousin signed. What's life like as a Flamengo fan?
Messi: I can't watch the games much, but when I can, I check the results online. I've always been very close to Maxi and, as a result, I've grown fond of Flamengo.
L!: And the shirt, do you have it yet?
Messi: Not yet, but I have to ask Maxi. I'll call him and ask. I want the jersey of my new team in Brazil.
L!: Maxi said he'll invite you to watch a Flamengo game at Maracanã. Will you accept the invitation?
Messi: Of course. I'll still support Flamengo at Maracanã. And I hope to have the jersey to wear it by then. The only obstacle will be the schedule. But when I have time, I'll go to Rio. That will probably be next year.
L!: Flamengo fans already have a song saying Maxi is better than Messi. Will you sing it when you go to Maracanã?
Messi: Why wouldn't I sing? It's great to see my cousin becoming an idol for such a respected fan base. I've heard that the player's song (Obina) is better than Eto'o's. But I'd never heard this one. I was really happy to hear that.
L!: And do you agree with the song?
Messi: I've never liked comparisons, especially when they involve my family. I prefer to play soccer and hope my whole family succeeds.
L!: Maxi said that Bruno, his 10-year-old younger brother, has a future. Do you agree?
Messi: Bruno is still too young to talk about that. We can't pressure him. But he does have potential, and I hope he'll be another member of the family to succeed on the field. However, he still has a long way to go. It's not easy to become a great football player.
L!: Has Maxi ever told you anything about the red-and-black fans? What did he say?
Messi: Definitely. I'd heard about the greatness of Flamengo's fans before. But now I'm certain of it. Maxi told me that a packed Maracanã is wonderful and that I would love it. He said he'd never seen anything like it.
L!: And about the Flamengo club, has he said anything yet?
Messi: Yes. He said that the group is united and that all his teammates tried to help him.
L! If you come to Rio, what else would you like to see besides Maracanã?
Messi: The city's beaches and other attractions. Ronaldinho himself spoke highly of the city. It must be really cool.
L! Speaking now of Barcelona, you're in a very good moment...
Messi: I'm dedicating myself more and more to securing my place in a group with so many great players. I'm happy for the success, but I know no one at Barcelona is guaranteed a spot.
L! How is your relationship with Eto'o and Henry?
Messi: The best possible. Besides being great players, they're excellent people.
L! And Ronaldinho?
Messi: As I said, he's like an older brother. He was the one who welcomed me at the beginning of my career. Besides being a friend, he's my biggest idol.
Messi and Maxi: friends since childhood
Messi's father remembers that his son supports Flamengo just as Maxi supports Barça\ LANCEPRESS!\
Messi doesn't support Flamengo for nothing these days. His relationship with Maxi Biancucchi has been excellent since they were just kids.
According to the father of Barcelona striker Jorge Messi, the two never stopped playing football and spent most of their time together.
"Lionel (Messi's first name) has always been very close to Maxi, and vice versa. The two are great friends. They've always enjoyed the same games, the main one being soccer. I have no doubt they root for each other. Lionel isn't the only one who supports Flamengo. I'm sure Maxi also follows Barcelona's results and his cousin's performances," Jorge explained.
Fans of Newell's Old Boys (ARG) since they were children, Messi and Maxi have always made it clear that they dream of one day defending the Argentine club together.
The Barcelona star himself has already assured that he intends to play for Newell's Old Boys when he is in good shape, and not just at the end of his career.
Flamengo: four midfielders once again
Joel has absences and is forced to field a more defensive team\ LANCEPRESS!\
Without Ibson, Roger and Renato Augusto for the midfield, coach Joel Santana was forced to field Flamengo once again with a very defensive scheme for this Sunday's game, at 16 pm, against Juventude, at Alfredo Jaconi, in Caxias do Sul, for the 27th round of the Brazilian Championship.
Ibson is still recovering from a blow to his right ankle, while Roger is improving his fitness. Both are expected to return against Atlético-MG next Sunday. Renato Augusto's situation is more complicated, as he has a problem with his right thigh.
As a result, coach Joel Santana was forced to field four defensive midfielders: Rômulo, Cristian, and Jaílton, who will play more defensively, and Toró, who will play further forward. This formation, despite being defensive, yielded positive results: Flamengo beat Cruzeiro 3-1 and drew 1-1 with Vasco.
Joel: 'Players from Rio de Janeiro teams don't kick the ball'
Flamengo faces Juventude trying to get their second away win\ LANCEPRESS!\
Flamengo faces Juventude this Sunday in Caxias do Sul, looking to end the burden of not winning away from home and always having difficulties in games against teams from Rio Grande do Sul.
Coach Joel Santana gives the recipe for beating teams from the South, and advocates the long shot as the solution.
"It's always been like this when we play against Inter and Grêmio. Rio teams suffer a lot when they play against teams from the South. The players on Rio teams are embarrassed to kick the ball, to play poorly, and they want to dribble too hard and end up losing the ball," the coach told Rádio Tupi.
Flamengo, which has only beaten Goiás away from home, is looking for its second win away from Rio to move further away from the relegation zone. Juventude, in a desperate situation, needs a win to try to escape the relegation zone.