THE GLOBE
Nice goal, terrible trip
Bruno's free kick prevents a stumble, but not a trip to Mexico in the round of 16
Photo caption: Beaten, the goalkeeper Penny just watches as the ball kicked by Bruno goes into the left corner, in the 37th minute of the second half. With class, the goalkeeper scored Flamengo's first goal in the 2-0 victory over Bolognesi
Photo caption: Chased by a Peruvian marker, Leonardo Moura attempts a pass
Until the 37th minute of the second half, the score remained 0-0, and apprehension persisted among the Flamengo fans, who were counting on victory and hoping for a rout, but had no idea what was coming. Given the attackers' lack of accuracy, the fans chanted "Bruno" when a free kick was awarded near the box. The goalkeeper had been training, but he wasn't one of Joel Santana's designated takers. He took a few steps forward and, amidst perplexed looks, was encouraged by Fábio Luciano, who convinced his teammates to make way. And Bruno opened the scoring in the 2-0 victory over Coronel Bolognesi yesterday at Maracanã, which gave Flamengo first place in Group 4 and the second-best record in the first phase, with the same 13 points as Fluminense but a lower goal difference.
After São Paulo's 1-0 victory over Atlético Nacional and Sportivo Luqueño's 4-1 victory over Audax Italiano, there's some bad news: their opponent in the round of 2.235 will be América, from Mexico, forcing Flamengo to travel extensively between the two final matches of the State Championship. On Wednesday, the first leg will be at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, at an altitude of 3 meters. Nacional defeated Cienciano 1-4 in Uruguay and finished second in Group XNUMX.
"We're going to study América. They'll be tough games and a grueling trip. We're going to prepare to play well and avoid any consequences on the way back," said coach Joel Santana.
Bruno didn't score the first goal by a goalkeeper, nor the most unusual goal in the club's history. In 1970, at the Luso-Brazilian Stadium on Governador Island, Ubirajara Alcântara kicked the ball forward, and it landed in the Madureira net. In 1997, Zé Carlos scored a penalty against Nacional in Manaus. Yesterday, at the Maracanã Stadium, Bruno treated the crowd to a melancholic match.
"I didn't say anything. They made the decision on the field. Credit to the group, they were mature. On other occasions, there was discussion," Joel said, avoiding discussion about future penalties. "If he's supposed to score, will I be against him? Bruno's stubbornness paid off. But let things happen."
"It was an indescribable feeling. I'm not used to celebrating goals. The goalkeeper came out first, and when I shot, I felt like I wasn't going to get there. If they give me the chance, I'll take the shot," said Bruno. "When I got to the ball, I asked Leonardo Moura for permission so I wouldn't look bad. I know Joel always trusted me, even if it wasn't to score. But scoring is part of the process."
Flamengo started the game at a high pace. In the 7th minute, Marcinho headed the ball against the crossbar, Toró failed to capitalize on the loose ball, and Cristian and Juan subsequently fumbled the ball. The team continued to try, unsuccessfully, to play through the middle. Even without a scare, the Peruvians' ineffectiveness made things increasingly uncomfortable. In the 35th minute, Marcinho conceded a penalty that wasn't awarded, and the team went to the locker room to boos.
Bruno makes a great save before the goal
At halftime, Joel brought on Diego Tardelli for Cristian, but the team's stance remained unchanged. In the 4th minute, Kleberson took a free kick at mid-height, and Penny saved it. With a left-footed shot from outside the box, Tardelli forced another good save from the goalkeeper in the 13th minute. If Joel was slow to make a move, the fans weren't as patient, especially after Ross headed the ball unmarked for Bruno to save the team for the first time in the 22nd minute. In the next play, Souza made a beautiful individual move, dribbling past Penny and shooting, but Balbín saved it on the line.
In the 25th minute, with Obina replacing Toró, Léo Moura fired a long-range shot that Penny saved. In the 30th minute, Obina broke into the box unmarked but sent a goal-scoring opportunity straight at Penny. Juan showed more skill with a free kick that sailed just wide of the post in the 33rd minute. Facing an already impatient red-and-black crowd, despite their constant cheering, Bolognesi committed frequent fouls. In one of them, goalkeeper Bruno turned the previously dull game into an epic one. With a subtle touch, he chipped the ball over the wall and placed it into Penny's left corner in the 37th minute. By then, the Maracanã had become a party. To complete the ecstasy, Marcinho crossed from the right and Obina made it 2-0 in the 39th minute.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian (Diego Tardelli), Jailton, Toro and Kleberson; Marcinho and Souza. Coronel Bolognesi: Penny, Revoredo (Farfán), Balbín, Ostersen and Alvarez; Linares (Novoa), Uribe, Cortez and Vasquez, Ross and Vigil (Mostto). Referee: Ivan Gamboa (Bolivia). Yellow cards: Toro, Marcinho, Linares, Vasquez, Revoredo.
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: He had only saved back balls until he saved Rossi's header. To top it all off, he was the hero with a beautiful free kick. 9.
LEONARDO MOURA: It didn't go well. Very bureaucratic. 4.
FÁBIO LUCIANO: Without work, faced with an attack that barely threatened. 5.
RONALDO ANGELIM: He didn't have much to do either. He could have even attacked more. 5.
JUAN: He played more as a striker than as a full-back. But, like most, he wasn't very inspired. 6.
CRISTIAN: His role would be to protect the defenders. But from what? 5. DIEGO TARDELLI came on at halftime and looked to get into the game in the first minutes of the second half. He didn't achieve much and soon gave in to the general lack of inspiration. 5.
KLEBERSON: In the same vein as always. Without shining, but with the willingness that ends up being synonymous with efficiency and lack of talent. 6.
JAÍLTON: He played with the task of defending and attacking. He performed the first reasonably well. The second he failed. 4.
TORÓ: He maintained his standard. He ran, fought, created some good chances and received the old yellow card for a violent foul. 5. OBINA missed two goals and scored one. 6.
SOUZA: He tried through the middle and on the flanks, but achieved little. He missed an incredible goal after a good individual play. 6. GAVILÁN came on at the end. No rating.
MARCINHO: He started well, suffered a penalty and disappeared. 5.
JOEL SANTANA: He tried to improve his team in the second half and succeeded. 6,5.
COLONEL BOLOGNESI
In the very modest Peruvian team, the standouts are goalkeeper Penny and midfielder Vazquez.
ARBITRATION
Bolivian Iván Gamboa ignored a penalty on Marcinho. In terms of discipline, he did well.
Race, love and another Machado
Duda, Marcelinho's brother, leads Fla to its second consecutive victory over Corrientes
Photo caption: DUDA MAKES THE DUNK, watched by Argentine López, from Corrientes: Marcelinho's brother was Fla's star yesterday
Ary Cunha
They scored one Machado and forgot the other. Great for Flamengo, which, after trailing the best-of-five series 2-0, heads to Argentina in search of the South American Men's Basketball League title. Marcelinho, the top scorer (44 points) in last Tuesday's Flamengo victory, yesterday faced a rotating lineup of scorers intent on neutralizing him. What Regatas Corrientes didn't know was that coach Paulo Chupeta's younger brother was on the bench, ready to lead Flamengo to an 86-79 victory. The tenacity and precise shooting of Duda, last night's top scorer with 28 points, fired up the Flamengo fans at Maracanãzinho, before the 2-0 Copa Libertadores triumph against Coronel Bolognesi.
The result tied the series at 2-2 and forced a fifth game in Corrientes next Wednesday (the 30th). Without many opportunities in the previous three matches, as Fred had been starting, Duda came on with 1:41 remaining in the first period, when Flamengo, despite being cheered on by their fans, trailed the Argentines 22-20. With his first shot, a three-pointer, the red-and-black turned the game around to avoid further threat. He made six three-pointers, out of the nine the team had yesterday. Not to mention five two-pointers, seven steals, and six assists. An afternoon worthy of the red-and-black number 10 that the club's greatest idol immortalized.
"I didn't see Zico play much, but I always cheered for the Flamengo fans. Now, it's incredibly moving to hear people chanting my name. There are no words to describe my joy," beamed Duda, who only managed to leave the Maracanãzinho court about half an hour after the match ended, such was the pressure for interviews, photos, and autographs. "I'm very happy, but the truth is, we didn't win anything. We showed we can win this title."
For Paulo Chupeta, Duda's entry influenced the rest of the team.
"Duda transmitted a very positive energy on the court. I could already tell during the warm-up that he was doing well and could help us a lot," said the coach.
Venting to my brother in the early hours of the morning
Fred's injury in the previous game—he injured a finger on his right hand and was ruled out—was the opportunity Duda needed to restore his self-esteem, which had been damaged by the limited minutes he'd been getting in the League's final series so far. His sadness led him to vent to Marcelinho until 3 a.m. yesterday.
"He came to talk to me about the fact that he wasn't being used and wasn't fitting in well with the team. He said it was time to show he was a decisive player. I'm proud," Marcelinho beamed.
Flamengo finished the first quarter leading 25-22, but opened up a lead thanks to Duda's momentum. The second quarter ended 46-35. The lead grew even further in the third (66-53), and the team barely managed the score in the final minutes, with the Argentines already on the attack. In the end, they were seven points ahead (86-79) and had a hero in the fans' arms: Duda.
Flamengo: Helio (17), Marcelinho (17), Amiel (2), Coloneze (12) and Alírio (3). Entered: Duda (28), Wagner (4) and Fernando Mineiro (3). Corrientes: Montecchia (8), Martinez (16), Stanton (6), Robinson (21) and Lopez (8). Entered: Carabajal (5), Cavaco (6), Tintoreli (6), Rivero (3), Serantes and Temute.
Two joys on neighboring stages
Fans support Fla at Maracanãzinho and head to the football game
Photo caption: FLA FANS leave Maracanãzinho towards the game at Maracanã
The stellar performance by Paulo Chupeta's team on a holiday afternoon could well have sparked a long celebration from the fans in the stands at Maracanãzinho. But the cheers that helped the red-and-black team defeat Regatas Corrientes 86-79 on the court quickly died down as soon as the clock struck zero. And for good reason. The red-and-blacks were on a double shift and were rushing to watch, at the neighboring giant, the Copa Libertadores clash between Joel Santana's team and Coronel Bolognesi.
- Today (yesterday), our party will be a double dose - predicted fan Marcelo Guerra, who took his son Mário to both games.
The Maracanãzinho's spiral ramp was jammed with Flamengo fans rushing after the basketball game. Initially, the Flamengo board intended to run a promotion with combined tickets for both the basketball and soccer games. But Paulo Chupeta's team's two losses in Argentina would have opened the possibility of Flamengo losing the title in the third game, making any promotion impossible. In any case, those who went to Maracanãzinho wearing the club's jersey paid half price (R$5).
A crowd in red and black, with banners and flags that were then taken to Maracanã, pushed the Flamengo quintet onto the court.
After the party in Rio, the concern now is the less than pleasant weather that Flamengo will encounter in Argentina on the 30th. Tempers flared on the court at the end of yesterday's game.
- Security in Corrientes is a concern. Fans are very close to the court - explained the club's basketball director, Arnaldo Szpiro. (AC)
Ancelmo Gois
Fortune ball
Joel Santana will receive approximately $130 a month to manage the South African national team. He deserves it.
Joel's decision to accept the invitation was influenced by Jairo César Leal's continued presence as assistant coach. The two are friends and have worked together in the Arab world.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Bruno saves Mengo's campaign
The goalkeeper perfectly takes the free kick and scores the first goal of the victory, which gave them the lead in Group 4.
Pedro Chiaverini and Thiago Bokel
Wallace Teixeira
Marcinho face to face with goalkeeper Penny, a constant throughout yesterday's match
When a goalkeeper makes a great save, he's in charge. When he fails, he's branded a villain. But what about when he scores the goal that paves the way for a crucial victory? Bruno can now answer the question. The 2-0 lead over Coronel Bolognesi yesterday at Maracanã began with less than 10 minutes remaining, thanks to a beautiful free kick from the number 1.
A dull first half. Flamengo, scattered, seemed shaken by the news of Joel Santana's departure. Despite starting well and hitting goalkeeper Penny's crossbar with a Marcinho header, the team couldn't find any space in the Peruvian defense.
Their dominance was evident. However, scoring chances were scarce. No one could stand out.
Determined to score at least one goal to secure top spot in Group 4, Flamengo returned from halftime with Diego Tardelli replacing Cristian. At that point, Nacional de Montevideo was already leading Cienciano 2-0 in Uruguay and provisionally taking the lead. Therefore, a goal was crucial for Flamengo to secure home advantage in the knockout stage.
And the goal just wouldn't come. Flamengo's ineffectiveness was the same as in the first 45 minutes, except for a few shots from outside the box. But things could have gotten worse if Bruno hadn't saved Ross's point-blank header. Souza then missed the best opportunity, leaving three defenders behind and dribbling past Penny. But when he was about to shoot, the defender cleared the ball off the line.
Flamengo's struggles only intensified. The team nearly broke the deadlock with a Juan free kick that sailed just wide of the post. But the most special moment was saved for the end. Responsible for keeping clean sheets, Bruno showed his anguish at the attackers' inefficiency and, in the 37th minute, curled a perfect free kick into the top corner to seal the second-best performance of the Libertadores group stage. Five minutes later, Marcinho burst into the box and crossed for Obina to add to the celebration.
Honors to 'Daddy Joel'
Fifa.com
Coach Joel Santana is a prominent figure on the FIFA website this Wednesday
The choice of Joel Santana to be the new coach of the South African national team is highlighted on the website of football's governing body, FIFA.
Titled "Bafanas hire Papai Joel," the article highlights that the coach leads the team with the largest fan base in the world, Flamengo, and that this will be his first time managing a national team. The text also highlights part of the Brazilian coach's winning history, both as a player and as manager, in the latter case, of the four major Rio de Janeiro teams.
Joel will have just over a year to prepare that country's national team for the Confederations Cup, which, like the 2010 World Cup, will be held in South Africa.
Mengão draws the final series
Flamengo beats Regatas 86-79 and will decide the South American League title in the fifth game
Pedro Ivo Almeida
Orsula Nery
Despite being heavily marked, Marcelinho was decisive for Flamengo in yet another victory in the League
Relying once again on the strength of its fans, who packed the Maracanãzinho and supported the team from start to finish, Flamengo defeated Regatas Corrientes yesterday by 86 to 79 (46 to 35) and tied the final series of the South American Basketball League at 2 to 2, thus forcing the fifth and decisive game to be held next week (on the 29th or 30th of this month), in Corrientes. The decision will be announced by the South American Confederation.
Absolute highlight for the wing/point guard Duda, who came off the bench to become the top scorer in the fourth game with 28 points, including six three-pointers.
Rhythm
After a very turbulent start to the game (in the first three minutes of the game, players from both teams clashed after some serious fouls), Flamengo, unlike Tuesday's match, was unable to impose its rhythm on the court and accepted the pressure from the opposing team, which was even ahead for a few moments.
With the arrival of Duda, who significantly improved the red-and-black defense, coach Paulo Chupeta's team settled into the game, began to capitalize on quick counterattacks, took the lead, and closed the first quarter 25-22. In the second quarter, the Gávea team, led by Duda, who continued to play very well on defense and began to find the back of the net on offense, and Marcelinho, gave the opposing team no chance and opened up a good lead, which they held until the end of the match. The team went into halftime leading 46-35.
Talent
In the third quarter, it was Hélio's turn, replacing Marcelinho, who had three fouls, to show his class. The forward/point guard came on very well and helped the team take a thirteen-point lead (66 to 53) into the final quarter. With the match already decided, the Rio de Janeiro team entered the court more calmly and even allowed Regatas to reduce the lead a little, but nothing that threatened the beautiful 86 to 79 victory for the red-black team. Flamengo is still in the fight for the first title in its history in basketball.
Maria Helena Braun
The Joel Era
Maria Helena Braun mbraun@jsports.com.br
Flamengo's 2008 will be divided between before and after Joel Santana's departure. We don't know what lies ahead, but everyone knows what the coach—voted by Romário as the best of all time—did with the Flamengo team. Joel, who had already saved the club from relegation in the Brazilian Championship once, returned to Gávea and not only saved the team from relegation again but also led them to a top-flight finish, securing a spot in the Libertadores.
Riding the wave of this strong campaign came the GB Cup victory and, who knows, the Carioca Championship, which will be decided on Sunday against Botafogo. It was an incredible run, under the baton, or rather the drawing board, of Joel, driven by the red-and-black crowd in the stands. That's right. What now? Now a new coach will arrive, who will either continue with a team that already has a face. But this new coach will certainly tweak the team to his liking, according to his playing philosophy. And whether this will mean the continuation of Joel's excellent work, only time will tell. And a South African newspaper, perhaps out of complete ignorance, still calls him Mr. Nobody.
They say, ironically, that he works with a clipboard in the midst of the computer age. It's absurd to think of a coach of Joel's caliber—he's not a big shot like Parreira, a world champion, etc., but he knows how to build a competitive team like Mr. Nobody. Maybe it's just a lack of information.
Well, but back to our little world, Flamengo's financial future from now on will depend heavily on results, since sponsorship fees have already been paid. So, we hope the team continues to advance in the Libertadores, to secure the fees and ticket sales, which will go a long way toward saving the club from the red. That's why 2008 will be divided into before and after Joel's departure. With or without the Carioca title, he leaves a well-balanced team, with excellent prospects for the next stage of the Libertadores. It's up to his successor to pick up the baton and maintain the standard of performance, which has given it the competitiveness needed to attract sponsors, respect, and fill stadiums. Is it because Flamengo has a huge fan base? No. It's not just that. It's because Flamengo has gone from being the team that in recent years was struggling only to avoid relegation to being among the top teams. And Joel is largely responsible. Good luck, Joel. And here's to the next one!
THE DAY
Goalkeeper Bruno scores in Flamengo's victory against Bolognesi
Diogo Dantas
Rio - Already qualified, but needing five goals to achieve its best Libertadores record, Flamengo was unable to escape a lively and lively 2-0 victory over Coronel Bolognesi this Wednesday at the Maracanã. In the round of XNUMX, Flamengo will face América of Mexico. The first leg is away, next Wednesday.
The big star of the game was goalkeeper Bruno, not for his recurring good saves, but for the free kick goal that triggered the victory, and gave them first place in group 4 and the second best campaign in the competition, behind only Fluminense.
Marcinho was fouled in the 37th minute of the second half, and the goalkeeper asked to take the shot and received the full support of the fans, who chanted his name. Obina, who came on in the second half, sealed the result two minutes from time.
Now the Gávea team turns all its attention to the State Championship finals against Botafogo, over the next two weekends.
Greater possession of the ball
The first half began with Flamengo taking the initiative, which was to be expected regardless of how many goals the team wanted to score. Despite having much greater possession, their attacks posed no real threat, except for one incident in the seventh minute.
Léo Moura and Kleberson put together a good play on the right. Marcinho tipped a cross against the crossbar. Toró controlled the rebound but lost control, resulting in a goal from the penalty spot.
At 10, Souza received the ball in midfield, turned and shot hard, but the Peruvian team's standout goalkeeper, Penny, saved it.
Tactical scheme
In Ibson's absence, some plays ended up being set up by Jaílton and defender Ronaldo Angelim. Renato Augusto was less frequently missed in attack. Marcinho was the most active player on the field. The team showed, however, that it's not yet accustomed to playing with two strikers. It lacked more organization.
The best attacking option was on the right, as Bolognesi's attack was mostly focused on Juan's back. However, Flamengo invested heavily in the middle, always funneling plays that started on the wing.
In the second half, Flamengo returned with the same style of play, despite Diego Tardelli replacing Cristian. However, they continued to insist in the middle and touch the ball excessively before finishing. Tardelli's determination, however, was an added boost to the attack, which was poorly supported by the full-backs.
Without deciding the game, Flamengo almost conceded victory in the 22nd minute. Mostto crossed from the left and Ross, free in the box, headed it straight at Bruno, who saved in two attempts.
On the counterattack, Souza dribbled through the middle, even passing the goalkeeper, but as he was about to finish, he was intercepted by the defense, which narrowly cleared the ball. The lack of goals and the onset of boos, especially for Léo Moura, prompted Joel Santana to play to the crowd and bring Obina on.
Bruno gets Fla out of trouble
Juan tried to redeem himself in the 33rd minute, with a free kick he won himself. The full-back skillfully placed the ball into the goalkeeper's right corner, but the ball went just wide of the post.
Another foul in the attack, this time drawn by Marcinho. And there was no Léo Moura, Tardelli, or Jaílton. Bruno asked to take the shot and skillfully placed it into Penny's left corner, leaving the opposing goalkeeper motionless.
Buoyed by the goal, Flamengo mounted a strong counterattack, and in the 43rd minute, Marcinho went to the baseline and passed it to Obina, who tapped it into the back of the net. Final: 2-0.
Joel Santana confirmed as South Africa coach
Rio - The South African Football Association (Safa) confirmed today on its official website that Brazilian coach Joel Santana, from Flamengo, will replace compatriot Carlos Alberto Parreira in charge of the country's national team.
Joel's name was a recommendation from Parreira himself, who resigned to take care of personal issues.
Safa director Raymond Hack will travel to Brazil to conclude negotiations and finalize the contract details.
Joel is expected to arrive in South Africa on May 9th. The second leg of the Campeonato Carioca final is scheduled for May 4th.
"Joel is a specialist in winning championships and has coached great Brazilian players like Romário and Bebeto. I believe he can continue the work, especially with the help of Jairo Leal and Pitso Mosimane," Parreira told the Safa website.
Joel expressed excitement about his new role. "Taking over the South African national team is a blessing," he said, before returning Parreira's praise.
"Parreira is one of the most respected coaches in the world and I am determined to continue the good work he did in South Africa," Joel added.
Joel is better than Parreira and Cruyff, according to Romário
Rio - Unaccustomed to major titles and ignorant when it comes to international football, the South African press, which hastily treated Joel Santana as an unknown, will have to rush and do its best to learn everything possible about the new coach of the country that will host the 2010 World Cup.
Joel began to shine at Vasco in 1987. At the time, he built the team that won the state championship under Sebastião Lazaroni, who replaced him just days before the decisive match against Flamengo. The team featured the experienced Tita and Roberto Dinamite, alongside promising youngsters like Romário, Mauricinho, Geovani, Dunga, and Donato.
He left Vasco to manage Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. He returned to São Januário and won two state championships in 92 and 93. A Bahian champion in 94, Joel won the historic Rio State title in 95, beating Fluminense 3-2 in the decisive match in the Fla-Flu match made famous by Renato Gaúcho's belly goal.
This title earned Joel recognition from his greatest rival: Romário, then at Flamengo. In an interview with Playboy magazine, the short man was asked who his best coach had been: the Dutchman Cruyff or Parreira. The short man surprised everyone and didn't hesitate: "The best is Joel Santana, with whom I worked at Vasco and who is now at Fluminense." At the time, it sounded strange, but time and success have proven the star right.
Basketball: Fla wins and takes the final to Argentina
Rio - Flamengo tied the decisive series of the South American Basketball League against Regatas Corrientes of Argentina this Wednesday. The red-and-black team prevailed over the visitors at the Maracanãzinho Gymnasium, triumphing 86-79.
After losing the first two games of the final in Argentina, the Rio de Janeiro team recovered in Rio de Janeiro and left the best-of-five match tied 2-2. The final clash is scheduled for next Wednesday in Corrientes.
The standout performer in Flamengo's victory was winger Duda, who hadn't been playing well in the series. He hit six three-pointers, finishing with 28 points, five steals, and three assists.
"Before the games here in Rio, I told the players that there were 120 minutes of decisive action. Now there are 40 left," celebrated coach Paulo Chupeta in an interview with ESPN Brasil. From now until the fifth match, according to him, the work will be psychological.
"We can't fall into their game. They'll provoke us, but we have to stay focused," the coach added. At the end of Wednesday's match, the Argentines provoked winger Marcelinho and managed to draw a technical foul on the Rio native.
SPORTS GAZETTE
With a goalkeeper's goal, Flamengo wins and advances in first place\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo struggled but managed to defeat Peru's Coronel Bolognesi 2-0 on Wednesday night at the Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro (RJ). The star of the match was goalkeeper Bruno, who scored the first goal of the match with a free kick. Obina also made his mark. With this result, the Rio de Janeiro team reached 13 points, securing first place in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. The Peruvians, who remained with two points, are eliminated.\ As expected, Flamengo started the match applying heavy pressure. In the fourth minute, Kléberson shot from outside the box over the goal. Two minutes later, Marcinho rolled the ball, Souza shot firmly, and goalkeeper Penny saved. A minute later, it was the crossbar's turn to save the Peruvian team, after Marcinho headed in a cross from the right by Leonardo Moura. In the 11th minute, Penny again prevented a red-black goal, with a shot from Souza.\
Despite having some skilled players up front, such as Vigil González and Junior Ross, Colonel Bolognesi was unable to create good plays, so much so that goalkeeper Bruno's first save came only in the 18th minute, from a shot from outside the box by Cortez.
Despite inexplicably slowing down, Flamengo nearly scored in the 25th minute when Toró passed the ball to Marcinho between the defenders, but the goalkeeper came out to stop the striker, preventing a follow-up. In the 39th minute, Penny made another important save on a Juan free kick.
In the 45th minute, Flamengo had its last goal-scoring opportunity. Leonardo Moura crossed, the ball hit the defense, Toró finished, and the goalkeeper conceded a corner. Flamengo returned for the second half with three forwards, with Diego Tardelli filling in for Cristian. The team continued to press forward and had its first chance in the third minute, a free kick by Jaílton, which the goalkeeper saved.
In the 13th minute, Diego Tardelli received the ball at the edge of the box and shot, but the goalkeeper saved. However, Flamengo had a scare in the 22nd minute. Mostto crossed from the left, Ross headed, and Bruno made a good save. The move roused Flamengo, and they nearly opened the scoring a minute later. Souza dribbled past the goalkeeper and shot, but Balbín saved on the line.
In the 26th minute, Leonardo Moura took a chance, but Penny made a difficult save. The fans called for Obina to come on, and coach Joel Santana heeded their call. The striker nearly scored in the 30th minute, shooting past the goalkeeper, who made a great save. Three minutes later, Juan took a dangerous free kick to the right of the goal.
Flamengo's persistent effort led to a breakthrough in the 37th minute, when goalkeeper Bruno shined. Diego Tardelli was fouled just outside the box, and the number 1 took the shot, which he perfectly placed, placing the ball in the goalkeeper's left corner. The fans celebrated, and they saw the team extend their lead in the 43rd minute. Marcinho crossed from the right, and Obina, with a sliding tackle, sent it into the back of the net.
Flamengo now focuses on the Campeonato Carioca final, which begins next Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time), also at the Maracanã, against Botafogo. Coronel Bolognesi's only remaining focus is on the Campeonato Peruano, where the team is currently in 11th place with 14 points. Next Sunday, the team visits Aliaza Atlético in the competition.
South Africa confirms Joel as new coach
Johannesburg (South Africa) - After a brief period of uncertainty on Tuesday, when one of its directors declared that a new coach had not been hired, the South African Football Association (SAFA) announced on Wednesday that Joel Santana will replace Carlos Alberto Parreira as coach of the 2010 World Cup host team. "SAFA has appointed Joel Natalino Santana as coach of the senior men's national team, Bafana Bafana (the team's nickname). This follows the recommendation of Carlos Alberto Parreira and the subsequent acceptance of the proposal by coach Santana," the association said in a statement published on its official website.
According to the statement, director Raymond Hack will come to Brazil to finalize the negotiations with Flamengo's current coach next weekend. It was Hack himself who raised suspicions on Tuesday when he stated that the South African team's new coach had not been hired.
Parreira, who recommended Joel's hiring after leaving South Africa, citing personal issues, was full of praise for his replacement. "Joel is an expert at winning championships and has coached great Brazilian players like Romário and Bebeto. I believe he can continue the work, especially with the help of Jairo Leal and Pitso Mosimane," he assured.
Joel, in turn, returned Parreira's praise and expressed his satisfaction with the deal. "Carlos is one of the most respected coaches in the world, and I'm determined to continue the good work he did in South Africa," he said. "It's a blessing to take over the South African national team, which will host the World Cup," the coach celebrated.
PELENET
With a goal from Bruno, Fla wins and secures 1st place in Group 4
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
With goals from goalkeeper Bruno, from a free kick, and Obina, Flamengo defeated Coronel Bolognesi-PER 2-0 on Wednesday night at Maracanã. With the result, Flamengo reached 13 points and secured first place in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. Nacional, with 12, finished second, having beaten Cienciano-PER 3-1, finishing third with seven points. Bolognesi, with two, finished last.
The Gávea team returns to the field on Sunday, when they face Botafogo in the first final match of the State Championship, at 16 pm, also at Maracanã.
Encouraged by the fans, Flamengo started the game strongly. Playing casually and without pressure, they created good early chances, denying their opponents any breathing room. However, over time, their momentum waned. But nothing could improve the Peruvians' performance. With good ball control, Flamengo still dominated the game and created good chances.
In one of them, Marcinho hit the crossbar. The midfielder then received the ball from Kléberson and narrowly missed opening the scoring. In the 36th minute, he returned to action. However, he was blocked just as he was about to shoot, just one meter from goal.
For Bolognesi, there were a few failed attacking attempts, but nothing that forced goalkeeper Bruno to work effectively. Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim also saw little work.
In the 45th minute, the red-and-blacks created their best chance. Jaílton crossed from the right, the defense failed, and Toró, clever, anticipated the shot. However, goalkeeper Penny used his feet to save the Peruvian homeland.
At the final whistle from Bolivian referee Ivan Gamboa, disappointment greeted the stands. Flamengo's poor performance was met with loud boos. The second half saw them be more focused on finishing.
After the break, the same rhythm prevailed. The home side tried to attack, but Bolognesi defended effectively. It's also true that the red-and-blacks' attempts were disorganized, which ended up making life easier for the opponent.
In the 22nd minute, however, there was a scare. After a cross from the left, Ross headed the ball unmarked, and Bruno saved it in two attempts. Then, it was Flamengo's turn to come out swinging. Souza burst into the box, dribbled past goalkeeper Penny, and shot, but Balbín saved.
In the 30th minute, Obina received the ball and shot hard, but the Peruvian goalkeeper showed up again. However, the big move of the match was yet to come. In the 36th minute, Marcinho was brought down at the edge of the box. Leonardo Moura set up the ball to take the shot, but goalkeeper Bruno stepped up and demanded his turn. With skill worthy of great players, the number 1 sent the ball into the left corner of the Peruvian goalkeeper's reach.
In the 43rd minute, Obina extended the lead after a Marcinho cross, sealing the victory. But with all due respect to the red-and-black favorite, the title of "star" of the night already had its owner: Bruno.
Bruno's goal is celebrated by everyone at Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Goalkeeper Bruno was Flamengo's savior on Wednesday night at Maracanã. After all, in addition to two good saves, the number 1 scored, in the 37th minute of the second half, the first goal of the red-black victory (2-0) over Coronel Bolognesi-PER, in the last round of the group stage of the Copa Libertadores.
Goalkeeper Bruno celebrates a free kick in Flamengo's victory over Coronel Bolognesi
And the goalkeeper's feat was celebrated intensely by the entire team. So much so that during the celebration, all the players, even the reserves, ran toward him.
"Everyone there felt like they had scored that goal. We celebrated a lot. He deserves it, he trains a lot and today he was happy. He helped us a lot," said striker Obina, who scored the second goal.
For coach Joel Santana, the goalkeeper's goal could usher in a new era at Gávea, as the team lacks free-kick specialists.
"We have difficulty with this type of play. Since Renato (Abreu) left, we've been struggling with this. But Bruno has been insisting on practicing fouls and today it worked. He was very calm. I hope he continues like this," said the manager.
This was the red-and-black's second free-kick goal of the season. Prior to that, Juan had scored in the 3-0 victory over Cienciano-PER in the penultimate round of the Libertadores group stage.
Bruno explains the "story" of his free kick goal for Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Bruno was the star of Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Coronel Bolognesi-PER this Wednesday at Maracanã, in the final round of the Copa Libertadores group stage. With a beautiful free kick, the goalkeeper opened the scoring for Flamengo in the 37th minute of the second half. Obina also added the second in the 43rd minute.
"I spoke to Leonardo Moura, because he was going to hit it. But I asked and he let me do it without any problems. And in the end, everything worked out," said the number 1.
One scene that caught everyone's attention was the goalkeeper's celebration. As soon as the ball hit the Peruvian net, all of Flamengo's players, including the reserves, ran toward him.
"This is proof that the group is very close-knit. Everyone there was rooting for me. Because they know what I go through on a daily basis. How much I work and train," he explained.
This was Bruno's first professional goal. However, it wasn't the first Flamengo goalkeeper to score. In 1970, Ubirajara scored against Madureira, and in 1997, Zé Carlos also scored from the penalty spot.
Rio teams dominate the Libertadores group stage
From Folhapress\ In São Paulo\
Having gone seven years without winning the Brazilian Championship, Rio de Janeiro teams dominated the first stage of the Copa Libertadores. With the end of this stage yesterday, Fluminense and Flamengo took first and second place, respectively, among the 16 teams that advanced in the tournament.
These positions were confirmed with the victory of the Gávea team over Coronel Bolognesi, 2-0, on Wednesday night, in group 4 of the Libertadores.
Thus, Flamengo and Fluminense combined for 13 points, a figure not reached by any of the other 30 teams in the competition. River Plate, third overall, was one point behind.
The Rio teams have a 72,2% points record. Each has four wins. They differ in goal difference: Fluminense has eight, and Flamengo has five.
In comparison, the two São Paulo teams, São Paulo and Santos, had a performance of 58,3%. In this century, the only time the state's teams had a worse performance at this stage was in 2006, when Paulista de Jundiaí was eliminated early on.
In the next round, Fluminense faces Nacional de Medellín. And Flamengo faces América de México. Both Brazilian teams have the advantage of playing the second leg at home before the potential final.
GLOBO ESPORTE
Bruno scores, and Fla secures first place
The goalkeeper scores a free kick in the 38th minute of the second half. In the round of 2, the team faces América of Mexico.
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo even considered the possibility of "taking their foot off the gas" to avoid a thrashing in their Copa Libertadores first-round exit. They overdid it so much that they needed a brilliant save from goalkeeper Bruno to beat Coronel Bolognesi 2-0 at the Maracanã on Wednesday night (watch the goals from the match in the video below).
In the 38th minute of the second half, the goalkeeper stepped up and, with a free kick, paved the way for a hard-fought victory. The result left the Red-Blacks leading Group 4 with 13 points and the second-best team in the Copa Libertadores qualifying round. The fans celebrated the result, but their opponent in the round of XNUMX will be the one the squad and coaching staff didn't want: América of Mexico. In the middle of two Carioca finals, the team will have to make a grueling trip to the Mexican capital.
A rout? Only with bad passes
Bruno celebrates Flamengo's free kick goal against Coronel Bolognesi
Even with qualification for the round of 86 assured, the fans didn't forget the match against Bolognesi. Many took advantage of the fourth game of the South American Basketball League final at Maracanãzinho (Flamengo's 79-XNUMX victory over Corrientes) to play a doubleheader. However, the soccer team's players didn't perform on the field in the first half. Coach Joel Santana, in fact, surprised everyone with his defensive lineup. In Ibson's place, he brought on Jaílton. Even on the bench, he preferred to leave five defensive players and only Obina and Tardelli up front. The result of such caution was a lackluster first half. Determined to defend, the Peruvian team rarely got past midfield.
Marcinho's header against the crossbar in the fourth minute gave the impression that the match would be easy. Souza also tried in the eighth minute, but Penny saved. Chances became scarce, and the fans began to demand more energy. Kleberson, the most alert player on the field, headed over the bar in the 23rd minute. Flamengo's line of defensive midfielders left a gap between midfield and attack that not even Leo Moura and Juan's advances could resolve. In the last chance of the first half, Toró shot straight at the Coronel Bolognesi goalkeeper.
Bruno, at the request of the fans, opens the way
To secure the victory needed, Joel Santana replaced Cristian with Tardelli at halftime. But little changed. Within ten minutes, the fans were enraged and demanding more spirit. Jaílton continued to misplace passes, and Leo Moura insisted on playing through the middle. The situation only worsened when Bruno saved Ross's header in the 23rd minute. On the counterattack, Souza lined up, dribbled past the goalkeeper, but was too slow to shoot, and the defense cleared it.
In the 30th minute, Obina received the ball from Marcinho, and the Coronel Bolognesi number 1 prevented the goal. Shortly after, there was a foul in front of the goal, and the fans called for Bruno. The goalkeeper was encouraged, but Juan caught the ball and shot close to the goal.
The next play, however, was a no-go. In the 38th minute, the red-and-black goalkeeper ran, picked up the ball, and skillfully fired it into the right corner, past Penny, who stood motionless. The Maracanã went wild. In the 43rd minute, Marcinho crossed, and Obina dove in to score the second.
Check out the round of 16 clashes
Fluminense takes first place overall and faces Nacional-COL; Cruzeiro faces Boca Juniors
GLOBOESPORTE.COM
Brazil has three representatives among the top five teams overall in the first phase of the Copa Libertadores, but even they won't have an easy time in the round of 16. Fluminense (first place) will face Nacional de Medellín; Flamengo (second place) will face a long trip to América de México; and Cruzeiro (fifth place) will face the Brazilian nightmare, Boca Juniors.
São Paulo, who finished in eighth place overall, will face Nacional from Uruguay; and Santos (tenth place) will play Cúcuta again, repeating the clashes from the first phase.
The first leg of the round of 16—with the teams ranked ninth through 7th playing at home—will be played next week. The second leg is scheduled for May XNUMX.
Check out the round of 16 clashes
Fluminense (1st place) X Nacional-COL (16th place) A
Flamengo (2nd place) X América-MEX (15th place) B
River Plate-ARG (3rd place) X San Lorenzo-ARG (14th place) C
Atlas-MEX (4th place) X Lanús-ARG (13th place) D
Cruzeiro (5th place) X Boca Juniors-ARG (12th place) E
Estudiantes-ARG (6th place) X LDU-EQU (11th place) F
Cúcuta-COL (7th place) X Santos (10th place) G
São Paulo (8th place) X Nacional-URU (9th place) H
QUARTER-FINALS (14/5 and 21/5) Game\ Winner of Game AX Winner of Game H S1\ Winner of Game BX Winner of Game G S2\ Winner of Game CX Winner of Game F S3\ Winner of Game DX Winner of Game E S4\
SEMIFINAL (28/5 and 4/6)\ Winner of Game S1 X Winner of Game S4 F1\ Winner of Game S2 X Winner of Game S3 F2\
FINAL (25/6 and 2/7)\ Winner of Game F1 X Winner of Game F2\
Regulations:\ - In the round of 16, quarterfinals and semifinals, the away goal is the tiebreaker in case of a tie in the number of points and goal difference in both matches.\
- In the same phases, if the two teams are tied in points, goal difference and away goals, they go directly to a penalty shootout, without extra time.
- In the final, away goals are no longer a tiebreaker.
- Thus, if the teams are tied in points and goal difference in the final, they will play a 30-minute overtime period. If they remain tied, they will go to a penalty shootout.
- If two teams from the same country reach the semi-finals, they will have to face each other.
- If a Mexican team plays in the final, it will have to play the first match as the home team, so that the championship ends in South America.
Bruno: 'I knew I would score the goal'
Goalkeeper highlights his personality to take free kick when the game was tied
Eduardo Peixoto
Sitting in the passenger seat of a car, Bruno heard the hysterical screams of the fans as they left the Maracanã stadium. A sign of the fandom that intensified after his free kick goal in Wednesday's match against Coronel Bolognesi. (See Flamengo's goals in the video below)
The goalkeeper quickly explained why he had made the decision, at the end of the match, to take responsibility for the foul.
Responsibility
"Goalkeepers have to have personality. And I have that in spades. That's why I asked to charge."
Moments leading up to the charge
"I told Fábio (Luciano) that I wanted to take the shot. He asked: "Bruno, are you confident?" I replied: "If I go there, I'll score." I knew I would do it because I was very confident. I spoke to Leo Moura, who would take the shot, but he didn't let me."
Why did you change corners?
"I usually train by playing over the wall. But I noticed their goalkeeper stepped to the side and left the corner open."
Celebration
"I'm not used to celebrating. That's why I immediately thought about defending. The hugs I received from my teammates show how united the group is. They know I practice free kicks every day and they were rooting hard for me to score."
Joel's Consent
"If Joel has given me permission to take free kicks, I will train even more to improve."
Bruno becomes a star at Fla after the goal
Goalkeeper is celebrated by fans and teammates after scoring a free kick
Eduardo Peixoto
Bruno asked for the first time and was not answered. The second time, the Flamengo fans' cheers were louder, and captain Fábio Luciano encouraged him. He advanced into the attacking half, collected the ball, and confidently hit it into the left corner of the Bolognesi goalkeeper's net (see Flamengo's goals in the accompanying video).
The first goal of his career was unforgettable for the Flamengo number 1. Hailed by the fans as "the best in Brazil," he received hugs from almost all of his teammates.
"It felt like I had scored the goal. Everyone felt Bruno's desire to score from a free kick. He's always improving, and today he was able to help us in a difficult game. It was a blessed goal," declared forward Obina, who scored the second goal in the 2-0 victory.
Bruno's personality impressed. He didn't receive permission from the coaching staff, but he still spoke with Leo Moura and took responsibility for the penalty kick at a crucial moment.
"Football is very much about the player's spirit, their confidence. We've had trouble with set pieces since Renato left. We've lost that touch. Bruno has that stubbornness, and it paid off today. After Rogério, that desire was born. He was cool and calm," says Joel.
The coach, who leaves Flamengo on May 4, acknowledged that the team could gain a new free kick taker.
- If it's for the good of our fans and the good of the team, it will be done - says Joel.
In training at Gávea, Bruno usually performs well. However, he often puts the ball over the wall, looking for the opposite angle to the goalkeeper's position. Against Coronel Bolognesi, he changed his tactics and it worked.
On the day he was a hero, ironically, the number 1 was selected for the anti-doping test and was unable to give an interview.
Third in History
Bruno's goal wasn't the first in Flamengo's history. In 1970, Ubirajara scored against Madureira at the Luso-Brasileiro stadium. In 1997, it was Zé Carlos' turn to take a penalty against Nacional-AM and score.
Flamengo fans in the middle of the rice powder
Dust thrown by the Tricolors on Sunday is still at Maracanã this Wednesday
Claudio Rabha
The tricolor's powder puff, on the left side of the radio booths in the stadium
The Fluminense-Botafogo match was last Sunday, but the Maracanã stadium is still covered in powder this Wednesday. And it was left to Flamengo fans, who face Coronel Bolognesi in the Copa Libertadores.
When not facing each other, the red-black and tricolor fans always stand to the left of the Maracanã radio booths. Last Sunday, Fluminense fans held their traditional powder-puff party in the stands before the game, which Botafogo won 1-0 in the Taça Rio final (second round of the Carioca).
At least the yellow section hasn't been cleaned by the stadium administration, and the red-and-black fans are complaining in the stands, as the dust makes people slip as they walk. The seats are also dirty from the dust.
Fla doesn't escape trip to Mexico
Results don't help and Rubro-Negro will have to face a marathon next week
Eduardo Peixoto
Joel Santana during the Flamengo game
Flamengo warned that it would not travel to Mexico. It was no use. Group 7 results didn't help, and the Red-Blacks will face América next week in the Mexican capital. The first leg is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30th, at the Azteca Stadium.
To avoid the North American match, the club hoped for an Audax-CHI victory over Sportivo Luqueño-PAR or a draw between São Paulo and Atlético Nacional-COL. However, the Chileans lost 4-1 and the São Paulo team won 1-0.
Had they beaten Coronel Bolognesi 5-0, the Rubro-Negro would have had the best record in the first phase and would have escaped América. However, the club had no way of manipulating this situation, as the Group 7 games took place late on Wednesday night.
"Furthermore, they forgot that Bolognesi has a solid defense, having only conceded three goals before facing us. They talked a lot about a rout, but they didn't think about it," says coach Joel Santana, pleased with the 2-0 victory.
The distance from Rio de Janeiro to Mexico City is almost 7.700 km. Air travel is via a daily route departing from São Paulo. Therefore, including the stop in São Paulo, the estimated travel time is nearly 12 hours. This doesn't include possible delays. There's also the altitude of 2.335 meters.
Flamengo's biggest fear is fatigue. Involved in the Campeonato Carioca final, the club has to make its final appearances between these trips. The first will be this Sunday, the 27th. The other match against Botafogo will take place on the 4th.
In this Copa Libertadores, the Rio delegation struggled with the trip to Cusco, Peru. It took more than 12 hours to get from the Peruvian city to Rio. Almost three days later, the team lost 3-0 to the same Botafogo and blamed fatigue for the defeat.
Fla draws series and envisions unprecedented title
The team wins the fourth game, forces the final duel and goes to Corrientes to the final of the South American League
Alexandre Cossenza
Once again, Fla stops Corrientes at Maracanãzinho and forces the 5th game
Encouraged by the fans who turned out at Maracanãzinho, Flamengo tied the South American League finals at 2-2, forcing a final game, which will be played next week in Argentina. On Wednesday, Flamengo relied on an inspired Duda Machado with three-pointers and dunks to defeat Regatas Corrientes 86-79.
"It was a great game. The fans put on the pressure from the start, which really got me going. The first game of the final was atypical, but now Flamengo is focused and will play well. We'll win the title," says point guard Duda, the game's top scorer with 28 points, seven steals, and six assists.
After a solid victory last Tuesday, also at the Maracanãzinho gymnasium, Flamengo took the court knowing they needed a win to stay alive in the League. And they went all-out against their opponents, managing to earn a 2-2 draw in the final. Both of the Argentines' victories were at home.
In the opening game, Flamengo lost, caused a brawl on the court, and saw Marcelinho Machado sent off. In the following match, the team looked like they would take a 1-1 lead, but conceded the victory to their opponent.
"Seeing my brother tearing it up on the court and the fans so excited is a feeling that has the whole nation behind it. It feels like a national team match. In the end, the Argentines teased us, saying it'll be different there, but we have what it takes to win," believes Marcelinho Machado.
Close marking on Marcelinho Machado
In the first quarter, due to the point guard's strong performance in yesterday's match, Marcelinho Machado started out heavily guarded by his opponents, which prevented Flamengo from opening up a lead. The point guard, who scored 44 points in the first game at the Maracanãzinho gymnasium, only scored on free throws. Hélio was the best for the Rio de Janeiro team, with seven points. In a balanced period, Flamengo managed to take a 25-22 lead.
In the locker room, I asked the players to take advantage of the spaces. Duda, Hélio, and Alírio were able to play through them. We won based on confidence. Paulo Chupeta, Flamengo coach.
Duda enters to guarantee Fla's victory
The lead, which was just three points at the end of the first quarter, quickly grew to 10 at the start of the second period. With Marcelinho setting up the plays well, Flamengo managed to score, and with the clock showing six minutes remaining, the score was 34-24.
Duda Machado, brother of the Rubro-Negro's most experienced player, was instrumental in the Rio de Janeiro team's lead. With accurate three-point shots and beautiful dunks, he provided the margin on the scoreboard, in addition to driving the fans at Maracanãzinho wild. Regatas Corrientes insisted on marking Marcelinho, allowing Duda to celebrate on the court (14 points in the period) and close the second quarter at 46-35.
Marcelinho on the bench, Duda on the court
Continuing a fantastic second quarter, where he scored 14 points on three-pointers and dunks, Duda Machado began the third quarter by hitting another shot from outside the paint. Flamengo's lead was 49-35. Regatas Corrientes, seeing their opponents opening up, took a three-point shot, which allowed the rebound and the Red-Blacks to counterattack.
It feels like a national team game. In the end, the Argentines provoked us, saying it will be different there, but we have what it takes to win. Marcelinho Machado, Flamengo's point guard.
Sensing the game was all Flamengo's way, the Argentine coach called a timeout with just over three minutes remaining. While the Argentines searched for ways to slow down the Rio de Janeiro team's rhythm, the chants in the Maracanãzinho stands echoed unabated. Upon returning to the court, the match was stalemate. Flamengo had fouls, and Regatas Corrientes had a foul. However, with a healthy lead, Flamengo managed to hold on even without Marcelinho, who only came on in the final seconds. Flamengo finished the third quarter 66-53.
Name of the game, Duda leaves the court to applause
Flamengo's pace didn't slow down in the final quarter, quite the opposite. Duda continued scoring from outside the paint, and his brother, Marcelinho, continued his efficient playmaking, which was crucial in losing control of their opponents on the court.
The fans put on the pressure from the start, which encouraged me. The first game of the final was atypical, but now Flamengo is focused and will play well. We'll win the title. Duda, the match's top scorer.
Marcelinho celebrates with Duda, who unbalanced the fourth game, and Hélio
With 22 seconds remaining, Regatas Corrientes began to create chaos on the court. The players attacked Marcelinho, who, unlike in the first game of the final, when he was sent off, ignored the Argentines' provocations. Seeing Corrientes' desperation, the fans chanted and waved Flamengo flags even louder. Thus, the Rio de Janeiro team secured the 86-79 victory, tying the finals at 2-2, and will decide the South American League title in Argentina.
"Yesterday the team played well collectively, but Marcelinho was unbalanced. Today, he was heavily marked. In the locker room, I told the players to take advantage of the space. Duda, Hélio, and Alírio were able to play through it. We won based on confidence," explains coach Paulo Chupeta.
'Fla is not for beginners', says president
Marcio Braga does not approve the hiring of new coaches to replace Joel
Eduardo Peixoto
Marcio Braga does not accept new coaches to lead the club
Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, is silently developing the name of Joel Santana's replacement starting May 4th. But he's not alone in this endeavor. Without offering daily opinions, president Marcio Braga oversees the selection of the new coach. And he has his own convictions.
One of them is his opposition to hiring new coaches, whom he considers lacking a track record. These include Caio Júnior and Jorginho, whose interest from Flamengo has been speculated in recent days.
"Flamengo isn't for beginners. What I like are experienced coaches. We have an expensive squad, with stars. We've already tried this experiment, and it didn't work out. We want someone with a track record," says Marcio Braga over the phone.
The president even suggested hiring Carlos Alberto Parreira. However, the coach, who resigned from South Africa, said he had no intention of working at the moment. He took the opportunity to clarify his public admiration for Abel Braga.
"They'll end up burning Abel. I'm a fan of his. But he's a coach who's already hired, and it would be unethical to seek him out," the manager says.
Rubro-Negro intends to present the new coach on May 5th, the day after the final of the Campeonato Carioca and the day before the second leg of the round of XNUMX of the Copa Libertadores.
FIFA surrenders to "Daddy Joel"
Official website highlights Brazilian coach's deal with South Africa
FIFA website announces Joel in Africa
The confirmation of Joel Santana's appointment to coach the South African national team this Wednesday immediately gained worldwide attention. FIFA featured the news as the main highlight of its official website. The headline "Bafana turn to Papai Joel" (South Africans go to Papai Joel) plays on the fact that Joel was born on Christmas Day.
The official website celebrates the Brazilian coach's career, winning titles with the four major Rio de Janeiro clubs. His victorious 2007 campaign at the helm of Flamengo, during the 2007 Brazilian Championship, was also a highlight. He led the Red-Blacks to the Copa Libertadores that year.
On the South African Football Confederation website, there is also a big highlight about the appointment of the coach to lead the local team in the 2010 World Cup. The news also mentions Joel Santana's birthday (December 25).
Djalminha counts on Romário in showbol
The player, who plays for Flamengo in the tournament, hopes to convince Baixinho to play alongside him.
Romário's participation in the Brazilian Championship of Showbol has not yet been fully confirmed, but Djalminha, one of the tournament organizers, believes he can convince him to participate in the Brazilian Championship of the category, which will be broadcast on SporTV. And, since he plays for Flamengo in the competition, he wants Baixinho to play alongside him for the red-and-black team.
"I had a conversation with Baixinho. He's stopped playing now, and he doesn't want to make a concrete commitment because he's traveling a lot on weekends. But Romário might be able to attend a game or two, and he even said we can count on him for the Brazilian national team's matches. He left it open, but I keep insisting on having Baixinho by my side at Flamengo," the former player told SporTV (watch the interview above).
Djalminha ruled out the possibility of the striker playing for more than one team in the Brazilian Championship, as it would violate the competition's rules. Romário's confirmation for the tournament will apparently only happen closer to the start of the Rio de Janeiro group stage, which begins on Saturday, May 3, in Rio das Ostras, with Flamengo vs. Vasco.
"He's shown a willingness to participate, and I hope to convince him to debut in the Rio das Ostras match. Baixinho will definitely get a taste for the sport, because showbol is a lot of fun to play. We hope to count on him throughout the championship," says Djalminha.
THROW
Bruno has a Zico day and leads Flamengo to victory
Flamengo defeats Bolognesi and closes the stage in first place in Group 4 of the Libertadores
Bruno celebrates his first goal (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)
LANCEPRESS!
If the outfield players couldn't keep up throughout the match, the goalkeeper stepped up and played the role of top scorer. With a free kick goal from Bruno—and another from Obina late in the match—Flamengo paved the way for a 2-0 victory over Coronel Bolognesi at the Maracanã. With this result, Flamengo qualified as first-placed team in Group 4 and the second-best team in the first phase of the Copa Libertadores.
If Colonel Bolognesi's mission was to maintain the best defense in the competition, Flamengo's was to win and maintain its top spot in its group. And right from the start, improvised striker Marcinho gave the Peruvians the Rubro-Negro's calling card. With a header that hit the post in the seventh minute, Flamengo gave the impression that their opponents would return home more wounded than blind in a shootout.
However, it was just a false impression. Failing to attack with conviction throughout the first half, Flamengo missed the few opportunities it created, as the opponent's weakness, which insisted on remaining defensive, was evident at the Maracanã.
The red-and-blacks' best chances came from Souza, who nearly scored from outside the box in the tenth minute. Another good opportunity in the first half came in the 18th minute, when Marcinho, the team's best player so far, passed to Souza, who missed another opportunity.
And this was the tone of the first half: Colonel Bolognesi armed with a bolt in his defense, while Flamengo failed to vehemently threaten Penny's goal. This scenario didn't please the Flamengo fans at Maracanã, who booed the team as they left for halftime. Some of them even went to coach Joel Santana, coming from the sidelines.
When the teams returned in the second half, Joel took a bold step and changed the team from 4-4-2 to 4-3-3, taking off midfielder Cristian and putting Diego Tardelli alongside Marcinho and Souza in attack.
Even with an extra attacker, the tone of the match remained the same: Fla