THE GLOBE
The Guanabara Cup of the tiebreaker
Fla and Botafogo decided twice and each one won a title
A little less than a year after deciding the 2007 State Championship, with the red-and-blacks in the lead, Botafogo and Flamengo meet again today in a new final, which will be a tiebreaker for the Guanabara Cup. The teams have only faced each other twice in the final of the competition, created in 1965, with one victory for each side. In terms of titles, Flamengo, the biggest champion, has a large advantage over its rival, with 17 (1970, 72, 73, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 84, 88, 89, 95, 96, 99, 2001, 2004 and 2007), compared to just four (1967, 68, 97 and 2006).
In the first match between the two, Botafogo emerged champion in unusual fashion. The red-and-black needed a victory over Bonsucesso, in a postponed match, to clinch the title. The black-and-white team then decided to tour Brazil. But Flamengo lost 2-0, requiring an extra match. The black-and-white team rushed back from the trip and thrashed their rivals 4-1, with goals from Gérson (2), Zequinha, and Roberto Miranda. The red-and-black goal was scored by Dionísio.
In 1995, Flamengo celebrated by defeating their opponents 3-2, with Romário scoring a hat trick. Adriano scored both of Botafogo's goals. The big draw of the night was the duel between top scorers Romário and Túlio. Flamengo took a 2-0 lead. The first goal came after Wilson Gottardo's penalty on Romário, which the star player converted. On the second, he rose above the defense and headed in a second goal. When defenders Agnaldo and Túlio were sent off, the game seemed over, but Adriano equalized from two set pieces. However, due to a mistake by Márcio Teodoro, Romário sealed the victory and, still on the Maracanã field, proclaimed himself God, in response to Túlio, who called himself the "King of Rio."
GB CUP DECISION: A pillar of Joel's Flamengo, the midfielder dreams of the national team
On and off the field,\ a young man in transformation\
Ibson learns to deal with new responsibility at Flamengo and at home
IBSON WITH FAMILY: with his wife Cíntia and son Ibson Junior, at home, the player finds strength to overcome challenges in football and in life
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Ibson is only 24 years old. But for those who live in the world of modern football, he stopped being seen as a young man some time ago. So much so that he carries on his shoulders the weight of being one of Flamengo's biggest hopes in today's final against Botafogo. A responsibility that, even at his young age, he needs to learn to manage while, off the field, he represents a life in transformation.
A year ago, while Flamengo and Botafogo were deciding the final state championship, Ibson was going through difficult times in Portugal. Two consecutive injuries and relationship problems with Porto coach Jesualdo Ferreira were weighing him down. Last year, Ibson married Cíntia, who had been with him through his darkest moments in Europe. He later returned to Brazil. Raised in São Gonçalo, he saw his successful start to his career bear fruit: a spacious apartment with a generous ocean view in Niterói, where he has lived since December. Four months ago, Ibson Júnior, his first child, was born.
"I'm still the same. But of course, some things change when you have your first child. Especially when they're just starting to figure things out. I don't want to miss anything. I can't wait to get home. When there's a pre-season trip, for example, I miss it terribly. The responsibility is greater," says Ibson.
When his wife is absent from the room, Ibson reveals himself to be a caring father. In his lap, Ibson Júnior seems less agitated, especially if there's a soccer game on television. He wears a personalized Flamengo jersey, with his name and the number 100 on the back, a reference to his father's XNUMXth game for Flamengo, a milestone he achieved in the team's State Championship debut against Boavista. At Gávea, a break in training is a chance for Ibson to go to the fence and briefly relive his son's longing.
At work, Ibson's responsibility also grew. He left Flamengo as a revelation. He returned as a solution for a team in technical crisis in the last Brazilian Championship. The midfielder debuted in a 3-0 loss to Santos. In the following game, he stumbled again, against Atlético-PR. From that point on, however, the surge toward a previously unthinkable Libertadores berth began. For the fans, the result of Ibson's arrival:
"I took it in stride. I believed in myself. I knew that, in Portugal, injuries had hindered me. I returned to the club I love, and Joel gave me confidence. But the recovery wasn't just my fault. Flamengo brought in Fábio Luciano, Cristian...
"The future will no longer depend on me"
The Guanabara Cup final has a special flavor for Ibson. After all, upon his return to Flamengo, the Libertadores berth was seen as an achievement. But not as an actual title:
- That campaign was important because of the comeback we made. But of course, lifting a trophy would be the crowning achievement.
For coach Joel Santana, Ibson is one of the pillars of Flamengo today. For the midfielder, Flamengo is the present and could be his future for a long time to come. Although his contract with Porto expires in 2011, Ibson, whose loan to Flamengo ends in June, is considered a priority by the board. He achieved such importance at Gávea that, when the club launched its official online TV channel, Ibson was the symbol. According to vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, FlaTV's main goal is to raise funds for the outright purchase of the midfielder, for which there is no fixed price.
For now, Ibson doesn't see a victorious return to European football as an obsession:
"What I'm thinking about today is winning titles with Flamengo and then returning to the Brazilian national team. To achieve my goals, there's nothing better than having a good run at Flamengo."
Ibson said he found a warm welcome at Gávea that he perhaps lacked in Portuguese football. At Flamengo, he recaptured his best form, and with the red-and-black jersey, he dreams of greater heights.
"I joined Flamengo when I was nine. I'm someone who leaves home to go work in a place where I also feel at home. This makes everything easier. I have a contract with Porto until 2011, and at some point, the future will no longer depend on me. I'm happy at Flamengo, but I'll wait to see what the clubs decide," he says.
Reunion at Maracanã
Ibson's Flamengo and Lúcio Flávio's Botafogo face off again. The last classics have been evenly matched.
LÚCIO FLÁVIO and Ibson, meeting last Friday: mutual respect and praise before today's classic, which will decide the Guanabara Cup
Friday, 48 hours before the Guanabara Cup final. Icaraí Beach in Niterói serves as the backdrop. Responsible for bringing talent, dynamism, and organization to Flamengo and Botafogo's midfields, Ibson and Lúcio Flávio—virtually confirmed yesterday—face off for the final time before today's derby at 16 p.m. at Maracanã.
The pleasant conversation and exchange of compliments will certainly contrast with the battle that will be seen on the field.
"It's increasingly difficult to see a true number ten like Lúcio Flávio. Nowadays, it's more common for defensive midfielders to go forward and create plays," Ibson praised.
"Ibson is a second midfielder, but he adapted very well to the forward position. That's rare," replied Lúcio Flávio.
To retain the trophy, the red-and-blacks and whites will have to break the stalemate that has characterized their recent history. The last five matches have ended in a draw.
From the 2007 State Championship final to the present, the rivals have followed opposite paths. Despite losing, Botafogo became a sensation in Brazilian football before experiencing a decline at the end of 2007. Flamengo, after winning the Copa Libertadores, was knocked out of the Copa Libertadores and plunged into a deep crisis. At the end of the year, they made an incredible comeback. Botafogo reaches the final with Cuca, the same coach from the last final. Flamengo, which at the time had Ney Franco, now has Joel Santana on the bench. On the field, the red-and-black team is expected to have six starters who played in that final. Botafogo will have a maximum of two, if Jorge Henrique, who ran yesterday, plays.
During the week of the game, Joel Santana and Cuca, like Ibson and Lúcio Flávio, were full of compliments. During the match in Niterói, the red-and-black midfielder offered a lighthearted farewell:
- See you on Sunday.
Referee: Marcelo de Lima Henrique.
TRANSMISSION: Rede Globo and Rádios Globo and CBN
RELAXATION: Party in Gávea
The players of "goalkeeper" Juan's team celebrate their victory, complete with a "We're champions" chant, in the final kickabout at Gávea before the Guanabara Cup final. Despite the festive atmosphere, the players practiced penalty kicks, with the starters making good use of them.
Fernando Calazans
Benefit of the doubt
Before the game begins, it's important to commend Botafogo's performance in this GB Cup, which ends today. After so many losses and absences compared to last year, Botafogo managed to rebuild with a modest squad, but one that was well-trained and well-organized by Cuca. Because of this, he establishes himself as one of the few coaches who can break out of the prevailing slump.
Even for having devised a marking scheme that contradicts the thesis that he, Cuca, would only be efficient from midfield forward.
But, speaking of marking, just a moment! I need to rewind a bit, to the semifinals in which Botafogo eliminated Fluminense. Judging by the number of messages I received from readers, I must have neglected one of the predominant themes of this column.
But the readers didn't. And they asked me, some doubtfully, others more confidently, if the marking scheme was actually good, or if "good," in quotation marks, was the free-kick rotation that Cuca introduced into the team, which primarily targeted Thiago Neves.
So, I was the one who had doubts. I looked up the game data: Botafogo committed 33 fouls, compared to Fluminense's 18.
Thirty-three fouls? That's a lot for one team, in one game. Almost twice as many fouls as the opponent. Later, replaying some scenes from the game, I noticed the crazy gestures of the trio Diguinho, Túlio, and Triguinho.
The first two played well. I highlighted them in the commentary. But do they really need to be missed so much?
With the semifinal over, there's one thing left to do. Other comrades won't care, I know, because the ends justify any means, including illicit ones, and Botafogo is in the final, right? But I'll keep an eye on whether Cuca's marking scheme is actually good or if it was the old, tired tactic of rotating fouls that helped the team. It's an illegal tactic that should be combated by the referees—if we had real soccer referees.
For now, the benefit of the doubt prevails, and Botafogo deserves to be in the final.
Flamengo also deserves it. Joel Santana said recently that, with games on Wednesdays and Sundays, he can't adapt the reinforcements to the team's lineup and formation. That's why he opted for last year's lineup.
It makes a certain sense. Especially since Jônatas wasn't playing well at all. And Diego Tardelli is Diego Tardelli: no one knows what will happen, only the board thought they did when they signed him. Kleberson, in my opinion, was improving his performance, starting to adapt to the team and create plays, something that Jaílton, Cristian, and Toró, the three who will play today, definitely don't know how to do. Jaílton, for example, knows how to do what Botafogo did against Fluminense: commit fouls.
But, just like what happened with Cuca, it doesn't hurt to also give Joel the benefit of the doubt, waiting to see how the Flamengo team does today.
Good People
Numerology
Access to FlaTV online will start charging starting on the 30th. It will cost R$12 per month. Twelve is the number on the fan club's jersey.
Renato Mauricio Prado
Until the Zico generation, Flamengo was, in fact, a big customer of Botafogo - the only one of the big clubs in Rio that had an advantage over the red-black team in the direct confrontation.
It is from these times the famous phrase of Manga, the folkloric goalkeeper of Botafogo who, before the games against Fla, always said:
- The money from the fair is guaranteed, because against them, it is a sure bet (prize for victory).
Only in the 80s did this relationship reverse and, today, in 312 games, there have been 111 Fla victories, 102 draws and 99 black and white triumphs.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Fla lineup only at game time
The team should be the same as the last Brazilian Championship, but the coach remains a mystery.
Nathan de Lima and Sergio Melo
The mood at Flamengo on the eve of the Guanabara Cup final was optimistic. The alliance between the team and fans remains in place at the start of the season.
All week long, only one question was on the minds of Flamengo fans. Which team will Joel field in the final? If the question were asked directly to the coach, the answer would be evasive. But observing the coach's work closely, one realizes that major changes are unlikely. As he himself says, the pieces change, but the scheme remains the same.
For today's match, changes will be made in midfield. Joel Santana will almost certainly field Cristian and Marcinho in place of Jônatas and Diego Tardelli, respectively. In addition to these two substitutions, Toró returns to the team after recovering from a right thigh injury.
The coach continues to be mysterious and explained that he's only not announcing the team so as not to hand the title to coach Cuca on a silver platter. "Anything happens in football. I'm not going to give my opponent weapons and I'm only going to announce the lineup an hour before the game. There's no point. I don't know if there will be any surprises," Joel Santana tried to mislead once again.
Fans will be crucial\ Off the field, another duel promises to draw attention and even be decisive for the grand final. Flamengo and Botafogo fans will pack Maracanã stadium and try to repeat the beautiful celebration they had at last year's Campeonato Carioca final, which the Flamengo and Botafogo won on penalties.\
Léo Moura, who is enjoying one of the best moments of his career, even being called up to coach Dunga's Brazilian national team, knows the importance of fans in decisive moments like today's match. The full-back warned that if the nation is in a good mood, it's unlikely that the title won't stay at Gávea.
"Our fans are wonderful and will support us en masse at Maracanã. Everyone knows that when they take the field with us, it gets complicated. But we know that on the other side there is a great team. It's great to know that we will go out on the field and have all those fans supporting us," added Léo Moura, who has never lost to Botafogo while playing for Flamengo.
Classic with stories and a full house
Flamengo is betting on not losing to Botafogo for three years
SERGIO MELLO
Marcelo Sadio and Ursula Nery
A packed Maracanã stadium will be the stage for the Guanabara Cup final today at 16 p.m., between Botafogo and Flamengo. All 63.614 available tickets have sold out, and now fans who want to watch the game can only watch on TV. The club with the lone star is fighting for its fifth title in the competition, while Flamengo is seeking its 18th.
Judging by recent history, the task seems difficult for both clubs, as in 2007, in the five matches they faced each other, neither team left the field with the taste of victory. In the Carioca championship, they drew 3-3, 2-2, and in the final, two more 2-2 draws, with Flamengo winning on penalties. In the Brazilian championship, again, 1-1 and XNUMX-XNUMX.
The last time Botafogo prevailed was in 2004, when they won 1-0 thanks to a backheel goal from Alex Alves. If the tie ends again, the match will be decided by penalty kicks. Flamengo's last triumph came in the 2006 Brazilian Championship, when they won 2-0, with goals from Rafael Marques (own goal) and Renato Silva, now with Botafogo.
At Gávea and General Severiano, on the eve of the final, coaches Cuca and Joel Santana spoke about the importance of winning the Guanabara Cup.
"I believe that if we win the title, the celebration will be moderate, as it doesn't represent our entire objective in the first half of the year. Is the Guanabara Cup important? Yes! But it means reaching the final of the Campeonato Carioca," explained Cuca.
The red-black coach demonstrated that despite having already won the competition five times, he guaranteed that he is still not satisfied.
"It's an important competition. In fact, I have about five on my shelf. It has all the makings of a championship. It's even more charming than the Rio Cup, because it's older. But both are worthy of a title," concluded Joel Santana.
Marcinho arrived, saw and conquered
Do Flamengo fans know Márcio José Oliveira? Probably not. But when you mention Marcinho, it's easy. A native of Irapuã, São Paulo, he joined the club at the beginning of the year from Atlético Mineiro to join the squad. However, his determination and talent convinced coach Joel Santana to include him in the starting lineup.
At 23 years old, Marcinho sees the process of arriving at Flamengo and becoming a starter in a Taça Guanabara final as natural.
"When I arrived at Flamengo, the idea was to be in the starting 18. After that, I wanted to be in the starting 11. Things happened naturally, but I didn't expect to start in my first match. Little by little, I gained the coach's encouragement and gained more confidence," says Marcinho.
Now, with the possibility of winning his first title wearing the Flamengo jersey, Marcinho doesn't want to take any chances and seal his place in the starting lineup and take a victory lap today at the Maracanã. "I know my capabilities and what I can do at Flamengo. I knew that sooner or later a chance would come my way and that I would make the most of it," says Marcinho.
Léo Moura wants to maintain hegemony against Bota
Léo Moura's plays, on the right wing, became a Flamengo trademark
During the final training session held yesterday morning, the atmosphere at Flamengo was lively both on and off the field. The presence of a large number of fans who chanted each player's name demonstrates that the bond between the fans and the team remains strong.
And speaking of optimism, right-back Leonardo Moura is enjoying his best moment at the club. Besides being called up for the Brazilian national team's final friendly against Ireland, he was praised by coach Dunga and remains one of the most important players in Joel Santana's squad. If all this weren't enough to make him laugh out loud, there's also the added bonus of never having lost to Botafogo since arriving in 2005.
"It's true. I have this good track record, as well as having scored the goal on the final penalty kick that gave us the state title last year. I believe these things are very good, to bring peace of mind to the derby. I'm training hard this week to be ready for this final against Botafogo," he says.
Superstition is with Ronaldo Angelim
Flamengo has always been called a nation. Nothing new there. Everyone already knows that former player Júnior always referred to the red-and-black team as a second skin. But defender Ronaldo Angelim decided to innovate: in addition to wearing the uniform, the player adopted another look: Flamengo swimming trunks for games.
"All players have their superstitions. I believe anything goes at this crucial moment. I, for example, like to wear the same cleats and shin guards in every game. I've also worn the same swimming trunks in every game since the 2007 Brazilian Championship. I won't give them up for good luck. They come in black and red. And they have the Flamengo crest," he reveals.
And he goes further, remembering that the outfit brought luck last Sunday, in the 2-1 victory.
Leila and Sandra Pires go through the Banco do Brasil Circuit repechage
With a tiebreak victory over Mirlena Santos/Érika (AM/RN), the duo Leila/Sandra Pires (DF/RJ) overcame the repechage of the Santa Catarina stage of the Banco do Brasil Beach Volleyball Circuit this Saturday in Florianópolis. Five other women's and six men's partnerships also advanced to the round of 18, which will be held throughout the day in Canasvieiras. One of the highlights will be the semifinal stage, with matches in the evening round, starting at 8:30 PM. The finals and third-place playoff will take place on Sunday, starting at XNUMX:XNUMX AM.
Leila and Sandra Pires secured their spot by defeating Mirlena Santos/Érika 2-1, with scores of 18-10, 16-18, and 15-11. For Leila from Brasília, the duo's performance is still far from ideal.
"We still have a lot of training to do, especially because we know our technical quality. But we need patience, which we lack at times due to anxiety. We'll definitely improve a lot as the stages progress, and that's the most important thing," commented the left-hander.
The pairs Juliana/Larissa (CE/PA), Ágatha/Shaylyn (PR/CE), Maria Clara/Carolina (RJ) and Renata/Talita (RJ/AL) have already qualified for the quarter-finals and are awaiting the results of the round of 16.
THE DAY
Guanabara Cup reaches its dramatic end today, on Oscar night
Flamengo and Botafogo are the protagonists of a story that moved everyone. Who will have a happy ending?
Marluci Martins
Rio - And the Oscar goes to... Flamengo or Botafogo? The "enchanted" Guanabara Cup final will be shown today in a single session, starting at 16 p.m., at the Maracanã, "where the weak have no place."
To avoid taking 'risky behavior', Flamengo takes to the field this afternoon a team that is practically the same as the one from '4 months, 3 weeks and 2 days' ago, now without the Argentine Maxi, who is stuck in the 'valley of the shadows'.
Unaware of 'other people's lives', coach Cuca has plenty of worries: he won't be able to count on Triguinho, who is suspended, and while he kept part of the team working hard during the week, half of them were 'away from it', in the medical department.
Even so, Botafogo's coach didn't play games. At Friday's training session, he named the lineup of "indomitable" players who will face Flamengo's "elite squad."
AFTER THE GAME, THE OSCAR
In the event of a tie, the sound of every fan's heartbeat will be heard at Maracanã, as the decision will be made on penalties. And in goal, Botafogo has improved compared to last year. Losing the 2007 State Championship had two consequences for the club: a "desire" for a better goalkeeper and a need to "make amends" for the misjudged decision. Then came Uruguayan Castillo.
Thanks to him, Botafogo fans once again had an idol. And so, they were even able to say to the deserter Dodô something like, "We're fine even without you."
May the best man win. And for fans who have red-black or white blood, a warning: don't dive into the "wild nature" that anger at a possible defeat sometimes evokes. Those who don't have a reason to stretch out on the street drinking a beer should remember that, after the Maracanã's polvilho biscuits, there will still be time to eat popcorn while watching another Oscar decision on television.
The nominees
FILM\ Flamengo - Elite Squad\ Vasco - All the President's Men\ Botafogo - The Hour of the Star\ Fluminense - Titanic\
DIRECTOR\ Joel Santana - The Big Daddy\ Renato Gaúcho - The Mask\ Alfredo Sampaio - Meet the Cold\ Cuca - In Search of Gold\
ACTOR\ Leandro Amaral - The Liar\ Washington - Braveheart\ Zé Carlos - My Left Foot\ Thiago Neves - Pinocchio\
SUPPORTING ACTOR\ Dodô - Home Alone\ Edmundo - Bitter Return\ Muriqui - The Killer\ Alex Teixeira - The Age of Innocence\
ART DIRECTION\ Roberto Horcades - A Newbie in the Mafia\ Eurico Miranda - The Great Dictator\ The Referees - MIB Men in Black\ Romário - The Fugitive\
SPECIAL EFFECTS\ Wagner Diniz - Vertigo\ Fernando Henrique - In the Line of Fire\ Jorge Luiz and Vílson - Lost in Space\ America - The Green Mile\
MAKEUP\ Renato Augusto - Robocop\ Válber - Jurassic Park\ Léo Moura - The Last of the Mohicans\ Beto - Sideways, Between Ones and Others\
FOREIGN FILM\ Castillo - Edward Scissorhands\ Maxi - My Cousin Vinny\ Conca - Infidelity\ Escalada - Free Willy\
Love that comes from the cradle
Stars, Castillo and Íbson will be on opposite sides in today's decision, but they agree when pointing to the biggest trophy of their lives: their sons Ian and Íbson Júnior
Janir Junior and Raphael Roque
Rio - Botafogo goalkeeper Castillo and Flamengo midfielder Íbson are idols of two of Brazil's biggest fan bases. But the fan they can't live without is precisely the one who wouldn't be ashamed to even change his ways to follow in the footsteps of their greatest hero: their sons Ian, who turns 3 next week, and Íbson Júnior, 4 months old.
The Uruguayan is focused on the game, but any free time he has is spent catching up on his heir, online. The goalkeeper regrets not being able to have his family with him for this decision, but he's already received a promise that everyone will be watching the game closely on TV in Montevideo. The title will be one of Ian's birthday presents.
Íbson is a less experienced father, having only experienced the sensation for a few months, but that doesn't make him any less dedicated. He considers his son's birth the greatest motivation for his career, and he warns: he will do everything he can to dedicate the title to him.
CASTILLO PROMISES TO WIN TITLE TO GIVE TO HEIR
When his son Ian celebrates his third birthday on Tuesday in Montevideo, Castillo won't be there. Not even at the party planned for Monday. It will be the first time this has happened. Starting a new life, playing outside of Uruguay for the first time, the Botafogo goalkeeper admits he misses the country deeply, but that the title will be the perfect gift for his heir.
Andrea, his wife, a military officer, will arrive in Brazil on Wednesday, bringing little Ian and the couple's other child. Along with her, the couple will also move permanently to an apartment in Niterói, overlooking the beach and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
The goalkeeper won't see his family until the following day, as he'll be in Acre on Wednesday, where Botafogo will play in the Copa do Brasil. But upon arrival, Ian will find his bed covered in a Botafogo quilt and a full uniform to cheer for his father. "I've never spent so much time away from them. I miss them terribly, but playing for Botafogo is an excellent opportunity for me. I want to win this title as a gift for Ian. It will make me feel like the effort was worth it," Castillo emphasized.
Since arriving at Alvinegro, Castillo has only seen his family once, when he was on international duty with the Uruguayan national team earlier this month. They maintain contact via the internet and a computer camera. "I used all my free time to sort out the bureaucratic issues of renting the apartment and their move to Brazil. This way, I avoided making the loneliness even worse," he explained.
Castillo's story is tied to a Flamengo rival. He was signed from Peñarol, but previously played for Defensor Sporting, which eliminated Flamengo in the last Copa Libertadores. Some friends were on the field for both semifinal matches. "I was very happy for my friends at Defensor, as it was a big step. I hope I can do like them and leave Maracanã with a victory."
JUNIOR'S SON AND THE FLA FANS
Two sounds of varying intensities stir Íbson on the eve of decisive matches. One comes from the other end of the phone, a whisper, as he attempts to utter his first words; the other is a thunderous noise that comes from above, enveloping and drawing strength from where he has none. His son, Íbson Júnior, just four months old, and the Flamengo fans are the main fuel for the Flamengo player.
First-time father Íbson reveals that he gets goosebumps when he's in training camp. The reason: "I miss my son so much. My wife puts him on the phone, and I hear his grumbling. It makes me even more determined to play well, to give my best," says Íbson, who, upon completing his 100th game, took his son onto the field. That was when Íbson Júnior made his 'debut' at Maracanã.
On Friday, Íbson Júnior went to Gávea to receive a goodbye kiss from his father, who has his son's name tattooed on his arm, before he went to the red-black training camp.
After his son's grumbling, it's time to enter the Maracanã stadium and hear the thousands of voices in the stands cheering the team on loud and clear. "It'll be a great game, like classics. Our fans lined up for tickets and will be our strength, just like last year," the player predicts.
With a contract with Flamengo until June—his rights belong to Porto, Portugal—Íbson, also known as Íbson Júnior, doesn't want to hear fans crying about his possible departure. Therefore, the club's management is working to present a good offer and secure the player permanently. "We want him forever," emphasizes vice president of football Kléber Leite. Only then will the tears of longing be felt solely for Íbson Júnior.
Joel and Cuca's routine during the decisive week
Raphael Roque and Marluci Martins
Rio - The week of preparation for a classic is already stressful enough. And if a title is at stake, like today's between Botafogo and Flamengo, the pressure only increases. Coaches dedicate themselves to planning, organizing, and training their teams, but there comes a time when they need to take a break. A moment of relaxation doesn't hurt; after all, no body or mind can handle working all the time.
Joel Santana and Cuca are no exception. Amidst all the hubbub surrounding the decision, they both find time for simple things, like dinner with family, going to the movies, or attending church. The 'Attack' spoke with the coaches and discussed their schedules for the week of the game. They tried to forget the derby, even if only for a moment, but the task was one of the most difficult.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo and Botafogo return to decide a title after a year\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Less than a year after deciding the state title, Flamengo and Botafogo meet again in a final. This time, the two teams take to the field for the final of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the Campeonato Carioca, this Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time). Despite not losing to their rivals in almost four years, Flamengo is avoiding portraying themselves as favorites for the final. One of the heroes of last year's Carioca final, when they won in a penalty shootout, goalkeeper Bruno says it's time to put the past behind them if Flamengo doesn't want to be surprised.
"We don't dwell on the past; that final is in the past. It was great to have won the title, we were happy, but now it's a different story. We have the responsibility to play well and fight for another title," emphasized the Flamengo goalkeeper, who excelled again in the Guanabara Cup semifinals, saving a penalty kick from Edmundo.
Flamengo defender and captain Fábio Luciano has recovered from a blow to his elbow during the derby against Vasco and has confirmed his presence. He promises to give his all in the final.
"In training and on the streets, we've already felt the atmosphere of decision. We feel that the fans trust the team and that we'll have their full support on Sunday. We're dedicating ourselves in training to put in a great performance and win the title," commented the athlete, who scored the first goal in last Sunday's 2-1 victory.
Coach Joel Santana is expected to make three changes from the team that played in the semifinals. Recovered from a muscle injury, midfielder Toró will replace Kléberson, while defensive midfielder Cristian and forward Marcinho are expected to replace Jônatas and Diego Tardelli, respectively. The lineup, however, will only be announced in the Maracanã locker room.
Botafogo, on the other hand, comes into this final as an underdog. This is because their team is still developing and will have players on the field who will have to sacrifice. Midfielders Lucio Flavio and Zé Carlos spent much of the week out of training due to muscle injuries and are at risk of not performing as expected. However, coach Cuca, despite recognizing the opponent's favoritism, is betting on his team.
"Botafogo is still developing a team, doesn't have many replacements, and has been struggling with injuries and suspensions. But I'm still very satisfied with my squad and confident that we can win this title," said Cuca.
The Botafogo coach, however, has been demanding maximum concentration from his players. "We already know that derbies against Flamengo are always decisive and emotionally charged matches. But it will be very important to remain alert throughout the 90 minutes. Flamengo tends to be very lucky, so we need to be extra vigilant," said Cuca.
The players understood the coach's message. One of the team's leaders, Argentine defender Ferrero, wants the defense to be focused throughout the derby. "We need to be very careful in our marking. The forwards are dangerous, and the defenders are very good headers. We can't afford to concede any more headed goals," said Ferrero.
The team that will take the field will only be announced in the locker room, minutes before the match. However, the coach's only doubt is in the attack, as Jorge Henrique continues to recover from a muscle strain in his left thigh and will undergo a locker room test to determine whether or not he can face the Rubro-Negro.
If the player is unable to play, Fábio, who has recovered from a right thigh injury, is expected to fill the position. Some sources close to the coaching staff say Cuca may rest Jorge Henrique and use him only in the second half, with Flamengo's defense a bit more tired. Another change: defender Édson will replace left-back Triguinho, who will have to serve a suspension for his red card in the Guanabara Cup semifinal, in the 2-0 victory over Fluminense.
Flamengo and Botafogo use final to break tie\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The Guanabara Cup final between Flamengo and Botafogo will be the third time the two clubs have faced off for the traditional trophy. Whoever wins will take the lead in statistics, as each club has won one contest. Botafogo won the duel in 1968, winning 4-1, while Botafogo won in 1995, 3-2. Now it's time for the tiebreaker. Flamengo holds the record for most Guanabara Cup titles, having won 17 times, while Botafogo has only won four. The difference is that every time they won the first round, Botafogo also won the state title. Vasco (11), Fluminense (8), plus América, Americano, and Volta Redonda – the last three with one title each – are the other clubs that have won the trophy.
Besides competing for the Taça Guanabara title, the two clubs have a long-standing rivalry that has favored Flamengo in recent years. Flamengo's last victory came on March 14, 2004, when Fogão won 1-0. Since then, there have been 13 meetings, with Flamengo winning six and drawing eight.
Flamengo also has the edge in overall statistics. There were 312 matches, with 111 wins for Flamengo, 102 for Botafogo, and 99 draws. Botafogo's biggest win over their rival was a 9-2 victory in 1927, while Flamengo's 8-1 victory was on August 15, 1926.
PELENET
Ronaldo Angelim admits to having superstition on the Flamengo team
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Botafogo fans are known for being some of the most superstitious in Brazil. But that doesn't mean that some Flamengo players don't also have their "witchcraft." Defender Ronaldo Angelim revealed this Saturday that he follows the same ritual in every match.
"All players have their superstitions. I believe anything goes at this crucial moment. I, for example, like to wear the same boots and shin guards in every game," he said in an interview with Rádio Bandeirantes.
Ronaldo Angelim is one of the team's weapons when it comes to set pieces. The defender scored the winning goal in the team's 2-1 victory over Vasco da Gama last Sunday at the Maracanã stadium.
He's a sure bet for the match between Flamengo and Botafogo this Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Maracanã stadium for the Guanabara Cup final, the first round of the State Championship. All tickets for the game sold out by Saturday morning.
Marcinho relies on the support of former Atlético-MG teammates
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Signed from Atlético-MG at the beginning of this season, Flamengo attacking midfielder Marcinho believes he will have a very special crowd in the Guanabara Cup final: his former teammates from the Minas Gerais club. With this, he hopes to make the Galo directors regret having released him to the Rubro-Negro in December 2007.
"My former teammates from Atlético-MG will be rooting for me and they can be sure they can count on my support in the Campeonato Mineiro. The Minas Gerais press has criticized the Galo directors for negotiating me with Flamengo," he said in an interview with Rádio Bandeirantes.
During training this Saturday, Marcinho showed up at Gávea with a new look: he had braided his hair. The midfielder said the change was due to the decisive match that will take place this Sunday at 16 pm (Brasília time) at Maracanã.
Leonardo Moura praises Flamengo's physical preparation and fans
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo reached another final of the Guanabara Cup. And to emerge victorious in the match against Botafogo this Sunday, the team underwent intense preparation before the final match. Supervised by physical trainer Ronaldo Torres, the players alternated activities in Gávea and on the beach to stay in shape.
"It was very important to have a full week of work. We trained hard and were prepared for the decision," commented right-back Leonardo Moura.
The fans, who sold out tickets on Saturday morning, will be the ones who will witness the players' excellent physical condition. The number 2 can't wait to feel the support of the Flamengo fans.
"It's good to see fans returning to Maracanã. In the last games of the 2007 Brazilian Championship, the fans turned out in large numbers and helped us. Once again, the ring will be taken," he concluded.
Joel Santana says Fla is not hostage to reinforcements
Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Unlike Fluminense, which has been launching new signings since the first games of the season, Flamengo's coach Joel Santana has been giving preference to the base of the team that finished the 2007 season.
Last year, the coach took over a discredited team that was struggling to avoid relegation to the second division of the Brazilian Championship and led the team to qualification for the 2008 Copa Libertadores.
"I'm not dependent on the reinforcements. We have a good base, and so I was able to make the necessary changes with the new players," said Joel.
For the current season, Flamengo signed defender Rodrigo, attacking midfielder Marcinho, defensive midfielder Gavilán, and forwards Diego Tardelli and Éder. It's worth noting that midfielder Kléberson, signed in the second half of 2007, was only able to make his debut in the 2008 competitions because he was punished by FIFA for not fulfilling his contract with Besiktas (Turkey).
For the Guanabara Cup final this Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) against Botafogo at Maracanã, the coach is likely to field only attacking midfielder Marcinho from among the players who arrived for the current season. And even then, because Renato Augusto, who was a starter in 2007, is recovering from a sunken face.
"You can be sure that six or seven players are right for my team. But I'm not going to give our opponent any weapons," he concluded.
GLOBOESPORTE
Fla x Bota: one detail can decide
Full of ingredients, this Sunday's classic, at Maraca, is worth the Guanabara Cup title
Bruno, from Fla, and Castillo, from Botafogo, could decide the title of the Guanabara Cup
The ingredients for the Guanabara Cup final, this Sunday at 16 p.m., are plentiful for Flamengo and Botafogo fans who managed to purchase one of the more than 68 tickets available for entry to Maracanã. On one side, Castillo, Lucio Flavio, and Wellington Paulista. On the other, Bruno, Ibson, and Souza. These are just some of the possible matchups in the big game that will decide the champion of the first round of the Campeonato Carioca. Beyond the individual "battles," for the Alvinegro, the match has a taste of revenge and could be worth turning the tables on their rival's unbeaten run. For the Rubro-Negro, the record in recent matches is more than favorable. There have been six wins and eight draws, five of which have come in the last five matches.
Throughout the week, Botafogo and Flamengo coaches and players avoided making controversial statements or provoking their rivals. On the Flamengo side, for example, Bruno and Souza, who tend to be loudmouths, spoke little to reporters. At Flamengo, coach Cuca advised them not to give weapons to the enemy. There will be no back-and-forth in the press for Sunday's derby. Watch the game live on Rede Globo and in real time on GLOBOESPORTE.COM.
2007 basis in the decision
At Flamengo, coach Joel Santana tried hard to keep the team's lineup under wraps. But in all of the team's training sessions in the week leading up to the derby, the coach stuck to the same formation he used last year, with Marcinho replacing Renato Augusto, who is still recovering from facial surgery. Ultimately, Jônatas, Kleberson, and Diego Tardelli were left out.
The good news for the red-and-black coach is that he'll be able to count on Toró, who has recovered from a problem in the back of his right thigh, and Fábio Luciano, who suffered a blow to his right elbow in the GB Cup semifinal. With both of them, the coach practically defined his lineup last Wednesday, when he led a tactical training session at Gávea.
"This competition has history. Why would we put 70 people in the stadium? I consider it a title. Classics from other regions don't even draw half the crowds of ours. Let's value our culture, our football, our Carnival," says the coach, referring to Rio de Janeiro.
Despite avoiding controversy and provocation, Leo Moura, who hasn't lost to his rival since arriving at Flamengo, decided to make a bet with his friend Renato Augusto, from Botafogo. Anything goes when it comes to the final decision.
"I'll bet him on dinner. It's worth betting on something that won't create rivalry during the game. He's a great teammate, but he'll defend his side, and I'll defend mine," says Leo.
Stove has problems with the decision
Botafogo would have some reason to enter the field with a vengeance. After all, they haven't beaten Flamengo since 2004 and lost to Flamengo in the last final. But the team promises to enter the field only with the goal of securing a spot in the Campeonato Carioca final in advance.
Throughout the week, Botafogo tried not to get carried away by its positive victory over Fluminense in the Guanabara Cup semifinal. The team's tone focused on humility and the belief that Flamengo has a stronger squad. This is certainly an attempt to maintain the formula that led the team to this Sunday's final: zero favoritism, but without losing confidence.
"We started the championship as underdogs, but I always told everyone that Botafogo would play good football, which they did. That's why we're in the final. If we win, we'll be a team remembered for the team as a whole, not for our individual talent," explains forward Wellington Paulista.
Despite this confidence, Botafogo has been anxious over the past few days. With a strained left thigh, Jorge Henrique spent the week in intensive care, only appearing on the field this Saturday, and his participation in the match is uncertain. This prompted coach Cuca to look for alternatives in training, as Zé Carlos and Fábio also had muscle problems. Triguinho, who was sent off in the semifinal, is definitely out for now. Edson and Eduardo are competing for the position. Lucio Flavio, who complained of left thigh pain during Friday's training session, trained this Saturday and shouldn't pose a problem.
The general consensus is that Flamengo has a squad that gives coach Joel Santana more options. Even so, Botafogo is confident that, despite the absences, it will be able to make a balanced decision on Sunday.
- In theory we are at a disadvantage, but on the field it is 11 against 11. Whoever makes the fewest mistakes will be the champion - predicts defender Renato Silva.
Marcinho relates quick adaptation to Joel
Flamengo midfielder says coach knows how to joke and demand things from players
Marcinho says that Joel Santana is a real father figure to Flamengo's athletes.
Signed by Flamengo earlier this year, Marcinho, formerly of Atlético-MG, quickly adapted to Rio de Janeiro football. According to the fan, one of the reasons for this is coach Joel Santana. The player stated that, besides being a teammate, the coach knows how to push his players.
"Joel is a great father figure, who jokes around and tries to make his players feel comfortable. But he always demands seriousness. He jokes around, and that's good for us to do our job in the best way possible. The more relaxed we are, the better we perform on the field," he said.
"Joel is a great father, who jokes (...) but always demands seriousness"\ Marcinho, Flamengo midfielder\
Marcinho also recalled that Joel, throughout the week, highlighted the importance of the Guanabara Cup final, this Sunday, at Maracanã, at 16 pm, against Botafogo.
- This week he said to me: "Come on, this week is different" - he explained.
Extra trains for Flamengo and Botafogo fans
After the game, there will be more schedules for Santa Cruz, Japeri and Saracuruna
SuperVia will run extra trains this Sunday for the match between Flamengo and Botafogo, at 16 p.m., at Maracanã, for the Guanabara Cup final. The special schedule includes an extra train from Saracuruna to Central do Brasil station at 13:55 p.m. After the game, there will be extra trains to Santa Cruz, Japeri, and Saracuruna.
Diguinho keeping an eye on Leo Moura
The midfielder works to mark the advances of the red-black right-back
Gustavo Rotstein
Diguinho is attentive to the marking
Always considered a special defender on a specific opposing player, Diguinho says he still doesn't know for sure who will be chosen for this Sunday's Guanabara Cup final. However, he's already aware of the threat that Flamengo right-back Leonardo Moura will pose in the decisive derby.
- This Saturday I trained marking on Leo Moura's runs, but everything will depend on the lineups of Botafogo and Flamengo, as the teams are not yet confirmed - says Diguinho.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Jorge Henrique's presence, Diguinho is calm about the team that will face Flamengo. The midfielder believes Botafogo won't be weakened if the striker is indeed sidelined due to a muscle injury.
"We don't need to worry about Jorge Henrique. If he doesn't play, his replacement will give his all on the field just as well. A chance only comes once, so we have to seize it."
Cuca vs. Joel: a separate duel in the grand final
Close to deciding the Guanabara Cup, coaches analyze everything involving Fla x Bota
Eduardo Peixoto and Gustavo Rotstein
With their eyes on the Guanabara Cup title, Joel and Cuca prepare for the final
One is soft-spoken and emerging as a promising prospect for the near future, the other, loudmouthed and seasoned, is fighting to add another trophy to his collection. Botafogo's Cuca and Flamengo's Joel Santana are central figures in the Guanabara Cup final this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium. Both coaches are seeking to further strengthen their connection with their clubs with the title.
In an interview with GLOBOESPORTE.COM, the two analyzed everything surrounding this Sunday's final. Cuca and Joel, always in a climate of complete respect and full of praise for their opponents, played hardball and gave their rivals no clues when discussing their teams' preparations. On the edge of the Maracanã pitch, each in their own style, they will duel to surprise the other and leave in the arms of the fans. And, of course, with a guaranteed spot in the Campeonato Carioca final.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM: You're coaches who tend to study your opponents closely. Are there any surprises in the final?
CUCA: It's possible, but more important than surprise is the player's talent. He's the most important figure, the one who can decide the match. Coaches can make changes during the match, but they're not surprises.
JOEL: Anything can happen in football. I'm not going to give my opponent weapons, and I'm only going to announce the lineup an hour before the game. There's no point. I don't know if there will be any surprises.
Do you consider the Guanabara Cup a title? To what extent should you celebrate winning the first round? Does it count as a trophy?
CUCA: If we win, the celebration will be muted because it doesn't represent our entire goal. The Guanabara Cup is important, but it means reaching the final of the Campeonato Carioca.
JOEL: I consider it a title and put it on my resume. In fact, I have about five on my shelf. Why wouldn't I? It has all the makings of a championship. It's even more charming than the Rio Cup, because it's older. But both are worthy of a title.
Both coaches are leaving doubts in the team until minutes before the decision. To what extent does this hinder the opposing coach's work and help yours?
CUCA: Nothing changes for me. I know what options Flamengo has, and everyone here sees my training sessions. I have no reason to hide anything.
JOEL: If it's detrimental, I don't know how. I just know that coaches all over the world hide their lineups, and it won't be any different for me. I can't let it slide.
Botafogo has a group with fewer options than Flamengo. But does that matter in a final? Or are grit and determination more important in a game like this?
CUCA: If the group already has few options, as is the case with Botafogo, the situation worsens with the absences, because you're left with no options for the rest of the match. This hinders planning for a game like this.
JOEL: We haven't won anything. A good squad is one that has won titles and done Olympic laps. For now, we're still building a team.
What stands out most about the opposing coach's working style?
CUCA: I admire Joel because he's able to foster excellent team spirit. This was evident in last year's Brazilian Championship.
JOEL: Cuca is a young guy who's off to a great start. He knows how to set up his teams and has several rehearsed plays. He recently admitted that he voted me the best coach in the last Brazilian Championship. That's really cool to hear.
How do you classify your identification with the club you currently manage?
CUCA: I can't compare my identification with his. Joel has played for Flamengo a few times and always had good campaigns. I'm in my first stint at Botafogo and I'm still looking for my first title.
JOEL: This was acquired over time. There were five successful, victorious spells. And charisma is what brings this identification. Hearing the fans chant my name every game fills me with pride.
Do you consider yourself superstitious? How do you view the recent writing of this classic (five draws in 2007, but Flamengo hasn't lost to Botafogo since 2004)?
CUCA: All my superstitions have fallen away. Before the game against Fluminense, our bus went in reverse, and we won. I say these things just for fun. As for writing, I don't think about it. The last five games against Flamengo have ended in draws.
JOEL: Superstition is normal. Some people don't like black cats. But I call it more of a habit. I, for example, only enter and exit through the same door here at Flamengo.
Flamengo 2007 x Flamengo 2008
CUCA: The 2008 Flamengo is better. It's a team with more options than last year's. There are good alternatives in every position.
JOEL: It's still too early to make any kind of comparison. We've only been working for a month and a half. It would be premature.
Botafogo 2007 x Botafogo 2008
CUCA: This year's Botafogo is a less technical group, but with a greater desire to win than in 2007.
JOEL: I can't say for sure simply because I'm not there. But, just like last year, you can see that it's a strong team that once again reached a final.
What memories do you have of your time in charge of your rival this Sunday? Does having experienced the day-to-day life of your opponent help?
CUCA: The players from my Flamengo days aren't even there anymore. I think only Obina remains. But having worked there doesn't affect it, because the atmosphere is the same. A finals atmosphere. For example, I have to spend a lot of time doing interviews, but that means we're close to a title. So, I prefer it that way.
JOEL: I won the state title in '97, going 11 games unbeaten. I regret leaving Botafogo at that moment; it wasn't the right time. I left a peaceful place, with the team already assembled, and went to Corinthians to stir up trouble. But I want to make it clear that Corinthians is a great place to work. Just not at that time.
THROW
Zagallo: love divided between Botafogo and Fla
Victorious for both clubs, Zagallo points to Fla as the favorite for the GB Cup
Zagallo sits on the fence when it comes to naming his favorite team
Michel Castelar RIO DE JANEIRO
At 77, Mário Jorge Lobo Zagallo is still the protagonist of two highly successful football love affairs. After all, as a player and coach, he collected titles with both clubs currently competing in the Guanabara Cup final at the Maracanã stadium: Flamengo and Botafogo.
Revered by both fan bases, even the number of titles won by the clubs is tied: five. As a Flamengo player, he won three titles and two as a coach. The difference is that at Alvinegro, the situation is reversed: two as an athlete and three as a coach.
"I was lucky to be at Flamengo and Botafogo during their good times, alongside great players," Zagallo said. "It's my luck. I was born with my sights set on the moon."
After a brief stint with América's youth team, Zagallo went to Flamengo, where he began his playing career and remained until the end of the 1958 World Cup. As the Flamengo directors did not want to buy his transfer, he agreed to a transfer to Botafogo.
"If Flamengo had bought my transfer, I wouldn't have left because I had a life there. It was eight years," Zagallo revealed.
At Botafogo, Zagallo's warm welcome helped him. And in 1966, the club offered him the opportunity to begin his coaching career.
And it's because of the success and affection for Flamengo and Botafogo that Zagallo's heart will be divided in tomorrow's final. But he named Flamengo as the favorite to win the title.
"Flamengo is the favorite because they have a team and a group. If a starter leaves, another of the same level comes in," the former coach analyzed. "Botafogo has a team, but no group. They lack replacements."
In the red-and-black squad, Zagallo highlighted goalkeeper Bruno, full-backs Leonardo Moura and Juan, as well as midfielder Ibson and forward Souza as the standouts. For Botafogo, defender Triguinho, midfielders Lucio Flavio and Zé Carlos, and forward Jorge Henrique were mentioned.
Zagallo also highlighted the work done by coaches Joel Santana and Cuca and declined to offer any advice to either. Who will he be rooting for? The answer comes straight away:
– I’m part of the Brazilian National Team (laughs).
Zagallo praises the work of Joel Santana and Cuca, but, to avoid complications, he didn't want to give them any advice.
Titles for Fla
As a player Carioca Championship: 1953/1954/1955\ As a coach Carioca Championship: 2001 Champions Cup: 2001\
Titles for Bota
As a player, Campeonato Carioca: 1961/1962\ As a coach, Campeonato Carioca: 1967/1968, Taça do Brasil: 1968\
"That third (2001 Carioca title) with Flamengo is indescribable. It was a delight, the way it came, with the last-minute goal against Vasco."
"Both clubs gave me great memories. That's why I'm a member of the Brazilian National Team. It will be a great joy to see them both competing for the title."
"Botafogo was very important in my life, because I started my coaching career there. Then, I won the second Rio de Janeiro title (1967/68)"
LANCE! welcomes Túlio and Ibson for an exclusive
The duo, a standout in the midfield of Botafogo and Flamengo, will face each other this Sunday in the final of the Guanabara Cup.
Túlio de Ibson: duel this Sunday for the Guanabara Cup
LANCEPRESS!
At LANCE!'s invitation, two key figures from today's Guanabara Cup final visited the newsroom this week for an interview. Fans in the studio would have been impressed by the two players' deep connection with their clubs. Túlio, for Botafogo, and Ibson, for Flamengo, are like reflections of their fans on the field.
Like the chants from the black and white stands, Túlio's love is unstoppable. In one part of this conversation, the player revealed that, as a child, he always dreamed of playing for Santos, until... "After I came to play for Botafogo, that dream ended," he affirms. From the red and black stands, the chant "race, love, and passion" perfectly fits the profile of Ibson, the homegrown talent.
Check out below how the meeting went – quite cordial, by the way – days before the game that will take place in Rio this Sunday.
Erich Onida: Short, simple, and straightforward question: who will take home the Guanabara Cup?\ TÚLIO: That's also a very simple answer: each team will be responsible for their own team. I hope it's Botafogo, but of course it's totally even.\ IBSON: And of course I hope it's Flamengo, but it's going to be a very tough game. Botafogo has an excellent team, very well put together, and it will certainly be a great spectacle on Sunday.\
Rodrigo Benchimol: In both semifinals, both teams played very offensively, studying each other thoroughly. Will it be the same in the final, or will the teams be more cautious, waiting the first 15 minutes to study their opponents? TÚLIO: Every derby is already very close, precisely because the coaches know each other's work very well. Due to the media coverage given to both Botafogo and Flamengo, the players also end up knowing each other very well, which makes it difficult for the opponent, who marks well, knows the other's usual plays, their strengths. All of this leads to a balanced game, as I said. But there's also the aspect of individual talent that can tip the balance in a final. That's unpredictable. IBSON: I agree it will be a very close game. As Túlio said, we have to be a little more careful with some players; the coaches already know each other well. It's a derby, and whoever makes the fewest mistakes will win the game and take the title.
Carlos Monteiro: If you could take away one quality from your opponent to weaken them, whether it's individual or tactical, what would you take away? TÚLIO: If you had to take away one player, I'd take away the one right next to me, who plays in my sector (laughs). It's difficult to take away an opponent's quality, especially since I'll be giving you a hint about how Botafogo is taking better care of itself. But Flamengo has strengths, like the connection between midfield and attack, which is very strong, and the set piece as well. If we can avoid free kicks, it will be a big step for Botafogo. And the full-backs, which is what Flamengo is most talked about. It's a shame I can't really take away anything from that. IBSON: Botafogo also has a strong set piece, with Lucio Flavio. We need to be careful around the box. And their team is very well-organized, similar even to ours. Everyone comes back to mark and helps each other, very defensively, exploiting counterattacks. And if I could take anything away, I would leave Jorge Henrique out for a bit. He's a very fast player, with a lot of quality. New players arrived, and they managed to find their feet in a short time, which many didn't expect, especially after the departure of so many players.
EO: Minutes before the derby, the teams are in training camp, it's time for the pre-match talk. If Cuca and Joel were to give you the floor, what would you say to motivate your teammates for the final? TÚLIO: I don't think I need to say anything. Maybe I'd just say that when you enter the stadium, take a look at the stands, which is enough to motivate any player. It's a final, the Maracanã will be packed, I believe our fans will turn out in force, and Flamengo's too, that goes without saying... IBSON: Túlio has already said it all. Being able to enter the Maracanã in a final, with a packed stadium, is incredibly motivating. And staying calm. It's always important to be calm in those five, ten minutes of the game to do a good job.
RB: Túlio, a question almost every Botafogo fan must be wanting to ask you: what's the difference between this team and last year's? And will Botafogo, once again, be defeated? TÚLIO: I'm biased when it comes to last year's team. I think that team did everything possible for Botafogo. The State Championship final, which we lost, was a close one. I'm sure the Botafogo fans, deep down, were satisfied with the team's work. The Copa do Brasil was also a competition in which we had every chance of winning. A blunder in the first leg against Figueirense led to us being eliminated, having lost 2-0, not scoring, having put the whole team on the attack, the way we played... But that moment was one of caution, of not conceding a goal, because we would decide our place in the final at the Maracanã. And I think this year's team is realizing that. Even though 70% of the group has now arrived, everyone has learned the lesson from last year, even though they weren't here, as it was talked about so much. People aren't letting that carry over to the field now; the motivation is different, which doesn't mean we'll face Flamengo and win the game. Those expressions "died on the beach again" and "it's almost over" will be used a lot if Botafogo loses, but I'm not carrying any weight into this final. I'm calm and confident. I'll do my best, and if that means helping Botafogo win the title, great. If not, oh well. I just want to leave the field with my head held high, knowing the fans recognize that.
CM: I wanted to know from you, Túlio, what's different about Botafogo that made you turn down offers from other clubs? You turned down even more advantageous ones, like the one from Fluminense, to return to the club. TÚLIO: I identified with Botafogo. As a child, I was a Santos fan; I think it starts with the colors. I played for Goiás for ten years and never got one dream out of my head, which wasn't even to one day play for the Brazilian national team, but to play for Santos. And after I came to play for Botafogo, that dream ended. I never spoke of Santos again. Neither did my father, who is also a Santos fan. And that was the strongest thing that made me love Botafogo, fall in love with Botafogo. And for the reason: I don't want to trade an environment where I'm treated so well, where I have freedom with everyone, to take a risk on a club I don't know what will happen. It would be exchanging certainty for uncertainty. I prefer to stay here, where I created this identification with the fans.\
EO: Ibson, at Flamengo, you could field about five teams just with midfielders. Today, how do you prefer Flamengo's midfield to be structured? IBSON: It's complicated. The club made several midfield signings, but that's because many were about to leave. Cristian was about to leave but didn't; my contract ends on June 30th; and we have a lot of competitions this year. They're all high-quality players and, without a doubt, a headache for Joel.