The Globe

Waiting for more days of celebration and joy

Flamengo's rise and the approaching birth of his first child lift Ibson's spirits

Márcio Tavares

Joel Santana is a dreamer. As a former player for América-RN and passionate about Natal, where his daughter Tatiana was born, he hopes and believes that American fans will cheer for Flamengo instead of their hometown team. Down-to-earth and less enthusiastic than his coach, the supporter Ibson, who experiences moments of anticipation on and off the field, only hopes that relegated América doesn't decide to go up against Flamengo:

"I believe this match against América-RN will be one of the toughest, as the opponent has nothing left to do in the competition. Matches like this are dangerous."

Besides focusing on the fight for a Libertadores spot, Ibson has another factor attracting attention: he's anxiously awaiting the birth of Ibson Júnior. Yesterday, he had a scare, which made him late for morning training because his wife, Cíntia, fell ill. It was a false alarm, as the birth is still scheduled for early November.

With his goal against Grêmio, the second in a 2-0 victory, Ibson joined Leonardo Moura and Juan, who each have five, as the team's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship. Ibson is excited because he's gradually regaining a touch of youth talent.

"I've always scored a lot of goals in the youth teams. It's important. I like to play with the goal-scoring role, but also with the freedom to get forward," says Ibson.

Recovering his scoring habit, Ibson celebrates goals he considers important, citing those he scored against São Paulo, Vasco and Grêmio.

- I think the most memorable was against São Paulo. I was returning to play after the ankle injury and still felt some pain.

Another Flamengo player enjoying a good run is Leonardo Moura. One of Flamengo's standouts, the right-back celebrated his 29th birthday yesterday.

- I'm happy to celebrate my birthday at a very special time like this - said Leonardo Moura.

For lawyer, new threat at STJD is under control

While Ibson and Leonardo Moura are celebrating their good form, the board is focused on Sunday's game in Natal. To motivate the players, there's nothing like a boost to the ego, and especially to the wallet. Vice President of Football Kleber Leite met with the players at the training camp during lunch and announced that he will pay their September salaries by the end of the week. He also discussed the possibility of a transfer of funds the club stands to gain from the upcoming launch of TV Fla.

Kleber called for respect for América-RN, recalling the 1998 Brazilian Championship, when Flamengo traveled to the Northeast needing two wins to reach the decisive stage. They thrashed Vitória da Bahia 4-1 and lost 2-1 to América, which coincidentally was already relegated at that point.

But while the away game is the concern, the matches at Maracanã have also been a busy time for lawyer Michel Assef Filho, who has had a new assignment at the Superior Court of Sports Justice since last weekend. The case in which Flamengo is being sued by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) over a glass of water thrown onto the field during the derby against Vasco da Gama, part of the first leg of the Brazilian Championship, hasn't even been heard yet, and there's already another similar dispute.

During halftime of the match against Grêmio, a fan threw a beverage can at the refereeing team. There is no video evidence of the throw, and Paulo Schimtt, a prosecutor with the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), is considering whether to file charges because there are two recorded incidents that would weaken the charge. One is a fan who allegedly threw the can (beer or soda). The other is a firework thrown onto the field. According to Michel, Flamengo is not at risk of losing home-field advantage in important matches against Corinthians, Santos, and Atlético-PR.

"I believe this threat has been dismissed because a police report was filed with the Maracanã Stadium's Jecrim (Inspector General's Office), which absolves the club of liability in incidents of this nature. The fan who allegedly threw the can is named Jorge and is not a minor, as initially assumed. We can only wait and see if the prosecutor will file charges," said Michel Assef Filho.

Fernando Calazans

Flamengo could lose home-field advantage in its bid to reach the Copa Libertadores because the referee of the match against Grêmio noted in the match report that a fan had thrown a can onto the Maracanã pitch. Very good. The referee did what he had to do, and Flamengo will be judged.

Now the question arises: will the referee be judged as well? The question is self-explanatory: the referee—if you can even call that referee a referee—was the same one who called a foul on Souza and, on top of that, gave him a yellow card for a play in which Souza didn't even touch an opponent. While racing for the ball, the Grêmio defender lost his balance and fell to the ground. Souza didn't even touch him. The incompetent referee, named Sálvio Spínola, saw and called what didn't happen, as proven by TV cameras from various angles. Furthermore, this fake referee allowed violence to prevail, reversed fouls, turned a blind eye to unjustifiable tackles, and was negligent, unprepared, and negligent.

Who will judge their mediocre work? Well, it should be, at the very least, the president of the CBF refereeing committee, who, in a document I have in my possession, sent to the referees, demanded a fight against violence, punishment for tackles of any kind, and the authority of the referees... in other words, everything these referees fail to do on the field.

The refereeing director is disobeyed by his subordinates at every stadium in Brazil. And it seems like it's not even his fault.

Flamengo can be punished. The incompetent refereeing cannot.

Sports Journal

Leonardo Moura wants to be in the national team

In great form, the red-black right-back dreams of wearing the yellow jersey

THIAGO BOKEL

Right-back Léo Moura is laughing out loud

After receiving so much criticism throughout the year for their poor start to the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo's players are now starting to get their revenge and are already demanding bigger things in their careers. After Ibson and Souza said on Monday that they dreamed of a chance on coach Dunga's Brazilian national team, yesterday it was birthday boy Leonardo Moura's turn to plead for a call-up.

Based on the argument that he's one of the people responsible for the club's rise in the championship, the full-back knows the time has come to reap the rewards of the team's success. He's enjoying the best moment of his career, but even so, he prefers not to argue about the coach's stance on supporting players who play abroad.

"I'm very happy to be living this moment, but there are still a few things missing to feel fully fulfilled, and one of them is the Brazilian national team. This thing about Dunga only calling up players who play abroad is very current. I remember Josué and Mineiro, when they were still at São Paulo, were called up. I believe that if I continue to play this good football, the opportunity will come. I have to be prepared to respond if that opportunity really arises," said the full-back.

Numbers in favor\ The numbers really do conspire in Léo Moura's favor. The team's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship with five goals, along with Ibson and Juan, he credits the team's good form to the arrival of coach Joel Santana, who since his debut has taken the team out of the uncomfortable relegation zone and put them in contention for a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores.\

"We've seen a significant increase in production, and that's also due to Joel's arrival. The formation he created really helps the full-backs shine. But we need to be aware that from now on, opponents will be more concerned with our qualities, and this will make our play more difficult. Before, they didn't respect us, but that's changed," lamented the full-back, who, of the 14 goals he scored for Flamengo, nine were under Joel's command.

Joel offers his clipboard to Romário

Despite being a Vasco employee, Romário remains a hot topic in Gávea. The news that the striker would be the Vasco da Gama coach for today's Copa Sudamericana match against América-MEX was a huge hit with Baixinho's new "professional partner." Joel Santana, a close friend of the 1.002-goal scorer, praised the eternal number 11 and believes he can succeed in this new career.

"Romário is an intelligent, observant person who has already contributed a lot to football. I don't know if he'll like being on the other side, but I believe he'll adapt easily to his new role. A guy like him can never be left out of football, and if he wants, I'll lend him my clipboard, because he deserves it," joked the red-and-black coach.

Returning to Flamengo, Joel paid a lot of respect to América-RN. Despite being bottom of the table in the Brazilian league and already relegated, he believes the match will pose a significant challenge for the Red-Blacks.

"We're going to Natal with the greatest possible respect, as they're a tough opponent who has been selling their defeats dearly," he analyzed.

Fla may lose home field advantage

Flamengo could be tried by the disciplinary committee of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), potentially losing home-field advantage for up to ten matches due to a can thrown onto the pitch during their victory over Grêmio. The object, which hit assistant Carlos Nogueira Júnior's shoulder, was reported in the match report by referee Sávio Spíndola. The trial date, however, has not yet been scheduled.

The case is similar to the one that occurred in the draw with Vasco, in which the Rubro-Negro was charged under article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing and repressing disorder in the sports arena), and will be tried tomorrow.\ According to the club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, common sense should be used.\

"Flamengo has already been tried by the disciplinary committee and was acquitted. Now they've appealed, and our defense will be the same. You can't demand that a fan, when celebrating a goal, refrain from throwing a cup in the air; otherwise, it's better for them to stay home. Especially since the cup is allowed inside the stadium and was completely accidental," the lawyer argued.

Renato Augusto with hip pain

Supporter Renato Augusto, just 19 years old, is back at the Gávea shipyard. He suffered another injury.

Despite not having any players suspended for their third yellow card for the match against América-RN, coach Joel Santana has some concerns. Four players didn't train yesterday. Midfielder Ibson and defender Ronaldo Angelim were rested due to the flu. Goalkeeper Bruno and midfielder Renato Augusto also didn't participate in the training. While the former is experiencing heel pain, the latter complains of discomfort in his gluteal muscle. According to doctor Walter Martins, the only case of concern is the midfielder's.

"Both Angelim and Ibson should return to training tomorrow (today). Bruno is also not a concern. The most serious case is Renato Augusto, who will undergo intensive treatment to see if he can play on Sunday against América-RN. His injury occurred from a kick in the last game (Grêmio), and now he will require complete rest," advised the club's doctor. Renato only played two matches after a right thigh injury that sidelined him for about a month.

Marcio Braga in favor of privatizations

In an official statement, Flamengo president Marcio Braga praised the initiatives of the City Hall and the State Government for the privatization of Maracanã and the João Havelange Olympic Stadium.

The leader made other glowing praises to the authorities, such as the Secretary of Sports, Eduardo Paes (PMDB), involved in the future project.

Expectation of excitement in the classic

Flamengo and Vasco make adjustments to their teams before Sunday's State match

Mariana Land

Forward/point guard Marcelinho is eagerly awaiting the match against Vasco on Sunday, in the most anticipated match of the Men's State Basketball Championship.

The Men's State Basketball Championship will have its most anticipated matchup next Sunday. The big derby of the round will be between rivals Flamengo and Vasco. Vasco is on a three-game winning streak, the most impressive against Fluminense on the 9th. And Flamengo beat Macaé last Monday, maintaining its best performance in the competition: five wins.

The huge anticipation for Sunday's match is due to the intense rivalry between the clubs across all sports. The match is scheduled to take place at the Tijuca gymnasium, but authorization from the Military Police is still pending. Flamengo begins training for the match today.

"It's a highly anticipated classic. The players have had the day off, but we'll be working hard to neutralize Vasco's moves and work the team well, especially in attack," said Paulo Chupeta, Flamengo's coach.

Hard work\ Both teams have strengthened their positions and have been working hard since the start of the season. But Paulo Chupeta believes the red-and-black team has an advantage over Vasco. This is because the coach believes they have a better bench than their rivals, so the team's level of play and performance don't suffer with substitutions.\

Duda, Marcelinho, Alírio, and Mineiro are some of the standout names in the well-balanced Rubro-Negro squad. The players' strong performances have made a big difference in the team's matches. Vasco, for its part, is riding high after a solid victory in the derby against the Tricolor. Coach José Carlos Vidal's team should come out strong, counting on Luis Fernando, Valtinho, Ratto, and Estevão, among others, to face the Rubro-Negro.

However, before the derby, Vasco da Gama still has two matches in the State Championship. The first is tomorrow, against Automóvel CF in Vila Velha, and on Saturday, the São Januário team faces Municipal. This will certainly leave the team more exhausted for Sunday's derby.

Attraction\ One of the attractions of the classic will undoubtedly be the presence of point guard Ratto, wearing a Vasco jersey. He was an idol for the red-and-black team for four years, but remembers that he's a professional.\

“I'm very happy to be playing for Vasco and I'll do my best to win the match,” commented Ratto.

He forms a strong partnership in the midfield, alongside Valtinho, who was Brazil's starter during the Pre-Olympic Tournament.

Sports Gazette

Flamengo may be away from its fans in the final stretch\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - One of the factors that has tipped the scales in Flamengo's favor in this Brazilian Championship has been the Maracanã stadium. Boasting the highest average attendance in the competition, the Rubro-Negro has maintained a strong performance when playing in front of its fans. However, the team is at risk of losing home advantage in this final stretch. Referee Sálvio Spínola reported in the match report for the match against Grêmio, held last Sunday, that one of the assistant referees (Carlos Nogueira Júnior) was hit by a beer can thrown by a Flamengo fan. Sálvio also mentioned that a mortar was thrown onto the field.

Flamengo will soon be tried under Article 213 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD) and could lose home-field advantage for up to ten matches. The Rio de Janeiro club was recently tried and acquitted for the "Kissing Man" invasion of one of its matches in this Brazilian Championship.

Flamengo's legal department assures that it is taking steps to identify the fan who threw the beer can at the assistant. The person who fired the mortar was detained by police on Sunday.

Heroes against Grêmio, Souza and Ibson dream of the national team\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After celebrating their victory over Grêmio on Sunday, Flamengo's squad returned to training on Tuesday, where they trained full-time. Due to medical issues, three players missed the morning training session held in the rain on Barra da Tijuca beach: defender Fábio Luciano, midfielder Renato Augusto, and forward Souza. None of them, however, are doubtful for Sunday's game against América-RN in Natal. Of these, Souza is one of the most enthusiastic. After breaking a goal drought last Sunday, the top scorer in the last Brazilian Championship dreams of wearing the Brazilian national team jersey.

"With good performances for Flamengo, I think I could get a chance on the national team. Love is a great player, but I haven't been following his performance. I've never seen Afonso play, but he doesn't impress me," the Flamengo striker noted.

Midfielder Ibson, meanwhile, had issues with his pregnant wife and arrived almost 40 minutes late to training on Tuesday morning. Neither this setback nor even a bout of the flu, however, prevented Ibson from training with the group. The player, like Souza, is already eyeing a chance with the Brazilian national team.

"The Brazilian national team has very high-quality players, and it's difficult to get there, but I think I have a chance. But to do that, I need to continue working hard here at Flamengo," the midfielder commented.

Joel approves Romário as coach: “The little guy knows everything”\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's tranquility, after three straight wins and the possibility of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores, contrasts with the crisis at rival Vasco, which fired Celso Roth and confirmed Romário as interim coach for their game this Wednesday. A friend of Baixinho and currently in charge of the Rubro-Negro, Joel Santana is betting that the striker can succeed in the role. "I think it was a good move. He's intelligent, observant, calculating—important qualities for a coach. He's someone who has always helped the coaches during their coaching sessions. Baixinho knows everything," Joel praised.

Innovation for Money – Seeking solutions to overcome the financial crisis and open new revenue streams for the club, Flamengo's marketing department will present this Wednesday afternoon what it claims is an innovative retail project for licensed products. The event will be held at the club's headquarters in Gávea.

PeléNet

Flamengo coach asks for support from América-RN fans

From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\

With 49 points, Flamengo, who are fighting for a spot in the next Libertadores, will face, this Sunday, at 16 pm (Brasília time), in Natal, the already relegated América-RN.

As the opponent's situation will not change, coach Joel Santana asked for the support of rival fans, also knowing that the club enjoys a large number of admirers in the Northeast of the country.

According to the Flamengo commander, unity should prevail at Machadão. However, regardless of this extra strength, Flamengo has a large fan base in Natal.

"We're having a good campaign in the Brazilian Championship. For all these reasons, América-RN fans should help us. And I believe that will be possible. We're not appealing," said Joel Santana.

The experienced coach is considered by the Flamengo squad as the main person responsible for the team's rise in the Brazilian Championship table - previously fighting against relegation, they are now dreaming of a place in the Copa Libertadores da América.

This Tuesday, it was midfielder Cristian's turn to highlight all of the commander's qualities.

"He's a special guy and was fundamental to the team's recovery. Joel understands everyone, he talks to them. He treats everyone the same. He's a real father figure. Because of this, the whole team has evolved. That's why we dedicate everything we've achieved to him," he said.

Joel Santana took over the team in 19th place, with just 12 points. In 20 matches, they won 11, drew four, and lost five. The strong campaign saw the Rubro-Negro climb to sixth place with 49 points, three behind Santos, the last team to qualify for the Copa Libertadores.

Flamengo believes it will not lose home field advantage

From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Referee Sávio Spínola's report, which he officiated at Flamengo's 2-0 victory against Grêmio, could be detrimental to the red-and-black team. He reported that a full beer can was thrown by Rio fans and hit assistant referee Carlos Nogueira Junior.

However, according to the club's legal department, Flamengo has everything it needs to not lose any home advantage, as explained by lawyer Michel Assef Filho.

"We have already identified the person. The game tape doesn't record anything from the cameras. We have sufficient grounds for Flamengo not to be punished," he assured, in an interview with "Rádio Globo".

Regarding a mortar thrown onto the pitch, still in the first half, the club should not be punished for this, since the "fan" ended up being arrested in the act.

Recall the referee's summary:

"I inform you that in the 32nd minute of the game, a rocket was thrown into the center of the field, near assistant number 2, Mr. Rogério Rolim, which exploded without causing any consequences. According to information from the Gepe police, the device came from the Flamengo fans.

At the end of the first half, when the refereeing team was heading to the locker room, a full beer can was thrown by a Flamengo fan, hitting assistant referee Carlos Nogueira Junior on the right shoulder, leaving a bruise, but not requiring medical attention.

Cristian also attributes Flamengo's recovery to Joel Santana

From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\

One of the people responsible for Flamengo's comeback in the Brazilian Championship, coach Joel Santana has been hailed by the players as a "savior of the nation." This Tuesday, it was midfielder Cristian's turn to highlight all of his manager's qualities.

"He's a special guy and was fundamental to the team's recovery. Joel understands everyone, he talks to them. He treats everyone the same. He's a real father figure. Because of this, the whole team has evolved. That's why we dedicate everything we've achieved to him," he said.

Joel Santana took over the team in 19th place, with just 12 points. In 20 matches, they won 11, drew four, and lost five. The strong campaign saw the Rubro-Negro climb to sixth place with 49 points, three behind Santos, the last team to qualify for the Copa Libertadores.

BalloonSport

Flamengo fans appeal against punishment

In a manifesto, fans propose donating food as an alternative punishment to the club

Another attendance record. Flamengo fans put on another show at Maracanã. The possibility of Flamengo losing up to ten home games because of a beer cup thrown at the refereeing team in the match against Grêmio has Flamengo fans buzzing online.

On Tuesday, fans sent a letter to GLOBOESPORTE.COM asking the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) not to punish thousands of people for the unbalanced act of just one fan. However, as penance, the fans suggest that everyone attending Flamengo's next match at the Maracanã stadium against Corinthians bring 1kg of non-perishable food.

"In the next game against Corinthians, at Maracanã, in addition to paying for the ticket as usual, we will donate 1 kg of food, as a sign of our repentance, making the punishment that would be unfair by punishing thousands of innocent people, at least generous, by satisfying the hunger of thousands of needy people", says the excerpt from the manifesto.

Flamengo's trial at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) has not yet been scheduled. However, according to prosecutor Paulo Schimtt, the Rio de Janeiro club's situation in this case is complicated.

Read the full manifesto below:

Open letter to the Nation,

We hereby express our sincere disapproval of the incident that occurred last Sunday, October 21st, in the match between Flamengo and Grêmio at Maracanã, where a fan, intoxicated with passion for his team and drunk, threw a supposed can of beer at a referee.

As a result of the act described above, committed by a single individual, the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) must bring to trial an entire fan base, which has been putting on a true spectacle, achieving record attendance throughout this same championship. It would be completely unfair and against all principles of law to punish an entire nation of fans and their favorite team for the act of a single fan in a moment of imbalance.

Flamengo fans disagree with the mass punishment, but they are mobilizing en masse to help those most in need. For the next game against Corinthians at Maracanã, in addition to paying for tickets as usual, we will donate 1 kg of food as a sign of our repentance, making the punishment that would be unfair by punishing thousands of innocent people at least generous by easing the hunger of thousands of needy people.

We hope to count on the sensitivity and sense of justice of the members of the STJD, allowing one of the greatest spectacles and joy in Brazil not to be interrupted by an isolated act, in a moment of passion.

Flamengo Fan Club (The biggest and best in Brazil)

Lawyer optimistic about Flamengo's acquittal\ According to Michel Assef Filho, those responsible for the infractions against Grêmio have been identified\ Eduardo Peixoto\ The threat of Flamengo being out of the Maracanã for the rest of the Brazilian Championship exists. But the club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, tried to reassure fans about a possible punishment from the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD).\

According to him, a police report was filed holding the fans responsible for throwing fireworks and glasses at the refereeing team in the match against Grêmio.

- The law guarantees that if the culprits are identified and there is a police report, the club is free from blame - says Assef Filho.

The most concerning case is the beer glass. According to referee Sálvio Spínola's report, the object struck one of his assistants and was thrown by Flamengo fans. The club maintains that the offender was a teenager, and after being detained, he was taken to the Special Criminal Court (Jecrim), located in Maracanã.

STJD promises strictness regarding home field control

Prosecutor says Court is punishing, but only Botafogo was convicted in 2007

Barbara Carvalho

Flamengo fans appeal to the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) to prevent the club from losing home-field privileges. Although only Botafogo has been punished with the loss of home-field privileges in this Brazilian Championship, the Supreme Court of Sports Justice (STJD) maintains its strict adherence to Article 213 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD): punishing any club that fails to take measures to prevent and suppress disorder at its sports venue with the loss of home-field privileges (up to ten games) and a fine. This is what could happen to Flamengo, as in the match against Grêmio at Maracanã, its fans threw a can and a mortar at the refereeing team. However, Vasco, Santos, São Paulo, and Flamengo itself have already been tried and acquitted in this Brasileirão.

"That may have happened in Serie A this year, but it's not quite the same in Serie B and C. In at least 30 matches, some club lost home advantage," says STJD Attorney General Paulo Schmidt, trying to justify the acquittals.

Indeed, there were more games in the Second and Third Divisions played behind closed doors in 2007 than in the First. However, on the CBF's official website, only 12 matches from Series B and C fit this profile.

In the first round of this season's Brazilian Championship, São Paulo played without fans present, but the current leader of the competition was serving a suspension from 2006. In July, Botafogo was punished for incidents in the classic against Fluminense and was forced to face Juventude at the Giulite Coutinho stadium, without fans.

Vasco, for invading the field against Botafogo, São Paulo, for the same reason as the Vasco fans, and Santos, because of a tennis shoe thrown onto the field against Corinthians, were tried and acquitted by the STJD.

Fla in the crosshairs

On August 26, the Kisser invaded the field during the Flamengo-Goiás match at Maracanã, but the Flamengo team was acquitted in a trial that lasted one minute. Furthermore, the club is still awaiting trial for fans throwing cups of water onto the pitch against Vasco.

Regarding the objects thrown by fans at Flamengo during the match against Grêmio (a can hit the fourth official, and the incident is reported in the match report), Paulo Schmidt explained that if all the players responsible for the throws had been identified on the day, the club wouldn't have been able to face trial, much less punishment. However, only the fan who threw the mortar was detained.

"It usually doesn't do any good when a fan comes forward days later and admits guilt. The Superior Court of Justice (STJD) hasn't accepted that," he declares.

If convicted, the Rubro-Negro could lose home-field control for one to ten games and face a fine ranging from ten to two hundred thousand reais. Fighting for a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores, the team has much to lose from the conviction. Its fans even wrote a letter appealing against the punishment and promising to donate food as an alternative punishment to the club.

At 29, Leo Moura wants the yellow jersey

Right-back says he lacks an opportunity to be a starter for the Brazilian national team

Marcio Iannacca

Leonardo Moura dreams of a chance on Dunga's Brazilian national team. Just like striker Souza, who said the day before he still dreams of playing for the Brazilian national team, right-back Leo Moura also wants a chance on Dunga's team. For the Flamengo player, the only thing missing for him to be the number 2 starter is an opportunity.

"I lacked opportunities. To make the Brazilian national team, I need to maintain consistency and play well. The team has many players from abroad, but many play in Brazil. Mineiro and Josué were playing in Brazil until recently," says Leo Moura, who turned 29 this Tuesday.

The right-back has improved his performance alongside the rest of the Flamengo squad, which now sits sixth in the Brazilian Championship. He has scored five goals in the competition.

Leo Moura warns of Christmas dangers

The full-back turns 29 this Tuesday and says Sunday's match won't be easy.

Marcio Iannacca

Right-back Leo Moura said Flamengo will have no easy task beating América-RN on Sunday in the Brazilian Championship. According to the player, who turned 29 this Tuesday, his rival has no commitment because they're already relegated to Serie B of the national tournament (watch the video of Tuesday's beach training session).

"América-RN doesn't have as much responsibility, and the responsibility increases for Flamengo. The goal is to get there and win so we can go even further in the Brazilian Championship. Before, our opponents barely cared about us," says Leo Moura.

The red-and-black full-back joked about his birthday celebration and about the white hairs that are starting to appear as time goes by.

"The gray hair is a bit of a concern. Every time I step onto the field, I'm worried, especially in the situation Flamengo was in," says the full-back.

Three players do not train on the beach

Souza, Renato Augusto and Fábio Luciano undergo treatment in Gávea on Tuesday morning

Eduardo Peixoto

Three Flamengo players did not participate in the physical training session held Tuesday morning on Barra da Tijuca beach in Rio's west zone. Fábio Luciano, Renato Augusto, and Souza are recovering from injuries and remained in Gávea for treatment.

Fábio Luciano, who played a difficult role in the match against Grêmio, is experiencing pain in his right thigh. Renato Augusto has a gluteal problem, and Souza has muscle pain in his left Achilles tendon.

The training session lasted approximately an hour. The players exercised in front of the Windsor Hotel, Flamengo's usual training base.

Even lifeguards salute Fla

The team does physical training on Barra da Tijuca beach on Tuesday morning and to the sound of its anthem

Eduardo Peixoto

Flamengo's players woke up early this Tuesday. Under the rain, the team performed intense physical training on Barra da Tijuca beach, in the west zone of Rio de Janeiro.

The training session was led by fitness coach Ronaldo Torres. Not even the unpleasant weather kept fans away. While some dared to descend onto the sand in jeans and sneakers, longtime fans decided to pay tribute to the club.

During the morning run, a group of lifeguards passed by the players, singing the Flamengo anthem. While the players laughed at the unexpected support, some lifeguards, fans of other Rio clubs, tried to avoid the "task" of shouting the lyrics "Once Flamengo, always Flamengo."

The insubordination was quickly contained by the boss. As soon as he passed the Flamengo fans, the group was forced to do push-ups as punishment.

In sixth place in the Brazilian Championship, with 49 points, Fla is going through a great moment and is in the fight for a place in the Copa Libertadores.

Dragão expects a full house against Fla

Despite relegation, the match against Rubro-Negro promises to break a local record

Tickets for the match between América-RN and Flamengo go on sale this Tuesday. According to the Rio Grande do Norte club's official website, the club is expected to break the Machadão's record for this season, set by the 26 fans who attended the match between Dragão and Vasco in the Brazilian Championship opener.

Riding high in the final stretch, the Rio de Janeiro club is responsible for some of the biggest crowds in the competition. The match takes place this Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time – 15 p.m. local time).

Check prices and points of sale

Sector Price\ Grandstand R$ 20\ Chair R$ 50\ Points of sale: headquarters,\ Pittsburg stores on Salgado Filho (Nordesteão Supermarket), Orla Sul Shopping Mall, Ponta Negra and Prudente de Morais. Students and seniors have a 50% discount.\

Student tickets are only available at the headquarters and at stores in Salgado Filho, Orla Sul and Ponta Negra.

O Dia

Flamengo: No fear of punishment

Club identified fans who threw fireworks and cans onto the field on Sunday

Rio - Flamengo is ready to secure its greatest weapon in its quest for a Copa Libertadores berth in the final stretch of the Brasileirão: the strength of the red-and-black nation. Flamengo's legal department guarantees that there is no possibility of the club losing home-field privileges due to a firework and a can thrown by fans onto the pitch during Sunday's 2-0 victory over Grêmio.

Referee Sálvio Spínola, in addition to the firecracker issue, reported in the match report that a fan hit the fourth official on the shoulder with a beer can. Flamengo will therefore be charged under Article 213 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice—failing to take measures to prevent and suppress disorder at its sports venue—and could lose the home title for one to ten matches, in addition to a fine of up to R$200. A trial date has not yet been set.

However, according to Flamengo lawyer Michel Assef Filho, the fans who threw the objects have been identified, and therefore, the club cannot be punished. "I already have the police reports identifying the two fans. One of them is believed to be a minor. We will present these reports to the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), and Flamengo should be exonerated, since, according to the Sports Law, a club can only be punished if it fails to identify the rowdy fans," explained Assef Filho.

The lawyer revealed that he may even summon the fans to testify before the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), if necessary, to defend the club. "The two police reports are proof of the identification of the troublemakers. But, as a last resort, we will summon them to testify," he emphasized.

The 'nation' also proposed a solution to stay closer to the club. In a letter sent to Globoesporte.com, the fans suggest, as 'penance,' that for the next game at Maracanã, against Corinthians, everyone bring a kilo of non-perishable food to the stadium.

'NATION' HOLDS RECORD FOR 'CARROA'

Flamengo, the Brazilian league's record-holder for attendance, also boasts a less-than-honorable record: the biggest free-rider in the stands. This year, more than 100 fans attended the team's games at Maracanã, free of charge. This "nation" would have sold out the stadium's tickets in just one game, as it currently holds approximately 90 fans.

The average number of Flamengo fans who didn't pay for tickets at home games is 7.176, higher than the number of paying fans at Juventude, which has an official average of 6.023 per game. Flamengo's record for free-riders was set on Sunday against Grêmio, with 10.685 gatecrashers.

Despite the loss, Flamengo increased the average number of paying spectators per game to 32.444 on Sunday, reaching the best average attendance since 1999 — it belonged to Atlético-MG, with 31.832 tickets sold.

Joel: 'I would lend my clipboard to Romário'

Rio - This Tuesday, coach Joel Santana took the opportunity to wish his newest teammate, Romário, good luck. Having always been a great friend of the player, the Flamengo manager stated that he is willing to lend a helping hand to Baixinho, who will lead Vasco in the match against América, from Mexico, this coming Wednesday, in the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals.

"Baixinho knows everything. I'd even lend him my clipboard. He's intelligent and observant, essential characteristics for a coach. He's also worked with several coaches," Joel said in an interview with Rádio Brasil.

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Throw

Flamengo fans try to avoid punishment

Club may lose home field advantage over beer can thrown onto the field

Flamengo fans are running an Orkut campaign to prevent the club from losing home-field advantage due to a beer can thrown by a fan during the match against Grêmio. The proposal to avoid punishment would be an alternative penalty.

The text defends the fans and asks for the understanding of the STJD, stating that it would be unfair to punish everyone because of one person: "as a consequence of the act committed by one individual, the STJD will take to trial an entire fan base, which has been putting on true spectacles, achieving record attendance throughout this same championship."

To try to raise awareness among auditors, the campaign asks fans to donate a kilo of food at the game against Corinthians: "...making the punishment that would be unfair, at least generous in satisfying the hunger of thousands of needy people."

The fan who threw the beer can was arrested, but the club will still be tried in the STJD for violating article 213 and could lose home field advantage for up to ten games.

Renato Augusto could be out of action for Flamengo

Supporter was injured in a play in the game against Grêmio

LANCEPRESS!

Renato Augusto may be out for the match against América-RN on Sunday in Natal. The midfielder was injured during the match against Grêmio last Sunday, when he attempted a shot on goal and fell awkwardly.

According to club doctor Walter Martins, Renato Augusto could face América depending on his recovery:

"The player is experiencing muscle pain due to an injury to his right piriformis (which belongs to the gluteal region). To recover, Renato Augusto will need to rest," he stated.

Maxi: 'This Tuesday, Pelé is better than Maradona'

The Athlete of the Century turns 67 this Tuesday

Maxi trains for Fla (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)

After participating in the physical training session held this Tuesday at Praia da Barra, Argentine Maxi, from Flamengo, declared that Pelé is better than Maradona, but made a reservation:

- Today (Tuesday), Pelé is the best, but only today - joked the striker, remembering the 67th birthday of the King of Football, which was completed this Tuesday.

Presented to Flamengo on July 3rd of this year, the 23-year-old player reaffirms that he is enchanted with the city of Rio de Janeiro, with the Nação Rubro-Negra, in addition to saying that his wife knows how to sing all the fan songs:

"This city is beautiful. Today (Tuesday), we're training in the rain, which is rare around here, but it's fine. The presence of these fans is explained by the fact that Flamengo's fans are unique; there's nothing like them," he boasted.

In an interview with TV LANCE!, Maxi didn't want to risk singing the songs of the red-black fans, classifying himself as a terrible singer and mentioning that his wife does it better.

Michel Assef: 'Flamengo will not be punished'

Lawyer has evidence that artifacts came from Grêmio fans

LANCEPRESS!

Flamengo's lawyer Michel Assef Filho assured on Tuesday night that Flamengo will not lose home advantage in the matches it will still play in Rio de Janeiro in this final stretch of the Brazilian Championship.

The lawyer stated that the police officer who said that the firework that fell on the field in the victory over Grêmio last Sunday at Maracanã came from Flamengo fans, promised to correct this information, saying that, in fact, the firework was thrown by the Gaucho fans, who were in the blue seats.

Since the beer can thrown at one of the assistants also came from the same direction, the lawyer will use the argument that the police officer was also confused when identifying the fan who threw the object.

"The police officer who reported to the judge where the firework came from admitted his mistake. Therefore, this will be included in our defense, and this fact was not recorded on camera, which does not constitute evidence. We will proceed from the same possibility of the beer can also being thrown onto the field. Since the officer was confused about the firework, it is acceptable that the same applies to the beer can, especially since it is impossible for the officer to pay attention to both the refereeing trio and a specific member of the crowd at the same time. Under these circumstances, we have sufficient grounds for Flamengo not to be punished; I consider this possibility to be ruled out," explained Michel Assef Filho.

After Cuca, Túlio also praises Fla

Botafogo player says Flamengo is the 'team of the moment'

Botafogo midfielder Túlio was another who commented on Flamengo's performance in this final stretch of the Brazilian Championship, following the example of Flamengo coach Cuca. The midfielder recalled the fluctuations that Rio de Janeiro teams themselves are experiencing in the competition.

Like Cuca, Túlio recognizes that the moment is favorable for Flamengo, but remembers that there are still six rounds left until the end of the competition.

"The length of the championship and its balance mean that a team that makes a mistake in two rounds will fall down the table, and vice versa. If they win two, they'll start fighting at the top. Flamengo is the team currently on top, but there are still a few rounds left," he analyzes.

Botafogo coach praises rival Flamengo

Cuca recognizes and analyzes the good phase of Rubro-Negro

Rivalries aside, Flamengo's good form was the subject of an interview given by coach Cuca after Botafogo's training session at Forte da Urca beach this Tuesday. The black-and-white coach recalled that the Rubro-Negro, which is close to the Libertadores qualifying zone, managed to remain calm even when it was in the relegation zone and is now fighting for higher places in the competition.

Cuca also highlighted the passionate moment the team is experiencing with the fans. For the coach, the fans were crucial to Flamengo's comeback.

"When Flamengo couldn't play at Maracanã, they had three or four games in hand, but they weren't bothered by the relegation zone. Now they've established a rapport with the fans and are still going strong," he said.

Joel Santana praises Flamengo's full-backs

Léo Moura and Juan are the team's top scorers in the Brazilian Championship

One of Flamengo's key weapons, the fullbacks were praised by Joel Santana. The coach not only analyzed starters Léo Moura and Juan, but also spoke about reserve Egídio, who replaced the suspended Juan in Sunday's 2-0 win over Grêmio and didn't disappoint Joel.

"Juan has proven with every game that he's brave and a fighter. He's a serious professional who does what he's told. But Egídio showed personality. I really liked him. And Léo Moura has been showing great consistency since I arrived. He's crucial to the scheme," he stated.

Juan and Léo Moura share the team's top scorer rankings in this Brazilian Championship with midfielder Ibson. Each has scored five goals.

Lifeguards embark on the Mengão wave

During physical training, the lifeguards ran and sang the anthem

Lifeguards sing the Fla Anthem (Givlan de Souza).

-\ Get in touch Riding high on three consecutive victories, the Flamengo team, during their physical training session this Tuesday, held at Barra Beach, was met with the presence of many children, even though it was raining heavily at the time. However, it wasn't just the little ones who harassed the players, as the lifeguards, who were running alongside the activity, passed by singing the Flamengo anthem.\

Not only was the club's anthem part of the lifeguards' repertoire, but also the traditional "Oh Meu Mengão." Despite all the reverence, not all of the group were red-and-black fans, as two of the members made the signs of Fúria Jovem, Botafogo's fan base, with their hands.

Souza says he identifies with Fla

Flamengo striker Souza left the Maracanã stadium to a standing ovation during the match against Grêmio last Sunday. While he believes it's impossible to please everyone, the player asserts that he has always had the support of the nation since joining the team eight months ago. Souza recalls that he was only booed a few times and asserts that he now fully identifies with the Rubro-Negro.

radio l! - Identification, for sure, I have. Now, I'm not an idol yet. You have to do a lot to be an idol at Flamengo. I'll work hard and I'm sure that one day I'll get there - he says. (Click and listen)

Once again, Souza praised Joel Santana's leadership of the Gávea team and attributed to him the team's increase in performance in the Brazilian Championship.

radio l! - The key player was our coach, Joel, who has motivated us, supported us and talks a lot with the group - he says. (Click and listen)