THE GLOBE
Marathon starts before the trip
Visa makes Fla get up early and may cancel trip to Granja
Photo caption: BRUNO JUMPS to make a save in yesterday's training session: goalkeeper praised by Zico
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
When people talk about the strain that the trip to Mexico City will cause Flamengo, they immediately think of the second leg of the State Championship final. However, the problems caused by the Copa Libertadores Round of 16 match against América on Wednesday began to be felt even before the first leg of the final against Botafogo. The bureaucracy surrounding obtaining a visa to enter Mexico has forced Flamengo to change plans, potentially canceling the trip to Teresópolis, and forcing the team to get up early today.
By order of the Mexican consul in Rio de Janeiro, Vicente Comenares, all members of the delegation must go to the consulate in Botafogo this morning. The players will wake up at 5:30 a.m. and must complete the visa process by 8 a.m. If there is a delay, the trip to Teresópolis, which was scheduled for next week, may be canceled to avoid further stress.
Flamengo players admit that the wear and tear will begin even before the final begins.
"We'll wake up very early, wait in line for visas, and still train at Granja. It's already exhausting," said Souza, who commented on what the squad might face in the return leg. "I don't know how we'll get back. If it's like the return leg in Peru, we'll feel it. They (Botafogo) will have the advantage."
- We have to take advantage of any time we have to rest - said midfielder Kleberson.
Another change of plans concerns the date of the trip to Mexico. The team is expected to travel on Monday instead of Sunday. The club cited medical advice, which concerns local pollution and the high altitude of 2.235m, although the latter doesn't cause such intense effects. Dr. Serafim Borges, an altitude specialist, is expected to travel.
Renato Augusto almost out of the game
Today's grueling marathon is one of the reasons the players point to for not assuming they're supposed favorites in the first leg of the final. The red-and-blacks deny that the absence of four players weakens Botafogo and makes Sunday's game Flamengo's biggest chance to open up an advantage.
"Of course, their team is strong and would be shaken. But Botafogo has top-notch players. A final isn't just about football. Willpower makes the difference," said Souza.
Character after the free kick goal he scored against Coronel Bolognesi, goalkeeper Bruno confessed to having lived a "different day".
"It's not my birthday, but I've already received congratulations..." he joked, before dismissing expectations for the upcoming matches. "I have the personality and courage to take free kicks in finals. But it depends on the moment, on Joel. Leonardo Moura and Juan are the free kick takers."
He earned special praise.
"Bruno was smart, and as a goalkeeper, he's already conceded goals coming off the line. He played with the opponent's mindset. As for the free kick, it was simple. He didn't even exert force, just trying to hit the corner," Zico told Globoesporte.com.
For the first game of the State Championship final, Flamengo is almost certain to miss Renato Augusto, who is recovering from a right leg injury. Having been out of training with the team for ten days, he will only play if he can handle today's training session. Cristian, who sprained his ankle against Bolognesi, is not a concern. Ibson, who has recovered from muscle pain, will play.
As of yesterday, 32.158 tickets had been sold out of the total of 68.030 available for the game.
Coach Joel Santana informed that, for the second phase of the Libertadores, the vacancy of Léo Medeiros, who left Flamengo, will be filled by the young Aírton.
Even after failure, Renan receives support and plays in the final
Goalkeeper replaces Castillo in Botafogo's first match against Flamengo
Photo caption: FOR TÚLIO, who does bodybuilding, Renan was not discouraged by the mistakes in the match against Portuguesa
Rogério Daflon
Coach Cuca is cautious, refusing to say who will replace Castillo, Triguinho, Alessandro, and Jorge Henrique for Botafogo in the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final against Flamengo on Sunday at Maracanã. But yesterday, Túlio—unaware that the coach had left the question of who would replace Castillo, who has a right leg injury—revealed that Renan will be the starting goalkeeper.
"All the players know that Renan will play. He's a member of the Brazilian national team (under-20), and he knows he made a mistake yesterday (the day before yesterday) in the match against Portuguesa, but he hasn't lost confidence and is super motivated with the chance to be a Rio de Janeiro champion at 19 years old," said Túlio.
For Túlio, Botafogo will become more unpredictable
In the Copa do Brasil match against Portuguesa the day before yesterday at Engenhão, which Botafogo won 2-1 and qualified for the quarterfinals, Renan made a serious mistake by releasing the ball at Christian's feet during the goal kick, and also appeared insecure on two other attempts on goal. Yesterday, Renan didn't even give an interview, shielded as he was by the club. But, apparently, everyone is backing his starting lineup—the other option would be goalkeeper Roger, more experienced but lacking any match fitness.
In any case, the players want to exorcise any comments that refer to the poor season of the black and white goalkeepers last year.
"No one should crucify the kid for his mistake. He has our trust, and before the final, I'll tell him that," said Wellington Paulista, the Carioca's top scorer with 14 goals in 19 matches.
As for the replacements for Triguinho (thigh injury), Alessandro, and Jorge Henrique (both suspended), not even Túlio dared say anything. For the midfielder, Botafogo shouldn't lament the absence of four starters, but rather recognize the advantages of it:
- If Botafogo is already unpredictable with a starting lineup, it could become even more so with four new players.
At least one lineup is predictable: Leandro Guerreiro's. Since the midfielder didn't feel comfortable playing alongside Triguinho on the left, he's likely to play more centrally, ahead of the defenders. Zé Carlos is a candidate to fill Triguinho's spot, and Túlio Souza is a strong contender for Alessandro's spot on the right wing. Fábio, in turn, is expected to fill in for Jorge Henrique up front.
Yesterday, at General Severiano, the players readily admitted that the second leg against Flamengo, on May 4th, is already on their minds. Túlio disagreed with the argument that Flamengo will play the second leg more tired, due to Wednesday's Copa Libertadores match against América in Mexico City.
- That's nonsense. Fatigue has no influence on decision-making.
Fla and Flu: opponents in crisis
Mexicans and Colombians see tournament as salvation
Flamengo and Fluminense's rivals in the Copa Libertadores round of 16 have many things in common. Both América, from Mexico, and Nacional, from Colombia, are facing difficult times in their domestic leagues, going through a crisis, and are turning the Libertadores into a chance for redemption.
The Mexican team is experiencing the worst moment in its history. With only eight points in 15 games, América is last in the national championship, seven points behind second-to-last, and is winless in 11 matches in the competition. This is a rare feat for the second-most titled club in Mexico, with ten titles.
The club may have a new coach soon. According to local media, América's executives met with Argentine Carlos Bianchi in New York.
"We see the Libertadores as revenge for everyone, a personal vendetta. I think the fans feel the same way," said goalkeeper Ochoa, one of the team's stars.
He sees a silver lining in the crisis, which culminated in elimination from the Mexican championship.
"Often, the club finds itself competing in two competitions at the same time and is left empty-handed. Now, we're going to focus on just one competition," Ochoa stated.
To make matters worse, América was at risk of losing the Azteca Stadium for the match against Flamengo due to a concert. The club considered moving the game to Toluca. As a home team, América won all three of its Libertadores matches. As a visitor, it lost all of its matches.
Nacional, Fluminense's rival, is struggling after winning the 2007 Apertura and Clausura tournaments. For the current season, they lost players such as experienced striker Aristizábal and Ecuadorian defender Hurtado. Currently, the club is 15th among the 18 participants in the Colombian Championship, with 16 points from 14 games.
In the Libertadores, although it qualified, it offers little hope to its fans. After all, it reached the round of 16 with the worst record among the 7 clubs still vying for the title. Nacional finished second in Group 1989, led by São Paulo. Sportivo Luqueño of Paraguay and Audax Italiano of Chile were eliminated in the group. The club is banking on the strength of its fans, the largest in Colombia, to achieve a good result in the first game. In XNUMX, Nacional won the only title by a Colombian club in Libertadores history.
Red-black fraternity
Heroes of Flamengo's victories in the League, Duda and Marcelinho celebrate family time
Photo caption: MARCELINHO picks up his younger brother, Duda, on the boardwalk at Leblon Beach: the two were the heroes of the basketball team's two victories over Corrientes
Ary Cunha
There was a time when his fascination with his older brother's imported size 45 sneakers led the frail Eduardo to wear three pairs of socks. The youngest of a respected basketball family, he had to carry the weight of the Machado surname until he could stand on his own two feet. Son of Renê, nephew of Sérgio Macarrão—both five-time state champions with Fluminense in the 70s—and brother of Brazilian national team point guard Marcelinho, the hero of Flamengo's 86-79 victory over Corrientes last Wednesday at Maracanãzinho in the South American League, now needs no introduction. Wearing the number 10 jersey immortalized by Zico, 25-year-old Duda is the new darling of the Flamengo fans.
"I was even more moved by the crowd's support because I'm a Flamengo fan at heart. Flamengo fans, when they cheer the team on, are like the sixth player on the court. It was unforgettable," recalls Duda, the game's top scorer with 28 points.
The team plays tomorrow in Belo Horizonte
Like Duda, his brother Marcelinho had also been cheered by the Flamengo fans in the previous match, the third of the series, in which he had scored an impressive 44 points. Thanks to the Machados' brilliance, Flamengo tied a series they were trailing 2-0 at home. Now, they will go in search of the continental title in Argentina next Wednesday.
On their last break before the battle, they met yesterday on the boardwalk of Leblon Beach. Unlike the sea, with its waves invading almost the entire stretch of sand, Duda and Marcelinho showed no signs of a hangover. Tomorrow, the delegation leaves for Belo Horizonte, where Flamengo will face Minas Gerais in the National Basketball Championship. If they win, the red-and-black leader will no longer be able to be overtaken in the first round.
At training camps, Duda and Marcelinho relive the not-always-harmonious coexistence of brothers who share a room. This family atmosphere deepens when a third Machado, their older brother Ricardo, 35, a physiotherapist for Flamengo, joins the fun.
"On one of the trips, we stayed in two-bedroom apartments. Duda and I occupied one, with Ricardo and Marcellus, the team's newcomer, in the other. We told him that if he didn't obey us, he'd get a beating from the whole family," Marcelinho joked.
Video game duels are a routine part of their free time. The Machado brothers always carry a PlayStation 2 in their luggage. The same can't be said for some personal hygiene items.
"Duda is much messier than me. Nothing stays in place," says Marcelinho, 33.
"He says that because he's married and has a wife to pack his bags. Even so, the other day he forgot his toothpaste and came begging for mine," Duda retorts.
The sacred rest every athlete needs before important matches isn't always possible. Too much intimacy can get in the way.
"Duda snores all night long. If I don't yell in the middle of the night, I can't sleep," says Marcelinho, making his youngest son laugh.
It's a good thing both teams are in good spirits next Wednesday. Judging by the results of the fourth match of the best-of-five final series of the South American League, Corrientes will be playing hardball to avoid letting the title slip away at home.
- I took a punch from Martínez and an elbow in the stomach from Stanton - says Marcelinho.
"The fans there are so close to the court that a guy yelled in my ear when I took a throw-in. I didn't understand a word, but it wasn't a compliment," Duda adds.
Renato Mauricio Prado
The big chance
With Mexico's América confirmed as their opponent in the next round of the Copa Libertadores—which will require a long and grueling trip between the two matches in which they will decide the State Championship—Flamengo already knows that this Sunday's match against Botafogo is their big chance to win the Rio de Janeiro title for the second time. If they don't win, they'll practically say goodbye to the title.
The short story is simple: either Flamengo takes advantage of this match, against a severely weakened opponent (without Alessandro, Jorge Henrique, Castillo and, probably, Triguinho) or they will have to play catch-up in the last match - when they will be, literally, without legs.
Botafogo knows this. And the clever Cuca must already be preparing a beautiful trap. Watch out, Joel...
Muricy Ramalho, Abel Braga and Geninho form the front line of the favorites of Flamengo's football management to replace Joel Santana.
However, as the three achieved good results during the middle of the week (reducing the chances of being fired, or feeling discredited), the names of two "Juniors" are gaining strength in Gávea, who may give preference to the red-black club, even if they win the respective state titles: Caio (ex-Paraná and Palmeiras and, currently, at Goiás) and Dorival (ex-São Caetano and Cruzeiro, now at Coritiba).
The furry fox from Gávea assures me that Jorginho, Dunga's assistant on the national team, is not in the plans.
With little chance of winning a soccer title in 2008, Vasco is betting all its chips on rowing. And to prevent its biggest rival, Flamengo, from winning the state championship for the third time, the attack is heavy.
They've already fired three rowers from Gávea, offering salaries ranging from R$4 to R$6, plus apartment rent. One of the new hires also received a R$120 bonus.
Neither of them, however, will be able to compete in 2008, as the Rowing Code requires athletes to refrain from participating in official regattas for a year before switching clubs. The tactic is to weaken the rival.
A similar tactic was used in 1998, when Vasco defeated the main clubs in Rio and Brazil to become champions, in the year of its centenary.
Two of these athletes recently signed by the Colina club make up the lightweight double sculls of the team that will go to Beijing.
Just like in 2000 (Sydney), the idea is to hire athletes trained by other clubs and already qualified for the Olympics, increasing the "Vasco delegation" in Beijing...
In 1998, when Vasco also inflated the market, several Brazilian clubs followed suit. Almost all went bankrupt, and few were able to honor their commitments. Vasco included, which to this day faces legal action from athletes involved in its "Olympic project."
SPORTS JOURNAL
Conmebol sets schedule for Libertadores games
The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) set the date and time for the first leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 19 on Thursday. Flamengo will face América in Mexico City next Wednesday at 30:7 p.m. (Brasília time). The return leg, on the 21th, will take place at 50:XNUMX p.m. at the Maracanã Stadium.
According to CONMEBOL's decision, the first leg matches will take place between April 29th and 30th and May 1st, and the return legs will take place between May 30th and XNUMXth. Brazilian clubs, with the exception of Santos, will play on Wednesday the XNUMXth. In the return leg, Fluminense will play on the XNUMXth, Santos on the XNUMXth, and the others on the XNUMXth.
Bad phase
As for their opponent, América is going through a phase exactly opposite to that of Flamengo. While the Rio de Janeiro club had the second-best campaign in the first phase of the Libertadores, trailing Fluminense only on goal difference, the Mexicans finished 15th.
In the Mexican Championship, América is currently in last place and will only avoid relegation to the Segunda Division this year because the regulations stipulate the clubs' average performance over the last three seasons. The poor performance has created a serious crisis for the club, with coach Rubén Omar Romano facing the possibility of being relegated.
Highlights
Striker Cabañas and midfielder Juan Carlos are the team's standout performers, as they struggled to advance in the Copa Libertadores. The Mexicans have won three home matches and lost three away, against River Plate, San Martín (Peru), and Universidad Católica (Chile). However, the trip is a concern for Flamengo's coaching staff, as the journey to Mexico City, at an altitude of 2.235 meters, can take up to 12 hours.
Bruno wants to fly much higher
The goalkeeper, however, warns that he is not Flamengo's official penalty taker.
Fabio Lacerda, Thiago Bokel and Tiago Costa
Ursula Nery
Bruno tries to manage his good form and says he dreams of a place in the Brazilian National Team
Bruno is definitely at the peak of his career. At 23, he's simply idolized by the demanding Flamengo fans, who never tire of declaring him the best player in his position in Brazil every time the team takes the field. This affection is justified by his impeccable performances and a new skill he demonstrated last Wednesday against Coronel Bolognesi at the Maracanã: his perfect free kick not only opened the scoring for the victory but also made history as the first goal by a goalkeeper, scored against Mário Filho.
With so much praise and achievements, Bruno is already beginning to dream of greater heights. His new goal is to earn a spot on the national team. Despite the fierce competition for that spot, he says he's ready to don the green and yellow. "The day-to-day work says it all. I'm prepared to defend the national team. I'm very dedicated. But it doesn't just depend on me. The final decision is Dunga's," he comments.
This year, Bruno's strong performance for Flamengo had already earned him a tribute from the fans, who created a banner calling him "Wall." Now, it's the board's turn to honor the athlete. He will receive a plaque for being the first goalkeeper to score a goal at Maracanã.
Official collector
Despite all the hype, Bruno warns that he will not be the team's official free kick taker from now on.
"I've been working on free kicks for a long time. I'm happy to have scored and opened the scoring for Flamengo, but the team's official free kick takers are Leo Moura and Juan," he commented.
Even so, it's inevitable to remember that the player displayed great skill in taking the shot, and this is precisely one of the fundamentals in which the team has struggled. The free kick was so well taken that some even compared it to the accuracy of Flamengo's greatest idol. Humble, Bruno preferred to avoid that kind of comparison.
"Who am I to have a free kick like Zico? He's a unanimous choice at Flamengo," he concluded.
The semester in a week
Souza knows that Flamengo's next four games could be worth the consecration
Fabio Lacerda
Wallace Teixeira
Souza guarantees that, now, he is calmer and that he will not react to provocations.
A pre-announced war isn't on Flamengo's radar. This is how the players and coaching staff are approaching the match, which begins Sunday against Botafogo, a title that's worth a second Rio de Janeiro championship and also the possibility of equaling Fluminense in the number of regional titles won.
A player who has already lifted trophies in three states—Goiás state champion, Internacional state champion, and Rio de Janeiro champion with Vasco and Flamengo—Souza knows that the next two weeks could be worth his six-month effort. He doesn't get caught up in the fan hype, knowing that Sunday will be the first part of the battle.
"The past problems between Flamengo and Botafogo have already been overcome. Our team is very motivated. A victory in this first game will certainly give us peace of mind. Botafogo is very well-coordinated and I think it will be difficult to decide the title in this first match," said Souza.
Labeled as temperamental for his controversial statements, Souza says he has a clear head for the decisions Flamengo will face starting this weekend. He's aware of the great responsibility and said any provocation from Flamengo will go unnoticed.
"I feel at peace. I don't get nervous when I have to play in a final, especially because I've already competed for many titles and that doesn't cause me any apprehension," said Souza.
Optimism
The only Flamengo player to not find the net this season, midfielder Cristian can't wait for the ball to roll on Sunday. According to the player, the loss in the Rio Cup semifinal to Botafogo is already forgotten.
"In the last game, Botafogo was far superior, and we can't take away any credit from them. Now, it's a different story. I can't wait for Sunday so the whole team can meet the fans again. It's the players who win the game, but the Flamengo fans are crucial. As for the goal, God will bless me so it comes at the right time. I think all the players will make fun of me," he says, laughing.
Yesterday, the players who didn't face Coronel Bolognesi participated in a recreational training session. While the substitutes worked out on the field, the starters did a recovery workout in the pool. Renato Augusto stayed in the weight room.
Joel: 'I wanted to get Boca'
File/JS
Joel Santana will be in charge of FL until the 4th, when he takes over the South African National Team.
After the Copa Libertadores Round of 16 matchups were finalized, coach Joel Santana revealed his dissatisfaction with facing América-MEX in the middle of the Campeonato Carioca finals. He even said he would rather face Boca Juniors, who are struggling, than travel to Central America.
"I want to face Boca Juniors now. We have to face them while they're not doing well," said Joel.
The red-black commander also gave a prediction about the clash between the brothers, who face Cruzeiro in the next phase.
"We have to stop with this Boca story. If we mess up, Cruzeiro will eliminate them," the coach commented.
Wagner dominates the paint
The pivot had a great performance in Flamengo's two victories over Regatas in the League final
Pedro Ivo Almeida
Wallace Teixeira
Wagner steps up to score two more points in Flamengo's victory
Playing in the paint and competing for the ball with the opposing centers, usually the tallest players, requires a lot of strength and determination, and that was exactly what center Wagner showed in the last two games of the decisive series of the South American Basketball League, against Regatas Corrientes.
After missing Flamengo's first two games of the series due to dengue fever, the player came off the bench in the two games played in Rio de Janeiro and achieved an incredible average of 15 rebounds per game, 19 in Tuesday's game and another 11 in Wednesday's game, and has been one of coach Paulo Chupeta's main weapons in reaching the unprecedented title.
Motivation
"Playing in a final is always an extra motivation, especially in a South American League. After you've been on the sidelines, watching your teammates play and fight, you feel even more motivated. I couldn't leave the house, so I watched every game on TV, and my desire grew even stronger. After the defeat, I couldn't sit still anymore. I was a little out of rhythm, but with a lot of determination and determination, I managed to help the team win both games," said the player, who also spoke about the spirit of overcoming challenges in these decisive moments.
"I'm still not feeling 100%. Yesterday (Wednesday) I felt a little unwell after the game, I felt nauseous, I had a fever. But in a decisive and important moment like this, what matters is everyone's overcoming. Everyone has to give something extra to reach the main objective of bringing this unprecedented title to the club," concluded the pivot.
Coach Paulo Chupeta was full of praise for the player's recent performances and is confident of winning the title.
"Wagner is a fighter, a bully, and knows how to use his physical strength well. And that was sorely missed in Argentina, since Corrientes relies heavily on the paint. Here in Rio, it was a different story. He came in, positioned himself very well for rebounds, scored well, and helped us a lot. Now in this fifth game, with the full team, I'm confident that we can lift this title for our club," said the coach.
The South American Basketball Confederation (Consubasquet) confirmed the fifth and decisive match for next Wednesday, at 23 pm, in Corrientes.
THE DAY
Souza wants to get ahead in the decision
Janir Junior
Rio - Souza asserts that for a player to be respected, he needs to "show his face" in the finals and win titles. And the striker has the basic recipe for winning the State Championship and the fans' respect: winning the first game, without thinking about "killing" the final, but rather gaining an advantage, even if it's just 1-0.
"There's no such thing as 'killing' them right away. The important thing is the victory, even if it's a 1-0 victory. The last few matches against Botafogo were tough, and the rivalry intensified. And we have the Libertadores match coming up. But we should go into the second leg with some advantage," analyzed Souza, who claims to have made peace with Túlio.
For him, the derby could be decided on set pieces. The player notes that he misses finding the back of the net more often, but sees no problem in playing more outside the box, as has been the case: "I miss scoring more goals, but what matters is the team's success. Even Bruno is scoring."
For him, what can't be missing is personality: "To earn respect, you have to play well in decisions and win titles," he added.
Renato Augusto is in doubt
Still experiencing pain in his right knee, Renato Augusto is expected to miss the first game of the finals. The player, who still limps slightly, will only train with the ball today, after spending 13 days recovering and maintaining his fitness. The likely lineup for Sunday is Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Cristian, Íbson, Kléberson, and Toró; and Marcinho and Souza.
Bruno reveals he took free kick lessons with Renato Abreu
Rio - Goalkeeper Bruno, the hero of this Thursday's match against Coronel Bolognesi with a free kick that scored Flamengo's first goal in a 2-0 victory, revealed that he had a "teacher" in free kick practice. The mentor was midfielder Renato Abreu, who left Flamengo midway through last season and was the club's main weapon in free kick practice.
"We have good takers like Léo Moura and Juan, but we had Renato, who was a specialist and a very good taker. I had the opportunity to train with him, and he taught me some things. It's always good to be observing and learning," he said in an interview with Rádio Globo.
The "best goalkeeper in Brazil", who scored the winning free kick in the 37th minute of the second half, said that he will decide to ask to take free kicks depending on the progress of the game:
"It depends on the game, the heat of the match, the moment of concentration. I saw that Léo (Moura) was tired and I remembered that Juan doesn't train in that position. I asked the captain, Fábio, to let me take the free kick, so as not to create any confusion. Léo accepted it without any problems and Fábio asked if I was confident. I said I was, took it and was successful in taking the free kick," he celebrated.
For Bruno, the time spent training free kicks was worth it:
"When a guy trains and does the right things, he will definitely do the same in the game," he concluded.
Fans cheering for Roberto Carlos
Rio - The fans will sing their love for Flamengo in the State Championship final against Botafogo to the rhythm of Roberto Carlos. Against Coronel Bolognesi, it was the first test. "I have so much to tell you, but words can't express how great my love for you is." The verse from the King's song, sung at the top of its lungs, promises to bring the stands to life. The organized fan groups promise to remain united and sing in unison. New banners and flags will also be carried to the stadium.
A version of "We are the World," a song composed by Michael Jackson and Lionel Ritchie, also received lyrics from Flamengo fans, such as "Mengo is passion, religion. A certainty of happiness in my heart. I was born Flamengo and I will always love you. No matter if it wins or loses, I will sing. Mengooooo, Mengooooo, Mengooooo, Mengooooo. I am Flamengo." Maracanã is expected to be packed on Sunday.
Visa gets red-blacks out of bed at 5:30 am
Rio - The strain of the 12-hour trip to Mexico, where Flamengo will face América on Wednesday in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 5, has already begun. Yesterday, the schedule was changed because the players didn't yet have visas to travel and trained in Gávea. Today, everyone will have to wake up at 30:7 a.m. to be at the Mexican embassy before XNUMX a.m.
"The wear and tear has already begun. We have to wake up early, wait in line to get our visas. It's going to be a tough week, with crucial matches," said Souza. "It's going to be a real grind," analyzed Joel Santana. The team travels on Monday and plays on Wednesday. They're scheduled to return to Rio the following day. On Friday, the 3rd, the group will only do recovery work. Saturday, the day before the second game of the final, will be the last day for final adjustments.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo's squad will have to wake up early to get a visa\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's players will need to get up early this Friday, but not for any training. Because they will face América in the round of 7 of the Copa Libertadores, the Flamengo players must be at the Mexican Consulate by XNUMX a.m., where they will obtain their visas to enter the North American country. Therefore, the Flamengo delegation will only head to Teresópolis (RJ) in the early afternoon, where they will train at Granja Comary. The team will also carry out another training session in the mountains this Saturday morning before returning to Rio de Janeiro, where they will face Botafogo in the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final on Sunday.
Concerned about not losing focus on the decisive matches that the team has ahead, Flamengo's coaching staff began training this Thursday.
Fla will have Ibson against Bota. Renato Augusto is doubtful.\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo begins its Carioca Championship finals this Sunday, facing Botafogo at Maracanã Stadium at 16 p.m. Buoyed by its Copa Libertadores victory over Coronel Bolognesi, the team will be able to count on the return of midfielder Ibson, who was rested for Wednesday's match. He replaces Jaílton. "Ibson is doing very well and has been cleared by the medical department. He was just in a bit of pain, so he didn't play against Bolognesi, as the final is on Sunday," explained doctor Marcelo Soares.
Meanwhile, attacking midfielder Renato Augusto continues recovering from a muscle injury and is not guaranteed a return. Therefore, Marcinho could remain alongside Souza. "Renato Augusto continues to undergo intensive treatment and is expected to return to training with the group this Friday, despite feeling some pain. We will work to ensure he is 100% by Sunday," the doctor stated.
Flamengo won't have much time to rest after their match against the Peruvians. Next Wednesday, the team will be in Mexico, where they will face América in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 16.
In Mexico, the Red-Black team will still face an altitude of 2.335 meters. For all these reasons, the coaching staff is already studying ways to minimize the strain on the squad during the trip before the second leg of the Carioca final on May 4th.
Unmissable - When he announced he would leave Flamengo early next month to manage South Africa, coach Joel Santana stated that it was an offer he couldn't refuse, both because the country was already guaranteed a spot in the 2010 World Cup and because of the financial aspect. According to the newspaper O Globo this Thursday, Joel is expected to receive a salary of US$130 (approximately R$220) per month in his new job.
After the goal, Bruno wants to take a free kick in the Carioca final\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Accustomed to making crucial saves for Flamengo, goalkeeper Bruno had a different night last Wednesday. Watching the Rubro-Negro draw 0-0 with a weak Coronel Bolognesi-PER until the 34th minute of the second half, the player went on the attack and opened the scoring with a free kick, enabling the victory and, consequently, the Rio de Janeiro team's lead in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores.\ Excited, Bruno is already dreaming of repeating the feat in the State Championship final, which begins this Sunday with the first game against Botafogo at Maracanã. "At the time, I told Fábio Luciano that if I took the shot, I would score. I saw the goalkeeper taking a step to the side and decided to shoot in the other corner. If the coach lets me, I'll also take the shot in the Carioca final," said the goalkeeper, a fan favorite who has even won a flag for the Rubro-Negro this year.\
Bruno had been practicing free kicks for some time, but had rarely had the chance to take them in official matches. Now, coach Joel Santana—who will leave the club on May 4th to manage South Africa—hopes the goalkeeper can prove his ability to help Flamengo with this skill.
"Flamengo has been struggling without a top free-kick taker since Renato (midfielder Renato Abreu, now playing in Arab football) left last year. But Bruno has been training hard, and I hope he continues like this," said the coach.
Bruno's good form is also highlighted by Flamengo's goalkeeping coach, Roberto Barbosa, who hopes that the player can receive an opportunity from Dunga, the coach of the Brazilian national team.
"I believe Bruno deserves a chance on the Brazilian national team. He's currently the best goalkeeper ever to leave the goal for Brazil, he can easily replace the ball, and that's why he's already earned this opportunity. But the competition is fierce, as Brazil has great goalkeepers like Marcos and Felipe," he explained.
PELENET
Flamengo hero Bruno has a special Thursday with fans
Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Thursday was different for Bruno. After his free kick goal in the Copa Libertadores match against Coronel Bolognesi (2-0 victory for Flamengo), the goalkeeper was congratulated on the streets of Rio de Janeiro by several Flamengo fans.
AP
Goalkeeper Bruno had a heroic Thursday on the streets of Rio de Janeiro
"Today wasn't my birthday, but I received congratulations from many fans. I'm happy with the affection they show me. This shows that my work is being recognized," the number 1 celebrated.
Even with the goal, Bruno preferred not to say whether he'll continue taking free kicks. In his opinion, the choice of free kick takers rests solely with coach Joel Santana.
"Leonardo Moura and Juan usually take free kicks. I don't know if it will become routine for me to score from free kicks. It will depend on the game and where the foul is called, as I like to take free kicks close to the box," he said.
When remembering his goal, Bruno revealed that he changed the way he struck the ball because of Coronel Bolognesi's goalkeeper, Penny.
"It was a difficult moment in the match. I asked to take the shot and my teammates supported me. As I was taking the shot, I noticed that Penny took two steps to the side and ended up giving me the left corner. I was lucky," he recalled.
About to compete in another final wearing the red and black jersey, Bruno is already imagining himself scoring the winning goal. Flamengo and Botafogo begin the State Championship finals this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium.
"This is a dream. A Flamengo title and with my goal would be incredible. I wouldn't know where to run," imagined Bruno, who didn't hide his admiration for São Paulo's Rogério Ceni.
"He always inspired me. I heard he praised me for the goal. Coming from a player like Rogério Ceni, who won many titles, makes me very happy," he concluded.
Ibson plays, but Renato Augusto remains doubtful for the final
Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\
In the training session held this Thursday, in Gávea, journalists and fans were able to observe different situations involving the two Flamengo players who did not play against Coronel Bolognesi-PER, in the Copa Libertadores da América: Ibson and Renato Augusto.
Ibson is practically confirmed for this Sunday's game, at 16 pm, at Maracanã
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While Ibson, recovered from an injury to his left thigh, was on the field and practically confirmed his starting lineup for the first match of the State Championship final, this Sunday, against Botafogo, at 16 pm, at Maracanã, Renato Augusto, still with pain in his right thigh, did separate work and remains doubtful.
"Renato Augusto was only spared from training today (Thursday), but he will participate in training tomorrow (Friday) and should play on Sunday," said optimistic doctor Walter Martins.
However, if Renato Augusto is ruled out, coach Joel Santana is likely to decide to bring in Marcinho alongside Souza in attack. With Ibson's return, Jaílton will be benched.
Therefore, Flamengo should face Botafogo in this way: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Ibson, Kléberson and Toró; Renato Augusto (Marcinho) and Souza.
Flamengo players don't believe they're favorites in the first duel
Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Botafogo, Flamengo's opponent in the State Championship final, will be without four starters for the first leg, which will be played this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium. Right-back Alessandro and forward Jorge Henrique are suspended, and goalkeeper Castillo and left-back Triguinho are injured. Even so, this hasn't given the red-and-blacks any more confidence.
"I don't believe our team will take the lead in this first match. Cuca is a smart coach and should field players with the same quality as the starters. Besides, this is a decisive game. Whoever comes on will want to show what they can do," analyzed midfielder Cristian.
Souza endorsed his teammate's words and also warned that Flamengo's chances of beating their opponents this Sunday are slim, due to Botafogo's absences.
"That's unlikely to happen. We need to win, regardless of the score. One to zero will be good enough," said the "killer" from Gávea.
Flamengo, on the other hand, should face Botafogo with its best players. Renato Augusto is the only doubt. The midfielder, who complains of pain in his right thigh, could be replaced by Marcinho.
Flamengo will no longer go to Granja Comary
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo will no longer travel to Granja Comary in Teresópolis (Mountain Region of Rio de Janeiro) on Friday. The decision was made late Thursday night after a meeting between the coaching staff, board of directors, and Flamengo players.
With the cancellation of the preparation at Granja Comary, Flamengo will continue training normally at Gávea until the first game of the State Championship final, this Sunday, against Botafogo, at 16 pm, at Maracanã.
Everyone thought it would be wiser to stay in Rio de Janeiro, as this Friday morning, starting at 7 a.m., around 40 Flamengo professionals will be at the Mexican Consulate. They will obtain their entry visas into the country.
Next Wednesday (30/04), Flamengo faces América, in Mexico, in the round of 7 of the Copa Libertadores. The return match will be held on May XNUMXth, at Maracanã.
Flamengo hero Bruno has a special Thursday with fans
Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Thursday was different for Bruno. After his free kick goal in the Copa Libertadores match against Coronel Bolognesi (2-0 victory for Flamengo), the goalkeeper was congratulated on the streets of Rio de Janeiro by several Flamengo fans.
AP
Goalkeeper Bruno had a heroic Thursday on the streets of Rio de Janeiro
"Today wasn't my birthday, but I received congratulations from many fans. I'm happy with the affection they show me. This shows that my work is being recognized," the number 1 celebrated.
Even with the goal, Bruno preferred not to say whether he'll continue taking free kicks. In his opinion, the choice of free kick takers rests solely with coach Joel Santana.
"Leonardo Moura and Juan usually take free kicks. I don't know if it will become routine for me to score from free kicks. It will depend on the game and where the foul is called, as I like to take free kicks close to the box," he said.
When remembering his goal, Bruno revealed that he changed the way he struck the ball because of Coronel Bolognesi's goalkeeper, Penny.
"It was a difficult moment in the match. I asked to take the shot and my teammates supported me. As I was taking the shot, I noticed that Penny took two steps to the side and ended up giving me the left corner. I was lucky," he recalled.
About to compete in another final wearing the red and black jersey, Bruno is already imagining himself scoring the winning goal. Flamengo and Botafogo begin the State Championship finals this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium.
"This is a dream. A Flamengo title and with my goal would be incredible. I wouldn't know where to run," imagined Bruno, who didn't hide his admiration for São Paulo's Rogério Ceni.
"He always inspired me. I heard he praised me for the goal. Coming from a player like Rogério Ceni, who won many titles, makes me very happy," he concluded.
GLOBOESPORTE
Bruno warns: 'I want to stop early'
Idolized goalkeeper wants to retire at 32 to become an airplane mechanical engineer\ Eduardo Peixoto\
EFE\ Idol at Fla, goalkeeper Bruno tells his plans to the website GLOBOESPORTE.COM\
As a child, Bruno would wake up early to hike in the municipality of Ribeirão das Neves, in the Belo Horizonte metropolitan area. More than just his adventurous spirit, the Flamengo goalkeeper enjoyed his wanderings through the woods to watch planes take off and land at Confins Airport.
Just as many people wondered on Wednesday how a goalkeeper could take a free kick so perfectly, Bruno also has a curiosity: to understand the details that make an aircraft fly. And he intends to solve that curiosity soon. The goalkeeper's plans include retirement at 32 and starting engineering school.
At 23 years old and idolized by the country's largest fan base, Bruno begins his period of silence this Friday before the finals. This is a tactic to avoid controversy. Before the gag order was lifted, he spoke with GLOBOESPORTE.COM in the darkness of Gávea while waiting for the bus to head to training camp. Check out the interview with the man Flamengo fans consider "Brazil's best goalkeeper."
GLOBOESPORTE.COM: Recently, in an informal conversation, you joked that you need to save money because you plan to retire soon. Are you serious about that promise?
Bruno: I want to retire early. At about 32, or 33 at the most, I plan to retire.
Why?
Because players spend their lives focused. I know that's normal, but it gets tiring after a while. It's too stressful. You see your youth slipping away. I want to start a new life.
And what would this new life be like?
I have a big dream: to be an aircraft mechanical engineer. I graduated from high school and want to pursue that degree as soon as I retire. I'm curious to know how it works.
When he finishes his career, Bruno wants to work in aircraft mechanics.
Where does this passion come from?
When I was a child, I would hike in the city where I lived (Ribeirão das Neves) and get close to Confins Airport. I would watch planes take off and wonder, "How can it fly?"
You usually avoid interviews on the eve of finals. Is there a specific reason?
I prefer to focus on my goals. And I know that when I'm too focused, I end up talking nonsense. That's why it's best to avoid controversy.
Speaking of controversy, some of the last games against Botafogo were not very calm...
Yeah, but it's over. Now it's a different game. I want to win because it's a state final. This mockery is over. We have to set an example for others.
Do you consider yourself an idol of the red-black fans?
It's hard to say. I can say that I feel very safe at Flamengo, as if I were at home. I realize every day that the fans have a lot of trust in me.
Now, even to take free kicks...
(laughs) The team's penalty takers are Leo Moura and Juan. Then there's Kleberson, Cristian, and Jaílton. I'm there, looking for my place. I still don't know how to deal with this. You can see I couldn't even celebrate. I just wanted to give a teammate a hug.
Fla cancels trip to Teresópolis
The club considers it unnecessary to go to Granja Comary this Friday.
Eduardo Peixoto
In a meeting on Thursday night, Flamengo's board of directors, coaching staff, and players decided to cancel the trip to Teresópolis this Friday. The delegation was scheduled to travel to Granja Comary at lunchtime, hold a training session in the afternoon, another on Saturday morning, and then return to Rio.
There was a consensus that the trip to the mountains of Rio de Janeiro would cause extra strain on the players. Especially since this Friday they'll have to wake up at 5 a.m. to go to the Mexican consulate to obtain entry visas.
- We're starting to pay the price for the trip to Mexico - says midfielder Cristian, referring to the Copa Libertadores round of 16 clash against América-MEX next Wednesday.
The players train at 16 p.m. in Gávea and return to their training camp at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca. Flamengo faces Botafogo on Sunday in the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final.
Interestingly, over the past two weeks, Alvinegro had been preparing for the decisive matches at Granja. However, their rivals "stole" the venue and failed to capitalize.
Souza oblivious to the 'black and white hatred'
Striker says he even apologized to Túlio for the post-Taça Guanabara controversy
Eduardo Peixoto
GLOBOESPORTE.COM
Souza guarantees that there are no more problems with the black and whites
Botafogo fans display a banner taunting striker Souza game after game. In the past, the Flamengo fan would have responded. But the striker's relaxed form has led him to be polite and economical in his statements.
After this year's Guanabara Cup final, Souza provoked the black and white fans with his "crybaby" celebration. He received harsh criticism from Cuca and, especially, Túlio. The two exchanged public snark, creating a rift. However, everything has been resolved.
"We never got to talk. But in the Rio Cup semifinal, I apologized, and so did he. It's over," he assures.
In the same game where the "peace treaty" with Túlio took place, Souza was insulted several times during the second half. The thing is, he had been substituted at halftime because he felt ill. The reunion with the fans who had chosen him as their enemy isn't alarming.
- I've played in many finals and I'm calm about this one too - says the player.
The number 9, however, is aware of Botafogo's desire to get revenge for the finals they recently lost.
- I know they want to beat us and will only consider a rematch if they take the title - he says.
Renato Augusto is unlikely to play in the final
Supporter returns to training this Friday, but participation on Sunday is difficult
Eduardo Peixoto
Renato Augusto is experiencing knee pain
Renato Augusto still limps slightly when he walks, a remnant of the blow to his right knee he suffered in the match against Botafogo on April 13th. He is scheduled to return to ball training this Friday.
However, he's unlikely to be fit for Sunday's match against Botafogo in the Campeonato Carioca final. Some on the coaching staff consider it premature to field a player who hasn't touched a ball for 13 days. The idea is to prepare him for the matches against América-MEX and the second leg of the state championship final.
Meanwhile, midfielder Ibson, who didn't face Coronel Bolognesi, has been cleared and trained normally this Thursday at Gávea. In last Wednesday's match, Cristian left the field at halftime due to a sprained right ankle. He's feeling better.
- Cristian was rested today (Thursday), but tomorrow (Friday) he will return to training and participate in the game - says doctor Walter Martins.
Flamengo's likely lineup: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Ibson, Kleberson and Toró; Marcinho and Souza.
Race and disposition: Fla's motto
The team will have to get up early on Friday and recognizes that Botafogo will have a physical advantage in the final
Eduardo Peixoto
Souza at Flamengo training
The worst has happened, and Flamengo will have to make every effort to travel to Mexico between the two Carioca Championship final matches. The marathon, theoretically, favors Botafogo. And Flamengo fans know this. However, to avoid losing on the eve of the match, the rhetoric adopted in Gávea is one of overcoming obstacles.
The 12-hour trip to face América in the Copa Libertadores will likely take place on Monday night. But the effects are beginning to be felt. This Friday, the players will have a "wake-up call" at their training camp in Barra da Tijuca. From there, they will head to the Mexican consulate to obtain entry visas.
"This is the beginning of the price we'll pay for traveling to Mexico," says midfielder Cristian. Striker Souza agrees:
"We're waking up at 5:30 a.m. That's already exhausting. But decisions aren't just about football. We have to go for it with determination and determination."
On the trip to Cusco, the striker was one of those who suffered the most. Upon returning to Rio, he fell ill and did not finish the match against Botafogo in the Rio Cup semifinal. The nightmare of another long trip once again gives the Alvinegro team a physical advantage in the second leg of the final.
"We don't know what the return leg will be like. But if there's a delay, they'll definitely have an advantage," says Flamengo's number 9.
Castillo and Triguinho will not face Fla
Players have serious thigh injuries and are at risk of missing the second game
Fred Huber
Goalkeeper Castillo on crutches after the Rio Cup final against Tricolor
Goalkeeper Castillo and left-back Triguinho were re-evaluated this Thursday at General Severiano. The club's medical department confirmed that the injury to both players' right thighs is serious. Therefore, they are ruled out for the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final on Sunday against Flamengo. Both are also at risk of missing the second leg the following weekend.
Castillo's place is expected to be filled by Renan, who played against Portuguesa and made a mistake. The question is who will replace Triguinho. Against Lusa, Leandro Guerreiro filled this role, but struggled and didn't exactly please coach Cuca.
In addition to Castillo and Triguinho, Jorge Henrique and Alessandro, who were sent off in the Rio Cup final, are out.
America-MEX calls Fla powerful
The Mexican club's official website highlights the strength of the red-and-black team.
REPRODUCTION - América do México website calls Flamengo powerful
Flamengo is worried about its Copa Libertadores Round of 30 clash with América of Mexico, as it will have to play in the Mexican capital on the 4th, and then, on Sunday, May XNUMXth, after two long plane trips, play Botafogo in the second leg of the Campeonato Carioca finals at the Maracanã stadium. But, at least for the Mexicans, Flamengo is powerful.
That's right, the featured article on the Mexican club's official website this Thursday speaks with great respect for the Gávea team. In a short note, América expresses its concern about facing Flamengo, which could be a good sign and a relief for the red-and-blacks' fears, who are deeply concerned about the fatigue of the trip.
Goal guarantees plaque for goalkeeper Bruno
Flamengo's board of directors decided to honor him for being the first player in history to score a free kick goal.
Bruno celebrates Flamengo's free kick goal against Coronel Bolognesi
Bruno's goal in Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Coronel Bolognesi in the final round of the Copa Libertadores group stage will earn the goalkeeper a special tribute. The Flamengo board is preparing a plaque to present to the player.
He was the third goalkeeper to score in Flamengo's history. The other two times were with Ubirajara, in September 1970, against Madureira, on Ilha do Governador, with the help of the wind; and with Zé Carlos, in 1997, against Nacional-AM, from a penalty kick, at Vivaldão Stadium.
"I was at this game in 1970 and saw Ubirajara's goal. But since it was the first free-kick goal scored by a Flamengo goalkeeper, Bruno deserves to be honored with a plaque," says Kléber Leite, vice president of football.
THROW
Souza: 'Final will be revenge for Botafogo'
The red-black striker remembers the 2007 Carioca final
In 2007, Flamengo defeated Botafogo in the State Championship final - Souza scored a goal in each of the two final matches. In detail, the "crying" celebration that provoked anger and criticism from Botafogo fans and the meeting before the Rio Cup semifinal match that sealed peace between the athletes (Credit: LANCENET Archive!)
LANCEPRESS!
The Campeonato Carioca final between Flamengo and Botafogo, the first of which takes place next Sunday, reignites the controversy that has involved the two clubs in recent classics.
And if the 3-0 defeat in the semifinal of the Rio Cup against Alvinegro (which took away the Flamengo fans' chance of winning the second round and taking the State Championship without the need for a final) may have left the desire for "revenge" in Gávea, striker Souza is trying to dispel the hypothesis.
"Revenge will only happen if Botafogo wins the championship. I won the championship last year against them, I won it again this year, and now they want to beat us," said the red-and-black striker this Thursday, recalling the 2007 State Championship and the Guanabara Cup this year.
Flamengo's top scorer in the 2008 State Championship with six goals, and also the team's top scorer in last year's competition, with the same number of goals (like midfielder Renato), Souza exchanged barbs with the black and white midfielder Túlio and is the main target of the Botafogo fans' anger due to the provocative celebration of the "crybaby".
According to the Gávea club player, however, the friction with the Botafogo player has been overcome. He recalled an episode from the teams' last meeting to illustrate the peaceful atmosphere between the two clubs' players.
"This kind of fighting is over. We shook hands at the last game. Túlio and I talked during this get-together, and everything's fine now," the striker stated. Before the Taça Rio semifinal match, all the Flamengo and Botafogo players were gathered in the center of the field by the match referee and exchanged greetings.
Still on the subject of next Sunday's match, the red-black player, who scored a goal in each of the matches in last year's State Championship final, believes that the team from Gávea can start well to win the title.
"We've already played tough matches against Botafogo and have been deciding championships. In the last match, we lost 3-0, but I believe we're ready to play well and get a good win," said Souza.
Flamengo will no longer go to Granja Comary
A trip to the Mexican Consulate in the morning disrupts the team's plans
Bureaucracy for the Libertadores match in Mexico disrupts Flamengo's plans for the State Championship final (Credit: Lancenet)
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's board of directors and the club's technical committee met on Thursday night at the Windsor Hotel in Rio de Janeiro, where the delegation is staying, and decided to cancel the group's trip to Granja Comary in Teresópolis (RJ).
According to the understanding of the red-black command, as the players will have to wake up at 5:30 am this Friday to go to the Mexican Consulate, in the South Zone of Rio, to obtain entry visas for that country, the journey to return to the capital of Rio de Janeiro on Saturday would be tiring.
Flamengo faces América-MEX next Wednesday, at 19:30 pm, at the Azteca Stadium, in Mexico City, for the first leg of the round of XNUMX of the Copa Libertadores.
After the trip to the Consulate, the squad would travel to the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro, where they would train in the afternoon. On Sunday, the team faces Botafogo in the first match of the Campeonato Carioca final.
Thus, Flamengo remains concentrated in the city of Rio de Janeiro and carries out its training this Friday, at 16 pm, in Gávea.
Fla does not believe in an advantage against Botafogo
Alvinegro plays without Castillo, Alessandro, Triguinho and Jorge Henrique
For Souza, Flamengo has the advantage in the first match of the State Championship final. In detail, goalkeeper Castillo and striker Jorge Henrique, two of the Alvinegros' absences (Credit: LANCEPRESS)
LANCEPRESS!
In the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final next Sunday, Botafogo will be without four starters: goalkeeper Castillo, right-back Alessandro, left-back Triguinho, and forward Jorge Henrique. However, Flamengo is unlikely to benefit from this situation.
- We know they are missing players, whether injured or due to cards, but they have quality players to make up for the absences - commented striker Souza, the red-black club's main attacking reference in the Carioca, in which he is the team's top scorer with six goals.
Flamengo is competing in the Copa Libertadores Round of 16 alongside the state championship. Therefore, with a grueling trip to Mexico between the two decisive matches against Botafogo, and the latter team being shorthanded for the first leg, the possibility has been raised that the team from Gávea could secure a large victory this Sunday and open up a lead.
"Everyone's been saying that we can kill the championship in the first match. That's not true. Even with missing players, Botafogo has a great squad, and the decision isn't just about playing football; it's about the physical and psychological aspects," Souza said this Thursday.
Renato Augusto is doubtful for the State final
Player only carried out physical training this Thursday, in Gávea
Renato Augusto did not play against Coronel Bolognesi this Wednesday
LANCEPRESS!
Supporter Renato Augusto only did physical training this Thursday, in Gávea, and is doubtful for the first match of the Campeonato Carioca final, next Sunday, against Botafogo, in Maracanã.
Neither the club's technical committee nor the medical department have commented on the case and a decision on the athlete's use is expected to be made on Friday.
The player is recovering from a blow suffered in the Rio Cup semifinal against Botafogo. He did not play in last Wednesday's 2-0 victory over Coronel Bolognesi (Peru) in the Copa Libertadores.
Flamengo will have four decisive matches in the next two weeks. In addition to the two clashes against Botafogo that will decide the state champion, the Rubro-Negro faces América of Mexico in the round of 16 of the South American competition.
Round of 16 dates and times set
Cruzeiro, Fla, Flu and São Paulo play next Wednesday; Santos takes the field a day later
EFE Agency
The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) released the schedule for the round of 30 of the Copa Libertadores on Thursday. Most of the first leg matches with Brazilian teams will be next Wednesday (04/01), with four clashes: Boca Juniors (ARG) vs. Cruzeiro, América (MEX) vs. Flamengo, Atlético Nacional (COL) vs. Fluminense and Nacional (URU) vs. São Paulo. Next Thursday (05/XNUMX), there is Santos vs. Cúcuta (COL).
Check out the dates and times (Brasília time) for the round of 16 of the Libertadores:
OUTWARD DEPARTURES:
Tuesday (29/04):\ Lanús (ARG) x Atlas (MEX) - 20:10 pm\ LDU (EQU) x Estudiantes (ARG) - 22:30 pm\
Wednesday (30/04):\ Boca Juniors (ARG) x Cruzeiro - 17:10 pm\ San Lorenzo (ARG) x River Plate (ARG) - 19:30 pm\ America (MEX) x Flamengo - 19:30 pm\ Nacional (URU) x São Paulo - 21:50 pm\ Atl. Nacional (COL) x Fluminense - 21:50 pm\
Thursday (01/05):\ Santos x Cúcuta (COL) - 20:45 pm\
RETURN MATCHES:
Tuesday (06/05):\ Fluminense x Atl. Nacional (COL) - 18:30 pm\ Estudiantes (ARG) x LDU (EQU) - 21:00 pm\ Atlas (MEX) x Lanús (ARG) - 23:30 pm\
Wednesday (07/05):\ Cruzeiro x Boca Juniors (ARG) - 19:10 pm\ Flamengo (BRA)-America (MEX) - 21:50 pm\ São Paulo x Nacional (URU) - 21:50 pm\
Thursday (08/05):\ River Plate (ARG) x San Lorenzo (ARG) - 20:30 pm\ Cúcuta (COL) x Santos (BRA) - 23:15 pm\
Joel: 'The best doesn't always win'
Natalino highlights the importance of having a good cast in hand\ LANCEPRESS!\
Flamengo coach Joel Santana is accustomed to winning titles and knows that anything can happen in a final. Because of this, the coach assures that he has been talking extensively with the group.
"The decision is completely different. It's the day, the moment. The best doesn't always win. We've been preparing for these decisions since December," he told Rádio Manchete.
Flamengo has strengthened for this season, however, not all players have been performing well, but Joel believes the club has a good squad:
- Some players were signed and didn't perform as expected, even so, I believe we have a bench and a great squad - concluded the coach.
Flamengo begins the Libertadores fight on Friday
Rubro-negros go to the Mexican Consulate to obtain visas to enter the country
Flamengo faces América-MEX in the round of 16 of the Libertadores (Credit: LANCENET)
LANCEPRESS!
The Copa Libertadores Round of 30 begins this Friday for Flamengo. The match against América-MEX isn't until next Wednesday, May XNUMXth, but the red-and-black team will already have to "hit the field" for this matchup.
The Gávea club's delegation will go to the Mexican Consulate in the south of Rio de Janeiro this Friday morning to obtain visas to enter the country next week, as the first leg will be played there.
Flamengo travels on Sunday night, after the first duel of the State final, against Botafogo, on a commercial flight, directly to Mexico City, and will face approximately 11 hours of travel to the Mexican capital.
The match against América-MEX will be in the city, at the Azteca Stadium. The return leg will take place on May 7th at the Maracanã Stadium. The dates were provided by the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) website.
The first leg, in Mexico, was scheduled for 17:30pm - 19:30pm Brasília time; the return leg, in Brazil, for 21:50pm - 18:50pm in Mexico City.