THE GLOBE

GUANABARA CUP DECISION: Striker says his performance for Flamengo represents the beginning of the race to go to the Olympics

Hero chooses Maracanã as his new home

Diego Tardelli recalls his journey at the stadium and says he dreamed of scoring the winning goal in the first round.

Photo caption: DIEGO TARDELLI, surrounded by red-and-black players on the podium, holds the Guanabara Cup trophy: he came off the bench to become the title hero

Carlos Eduardo Mansur

While celebrating Flamengo's victory, striker Diego Tardelli confessed: in the nights leading up to the final, the image that kept popping into his head was the winning goal in the Taça Guanabara final. Perhaps what gave him such certainty that the outcome would be a happy one was his connection with Maracanã.

In 2003, Tardelli scored his first professional goal for São Paulo on a bicycle kick at the stadium. In this state championship, he made his Flamengo debut at Maracanã and scored in the victory over Volta Redonda. Yesterday, he experienced what he considers the greatest moment of his life.

"It was definitely the most important goal of my career. Maracanã is my home, and my star will shine brightly here. What greater joy could there be? Playing in front of this crowd is indescribable," said Tardelli, who, during the press conference, was surprised by Fábio Luciano and Kleberson, who carried him back to the locker room.

In the game's decisive moment, the striker's coolness was his hallmark. With the final over, he seemed inactive in front of a Maracanã stadium that only had eyes for him. For a moment, he ran aimlessly across the field. But when it came time to discuss the play, although his expression conveyed obvious happiness, he returned to his cool demeanor:

"The moment I received the ball, I knew the only way was to chip it over the top. I thought the ball was going to go out, but it curved and went into the corner. When I went to sleep the last few days, a movie played in my head, telling me I'd come on and score the winning goal. I wasn't fazed when Joel brought on Marcinho. I've seen plenty of players come off the bench to decide games."

After the game, Tardelli, who had an offer from Santos but opted for Gávea, said he was convinced he had made the right choice. For Flamengo, yesterday's goal represented an increase in equity. The club signed him to a five-year contract and initially held only 25% of the rights. After one of the investors withdrew, Flamengo purchased a new share and retained 50% of the economic rights, paying US$500. Tardelli, for his part, is seeking to build a new image.

"I had an offer from Santos, but Flamengo's fans were the deciding factor. In São Paulo, they were suspicious of me, saying I was just a prospect. Here, I can be more valued and happier. Flamengo has great forwards, but I think I've planted a shadow on Joel's head. I've started my race to go to the Olympics."

GUANABARA CUP DECISION: Now, Flamengo turns to the Libertadores and may rest players in the Rio Cup

Joel hopes to have put an end to the protests

Coach celebrates the end of a period without victories and says that Fla's favoritism worried him before the final

FÁBIO LUCIANO, Flamengo's captain in the final, kisses the Guanabara Cup on the Maracanã pitch

JUAN, FÁBIO Luciano, Kleberson and Rodrigo Arroz celebrate with family and friends at a restaurant in Barra

LEONARDO MOURA, lifted on the shoulders of a fan, celebrates the Guanabara Cup title and shows off the t-shirt in tribute to his family

Carlos Eduardo Mansur

Two Bahian soccer titles, in 2002 and 2003, marked the beginning of a hiatus in Joel Santana's career. Yesterday, after nearly five years, the coach returned to lead a championship team. For him, the victory may have ended the period of disputes.

"I started hearing a lot of things. For example, that I was outdated. It was just a few difficult years. I've been in football for over 20 years. I continue to be a winning coach," said the coach. "I had offers to leave last year. But I didn't want a repeat of 2005, when I left the club. Especially because of my relationship with the fans."

Joel avoided raising his voice. During the press conference, he appeared calm. He said that during the week, only one thing had disturbed his peace.

"They gave Flamengo an exaggerated favoritism. In my career, the easiest decisions I've had, I lost," he said, quickly explaining the decision to leave renowned players on the bench. "Even the changes made in the game were planned. Key players were on the bench and helped. I listened to the entire coaching staff when making my decision, and I've been in football for a long time to trust my decisions."

The club is two games away from equaling Fluminense

Left-back Juan highlighted the team's resilience after conceding the first goal:

- We didn't despair. It was a very difficult game, but we managed to turn it around.

Goalkeeper Bruno praised the opponent.

"We didn't play well, but we know we can improve. Botafogo has a great team, and Cuca is a great coach. His team deserves congratulations, too," he said.

Now, Flamengo turns its attention to the Libertadores. On Wednesday, they face Cienciano at Maracanã, and they can't afford to slip up, or risk complicating their situation prematurely. So much so that the board didn't plan a celebration for winning the Taça Guanabara. Some players gathered for dinner with family members.

"We'll have more peace of mind in the Libertadores. But we won't give up on the Rio Cup," said Juan.

Coach Joel Santana said he will only make a decision on whether or not to rest players in the second round of the State Championship after Wednesday's game:

- I don't think it's a good idea to spare everyone, only in cases of injury.

Striker Marcinho said the celebration would only take place on the field.

- We can't forget that we have an important game on Wednesday - he warned.

The Guanabara Cup, Flamengo's 18th in history, carries historic weight. Having qualified for the State Championship final, the red-and-black team is two games away from equaling Fluminense's record for most Rio titles: Fluminense has won the State Championship 30 times, compared to Flamengo's 29.

Yesterday, FlaTV held its first live broadcast before the game. At the training ground, a roundtable discussion was hosted by vice president of football Kleber Leite. The broadcast, which received 300 views, impacted the daily lives of players like Leonardo Moura and Kleberson, who participated in the program. Today, the club will hold an exhibition of the project for members in Gávea.

CONTRIBUTED BY Tatiana Furtado

FLAMENGO

BRUNO: In Botafogo's goal, Wellington Paulista's shot went between Fábio Luciano's legs, slowing his reaction. He was saved by the post from Fábio's header in the last minute. 6.

LEONARDO MOURA: Despite a strong start, he was well-marked by Zé Carlos and his performance dropped off. In the second half, he revived his performance, participating in the game-winning goal. 7,5.

FÁBIO LUCIANO: Important as always, not only for having suffered the penalty that paved the way for victory, but for the security it provides to the defensive system. 8.

RONALDO ANGELIM: He was dribbled inside the box during Botafogo's goal, but that didn't detract from his good performance. He appeared well in the marking, especially in some anticipation moves. 7.

JUAN: Alessandro's marking didn't stop him from supporting the attack. Because of his personality and good football, he was one of the team's standout players. 7,5.

JAÍLTON: He couldn't stop Wellington Paulista, who easily got past him on the goal. In the first half, he missed a shot from the front of Castillo's goal. 5,5. KLEBERSON came on and gave the team new momentum, gaining the advantage on the left flank. He also played a key role in marking. 7,5.

CRISTIAN: In the first half, he played more freely. In the second, he stuck to the marking and fulfilled his tactical role well. 7.

IBSON: He took on the responsibility of leading the team forward and providing a creative touch. He took the penalty with extreme skill. 8,5.

TORÓ: He ran, but unproductively. He couldn't find his place in the game and ended up leaving. 5,5. DIEGO TARDELLI came on and, in one of the few times he touched the ball, he showed calm and class to score the winning goal with a beautiful shot. 9.

MARCINHO: He accepted Botafogo's strong marking and created very little. 5,5. OBINA came on and created constant danger for the black and white defense. 7,5.

SOUZA: Faced with strong marking, he took a shot on goal once in the game, and poorly. And he was sent off for causing an unnecessary mess. 5.

JOEL SANTANA: He made good changes to the team, making it capable of seeking victory and the title. 8.

BOTAFOGO

CASTILLO: Not at fault for the goals, he made a great save from Leonardo Moura's shot. He instilled confidence in the team. 6.

ALESSANDRO: He was marked by Juan but was also one of Botafogo's main attacking options. He was substituted. 6,5. FÁBIO came on and, in the final play, hit the post with a header that could have changed the course of the game. 6.

RENATO SILVA: He started off insecure, missing easy balls, but then he got into the game and didn't compromise. 5,5.

FERRERO: Can't complain about the penalty, as it nearly took Fábio Luciano's shirt off. Other than that, he had a good game and nearly scored a header. 6,5.

EDUARDO: Good in the first half, when he showed personality in some plays. 6. ÉDSON came on and had a discreet participation. 5.

DIGUINHO: Followed Ibson, gaining an advantage at times and organizing Botafogo's ball out. 6,5.

TÚLIO: He played with his usual enthusiasm, but after Zé Carlos was sent off, he lost his head and disappeared from the game. 5.

LÚCIO FLÁVIO: He was more involved in the first half. His sending off, for stopping a counterattack, was fair, as he already had a yellow card. 5,5.

ZÉ CARLOS: He closed down Leonardo Moura's space in the first half and appeared dangerously ahead, reaching the byline. He was sent off for getting involved in the altercation with Souza. 6.

ADRIANO FELÍCIO: He put together some good plays in the first half, when he was one of the team's key players, but his performance dropped off significantly in the second half. 5,5. JORGE HENRIQUE, despite being far from ideal, created some good plays and Botafogo improved. 6.

WELLINGTON PAULISTA: Scorer of the goal with a good individual play, he was one of the best in the first half, but he couldn't keep up the pace. 6.

CUCA: Your team had everything to win, but lost after the confusion surrounding Flamengo's equalizing goal. 6.

ARBITRATION

Marcelo de Lima Henriques correctly issued the red cards and scored the penalty, but lost control of the game.

Half a full turn in the hands of scalpers

Illegal seller earns R$3 with student ID scam

WITHOUT SUPERVISION, the scalper (in blue) sells half-price tickets for R$60 to the red-black fans at the Bellini Statue

Photo caption: A STREET VENDOR sells pirated Flamengo shirts at will, without caring about the military police officer who approaches

Gian Amato

The scalper arrived at Maracanã after lunch. Calmly, he wore shorts, a T-shirt, and counterfeit designer sneakers. Before the final began, he reached his sales quota: 50 half-price tickets, purchased in advance and illegally with student IDs. Around 25 years old, he doesn't attend classes, but he runs a school around the stadium, where he teaches how to invest R$1 and raise R$3 in a game. It's an easy lesson to learn among the boys who are lured into waiting in line for hours at the ticket office and, in exchange for R$5, buying tickets.

The math is basic. The scalper buys for half and sells for more than double. The grandstand ticket costs R$40. He buys the half-price ticket for R$20 and sells it for R$60. At the end of the day, he's earned R$40 on each ticket. The profit might be slightly lower if he pays the middleman R$5.

The well-trained scalper is barely noticed by the military police just a few meters from the ticket booth next to the Bellini Statue, where Flamengo fans enter. He constantly speaks in a voice that's barely a shout, but loud enough for fans to hear.

"Ticket, ticket? There's a grandstand here," he says, managing to hook a still somewhat suspicious customer.

"But this one is a sock. I don't even have a wallet, I don't want to take it with me so I don't get stopped at the turnstile," the fan ponders.

Ironically, the scalper responds with the slang of the streets and the stands:

- Forget it, the roulette is rigged. Don't believe me? So we'll do it like this: I'll take you there, wait for you to get in, and then you pay me. I've done that before, and no one has come back to complain.

The Flamengo fan agreed and had to pay R$60 in advance, because the line was long, entry would take a long time, and the scalper could not abandon the point of sale, where he shared the attention with street vendors selling pirated shirts and products of the red-and-black club.

Minutes later, a new fan approached and asked for five tickets. The scalper only had three. He quickly resolved the issue. He picked up his cell phone and called another scalper, who took the two tickets in less than a minute.

"I've already sold over 50 tickets today. All half-price tickets. At Maracanã, no one asks for a ticket. Everyone keeps their own. It's a good thing there are two more finals to come," he said, referring to the Rio Cup and State Championship finals, if Flamengo doesn't win both rounds.

The shadow trade doesn't wear a shirt. At the UERJ Ramp, the Botafogo fans' entrance, grandstand tickets were even more expensive: between R$70 and R$80. The opposite side was the same, but the scalpers' rhetoric was the same.

"Dude, you can't go wrong. Everyone buys half-price tickets now and resells them. It's even cheaper for the fans, because before everyone had to sell much more. It was at least R$100," said a scalper who was working at the bottom of the ramp, offering tickets to those arriving at the stadium by subway.

The illegal vendors' activity spans the city. In the South Zone, half-price tickets were offered at a hotel. But it was at the stadium, where four ticket scalpers were arrested yesterday, that the price reached its highest. On Friday, the special seat was selling for R$250, R$150 more expensive. At 16 p.m., the scalper at the Bellini Statue closed. He took off his shirt, opened a can of beer, and laughed to the tourist asking for a ticket:

- You and the Flamengo fans.

SPORTS JOURNAL

Carnival 2008 starts now

Flamengo turns the game around, defeats Botafogo and becomes two-time champion of the Guanabara Cup

Alexandre Souza and Fabio Lacerda

Jair Motta/JS

Diego Tardelli came off the bench to score the goal that gave Flamengo their second GB Cup title

Definitely, a champion, besides having a good team, needs luck. The biggest winner of the Guanabara Cup lived up to tradition and brought the competition's 18th trophy to Gávea, turning the match around to 2-1 in stoppage time.

With less possession in the first half, Flamengo turned things around in the second half and suffocated Botafogo. Besides dominating the field, they were fortunate in the last minute, when Fabio headed Jorge Henrique's free kick onto the post. Joel Santana's brilliant performance brought on Diego Tardelli for Toró.

Botafogo started the game with strong man-to-man marking. The Guanabara Cup champion's first stroke of luck came in the ninth minute when Leonardo Moura delayed the ball and Bruno handled it. It was a foul, an indirect kick that the referee didn't award. Four minutes later, after a scuffle in the box, Fabio Luciano backheeled the ball to Jaílton, who fired it over the bar.

In the 27th minute, Wellington Paulista made a beautiful play, leaving four Flamengo players behind and firing a low cross-shot to open the scoring. The first half ended under total control of the black and white team.

Flamengo came out swinging in the second half. The red-and-black team's second stroke of luck came in the 17th minute, when the referee noticed Ferrero tugging on defender Fabio Luciano's shirt. A questionable play. Ibson, who had nothing to do with it, fired an unstoppable shot into the Uruguayan goalkeeper's right corner.

After the altercation started by Souza, Marcelo de Lima Henrique unfairly sent off Zé Carlos and the Flamengo striker, who were heading to the locker room showers. In the 27th minute of the second half, a visibly out-of-control Lúcio Flávio fouled Juan from behind and received a red card.

The final blow came from Diego Tardelli, who fired a shot with the inside of his foot, knocking Castillo out of the play. The ball landed in the back of the net. An incredible story for the striker who arrived in Rio, sparking controversy with Souza, and ended up scoring the title-winning goal. Once again, Rio is black and red.

In the crowd, everyone is equal

If the Flamengo fans in the stands were ebullient, the celebrities in the stands were also mostly Black and Red. Director and Brazilian actor Denis Carvalho; actors Caio Junqueira, who worked on the film "Tropa de Elite," Rocco Pitanga, and Sérgio Honjakoff. The music featured Gabriel, the Thinker, wearing a Flamengo jersey, and MC Créu with his stunning dancers Daiana and Andressa.

On the Maracanã wall, Alexandre from Big Brother Brasil made an appearance, without his beloved Juliana, who is still competing for the million-real prize. In politics, the Secretary of Sports, Leisure, and Tourism, Eduardo Paes, who also holds the presidency of Suderj (Rio de Janeiro State University). From sports, the gymnast siblings Diego and Daniele Hipólito and Flamengo fan Renato Augusto, who is recovering from facial surgery, are among the contenders.

The old guard was also present. Paulo Henrique, a former left-back who played for Flamengo and Botafogo and competed in the 1966 World Cup, and his son, Paulo Henrique Jr., a left winger who played for the Flamengo club in the 80s, were present. While the Flamengo fans laughed heartily, Botafogo's Hélio de la Peña, from Casseta & Planeta, left without being able to celebrate. In the end, winners and losers fraternized, proving that the spirit of sportsmanship still exists. After all, football isn't all about rivalry.

Maracanã on a gala afternoon

The GB Cup final provides a show that only Rio fans know how to put on

Sergio Mello and Tiago da Costa

Créu, the rhythm that became official in the decisive phase of the Guanabara Cup, was exalted by the red-black fans even before the ball rolled: confidence in the victory

It wasn't just the Maracanã pitch that was a spectacle yesterday afternoon. In the stands, Flamengo and Botafogo fans put on a show of their own, cheering on the players, taunting them, and singing love songs to their respective teams. More than 78 Flamengo and Botafogo fans attended the Guanabara Cup final.

As usual, the teams' entrance onto the field was met with much celebration. Although most of the fans in the stadium were red-and-black, the Botafogo fans were very loud and confident of a positive result.

With the game evenly balanced in the first half, the crowd grew increasingly tense. And the first major burst of euphoria came from the black and white side. Wellington Paulista's goal in the first half sent the Glorioso fans into a frenzy. But despite the team going into halftime with the lead, many preferred not to celebrate the title prematurely.

Dancing in the Rain\ The Flamengo fans never stopped supporting the team. In the second half, the team began to attack in their own right. With that, the motivation received from the stands finally paid off. In the 17th minute, Flamengo fans celebrated Ibson's penalty goal. Not even the rain dampened the celebration. The crowd was already preparing for the thrill of the penalty shootout when Diego Tardelli, in stoppage time, sent the Flamengo fans into a frenzy.\

During the title celebrations, the players interrupted the lap of honor several times to lead the crowd in the famous "Créu Dance." To provoke their rivals, Flamengo fans made a point of chanting "Vice again," a reference to last year's Carioca final, which Flamengo won.

Diego Tardelli, the predestined

The striker says that, despite being blocked, he hasn't lost hope of scoring a goal in the final.

Nathan de Lima and Sérgio Mello

Marcelo Sadio/JS

Rodrigo Arroz and Diego Tardelli take a lap of honor around the lawn

The title hero. Striker Diego Tardelli was destined to be the nation's savior. He was watching the game from the bench until the 40th minute of the second half, when coach Joel Santana called him in to replace Toró. On the first play, on the right flank, while trying to dribble past Edson, he ended up stepping on the ball. But six minutes later, this time on the left flank, he controlled the ball with extreme skill and placed it in the left corner, which Castillo flew into, but was unable to prevent the winning goal of the Guanabara Cup. After the final whistle, still on the field, he spoke about the play that resulted in the second and decisive goal for the red-and-black team.

"At that moment, I didn't have many options! The ball only fit there, in that corner. I saw the goalkeeper was advanced and shot with placement. I was lucky with the play and scored the winning goal," said Tardelli.

A visibly emotional Diego Tardelli acknowledged that he came on at a crucial moment in the game, but believes that, in addition to divine help, it will take time for him to assimilate that he was the great hero of the red-black nation.

"Look (laughs), that movie was amazing! I think it will take a while for this to sink in. I came on at a difficult moment in the match, with a player sent off on each side. I thank God for the calm and balance I had to finish and score the comeback," he said.

After completing the lap of honor, the player, calmer, assured that his blockade didn't affect him psychologically. He believes the Maracanã is his talisman, as every time he plays on Brazil's biggest stage, he leaves his mark as a goalscorer.

"Honestly? I wasn't shaken at all by being on the bench. I knew I could come on at any moment and score the winning goal. I wasn't disappointed, but it crossed my mind that it was a decision," said Diego Tardelli, adding: "I can say today (yesterday) that Maracanã is, in fact, my home. In all the difficult moments I've had here, I've scored my goals. I hope it continues like this and I can continue to help Flamengo this season."

Kleberson: 'This crowd is sensational'

Midfielder Kleberson proved to be a lucky player. He came on at halftime, replacing Jailton, and improved the midfield's technical quality. The player celebrated winning the Guanabara Cup and took the opportunity to praise the fans, who, he said, moved everyone. "We did a great job leading up to this final and were crowned with this title, which is very important for our fans and also for us players. In fact, these Flamengo fans are absolutely sensational. It was spine-chilling, and they gave us such energy that it was impossible not to play with a minimum of passion," he commented.

Vice President of Football, Kleber Leite, summarized the role of fans in a few words yesterday.

"It was a thrilling game from start to finish. Flamengo's fans are always a spectacle in their own right. You can't compare them to any other fan base! They're unique."

A warrior throughout the 90 minutes, defender Ronaldo Angelim said he had not given up hope of scoring the winning goal.

"I told my teammates that as long as we had a minute left, we could never give up! Fortunately, we scored the goal," he concluded.

Fla returns to training today, in Gávea

Marcelo Sadio/JS

Leonardo Moura wanted to celebrate close to the fans

When the referee blew the final whistle for yesterday's match, Flamengo's players couldn't contain their joy. Smiles were plastered across every face on the field. The lap of honor to the rhythm of the Dança do Créu (Créu Dance) captivated the fans, but as athletes' lives aren't always rosy, the players only had last night to celebrate. They return to training today at 15:30 PM in Gávea.

Right-back Léo Moura hopes that yesterday's title will be just the first of the year and told JORNAL DOS SPORTS that the celebrations could not go beyond yesterday.

"God willing, this will be the first of many titles in 2008. We'll keep working hard. We already have the Libertadores on Wednesday. We're celebrating now, but tomorrow we have to think about Cienciano," said the full-back.

Another player who followed Léo Moura's lead was full-back Egídio. He was planning a celebratory party, but made it clear he's just going to have some fun.

"It was wonderful! What a victory! Let's celebrate a lot, but without exaggerating. Tomorrow (today) we already have work to do.”

Jônatas, who doesn't usually give interviews, made an exception and dedicated the title to the Nação Rubro-Negra.

"This crowd is wonderful. They deserve this title. I'm very happy.”

Marcinho preferred to praise the strength of the Flamengo group.

"Our team is strong and that's why I wasn't afraid when they scored the goal," said Marcinho.

Joel: 'Whoever loses, complains'

The atmosphere in the Flamengo locker room couldn't have been better: players and coach celebrated their second Guanabara Cup title. At the press conference after the victory lap, Joel Santana tried to avoid questions about the refereeing, but he couldn't resist saying he liked Marcelo de Lima Henrique's performance.

"I think the referee played a legitimate role in the game, including when Souza was sent off. I don't understand why Zé Carlos went along with it. The goalkeeper should have been taken off. Uruguayans are like that; they come onto the field to cause trouble," said the coach.

Joel believes that complaining about the referees is a right of teams that lose.

"Sometimes, in times of defeat, people rush and say things that won't go down well with public opinion. It's the losing club's right to find an excuse for what happened," he commented.

Emotion\ Regarding the match, the red-black coach said that the title was won throughout the season and that in yesterday's game the emotional factor was decisive in sealing Flamengo's victory.\

"In football, you have to know how to win and lose. They were a glorious opponent, they were doing very well in the match, but when they conceded the goal, they despaired. And in this sport, those who despair lose," said Joel, before praising his players: "This group, when we assembled it last year, didn't lose. We're just polishing the tactical side. The players who arrived are great athletes, but they arrived in poor physical condition," the coach added.

Renato Augusto celebrates the title and says he is eager to return to playing

Present at Maracanã, supporter Renato Augusto was thrilled with Flamengo's title and declared that he was eager to return to the field.

"I hope to return as soon as possible. Just seeing these wonderful fans makes me want to play right away," said Renato Augusto.

Regarding the team's performance in the final, the number 10 highlighted the red-black reaction in the second half and commented on the group's unity.

"We came back strong in the second half. Our group is united; that's our strength. You can see that when one of us leaves, there's no complaining or frowning," he explained.

THE DAY

Fla defeats Botafogo and wins the Guanabara Cup

Nilo Junior

Rio - It was a great game, worthy of the traditions of Flamengo and Botafogo, complete with a packed Maracanã stadium, a stunning goal, red-and-blacks, and a final shot that hit the post. In the end, the best went to the red-and-blacks, who let out the "two-time champion" chant, won their 18th Taça Guanabara title, and danced the "Créu" for the final time. Íbson and Diego Tardelli scored the goals that sealed the victory, after Wellington Paulista had opened the scoring for the black-and-whites. Despite the title, there will be no celebrations, as the team returns to the field this Wednesday for the Libertadores.

The game started at a fast pace, with both teams running fast and looking to attack. Less than a minute into the game, Leo Moura crossed from the right, and Souza narrowly missed the ball. Botafogo then struck back with Adriano Felício's header.

But it was the red-black team who really came close in the 13th minute. After a good exchange of passes between Souza and Íbson, the ball fell to Jaílton, who unleashed a bomb over Castillo's goal.

From then on, Flamengo imposed more of the pace and began to dominate the midfield. Botafogo waited to counterattack. It was on one of these quick counterattacks, in the 27th minute, that the black and white team opened the scoring. Wellington Paulista made a great play, passing two opponents, and sending a cross-shot.

The goal buoyed Botafogo, who evened things up in midfield. Íbson, Flamengo's best player on the pitch, even complained to Joel that it was difficult to penetrate the opposing defense. In the 41st minute, Souza headed a cross from the left, and the ball, which was heading for goal, hit Ferrero's head.

At half-time, Íbson lamented his mistake in the goal.

"Once again we started the game well and conceded a goal due to our lack of attention," he said.

Wellington Paulista celebrated the beautiful goal:

"Not just anyone can score a goal in a packed Maracanã. We have to maintain our composure in the second half to become champions."

In the second half, Joel Santana made two substitutions. Kleberson and Obina came on for Jaílton and Marcinho, respectively. Just like in the first half, Flamengo started out pushing forward, with Obina and Souza trying long-range shots. In the sixth minute, Botafogo had a good chance to score the second. Zé Carlos hit a free kick into the wall, and the ball fell to defender Ferrero, who headed it straight at Bruno. In the following play, in a quick counterattack, Zé Carlos unleashed a rocket over Bruno's goal, rousing the black and white fans.

Flamengo threatened again in the eighth minute, with a shot from Souza, and in the 11th minute, with Kleberson, but it was Obina who created the most danger in the 14th minute, with a dangerous header from a corner kick. A minute later, Ferrero pulled down Fábio Luciano inside the box, and the referee awarded a penalty. In the 17th minute, Íbson hit the ball into Castillo's right corner to equalize. Souza went to retrieve the ball from inside the goal and clashed with Castillo. Both teammates got involved, and the game had to be stopped. After the altercation, the referee sent off Flamengo's number nine and Zé Carlos, who left the field in tears. "I didn't do anything," he said, outraged.

In the 26th minute, Obina burst into the box, but Castillo cut him out before the striker could finish. Two minutes later, Lucio Flávio stopped a counterattack with a foul and was also sent off. From then on, the game became very tense, and the chances of scoring diminished.

In the 34th minute, Wellington Paulista missed a great chance by shooting straight at Ronaldo Angelim. In the 46th minute, when it looked like the game would go to penalties, Diego Tardelli fired a well-placed shot from the edge of the box to score the second. But the title was only secured with the final play of the game, when Edson hit Bruno's post. After that, the final whistle blew and the celebrations began, complete with "Créu" chants from the players and fans.

Tardelli and the dream that became reality

Janir Junior

Rio - On the eve of the final, Diego Tardelli had a dream that came true yesterday: he came on and scored the goal that gave Flamengo the Guanabara Cup title. The striker knows he's written his name in the club's history, and as his star shines, he summed it up: "I'm an enlightened one."

Before signing with Flamengo, Tardelli received an offer from Santos. The Flamengo fans and the club's reputation helped the striker choose his destination. "I had other offers, but I knew everything would be wonderful here. Now, I can say that Maracanã is my home. I came on when the game was on fire and made the fans happy," he remarked. Before arriving at Gávea, Tardelli had a disagreement with Souza during an exchange involving Ronaldo Fenômeno. Yesterday, the phenomenon was Tardelli. "I came to Flamengo because I knew it was a big family with Joel as my father. I'm happy to be a part of it," he said.

Regarding the goal, Tardelli asserts that he had already imagined the play. "I hit the ball well, I was calm and knew it could have been the game-winner, and it was. It hasn't sunk in yet," the forward stated.

After experiencing disciplinary issues at São Paulo, where he spent seven years, the player hopes the goal will mark a new chapter in his life. "I got married, had a daughter, everything changed. This year will be different; it's time for me to assert myself. It's an unparalleled joy," remarked the striker, who was carried in his chair by Fábio Luciano during the post-match press conference.

During the lap of honor, Tardelli stopped several times to dance the 'créu' dance with the Guanabara Cup. "It's time to celebrate. Rio is red and black. And I helped with this celebration," he recalled.

Finally, a curious fact: the elastics on Tardelli's braces are red and black. Yesterday, the striker had plenty of reasons to smile broadly. A red-and-black smile, for sure.

Bruno thanks the fans for their support

Mauro Leão

Rio - Goalkeeper Bruno traveled back to 2007 to celebrate winning the Guanabara Cup twice yesterday at the Maracanã. He was moved, recalling the dramatic events that the Red-Blacks endured, escaping the relegation zone and qualifying for the Copa Libertadores. After the derby that secured the title, joy burst from the Flamengo number 1's chest. "This extra strength the team receives comes from above. Our fans are incredible," the player celebrated. Asked if the extra support didn't come from heaven, Bruno made a point of clarifying. "Of course God helps us. But when I say strength comes from above, I mean the fans in the stands," said the goalkeeper.

At that moment, Bruno became emotional and thanked the fans for their support. "It's amazing. The fans don't stop for a single moment. They cheer us on from start to finish," he said.

Bruno made no secret of his admiration for coach Joel Santana. He believes the coach is largely responsible for the transformation that has taken place within Flamengo. "He arrived at a time when we were in a terrible mood. With a lot of conversation, he managed to boost the group's confidence."

For the Gávea goalkeeper, Joel's fatherly demeanor has even restored the esteem of Flamengo's reserves. "He has the power to keep the group in check. He trusts the players, gives confidence to those outside the team, and above all, he's also a star," he praised. However, despite winning the Guanabara Cup, Bruno remains calm: "In the State Championship, we only took the first step."

Romario and Renato Augusto at Maracanã

Rio - Romário has not yet donned the red-and-black shirt, but he was at Maracanã yesterday to watch the final and felt the heat of the fans, who chanted his name and sang for the return of Baixinho.

"Hey, hello, Romário's coming and it's going to be tough," the fans chanted. Another person at the stadium was Renato Augusto, who wasn't on the field but felt like a champion. "With the strength of this crowd and the players we have, I knew we were going to come back," he said.

Recovering from surgery for a dented cheekbone he suffered during a game, Renato Augusto is already missing the ball. "I hope to be back as soon as possible. Just seeing this wonderful crowd makes me want to get on the field," said the number 10.

Mengão motivates the phenomenon

Rio - It's in his dream of playing for Flamengo that Ronaldo finds the motivation he needs to overcome yet another difficult period and return to the field. On the 13th, the "Phenomenon" ruptured the patellar tendon in his left knee during a match between Milan and Livorno.

Having undergone surgery in Paris, he left the Pitié-Salpetriere Hospital on Friday, unable to hide his discouragement and considering the future of his career uncertain. Recovering from the operation, his expression is still sad, a realistic tone dominates his speech, but the desire to wear the red and black jersey won't leave his mind.

"Anything can be a motivator, especially Flamengo. But this isn't the best time to talk about Flamengo, Milan, or any other club because, logically, none of them want a player who's had two operations and two very serious knee injuries. No club would even consider signing a player like that... I'll decide for myself, pursue this dream, and then earn any contract, anything," the striker said in an interview with TV Globo.

At 31, Ronaldo knows the treatment will be long. He went through the same ordeal eight years ago, when he injured his right knee. But if it's up to his son, Ronald, he'll provide whatever encouragement his father lacks. Last week, he sent a letter wishing him strength. He wrote that he loved him and that without him, his life is nothing. Words that move Ronaldo and still manage to bring a smile to his face when he describes his son.

"Ronald has a beautiful future. He's another great love of my life. He's a good, polite, kind child. Despite my absence, in the short time I spend with him, I try to pass on good things to him, and he absorbs them. He's a golden child."

SPORTS GAZETTE

Flamengo turns the tables and wins the Guanabara Cup\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After being ruled out before the final by coach Joel Santana, striker Diego Tardelli came off the bench to score the winning goal in the 46th minute of the second half for Flamengo in a 2-1 comeback victory over Botafogo on Sunday afternoon at the Maracanã. Wellington Paulista, for Botafogo, and Ibson, for Flamengo, scored the other goals in the game. With the first-round trophy, Flamengo is already assured of a place in the Campeonato Carioca final, which could give the team more peace of mind to prioritize the Copa Libertadores da América. This is the 18th time the team from Gávea has won the Taça Guanabara, further cementing its position as the competition's most successful team.

Botafogo succumbs for the second time in a final, as they were defeated by the same Flamengo in the Carioca final last year, and will have to fight for the Taça Rio title to repeat the 2007 clash in the State Championship.

The opening moments of the final showed two teams eager to attack, but without giving their goalkeepers much trouble. Botafogo finished first. In the fourth minute, Túlio went to the baseline and crossed for Adriano Felício to head weakly, making things easier for Bruno. The Red-Black team responded a minute later, but after a good exchange of passes, Marcinho failed to capitalize and shot over the bar.

In the ninth minute, the first controversial play of the derby occurred. While cutting off a pass to Wellington Paulista, right-back Leonardo Moura passed the ball back to Bruno, who caught it with his hands. Despite intense protests from the black and white team, referee Marcelo de Lima Henrique chose not to call the foul.

Whether the refereeing benefited or not, Flamengo threatened again in the 13th minute, when Fábio Luciano laid off Jaílton in the opponent's box, but the red-black's shot ended up going wide.

Botafogo was undeterred and managed to open the scoring in the 27th minute. Wellington Paulista carried the ball into the opponent's box in a solo play before unleashing a low, cross-shot that left goalkeeper Bruno with no chance. The black and white fans, a minority in the stadium, celebrated.

Ten minutes after scoring their first goal, Botafogo came close to doubling their lead. Lucio Flavio received the ball inside the box and fired a low shot. Ronaldo Angelim cut it out in the six-yard box before Wellington Paulista could finish. Flamengo still had a chance to equalize in the first half, but Souza's header in the 41st minute deflected off Ferrero and went out of bounds, much to the relief of the black and whites.

Irritated by his team's performance, coach Joel Santana decided to make two changes in the second half, taking off Jaílton and Marcinho for Kléberson and Obina. But once again, Botafogo created the first good chance. In the fifth minute, Zé Carlos' free kick deflected off the wall and fell to Ferrero, who headed it straight at Bruno. A minute later, on a counterattack by Botafogo, Zé Carlos received the ball in the box but missed with a shot that went wide.

Flamengo's best chance fell to Souza in the seventh minute, after receiving a cross from Kléberson at the penalty spot and finishing over the Botafogo defense. In the eighth minute, Obina took a chance from outside the box, and the ball deflected off Renato Silva, nearly surprising goalkeeper Castillo. Flamengo increased the pressure. In the tenth minute, the black-and-white defense poorly cleared a cross, and Leonardo Moura pounced on the rebound with a powerful shot, forcing Castillo to make another save.

Flamengo's persistence led to a penalty kick when the referee signaled Ferrero's tackle on Fábio Luciano inside the penalty area. In the 17th minute, Ibson slotted the ball into Castillo's right corner to level the score. While the Flamengo fans were celebrating, striker Souza got into a scuffle with Botafogo's players and was sent off by the referee, as was Botafogo midfielder Zé Carlos.

The match grew even more tense, with both teams committing fouls and complaining to the referee. With the ball in play, Flamengo nearly turned the game around in the 26th minute when Castillo came out of goal poorly and Juan fired a shot from distance. Botafogo, however, was saved by Renato Silva.

The next minute, Botafogo found itself in trouble when Lucio Flavio, already on a yellow card, committed a hard foul and ended up receiving a red card. Despite being outnumbered, Botafogo had a great chance to win in regulation time in the 34th minute, but Wellington Paulista failed to capitalize on Jorge Henrique's pass and shot straight at the red-and-black defense.

Just when everything seemed headed for a penalty shootout, as happened at the end of last year's Carioca Championship, Diego Tardelli received the ball from Leonardo Moura in the 46th minute and struck with skill, turning the game around and ensuring the Flamengo fans' celebration at the Maracanã. Not even Botafogo's shot off the post in the 50th minute could stop the Flamengo fans from celebrating.

In the excitement of the title, Flamengo thinks about the Libertadores

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The board of Flamengo, the team that won the Guanabara Cup title this Sunday with a 2-1 victory over Botafogo, has decided not to schedule an official celebration. The decision was made with the team from Gávea in mind for Wednesday's match at the same Maracanã Stadium that hosted the Rio final, but this time against Cienciano, in the Copa Libertadores da América. According to Flamengo's press office, the players can celebrate with their families, but the directors have decided to postpone the celebration.

For Toró, commenting on this weekend's match and Flamengo's victory, the team cannot lose focus and must keep fighting, especially with the upcoming Libertadores matchup in mind. "No rest. We'll keep the same rhythm. We know that morale and spirits will rise, but we have to stay grounded and focus on the Libertadores," the player stated in the Maracanã locker room.

Champion, Tardelli says he dreamed of a decisive goal

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's squad, following their 2-1 victory over Botafogo in the Guanabara Cup final, with Diego Tardelli scoring a decisive goal for Flamengo in the 46th minute of the second half, gave enthusiastic comments during their lap of honor about the Gávea club's performance in Sunday's final. Striker Diego Tardelli, who scored the title-winning goal and arrived at the Rio de Janeiro club this year from Brazilian champions São Paulo, revealed that he had been dreaming about this moment for the past few days. "I've always dreamed of this moment. When I went to sleep, I would play that movie in my head, of being able to come on and score the winning goal. And I did it, with the support of this wonderful Flamengo fan base," the player told Rádio Globo after the final whistle.

Left-back Juan said Flamengo surpassed itself to win this match. "We surpassed ourselves. We fought hard to achieve our goal and were crowned with victory, especially because it gave us greater peace of mind for the Libertadores," said the Flamengo fan.

For Renato, who was left out of Flamengo's squad due to an injury, "the day-to-day training is what counts. We're all part of the group. It's no coincidence that we're here. We're champions."

Captain Fábio Luciano, who played with severe arm pain after suffering from a kick from Edmundo last Sunday in the match against Vasco, said he had no problems lifting the Guanabara Cup. "Lifting the trophy is a pain that can't be borne. We've been through so much to get to this point, so when it's time to lift the trophy, we have to make the most of it," he commented, laughing.

The "créu" dance, which has been a hit in Rio de Janeiro, was featured again at the Maracanã. "We really did it, but without putting down Botafogo. We fought hard to win, and we deserve to celebrate," said Souza, who performed the dance during the victory lap.

Meanwhile, Kleber Leite, vice president of football for the Rio de Janeiro club, stated that Flamengo fans are more than accustomed to moments of happiness like this. "Flamengo fans are accustomed to titles. But it's important to remember that all of this is the result of good work," he declared, while congratulating defender Fábio Luciano on the victory.

Finally, Toró, commenting on the importance of the title, said the team cannot be complacent about this achievement and must continue to fight in the second round of the State Championship and the Copa Libertadores da América without losing heart. "No rest. We'll keep the same rhythm. We know our morale and spirits will rise, but we have to stay grounded and focus on the State Championship and the Copa Libertadores," he concluded.

Flamengo wins the Guanabara Cup for the 18th time\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In the third Guanabara Cup final between the two clubs, Flamengo prevailed and defeated Botafogo 2-1 this Sunday, with a goal from Diego Tardelli in the 46th minute of the second half. Flamengo thus took the lead in this particular statistic, as each club had previously won a final in the first half with this classic. Botafogo won the duel in 1968, winning 4-1, while Flamengo won in 1995 by 3-2.

When it was created, the Guanabara Cup was played before the Campeonato Carioca. This was the case from 1965 to 1971 and then again in 1980. From 1972 to 1979, 1981 to 1993, and from 1996 onwards, it was the first round of the major competition, and in 1994 and 1995, it brought together the two best teams from a qualifying round.

With the victory, Flamengo further distances itself as the record holder for Guanabara Cup titles, with 18 wins. Vasco (11), Fluminense (8), Botafogo (4) and América, Americano and Volta Redonda, one each, are the other clubs that have won the cup.

The biggest winner of the competition, the red-black team was champion in 1970, 1972, 1973, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1988, 1989, 1995, 1996, 1999, 2001, 2004, 2007 and 2008.

PELENET

Flamengo comes from behind to defeat Botafogo and win the GB Cup for the second time

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo won the Guanabara Cup for the 18th time. This Sunday, they defeated Botafogo 2-1 at the Maracanã stadium, securing their second title. Wellington Paulista opened the scoring for the Black and Whites in the 27th minute. Ibson scored from the penalty spot in the 18th minute and Diego Tardelli in the 46th minute turned the game around. Flamengo had previously won the traditional trophy in 1970, 72, 73, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 84, 88, 89, 95, 96, 99, 2001, 04, and 07.

Flamengo is already in the final of the State Championship and now awaits the winner of the Rio Cup, which begins next weekend. Botafogo finished the match with nine men, with Zé Carlos and Lúcio Flávio being sent off, as was Flamengo's Souza. In the 50th minute of the second half, forward Fábio headed a ball against goalkeeper Bruno's post.

Flamengo and Botafogo return to action on Wednesday. Flamengo hosts Cienciano of Peru at Maracanã Stadium at 21:50 PM (Brasília time) in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. Botafogo will face Rio Branco of Acre at 22:30 PM in the first round of the Copa do Brasil.

Wellington Paulista scores in an individual play

Both coaches opted to field teams with a large number of midfielders. Both Flamengo and Botafogo had only one striker: Souza and Wellington Paulista, respectively. And the choice for defensive power resulted in few scoring opportunities in the first half.

Botafogo got there first, in the fourth minute. Túlio crossed from the right and Adriano Felício headed it into Bruno's hands. Two minutes later, they got even: Souza passed to Toró, who then sent Marcinho over with his left foot. The red-and-blacks' best chance came in the 13th minute, but Jaílton also fired over.

In the 21st minute, Wellington Paulista took a shot from outside the box and Bruno saved it, but in the 27th minute, the goalkeeper couldn't stop the striker's right-footed shot: Botafogo: 1-0. Despite needing to equalize, Flamengo didn't show the offensive strength expected and limited itself to crossing balls into the box until the end of the half. Goalkeeper Castillo and the defenders performed well.

Fla returns with two changes and sets the game on fire

Coach Joel Santana decided to lighten up Flamengo's game and made two changes for the second half: Kleberson and Obina, replacing Jaílton and Marcinho. As expected, the team started on the attack and had two shots in the first two minutes, with Obina being saved by Castillo and Souza being wide.

Botafogo reached the fifth minute. Zé Carlos took a free kick, the ball hit the defense, and Ferrero headed it in. Bruno saved. In the seventh minute, the Alvinegro counterattacked quickly, Adriano Felício rolled the ball, and Zé Carlos fired a powerful shot over the bar. Flamengo responded well. In the eighth minute, Souza shot, the ball hit Eduardo, and went out for a corner. Shortly after, Obina's weak shot deflected off an opponent and skimmed the left post. In the tenth minute, Léo Moura shot from the edge of the box, and Castillo grabbed it. In the twelfth minute, Obina headed dangerously close to the crossbar. Cuca shuffled the defense and brought on Edson in Eduardo's place.

In the 15th minute, referee Marcelo de Lima Henrique awarded a penalty to Ferrero on Fábio Luciano, following a cross from Juan in the box. After much protest, Ibson took the penalty and equalized. After the penalty, players from both teams clashed over the quick ball throw-in, and the referee showed red cards to Souza and Botafogo's Zé Carlos.

As the rain intensified, Cuca took off Adriano Felício and brought on Jorge Henrique. In the 26th minute, Flamengo nearly turned the game around, thanks to a shot from Juan that Edson saved. A minute later, Lúcio Flávio, already on a yellow card, fouled Juan from behind and was sent off.

Botafogo went on the attack in the 34th minute, with Jorge Henrique passing to Alessandro, who crossed. Diguinho controlled the ball and passed it to Wellington Paulista, who was blocked by Ibson. Joel took a chance and sent on Diego Tardelli, replacing Toró. Despite having an extra man, the Red-Blacks were unable to create any clear-cut scoring opportunities.

In the 46th minute, however, Diego Tardelli finished with style after a quick counterattack and scored the winning goal: 2-1. Botafogo still had two great chances to equalize: in the 48th minute, Wellington Paulista received the ball unmarked and shot high; and in the 50th minute, Jorge Henrique crossed and Fábio, who replaced Alessandro, finished with a diving header. The ball hit Bruno's left post, and the referee immediately ended the match.

Tardelli says a "film" of the title-winning goal played in his head

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo's final signing of the season has already paid off. Diego Tardelli came on in the 36st minute of the second half and decided the Guanabara Cup in Flamengo's favor. After receiving a pass from Leonardo Moura, the forward controlled the ball with his sole and sent it into the corner, leaving Botafogo goalkeeper Castillo with no chance in the 46th minute.

"The game was on fire. I saw the goalkeeper take a step to the right and I put it in the left corner. When I shot, I thought the ball was going out. But it curved and stopped in there. During the week, I had a vision in my head that I would score the winning goal," said Diego Tardelli.

Since arriving at Gávea, the striker has realized that the club has something more than the others.

"I have no words to describe what I'm feeling right now. It's a huge emotion. As soon as I arrived, I felt it would be different. The fans are wonderful," said the scorer of the title-winning goal, who was full of praise for his teammates.

"Scoring a goal in the championship final and winning the title in less than a month at the club is a sure sign that it will be a great year. At São Paulo it was good, because I won the Libertadores, but here it's amazing. This is a family, and today I'm part of it. I've already had a lot of joy in just one month here," he said.

The fact that he started the game on the bench did not faze the striker.

"Joel held the lineup, but it was okay. He talked to me, as did the coaching staff. That happened at São Paulo. And the important thing is that I came on and scored the goal," he added.

Manager and coach highlight Flamengo's planning

UOL Sports\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Quite excited about the Guanabara Cup title, won this Sunday with a 2-1 victory over Botafogo at Maracanã, the vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, highlighted that the traditional Trophy was not won only with the victory over the black and whites.

"Flamengo is a club that always strives for titles. There's a great synergy with victory here. The title was the result of work that's been going on for a long time," said the director.

Fitness trainer Ronaldo Torres also followed this line of reasoning and thanked his coworkers on a daily basis.

"I'm pleased not only with the victory but with the entire planning. This shows that the work is being done well. I want to congratulate the entire coaching staff because each one made their contribution," he commented.

With the victory, Flamengo is already assured of a spot in the State Championship final against the winner of the Taça Rio, which begins next weekend. If Flamengo also wins the second leg, they will be crowned champions outright.

Joel says he won the GB Cup final at half-time

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Coach Joel Santana attributed Flamengo's 2-1 victory over Botafogo this Sunday, which gave them the Guanabara Cup title, to the substitutions he made at halftime. The Flamengo coach took off Jaílton and Marcinho, bringing on Kleberson and Obina, respectively.

"The match was well contested tactically. We gave space in the first half and conceded a goal. I made the changes and we changed the game," said Joel, who explained why he started the game with the midfield formed by Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson and Toró.

"The coach has to make decisions. He's the one responsible for the results. I did what I thought was right. Cristian had been training well, and so had Toró. They're excellent players. In my group, there's no such thing as starters and reserves. But I'm not the owner of the truth. I put in the players I thought were the best," he added.

Renato Augusto: "I also made my contribution to the GB Cup"

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Midfielder Renato Augusto celebrated the Guanabara Cup title on the field, won this Sunday after a 2-1 victory over Botafogo at Maracanã. The attacking midfielder was injured in the team's competition debut against Boavista and has been out of action since, but believes he contributed to the trophy.

"I participated in training every day and, therefore, was part of the group. I suffered a lot during the game, especially with Botafogo's goal. But I was confident we could come back, because our group is good," he said.

Renato Augusto suffered facial trauma, with a collapsed zygomatic bone, during Flamengo's debut in the Guanabara Cup on January 20th, against Boavista (2-0) at the Maracanã. He underwent surgery the following day, in which three titanium plates and 11 screws were inserted into his face. "I'm close to returning. Seeing this wonderful crowd makes me want to play again even more," he said.

Club doctor José Luís Runco said last Wednesday that the player should be released within two weeks.

After a difficult period, Kleberson and Toró celebrate Flamengo's title

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Players Toró and Kleberson have plenty of reasons to celebrate winning the Guanabara Cup. This Sunday, they helped Flamengo come from behind to beat Botafogo 2-1 at Maracanã.

Both have faced difficult times in recent years. Since arriving at Flamengo in January 2006, Toró has been unable to showcase his true talent. Only with the signing of Joel Santana in the second half of last year did things change. He now plays a key role in the Flamengo squad.

"I had a hard time at Flamengo. But I received affection from the fans and the coach and I managed to turn things around. I feel at home and I'm showing my worth," said Toró.

After ten months without playing due to bureaucratic issues with his former club, Besiktas of Turkey, midfielder Kleberson celebrates the victory. A World Cup champion with the Brazilian national team in the 2002 World Cup, he played only the second half of the Guanabara Cup final and is optimistic about his future with the team.

"I'm still getting into the swing of things. I was able to make plays with ease and I'm very happy to win a title after such a long time without playing," said Kleberson, who highlighted his wife, the fans and the friendship between his teammates for his successful return.

For Fla players, unity is the team's strong point

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

The squad assembled by the club's board and led by coach Joel Santana in 2008 is a source of pride not only for the fans but also for the players themselves. After the match, everyone praised the strength of the red-and-black team.

"Our team is mature and experienced. We suffer from external pressure, but we also pressure ourselves because we know our potential," said goalkeeper Bruno.

Another player who followed this line of reasoning was striker Obina, who came on for Marcinho at halftime.

"The key is to help the group. I came in with the intention of playing in the box and scoring a goal. I didn't, but a teammate did, and we won the title. Tardelli was lucky, and the goal will boost his morale and the group's confidence, as it's more united than ever," he commented.

Marcinho only played the first half and didn't have a great game.

"We're at the beginning of the season and the team has the quality to grow further. Congratulations to the fans, congratulations to the players," the point guard emphasized.

GLOBOESPORTE

Flamengo is the champion of the Guanabara Cup

Diego Tardelli scores the winning goal against Botafogo in the 46th minute of the second half

Thiago Lavinas

It was a thrilling final. And with a hero: Diego Tardelli. The striker, who came on in the second half, scored the title-winning goal in stoppage time, in the 46th minute (watch the video of the goal below). Flamengo came from behind to defeat Botafogo and win 2-1 this Sunday at Maracanã, becoming champions of the Taça Guanabara for the 18th time in history.

With the title, Flamengo is qualified for the final of the Campeonato Carioca. But if they also win the Taça Rio, Flamengo will automatically be champions. In the last ten years, clubs that have won the Taça Guanabara have gone on to win the Campeonato Carioca seven times.

The game was tense, with controversial plays. The black and white fans complained a lot about the officiating. After the match, some players and coach Cuca went to find referee Marcelo de Lima Henrique, who awarded a penalty to Flamengo and sent off two Botafogo players. Meanwhile, in the stands, the red and black fans celebrated by chanting "runner-up again," remembering that last year Flamengo won the Rio de Janeiro championship against Botafogo, and dancing "o créu" (the blue).

The taboo was also maintained. Flamengo hasn't lost to Botafogo since 2004. They're 15 games unbeaten, with seven wins and eight draws.

The ball only fit there. I saw the goalkeeper was ahead and shot. I was lucky and scored. Diego Tardelli on Flamengo's winning goal in the Guanabara Cup.

In the Rio Cup opener next Sunday, the 2nd, Flamengo faces Resende at the Maracanã stadium. Botafogo faces América at the Engenhão stadium. Both games will be at 16 p.m.

Wellington Paulista puts Botafogo ahead

With 24 seconds gone, Flamengo's calling card was Ibson. He passed to Leo Moura, who crossed to Souza. But the striker arrived a little late and couldn't finish. The answer came four minutes later. Lucio Flavio sent a quick free kick to Alessandro, who crossed to Adriano Felicio. The midfielder headed the ball, and goalkeeper Bruno saved it without much difficulty.

The game started at a high pace, with both teams looking to attack. Marcinho missed a great opportunity when he fired a shot over the crossbar from the edge of the box. Wellington Paulista then received a pass from Lucio Flavio and fell in the box. The referee allowed play to continue. The black and white team again complained a minute later when Leo Moura, in a challenge, played the ball back, and goalkeeper Bruno saved it. Botafogo wanted to call the back pass.

In the 13th minute, Flamengo missed a fantastic chance. Souza received the ball in the box and passed it to defender Fábio Luciano, who backheeled it to Jaílton, who was free in the box. Facing goal, the midfielder fired a powerful shot, but the ball went high and wide.

Without Jorge Henrique, who was benched due to a muscle injury, Cuca lined up in a 3-6-1 formation, with only Wellington Paulista up front. And the striker made the difference in the 27th minute. With a beautiful individual play, he scored the first goal for Botafogo. After receiving the ball in midfield, Wellington Paulista spun on his marker, beat two other Rubro-Negro players, and from the box, fired a low, cross-shot into the net, giving goalkeeper Bruno no chance: 1-0 Botafogo! It was the player's fifth goal in the Campeonato Carioca.

"It was a goal that took a lot of heart and determination. It's not just anyone who scores a goal in a packed Maracanã stadium like that," Wellington Paulista summarized.

Shortly after the black-and-white goal, a light rain began to fall at the Maracanã, cooling off the red-and-black fans, who turned out in greater numbers. Besides occupying the green section, they were the majority in the white section and the lower seats. The red-and-black fans remained silent until halftime.

With Leo Moura and Juan unable to create effective plays down the flanks, Flamengo began to attempt crosses into the box from set pieces. But goalkeeper Castillo was excellent and managed to clear the danger most of the time. Botafogo ended the first half with the lead.

Hot weather and three expulsions

For the second half, Joel Santana made two changes to Flamengo. He took off Jaílton and Marcinho and brought on Kleberson and the favorite Obina. And just like in the first half, Flamengo started with a threat. Obina fired a low shot from the edge of the box, but goalkeeper Castillo saved. The move roused the fans, who rallied again. But on a counterattack, Botafogo threatened with Zé Carlos. He cut in from the left and fired a powerful shot. The ball went wide.

The rain increased, and with it, Flamengo's pressure. Souza, unmarked, crossed the ball into the box and fired wide. Shortly after, Leo Moura pounced on the rebound in the box and fired a low shot. Goalkeeper Castillo made a good save, leaving no room for error. Frightened, coach Cuca called on defender Edson in the 13th minute. He came on in place of Eduardo.

But it was no use. A free kick was awarded on the right side of Flamengo's attack. Defender Ferrero grabbed the Flamengo defender Fabio Luciano by the shirt. Referee Marcelo de Lima Henrique awarded the penalty. After much protest from Flamengo, Ibson fired a well-placed shot into Castillo's right corner to level the match.

During the celebration, things got heated. Souza tried to grab the ball from Castillo. A shoving match ensued. Flamengo's reserves, who were behind the goal, invaded the field. In the melee, Souza assaulted Zé Carlos. The referee sent off both Souza and Zé Carlos.

"I don't know why I was expelled. It's unbelievable. I want to know why he expelled me. I want to know!" said Zé Carlos.