The Globe
One step away from happiness
Fla reaches the Libertadores if it beats Ney Franco's Atlético-PR and Cruzeiro loses
FÁBIO LUCIANO, one of the main people responsible for Flamengo's current good form, dominates the ball at Ninho do Urubu
Márcio Tavares
All happiness comes at a price. Flamengo fans paid a heavy price, in tension, agony, and irritation, but they bet everything on a team in the relegation zone and pushed them toward a Libertadores berth. Now, the time has come for the group led by coach Joel Santana to demonstrate, starting at 18:10 p.m. against Atlético-PR, ironically led by Ney Franco, former coach of the Rio de Janeiro club, that the effort of this passionate nation—which will once again break the Brazilian Championship attendance record with over 82 fans—will yield a positive response on the field.
With 58 points, Flamengo needs a win over Atlético-PR (51 points) and a loss to Cruzeiro to reach the Copa Libertadores. An aspiration that, about three months ago, was considered an impossible climb.
- Who would have thought we would be fighting for a place in the Libertadores... - comments coach Joel Santana, one of the main people responsible for the change in the team.
Fábio Luciano surrenders to the fans
But Joel doesn't place himself on a hero's pedestal and modestly says he's happy with the situation. And the tide is indeed turning. Flamengo won the youth and youth titles yesterday at Vasco-Barra Stadium, at their old rival's home ground, with 2-2 draws and penalty shootout victories. Flamengo had a good haircut, shaved, and mustache, as they won in every category. Furthermore, in the first final of the Otávio Pinto Guimarães Tournament, the youth team, coached by Adílio, also a state champion, thrashed Fluminense 5-0.
For the main team, the plan is to build on this momentum of victories. No one considers themselves the savior of the nation, but if there's one player who can be considered the starting point for the red-and-black comeback, it's defender Fábio Luciano. With the addition of Ibson, Cristian, and the Argentine Maxi, the team took off. The midfield gained combativeness and playmaking talent. With Maxi came speed, which fit well with Souza's style.
But the defense was the main weak point: Moisés, Irineu, and Thiago were driving the fans wild and undermining Ney Franco. That's when the club signed 32-year-old Fábio Luciano, who was coming off a season with Fenerbahce in Turkey.
"I usually speak on the field, guiding the defense, but I think the defense's rise was a consequence of the entire team's change in behavior. Something was wrong, and then I started to gel with Rômulo, who is a very good marker. The introduction of Ibson, Cristian, and Maxi fired up the team. With a new attitude and motivation, the situation changed," says the São Paulo native from Vinhedo, who made his debut on August 11th, scoring a goal in the 2-1 comeback victory over Náutico.
With 19 appearances and two goals for Flamengo, Fábio Luciano claims that the team's poor run had nothing to do with late salaries. He admits that late payments have an impact to a certain extent. He cites a similar example he experienced at Corinthians.
"We were in last place in 2002, when Vanderlei took over. We won two matches, and no one talked about relegation anymore. All we talked about was being champions. We regained what was missing: confidence. I don't know anyone who plays poorly because they're not getting paid. When the ball starts rolling, the competition gets to you. No one thinks about money."
The defender, who was named among the top three in this Brazilian Championship and who renewed his contract with Flamengo, says he'll play as long as he feels well. And when he retires, he doesn't intend to continue playing football, much less on the front line.
"As a coach, definitely not. It's a lot of concentration, a lot of time away from home. My life is in Vinhedo. I've been building houses and selling them for a long time. I think that's my future. I want to be close to my family; my roots are there. I want to be with my father, who is diabetic and occasionally needs our support," says the defender, who has two brothers.
A homebody, Fábio Luciano rarely goes out in Rio. Mainly because of the violence, when he does go out with his wife Viviane and their 3-year-old son Gianlucca, he doesn't stray far from Barra.
"We don't have a nanny. He's very attached to his mother and me too. We're always together, but I don't go far," reveals Fábio Luciano, the Luca Toni of the two-touch pick-up games on the eve of games.
Today, he faces a striker who has made Flamengo's life hell this year: Marcelo, who scored all four goals in Madureira's 4-1 victory on Carnival Saturday in the State Championship. But the defender knows the situation is different. Defenders are more in sync these days, and the fans' encouragement will certainly make a difference.
"Flamengo's fans put on a show. They took on the fight of a team in the relegation zone and got us out of there. They even served as an example for Corinthians, who had been harassing the players and, seeing what Flamengo was doing, started supporting them. And Corinthians ended up getting out of that bad situation."
While there's gratitude and optimism among the players, the mood at the top remains apprehensive. The inclusion of São Paulo native Wilson Seneme in a game that's important to a São Paulo team, Palmeiras, raised eyebrows and raised alarm bells.
"They appointed a referee from São Paulo who failed the last three FIFA physical tests and the last CBF physical test, administered in October. And what I consider most serious: next year, he won't referee anymore. Keep an eye on him!" said supervisor Isaías Tinoco.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jailton, Cristian, Ibson and Renato Augusto; Maxi and Souza. Atlético-PR: Viafara, Jancarlos, Danilo, Antonio Carlos and Michel; Valencia, Claiton, Netinho and Ferreira; Alex Mineiro and Marcelo Ramos. Referee: Wilson Seneme (Fifa-SP).
BROADCAST: Premiere and Rádios Globo and CBN
Three other Libertadores candidates on the field
Cruzeiro, Palmeiras and Santos play away from home today under the watchful eye of the red-blacks
In addition to their team's match against Atlético-PR, Flamengo fans will have their attention focused on three other matches today, featuring rivals vying for spots in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. The most interesting match is between Sport and Cruzeiro, at 18:10 PM, at Ilha do Retiro. A victory for Pernambuco guarantees Flamengo's spot if the team wins in Rio. The red-and-blacks will also cheer on Internacional against Palmeiras, at 16 PM, at Beira-Rio, and Paraná against Santos, at 18:10 PM, at Durival de Brito Stadium in Curitiba. Yesterday, Grêmio defeated América-RN 3-0, in Natal, and reached 57 points.
For the match against Sport, coach Dorival Junior fielded Roni alongside Guilherme in attack. The duo has scored a combined 21 goals in the Brazilian Championship. Defensive midfielders Charles and Luís Alberto, as well as midfielder Wagner, will be out for Cruzeiro. Sport's board, which is competing for a spot in the Copa Sudamericana, has offered R$12 to each player if the team qualifies for the competition.
In Porto Alegre, Palmeiras, fourth with 58 points, will be without defender Gustavo and midfielder Valdívia, who are serving suspensions. However, they will have defensive midfielder Martinez, who has recovered from facial surgery. Internacional's injured forward Nilmar is out. The attacking duo is expected to be Gil and Iarley. The Colorado team is trying to secure a spot in the Copa Sudamericana.
Second-place Santos can secure its place in the Copa Libertadores with a victory over Paraná in Curitiba. To do so, it would only need Flamengo, Palmeiras, or Cruzeiro to stumble. The team will have defender Adaílton back after a four-game suspension. Paraná needs a win to maintain its chance of avoiding relegation.
Club can help Rio break historic record
If Flamengo qualifies for the 2008 Copa Libertadores today, it will do more than complete a spectacular comeback in the Brazilian Championship. It will break a historic record for Rio de Janeiro football. After 23 years, Rio de Janeiro would have two clubs competing in South America's most prestigious competition, as Flamengo would join Fluminense, who have qualified since winning the Copa do Brasil.
The last and only time two Rio teams played in the Libertadores was in 1985, when Vasco and Fluminense, the previous year's Brazilian finalists, represented Brazil but failed to advance beyond the first round. Rio de Janeiro's football team reached the Brazilian final again in 1992. However, on that occasion, only the champion, along with the winner of the Copa do Brasil, qualified for the Libertadores.
"How long has it been since this happened?" coach Joel Santana asked in surprise. "It's proof of the progress of Rio teams and would be a great opportunity to consider investing in improving everyone's working conditions. Imagine Flamengo at Ninho do Urubu, with a new, well-structured training center. It makes things much easier."
Rio de Janeiro's football has been represented in 20 of the 48 editions of the Libertadores. Five Rio de Janeiro teams have participated: the big four and Bangu. Flamengo holds the record, with eight appearances, one more than Vasco. The two rivals are the only Rio de Janeiro teams to have won the championship, each once.
Renato Mauricio Prado
Past and present
And isn't it true that, once again, Nei Franco could end up deciding Flamengo's fate in the Libertadores? Last year, leading the team to the Copa do Brasil final, he qualified the red-and-black club for the most important competition in the Americas. Now, at the helm of Atlético Paranaense, he could bury the dreams of the team he managed for the first twelve rounds. Could he?
Nei Franco's Fla was, indisputably, much weaker than the current one, led by Joel Santana.
After his departure, Fábio Luciano and Ibson arrived, who, together with coach Joel Santana, were the main people responsible for the fantastic recovery of the red-black team.
At Atlético Paranaense, however, Nei also made good progress. And today's game is far from easy for the Rio de Janeiro champions.
The fans—who suffered terribly to get tickets—will have to "play" like never before. Only victory matters.
A prize for second place? What nonsense! The only thing that matters is the Libertadores. Regardless of the position.
Sports Journal
Time to show that it was worth it
Flamengo faces Atlético-PR, in a packed Maracanã, and can guarantee a place in the Libertadores
Thiago Bokel and Nathan de Lima
After the distrust, striker Souza is now one of the fans' most beloved.
After the agony of living with the specter of relegation for much of the championship, Flamengo fans will finally be able to let out the scream that's been stuck in their throats and celebrate qualification for the Copa Libertadores. Today, at 18:10 p.m., Flamengo faces Atlético-PR at the Maracanã, and with a combination of results, they could secure a spot in the South American competition.
If they actually secure a spot, Fla will be the only team from Rio de Janeiro to secure a spot in the Libertadores through the Brazilian Championship since the creation of the points system.
And to reach this level, two players were crucial: goalkeeper Bruno, who will step into the Maracanã stadium stung by not being nominated for the championship's best goalkeeper award. And the other player is striker Souza, who, after much distrust, managed to prove his worth.
The numbers prove that the goalkeeper has every reason to be upset with the outcome of the selection. Since coach Joel Santana's debut on August 5th, he has played in all 24 matches and conceded only 26 goals, a figure close to the 10 games he played under Ney Franco, when he conceded 21. He has only missed two matches, against Atlético-MG and São Paulo, in the first round.
Step by step
In Souza's case, the fight to win over the fans began right from his arrival at the club at the beginning of the year. This was because the striker would have to compete for a starting spot with Obina, the fans' perennial favorite. After a first half of the year marked by suspensions, the goalscorer managed to establish himself and now dreams of scoring the qualifying goal.
"Of course it crosses my mind, especially since the Maracanã will be packed. It gives me butterflies, but if we qualify even without me scoring, that's fine too," said the top scorer in the last Brazilian Championship.
Flamengo will have plenty of motivation to beat Atlético-PR. The team will have the largest paying attendance in the championship—82.044—and will also reunite with Ney Franco, who coached Flamengo for a year and two months before Joel's arrival. It's time, Mengão.
Flamengo presents car for the Superliga Formula
Flamengo unveiled its Formula Superliga car this Saturday morning in Gávea, which will begin competing in major European circuits in August 2008. Present at the unveiling ceremony were club president Marcio Braga, gymnastics athletes like Diego Hypólito, and some of the club's professional players, including Kléberson, Leonardo, Rômulo, and Toró, as well as coach Joel Santana.
According to the event organizers, all Formula Superliga cars will be identical. The difference between the clubs will be in driver selection. The machines will feature V12 engines supplied by Menard, producing 700 horsepower and capable of reaching speeds of over 320 km/h.
Flamengo will not be responsible for the maintenance of the cars. This responsibility will be the responsibility of the Superliga itself.
Although the club has not yet chosen the driver who will drive the car, named Urubumóvel, Gualter Salles, who was also present at the ceremony, is the favorite.
The Formula Superleague will run from August to November 2008, with a total of six rounds. Qualifying will be held for the first round, but from the second round onwards, the starting grid will be determined by the final standings of the previous round, using a reverse grid system (the first finisher in the last round will be the last in the following race).
Corinthians also received an invitation to participate in the sport. The Super League is in contact with Inter Milan (Italy), Liverpool and Manchester United (England), and Barcelona and Real Madrid (Spain), among others.
The presence of cars from the clubs Flamengo, Milan (Italy), Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Basel (Switzerland), Porto (Portugal), Galatasaray (Turkey), Olympiacos (Greece), PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands) and Anderlecht (Belgium) has already been confirmed.
Marcio Braga gets stuck in the Formula Superliga car
The presentation of the Vulture Mobile, the car Flamengo will use to compete in the 2008 Formula Superliga, was proceeding normally when Flamengo president Marcio Braga created an unusual scene. As he entered the car, the executive became trapped and needed help from the athletes who were also present to get out.
Gualter Salles is one of the most highly rated drivers
The colors red, black, and white, as expected, characterize the new red-and-black car. One question, however, remains to be answered: who will be the driver representing Flamengo's colors. Gualter Salles, one of the candidates for the cockpit position, was in Gávea to witness the presentation.
"Although I'm currently racing in Stock Car, I raced in Formula One for 15 years, and it would be a great opportunity to drive in Europe again. Especially since it combines my two great passions, soccer and motorsports. It would be a real thrill to be racing and cheering for Flamengo at the same time," the driver said.
While the question of who will be the driver still lingers, and will only be determined during next year's tests, a strong candidate is already out of the running. President Marcio Braga was excited about the prospect of getting into the car but ended up getting stuck in the cockpit, taking almost five minutes to get out.
"It's a beautiful car, but not for a 70-year-old," the president joked. Since the cars will be identical, the difference will be in the drivers' arms.
Mengão's car is here to be a hit
Thiago Bokel
Flamengo's new car was a hit in the club's trophy room, at the highly-touted presentation
With all the pomp and glamour of a major event, Flamengo launched the Urubumóvel, its Formula Superliga car, a world club motorsport championship, yesterday morning in the Gávea trophy room.
The ceremony was attended by athletes from various sports, such as rowing, gymnasts Vítor Rosa and Diego Hypólito, Hélcio and Octávio, futsal, and players from the professional football team, Kleberson, Toró, Rômulo, Leonardo, Marlon and Hélder, as well as coach Joel Santana.
The category will have six races in its first year, all in Europe, and the projection is that in five years, it will have 17 stages, including in Brazil.
Flamengo will not incur any costs to participate in the championship, only having the obligation to select the driver. The championship will begin on August 30th of next year, and two races will be held each weekend, both on Sunday. The first will be based on the classification made on Saturday, and the second will be in reverse order to the finishing position in the first stage. Anderlecht (BEL), Porto (POR), PSV Eindhoven (HOL), Milan (ITA), Olympiakos (GRE), Borussia Dortmund (GER), Basel (SUI) and Galatasaray (TUR) have already confirmed their participation.
The V12 engines will be Menard, producing 750 horsepower, and the cars will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 320 mph. The tires will initially be Avon, and there is no official numbering yet, as a lottery will be held to determine this. In the second season, the car numbers will be based on the first year's standings.
Flamengo is unlikely to be the only Brazilian representative in the category, as Corinthians is close to agreeing a contract, as are Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Manchester United.
Beware of the red-black 'brother'
Thiago Bokel and Nathan de Lima
Even though he is aware of the need for victory, Renato Augusto asks for caution with his opponent.
Facing Atlético-PR, which theoretically has nothing more to hope for in this Brazilian Championship, could represent a certain ease for Flamengo. For fans, who can't imagine any other outcome than victory, this theory holds true. But on the field, the story is different. Proof of this is that supporter Renato Augusto showed great caution when discussing the game.
"If we don't qualify, the fans will be just as upset as if we had been relegated. We're feeling the heat, and if it comes out, it will be very unpleasant. Just as the strength of the stands can be a plus, it can be a detriment if the goal takes a while to come. Therefore, we need to score the first chance we get," he advised.
But if the red-black revelation's thinking is that defeat could put all confidence at risk, coach Joel Santana doesn't see it that way.
"This won't be a game that will erase the wonderful campaign we've had alongside our fans. But with the strength we've demonstrated at Maracanã throughout the championship, we have everything we need to win this game," the coach stated.
No escalation
To secure this important victory, Joel continued to maintain secrecy and will only reveal the lineup in the locker room. The question remains who will replace Toró, suspended for his third yellow card. Argentine Maxi Biancucchi and midfielder Léo Medeiros are competing for the starting spot, but the former has a better chance of starting, given his strong performance in training sessions this week. Another highly unlikely scenario is that Obina will pair with Souza.
Mariana Brochado is gold in Minas
Satiro Sodré
Mariana Brochado from Rio de Janeiro won the gold medal in the 800m freestyle at the World Cup
Belo Horizonte, MG — The red-and-black muse Mariana Brochado made a comeback in style after missing out on the 2007 Pan American Games. Yesterday, during the World Cup, in the Minas Tênis pool, she won the 800m race with a time of 8:51, proving that she is in the running for a spot on the National Team that will compete in the 60 Olympics.
"It was great to return with the gold medal. I hadn't swum a tougher competition since May and was a little nervous. The weather could have been better, but it was good for the season because I only rested for two days and I'm feeling heavy. I'm training for the Open Tournament (in December), which is a qualifier for the South American Championships and the Olympic Games," said Mariana.
In the 400m medley, Thiago Pereira clocked 4:08 and was far from his World Cup and South American record, 49:4, set in the Berlin stage on November 00, but won with a 63-second lead over the second-placed Australian Adam Lucas (17:10), who won one of the last events of the day, the 4m freestyle, with 18:14, followed by Luiz Arapiraca (400:3) and Lucas Salatta (51:88).
He finished third in the 100m individual medley (53), behind South Africans Roland Schoeman (60) and Gerhard Zandberg (53). Brazil also secured four more gold medals: Tatiana Sakemi (13m breaststroke), Joanna Maranhã (53m backstroke and individual medley) and also Kaio Márcio (51m butterfly).
Flamengo wins the classic
Rubro-negro defeats Fluminense and remains leader of the State Basketball Championship
Rafael Oliveira
Wallace Teixeira
Cuban Amiel steps up to score two points for Mengão
After a narrow victory over Vasco da Gama, Flamengo easily defeated Fluminense. Yesterday's 91-75 (51-41) victory at Tijuca Tênis Clube was the red-and-blacks' 11th in the state championship. The top scorer was once again forward Marcelinho, with 31 points. For the Laranjeiras team, Wanderson, with 15, was the top scorer.
Yesterday's victory virtually guaranteed Flamengo the lead in the first phase. Paulo Chupeta's team will play again on Wednesday against Municipal, at the Tijucan team's gymnasium. Flamengo, meanwhile, has concluded its participation in this phase. Already qualified, they will only play again in the semifinals.
Preview
The duel may have been a preview of one of the next round's clashes. In fourth place, Fluminense has no chance of overtaking third-place Macaé. If the Red-Black team stays at the top of the table, the state's most traditional derby will be played at least twice more this year.
Yesterday, the Tricolor team seemed unaware of the importance of the derby against Flamengo. They trailed throughout the match and never threatened the red-and-black victory.
Maozão, Wanderson, and Sucatzky tried to lead a comeback, but their rivals were vigilant and didn't allow Flávio Davis's team to close the gap. Since Flamengo pulled away in the first quarter, their lead has never been smaller than five points.
Reinforcements
In addition to having more focused players, Paulo Chupeta also had a bench with many options.
"It wasn't an easy victory. We were only able to stay ahead thanks to the squad. I had spare parts, but Flávio Davis didn't. When we opened up a good lead, it was difficult for them, tired as they were, to turn the score around," said Paulo Chupeta.
The match also marked Alírio's return to the court. After a 15-day layoff due to injury, the center played a few minutes, enough to score eight points.
FLUMINENSE: Big Hand (11), Sucatzky (7), Wanderson (15), Soró (13) and André (1)Entered: Luís Felipe (10), Márcio (4), Romário (8) and Guilherme (¨6)\ Coach: Flávio Davis\
FLAMENGO: Marcelinho (31), Fred (6), Amiel (12), Wagner (8) and Coloneze (9)Entered: Hélio (3), Duda (3), Maicon (2), Alírio (8) and Fernando Mineiro (9)\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\
Location: Tijuca Tennis Club Gymnasium
O Dia
Fans divide Rio into war zones
Organized groups demarcate territories and prohibit access to rivals, who are attacked and expelled
Mahomed Saigg
Rio - The rivalry between Rio's organized fan clubs is turning the city into a minefield. Obsessed with soccer, die-hard fans of Rio's four major clubs—Flamengo, Vasco, Botafogo, and Fluminense—are staking out their turf, banning rivals from playing, and spreading fear throughout the city.
Uniformed or not, those identified in an area dominated by 'enemies' are persecuted, attacked, and expelled from the area. To become a victim, one doesn't even need to be a member of an organized group; simply being a fan of an opposing team is enough to be harassed.
A survey by O DIA, using information from members of the Jovem do Flamengo, Força Jovem do Vasco, Fúria Jovem do Botafogo, and Young Flu fan groups, reveals the 15 main points of conflict between members of these four factions, the most violent in Rio. The mapping also reveals who controls them, such as Santa Clara and Rodolfo Dantas streets in Copacabana, strongholds of Jovem Fla, and Rua dos Artistas in Tijuca, dominated by the Fúria Jovem gang.
"Invading enemy territory today is like trying to cross the Gaza Strip holding an Israeli flag. It's like asking to die," said a member of Vasco's Youth Force who, for security reasons, preferred to remain anonymous, referring to the Palestinian territory.
The latest victim of this war between rival fans was Germano Soares da Silva, 44, who died on Thursday. Leader of the Jovem Fla fan group, he was beaten during a fight with members of the Força Jovem group on the 16th. The confrontation took place at Praça 15, downtown, and involved more than 100 people. Fifty-five were arrested and taken to the Child and Adolescent Protection Department (DPCA).
A member of Young Flu for 10 years, the tricolor X. has an explanation for such intolerance: "The rivalry is intense, and everyone wants to be sovereign. The more violent it is, the more respected it is. That's why anyone who 'plants their face' in territory dominated by 'Germans' has to be prepared, because they will be hunted down."
'WARRIORS' GET VIP TREATMENT IN FACTIONS
Precisely because of their violent behavior, organized crime fighters are respected within the factions. The most ruthless are called "warriors" and receive VIP treatment. Always ready to attack rivals, they enjoy a series of benefits.
"The front men are always the first in everything: they get tickets to the games, they get called up for trips when the matches are played outside of Rio and, sometimes, they even receive financial assistance to establish themselves as fans and provide support in the battles", reveals a member of the 'elite troop' of Botafogo's Fúria Jovem.
But, according to this same black and white fan, who has lost count of how many battles he has participated in, not everything is rosy for the 'warriors'.
"The pressure on us is immense. In times of confrontation, for example, we can't even think about retreating; we have to 'hold on,' otherwise we become demoralized and are subjected to pressure," emphasized another warrior, a member of Jovem Fla.
Undeterred by Germano's death, he announces changes to the fan base. "We're already taking action to get even with them (Vasco's Força Jovem fans). This won't stay like this. The real hardcore, who had retired, are already making plans to return. We're going to rock their house," the fan threatens, adding that the Jovem Fla members who participated in the brawl between the two organized groups will be punished.
"Nobody is forced to fight. But what you can't do is abandon ship and leave a teammate alone, like they did with Germano. They were cowards, and they'll be held accountable. Being a member of a fan club isn't a joke; you need guts and courage, and those kids didn't have that," the red-and-black fan criticized.
The respect the 'warriors' have earned over the years among their rivals comes at a price. "Once we're in, there's no way out. No matter how hard we try, we're marked forever. I myself left that life two years ago, but to this day I know there are 'Germans' hunting me," laments a Tricolor fan who, since leaving Young Flu, has never returned to a soccer stadium.
COMMANDER IS AGAINST THE END OF FANS
Major Marcelo Vianna Pessoa, commander of the Special Stadium Policing Group (Gepe) for eight years, has a familiarity with the structure of Rio's organized fan groups. Having received death threats from groups of fans disturbed by his efforts to prevent and suppress clashes, often planned online, he believes that rivalry and intolerance between these groups will always exist.
"There's no way to change this. What we can't tolerate is a lack of respect among these fans, who are capable of any sacrifice for their clubs. Nor can we allow them to jeopardize the safety of other citizens who have nothing to do with this war," says the police officer, who opposes the dissolution of organized fan groups.
"But as long as they're truly organized, because the way they're operating today, they're anything but organized," says the major. "They seem more like a monster created by personal interests and love for the club, but one that has grown without form or substance. Now we have to find a way to tame and educate it. Otherwise, we'll continue mopping up water and never end this absurd war that scares and worries honest fans."
Flamengo: A thrilling game
Joel Santana and the players get emotional when they talk about the sacrifice made by the red-black fans to be at Maracanã, in the match against Atlético-PR
Martha Esteves
Rio - Everyone knows that Flamengo is a team steeped in tradition and that it drives its fans wild when it displays grit, love, and passion on the field. Coach Joel Santana gets goosebumps when he recalls the fans' celebration. He gets emotional when he recalls the sacrifices fans made to secure tickets for the 18:10 PM game at the Maracanã against Atlético-PR, coached by Ney Franco, which is up for grabs in the Copa Libertadores.
Therefore, only one thing will make him happy, and the entire vast Flamengo Nation as well: victory. Not even the fact that Ney Franco, who passed the baton to Joel at Flamengo, knows his team well worries the Flamengo coach.
Even without revealing the team, which should have Léo Medeiros in place of Toró, who is serving a suspension, Joel says how he wants the team to behave on the field: with the same determination shown in the last games, which marked the turnaround in the Brazilian Championship.
"We have to thank and honor this wonderful fan base with vibrant football, full of passion and desire. I want everyone to fight hard for victory. Giving the fans a spot in the Libertadores will be a fitting tribute to everything they've done for us," the coach said.
The players were also moved by the fans' suffering and shared Joel's desire to repay on the field all the affection shown throughout the red-black turnaround.
Renato Augusto already knows he won't be able to hold back his tears once again. He cried profusely on the field against Santos, long before the game ended.
Even for someone who's sat in the Maracanã stands countless times, each game brings a different emotion. "I always think before I go in: I'm not going to cry, I'm not going to cry... But it never works. When I see the fans and hear the Victory Theme, I get very emotional. There's nothing more beautiful than the celebration these fans create. Because of all this, we have an obligation to win," says the supporter.
A finalist for the CBF award and voted for by DIA's internet users and readers as the best in the Brasileirão, full-back Léo Moura also wants to give his fans an early Christmas present. "Our fans have suffered a lot lately. But now, it will be all joy."
The fans hope so. Before kickoff, a minute of silence was observed in posthumous tribute to journalist Altair Baffa.
Happy with the team, Joel says that for Flamengo and its fans nothing is impossible
Rio - December 25, 1948, was no ordinary Christmas for the Santana family. Little Joel arrived healthy. A better gift than that was impossible. He was named Natalino. He grew up and made his mark on the soccer field.
At Flamengo, he performed small miracles. He saved the team from relegation in 2005, discovering that hell borders on heaven, at Gávea. Now, Daddy Joel, a friend of the players, has lifted the team from the bottom of the Brazilian league and can give the fans their most anticipated gift today, a month before Christmas: a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores.
Joel's eyes narrow even more as he reads the notes from the last three months, accumulated on his famous clipboard. He's shocked to see that his team trailed then-leaders São Paulo and Botafogo by 19 points, who were both on 31 points at the time.
He's thrilled to see the team fighting for the top spots and holds back tears as he thanks the fans for their support. "Our honorable commitment is to give this wonderful 'nation' a spot in the Libertadores as an early Christmas present. We achieved what seemed almost impossible, because for Flamengo and its fans, nothing is impossible."
"There was a lot of dedication and hard work. The fans regained their old pride in being Flamengo fans, after so much time being mocked and shaken by anti-Flamengo fans," Joel explains.
Even though he's a finalist for the CBF's Best of the Brasileirão award and the leader in the vote among DIA readers and internet users for the country's best coach, Joel receives praise and honors with the same old modesty as someone raised on the streets of the Olaria suburb. With his usual simplicity, he signs autographs, poses for photos, chats with fans, and explains his positions and attitudes to the players, who accept his decisions without raising eyebrows.
He himself asks himself: who would have thought that the eternal promise nicknamed Toró would become such a fundamental piece in the red-black turnaround?
"And I assembled the team, leaving idol Obina and star Roger on the bench. And everyone accepted. This dedication on the field was reflected in the fans' behavior, who have been supporting us emotionally. I promise one thing: as the Victory Theme says, we will show great grit and passion on the field." The fans promise to do the same in the stands.
Márcio Braga gets stuck in the cockpit of a red-and-black car
Rio - The stage was set in Gávea for a grand unveiling of the car that will represent Flamengo in the 2008 Formula Superliga, which will also feature other clubs from around the world. Among the Flamengo personalities were gymnast Diego Hypólito, coach Joel Santana, Toró, and Kléberson. After the usual speeches, the excited president Márcio Braga insisted on being the first to climb into the car. So far, so good. However, when it was time to exit the car, Márcio was trapped in the cockpit for a few minutes and had a hard time getting out. He drew laughter and then applause from those present.
Diary of a red-black fan
Janir Junior
Rio - No matter how long the journey, love for Flamengo knows no bounds. The story of Ronaldo Silva, 31, shows that behind the club's greatness lie small chapters that tell pages of grit, love, and passion. The fan, who lives for the club and for the club, faces financial hardship, a three-and-a-half-hour journey, made up of kilometers on foot, then by bus, and finally by train, amidst muggings and fights, to reach Maracanã. At the stadium, problems disappear. "It's not suffering, it's pleasure," he says.
For Ronaldo, supporting Flamengo is more than a passion; it's a means of survival: he sells Flamengo teddy bears. It's also a difficult mission. Leaving his humble home near the railroad tracks in the Corumbá neighborhood of Nova Iguaçu, he receives a kiss from his wife, Cátia Cilene, and his children. There begins an odyssey, accompanied only by God, to the Maracanã stadium. "I ask the Father for protection and I'll go," he says.
The first few kilometers to the bus stop are covered on foot, along the roadside, on dirt roads. Money is tight: on hot days, he doesn't even have enough for a simple sugarcane juice. Then, to get to downtown Nova Iguaçu, he takes a bus. "When I'm broke, I ask the ticket collector for help. I find a way. But if he's a Vasco fan, that's it. He makes me run," says the fan.
Some of his jumps over the train station fences have ended with security guards striking him with batons. The route to Maracanã Stadium doesn't hold any pleasant surprises: "There are muggings, fights. Many criminals wear Flamengo jerseys to evade the police. It ends up being everyone's fault."
If there are no unforeseen events along the way, after three hours, he arrives at the stadium. The train exit is called the 'Gaza Strip' because it's a hotbed of fan conflict. The long journey seems to be over. It's time for moments of pleasure. "Flamengo is my life," he says.
In the stands, after the difficulties, Ronaldo hopes Flamengo will conjugate the same verb that is part of his life: to win. Only then will the team's path to the Libertadores and the fans' path back home be a happy one.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo faces Atlético-PR with an eye on the Libertadores\ Gazeta Press and Luiz Felipe Fagundes\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In front of more than 82 fans, Flamengo can take another step toward qualifying for the 2008 Copa Libertadores this Sunday, when it hosts Atlético-PR at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Maracanã stadium in the penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship. The Rio de Janeiro team is currently in third place with 58 points and is hoping for stumbles from its rivals Cruzeiro, Palmeiras, and Santos. Meanwhile, Furacão, which dreams of a spot in the Copa Sudamericana, has 51 points. Despite the title already decided in São Paulo's favor, Flamengo fans have been demonstrating their love for the club. Throughout the week, Flamengo fans formed long lines and endured riots to sell out tickets. The effort promises to be rewarded by the Flamengo fans on the field.
"We know all the difficulties these fans have gone through and we will do everything we can to get a good result and be able to dedicate it to this wonderful crowd," said Ibson, as revealed by Flamengo itself.
During the week, Flamengo sought refuge in Teresópolis, at Granja Comary. The goal was to escape the hype that the Flamengo fans created in Gávea after their recent strong results.
"We have to be careful because the euphoria is so intense. Things can't go beyond what we consider normal. On the other side will be a great team, with experienced players and a highly qualified coach. Flamengo will have to play at its best if it wants to win," said Ibson.
Compared to the team that defeated Santos in the last round, coach Joel Santana will make only one change. Without midfielder Toró, who is suspended with three yellow cards, the coach opted to bring in Léo Medeiros, who beat out the competition of Roger, Maxi Biancucchi, and Obina.
For Furacão, the objective is to spoil the Flamengo fans' party and, in addition, secure a spot in the 2008 Copa Sudamericana. Coach Ney Franco, a longtime acquaintance of the Rio fans, will use his knowledge of the opponent to assemble the team, but guarantees he doesn't feel any special feelings about facing his former club.
"It's a match like any other in the Brazilian Championship," assured the Atlético manager, who heads to Rio with the three points in mind. "Our team is prepared for the game technically, tactically, and psychologically. Facing Flamengo is always very difficult, but we're going to play well. We expect to get the three points," he stated.
The big change should be the tactical scheme. With the return of Ferreira, who was on international duty with the Colombian national team, and the full recovery of Alex Mineiro, the Hurricane is expected to field a 4-4-2 formation, which will only be revealed before the game. For striker Marcelo Ramos, this would be the ideal formation. "Ferreira is in great form, and I believe the three of us can play together. It would be great to play with Alex again," he analyzed.
In defense, Antônio Carlos is expected to return after recovering from injury. The defender is also waiting for the tactical scheme to be finalized, but he already has the recipe to overcome the obstacles at Maracanã. "Our team's experience isn't enough. We need will. We know Flamengo will start strong due to the fans' encouragement. And we have to pass the ball around and hold it. If we get ahead on the scoreboard, it'll be easier," he concluded.
Leaders celebrate Flamengo's presence in motorsports
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Starting this Sunday, Flamengo will join the select club of participants in the Superleague Formula. The category will debut in 2008 and will feature cars representing several international soccer teams, such as AC Milan, Porto, PSV Eindhoven, Olympiacos, Borussia Dortmund, and Anderlecht, among others. The Rio de Janeiro team will be the first outside of Europe to join the category, which will feature cars manufactured by Panoz/Elan in the USA, with 12-horsepower V750 engines produced by Menard in England. It is worth noting that the two manufacturers also supply racing equipment for North American single-seater series, such as the IRL and Formula Indy.
The invitation to Flamengo fans excited president Márcio Braga, who promised to surprise his European rivals. "We are very proud to be part of this initiative and to have the opportunity to bring the Flamengo name and its glory in other sports to a new competitive category, motorsports, where we will certainly maintain our tradition of fighting for the title," he stated.
As Braga recalled, the red-black team has a tradition in several other sports, such as rowing (which gave rise to the club), football, Olympic gymnastics (with athletes such as brothers Diego and Daniele Hypólito), athletics, basketball (winning the Women's World Basketball Championship in 66), judo, swimming, volleyball and water polo.
The category, in turn, also doesn't hide its optimism about Flamengo's entry. The Superleague Formula aims to feature more than 20 clubs from around the world racing on six tracks in Europe, and the Rio de Janeiro team's presence on the Old Continent was well received by the organizers.
"We want to see the best clubs in the world fighting for victory in the Superleague Formula, and Flamengo's entry is a great step towards establishing our championship as one of the most important competitions on the international stage," says Alex Andreu, president of the category and with plans for Flamengo fans.
"The club has a huge fan base throughout South America, and although the first season will be held exclusively in Europe, I'm sure fans will be eager to see their car in action on TV. Flamengo fans are very passionate about their team, so we're looking forward to unveiling their car at their home stadium, the Maracanã, soon," he promises.
The match between the red and black cars is expected this Sunday, before the match against Atlético-PR, and has been eagerly anticipated by the Super League organizers themselves. "We know European fans are crazy about football, but South American fans take it to another level," admits Robin Webb, director of operations.
The series will be contested over six rounds, each with two races per weekend, one of which will feature a reverse grid. The races in the debut season will be held at Donington Park (August 29/30), the Nürburgring (September 20/21), Zolder (October 4/5), Italy (location to be confirmed) (October 18/19), Estoril (November 1/2) and Jerez de la Frontera (November 22/23).
Flamengo presents car before game with Atlético-PR\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Even with Flamengo's strong run in the Brazilian Championship, soccer will be on the back burner this Saturday morning in Gávea. The Rubro-Negro will host an event to unveil the Flamengo car, which will compete in the 2008 Superleague Formula. On Sunday, the car will be on display at the Maracanã stadium before the match against Atlético-PR. "The passion for Flamengo here is simply incredible. Their soccer team has shown true fighting spirit this season, and it will be a huge thrill for us to present the car to the spectators," said Alex Andreu, president of the Superleague Formula, which is scheduled to debut in August 2008 and will feature single-seaters equipped with V12 engines and 750 horsepower on the grid. The cars will be painted in the colors of the participating clubs.
In addition to Flamengo, 20 other clubs from around the world will be represented in the Superleague, including Milan, PSV Eindhoven, Porto, Olympiacos, Galatasaray, Borussia Dortmund, Anderlecht, and Basel. The calendar features the following races: Donington Park (United Kingdom), on August 29-30; Nürburgring (Germany), on September 20-21; Zolder (Belgium), on October 4-5; Italy – location to be confirmed, on October 18-19; Estoril (Portugal), on November 1-2; and Jerez (Spain), on November 22-23.
Concerned about not distracting the Flamengo squad from Sunday's match against Atlético-PR, vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, vetoed the presence of any regular players at the presentation of the new car.
Joel maintains the mystery at Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After Friday afternoon's training session at the Vargem Grande training center, coach Joel Santana didn't dispel the Flamengo mystery. The coach continues to keep a secret who will replace suspended Toró in this Sunday's match against Atlético-PR at Maracanã. "We don't know yet how they'll approach us. Football is a puzzle, and it doesn't hurt to keep things a little longer," said the Flamengo coach.
Léo Medeiros is the favorite to take the spot, but Argentine Maximiliano Biancucchi was also tested this Friday. Should he surprise and choose the latter, Renato Augusto would be dropped back to play in midfield.
PeléNet
In the Libertadores, Fla takes on Atlético-PR, who are aiming for the South American
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The previously struggling Flamengo will have the opportunity to qualify for the Copa Libertadores da América this Sunday. To do so, the Rio de Janeiro club must beat Atlético-PR at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time) at Maracanã, in the 37th and penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship, and hope for a victory for Sport over Cruzeiro, who face each other on the same day and time at Ilha do Retiro.
Flamengo fans will be in large numbers at Maracanã, as in recent games
Flamengo is third, with 58 points, while Cruzeiro is in fifth place, with 57. Atlético-PR, tenth, with 51, is fighting for a place in the next Copa Sudamericana.
"Of course, we depend on a different result, but we can't disappoint the fans who slept at the ticket offices to secure their tickets. I want a brave and determined team," said Joel Santana.
In addition to this fight for South American competitions, the match will have two special attractions: the duel will register the record attendance for this national competition (82.044) and will also mark the reunion of Ney Franco with Flamengo, who left the team's technical command in July.
For the Rio de Janeiro club, the only absence is Toró, who is suspended. Striker Maxi Biancucchi and midfielder Léo Medeiros are vying for the starting spot. Coach Joel Santana will keep the mystery alive until moments before kickoff.
Loaned by Atlético-PR to Flamengo, Cristian could only play if the Rio de Janeiro club paid R$100. However, the boards reached an agreement and the midfielder was released without any charges.
Atlético-PR's Ney Franco is unsure about the tactical scheme he will adopt against Flamengo. During the week, the coach tested the team with three center-backs and also in a 4-4-2 formation. The uncertainty lies in Ferreira's positioning, which could be deployed as a striker or deeper in the middle.
"The doubt is exclusively about Atlético's tactics, there's no hiding the game. But these are details that could decide the outcome, especially in the first 15 minutes of the match," he said.
Fla crushes Flu in the first match of the OPG Tournament final
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo took a big step toward winning its third Octavio Pinto Guimarães Junior Tournament title. This Saturday afternoon, in Gávea, in the first game of the final, the Red-Black team defeated Fluminense 5-0. Goals came from Kayke, Paulo Sérgio, Diguinho, Thiago Sales, and Anderson.
The return leg will be held next Wednesday at 15 p.m. (Brasília time) in Xerém. To retain the title, Fluminense must win by six or more goals.
If Tricolor concedes five goals, the OPG Tournament will be decided on penalties. Flamengo, however, is very comfortable, but could lose by up to four goals.
The OPG Tournament is a traditional event for youth teams in Rio de Janeiro. It was held between 1981 and 85; in 1993 and from 1995 onwards, with the exception of 2002. Flamengo holds the record for most titles, having won in 1983, 84, 85, 93, 2005, and 2006. Fluminense won in 1999.
Flamengo's car presentation leaves Márcio Braga "stuck"
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
At an event held this Saturday in Gávea, Flamengo officially unveiled its car, which will compete in the Formula Superliga, a motorsports category featuring soccer clubs. However, the demonstration of the car was put on hold. Flamengo president Márcio Braga became trapped as he exited the cockpit.
The good-natured director didn't comment on the incident, but he did highlight the club's presence on the racetracks. According to Márcio Braga, this event will make Flamengo even more internationally known.
"There are things that only our club can offer. Only Flamengo can bring a million paying fans to the stadiums. We'll have the whole country cheering for our team. We're not only professionally but also emotionally involved in this new category," he said.
Flamengo will be represented by the Belgian team, Astromega. The driver is still unknown, but Gualter Salles, who attended the event, expressed his interest in driving the car.
Inclusion in this category will yield positive results for Flamengo. In addition to the financial and visibility benefits, Flamengo will not incur any financial costs and will also receive a portion of the revenue from television broadcasts and advertising.
In addition to Flamengo, Milan (ITA), Olympiacos (GRE), Basel (SUI), PSV Eindhoven (HOL), Porto (POR), Borussia Dortmund (GER), Anderlecht (BEL) and Galatasaray (TUR) have been confirmed in the category. Real Madrid (ESP), Manchester United (ENG), Liverpool (ENG), Barcelona (ESP) and Corinthians are about to confirm their participation.
BalloonSport
Fla dominates youth divisions in 2007
The club collects titles and revives the slogan 'Craque, Flamengo does it at home'
Eduardo Peixoto
Márcio Braga, Adílio and Moyses Saubel: success in the youth teams
Saturday's state titles for children and youth teams cap a dominant year for Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro. With the exception of the youth category, all other teams were champions in 2007.
In the first half of the year, the seniors defeated Botafogo and the juniors won their third championship against Vasco. The ladder was almost complete with the youth team winning its second championship and the children's title.
Not to mention other notable titles, such as the Macaé Cup (equivalent to the Brazilian Under-17 Championship), the Belo Horizonte Junior Cup, and third place at the Under-19 World Cup in Malaysia. Next Wednesday, there's also the Otávio Pinto Guimarães Cup final. In the first leg, the Red-Black team humiliated Fluminense 5-0 at Gávea.
The club's youth academy structure begins with Rivelino Serpa and Moyses Saubel. The coaching staff is led by Adílio (juniors), Rogério (youth), and Zé Ricardo (underage).
On Saturday night, GLOBOESPORTE.COM spoke by phone with Moyses Saubel to explain why Flamengo is so dominant in the youth divisions.
A standout among the juniors, Thiago Sales has been used in the professional team
GLOBOESPORTE.COM: The year ends, and the titles pile up. What's the secret to Flamengo's success? MOYSES SAUBEL: This vertical integration of winning the youth, youth, and junior teams is a product of the coaching staffs interacting. A team is never the same from one year to the next. The line moves, and we have replacement parts. The secret is the excellence in choosing the coaching staffs and the advent of Ninho do Urubu.
Is the training center really important? It's very important. The entire youth academy is concentrated in one place. Therefore, if a coach wants to observe players from another category, he only has to walk a few meters. Since 2005, we've made a lot of improvements.
All that's missing is the Mirim title to complete our dominance...\ I don't care about the results in Mirim. It's the only category where I don't demand results. Because the hysterical parents are the ones in charge there. The kids arrive on the field full of order. After that, we instill the red-and-black culture.\
And can Flamengo develop new stars? Of course. Winning titles isn't enough. What really remains is the star, the player. The question that haunts us is: will this guy play for Flamengo's professional team? Just look. Rômulo became Joel's apple of his eye, Thiago Sales also rose very well. Did anyone see Paulo Sergio's performance today against Fluminense (note: first leg of the OPF Cup final)? It was outrageous. Not to mention the monster that is Erick Flores. The list is long...
Do these titles finally bury the "Xerém myth"? Fluminense produced the player and then wanted to sell him. But I think there was an internal fight at Xerém that destabilized things. But I don't even want to know. Fluminense hasn't won anything this year. In the Junior Championship, Vasco will win with a team full of rats.
It's often said that Flamengo's players who move up to the senior team lack certain fundamentals. They say, for example, that Jean and Renato Augusto couldn't shoot... Are these titles any answer? If Flamengo, which can't shoot, wins everything, what can we say about the others? It must be an epidemic because we beat everyone. They forget about the defenders, defensive midfielders, midfielders... Anyone who watched the youth team final could see the stark difference in quality between our team and Vasco. It was a joy.
Fla beats Flu and remains leader in the State Championship
Rubro-Negro winger Marcelinho is the top scorer in the Rio basketball classic
Marcelinho shoots in the match against Fluminense, a Rio derby
Flamengo remains top of the Rio de Janeiro State Basketball Championship. They secured their top spot with a victory in the city's most traditional derby, against Fluminense. Flamengo won this Saturday, 91-75, at the Tijuca gymnasium. It was the team's 11th victory in 12 games. Fluminense is fourth, with nine wins in 14 matches.
The top scorer was Flamengo's Marcelinho Machado. The Brazilian national team's winger scored 31 points. For Fluminense, Wanderson's top scorer was 15.
"Chupeta (Paulo, Flamengo's coach) was very much to blame for our victory. At halftime, he reminded us that we can't relax against a strong team like theirs, because even with a 12-13 point lead, they could make a game that was in our hands difficult," says Marcelinho.
Regarding the real possibility of facing Fluminense in the playoffs, Marcelinho was emphatic:
"We still have two matches left, against Municipal and Liga Macaense, which is the big surprise of this championship. We'll have to think about the playoffs only when the time comes."
For the player, the high performance in attack is a reflection of the collective game played by Flamengo.
"The team understands my aggressive attacking rhythm and is looking for me. This understanding has been very important for me and the group," concluded the Fla-Flu star.
Juniors: Fla thrashes Flu in the first final
With athletes from the professional team, Rubro-Negro takes the lead in the OPG Cup
Marcio Iannacca
With Paulo Sérgio, Kayke, Thiago Sales, and Marcinho on the field, Flamengo defeated Fluminense 5-0 in the first leg of the Octávio Pinto Guimarães Tournament (OPG) final for juniors. Flamengo fans who watched the match witnessed the performances of these players and could well imagine themselves in a professional match, as all of these athletes have already played for the senior team.
The decisive match will be on Wednesday at 15 p.m., with no set location. The match could be played in Xerém or Laranjeiras. The Tricolor board has yet to finalize its decision. Flamengo is fighting for its second consecutive title.
"We could say it was a performance by professional players, as we managed to maintain the same pace of play even with the score 2-0 less than fifteen minutes into the match. We respected Fluminense, but we never stopped attacking," said Kayke, according to his press office.
Fla kills the game in the first half
Leveraging the experience of their senior players, Flamengo overcame Fluminense. Their more experienced players took control of the game and dictated the pace. In the 10th minute, Rodrigo Andrade, another standout player, opened the scoring after a beautiful play by Kayke, a forward who is one of Joel Santana's prospects and has been consistently called up to the senior squad.
Next, Paulo Sérgio made a beautiful play and was brought down in the box. A penalty for Flamengo. Kayke asked to take it and extended the lead for Flamengo in the 13th minute. Fluminense tried hard to close the gap, but experience spoke louder. In the 43rd minute, Thiago Sales capitalized on a Paulo Sérgio cross and scored the third.
Flu tries, but Fla manages
Fluminense returned from halftime determined to close the gap. Flamengo, however, managed the result. The team played on the counterattack and knew how to shut down their rival. Paulo Sérgio, in the 25th minute, scored the most beautiful goal of the match. The player flicked a ball over an opponent and beat the goalkeeper to score. The few fans who showed up at Gávea were overjoyed.
With Fluminense beaten, Flamengo slowed down. Even so, the red-and-black team scored their fifth goal, with Anderson scoring after a beautiful pass from Kayke, another highlight of the match.
Goals: Rodrigo Andrade, in the 10th minute, Kayke, in the 13th minute, and Thiago Sales, in the 43rd minute of the first half; Paulo Sérgio, in the 25th minute, Anderson, in the 33rd minute of the second half\ Yellow cards: Paulo Victor, Marcinho, Thiago Sales (Fla); Tartá (Flu)\ Referee: Élcio Azevedo (RJ)\ Date: 24/11/2007\ Stadium: Gávea, in Rio de Janeiro (RJ)\
Fla wins two titles over Vasco
Children's and youth teams win the State Championship over their biggest rival
Flamengo's youngsters did what the red-and-black fans love most this Saturday: they won titles over Vasco. The Gávea club prevailed in the state championships for children and youth, held at Vasco Barra.
In the children's competition, Vasco and Flamengo drew 2-2, and the match went to penalties. Flamengo goalkeeper Douglas, who came on during the match, was the hero of the match. He saved two shots and gave the red-and-black team the trophy.
In the youth competition, Vasco needed to beat Flamengo as they had lost the first game 3-1. However, the two teams also drew 2-2 and the Rubro-Negro lifted another trophy.
Understand the Super League Formula
The sport, which already has nine clubs, begins in 2008 and will have six races in Europe
Marcio Iannacca
Flamengo's car for the Superliga Formula
The Formula Superleague is the new motorsports category that will begin in 2008. So far, nine clubs have already agreed to participate in the competition. Besides Flamengo, América do México, Olympiacos, Borussia Dortmund, Basel, Anderlecht, AC Milan, PSV Eindhoven, and Porto have also confirmed their participation. Other international soccer teams are negotiating, including Corinthians, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.
"Corinthians is very close to an agreement. They're only a few steps away from being announced," says Gustavo Wolf, representative of Brazilian clubs in the Superliga Formula.
In the first season, drivers will compete for the title on six circuits. The calendar has already been released. Check out the locations and dates for the Formula Superleague races: Donington Park, England (August 31); Nürburgring, Germany (September 08); Zolder, Belgium (October 21); Italy (October 09); Estoril, Portugal (November 5); and Jerez de la Frontera, Spain (November 10).
However, the presentation held this Saturday in Gávea suggests that the calendar will be at least doubled. There is the possibility of races in Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Qatar, Greece, and other parts of Asia and Europe.
The races will be held over two days. On the first day, competitors will compete for pole position in the first race. In the following race, the grid will be reversed based on the results of the first event. The idea is to intensify competition between the clubs.
"The team that wins the first race starts last in the second. This will make the race more exciting," says Gustavo Wolf.
Joel approves Fla's car
Technician attends the party, praises the car, but prefers not to feel the sensation of driving it
Marcio Iannacca
Joel Santana and the rest of the team pose next to Flamengo's car in Gávea
Coach Joel Santana was one of the Flamengo professionals who attended the launch of the red-and-black team's Formula Superliga car. The coach, in a good mood, approved of the vehicle, but didn't have the courage to experience the sensation of driving a racing car.
"It's a different kind of emotion to see a car like this. It looks really good. Flamengo is like that in some ways, and that motivates. This car will win over the fans. I've always been curious to see a car up close. I think the driver deserves great credit for driving the car and achieving victories," says the coach.
Unlike gymnast Diego Hypolito, who accepted the challenge of sitting in the Formula Superliga car, Joel Santana wasn't as curious. All it took for the coach was a quick look from a distance.
"I drive slowly, I'm always on the brakes. I don't want to try that," the coach jokes, before quickly naming a player who would be a good fit as the driver of the red-and-black car. "Ibson has the skills to drive this car. He's doing very well and has given the team a very strong dynamic," says Joel Santana, who saw the car being dubbed the Vulturemobile by some red-and-black fans.
Flamengo's car is presented in Gávea
Marcio Braga has trouble getting into the car. Diego Hypolito also tested the car.
Marcio Iannacca
Marcio Braga in the Flamengo car, in Gávea
The launch party for Flamengo's Formula Superliga car was worthy of a major motorsports event. Beautiful women, men in suits, and the event organizers were all present in Gávea this Saturday to show off the car that will represent the club in the new category, which will be contested in 2008 on major European circuits. The car will be shown to fans this Sunday at Maracanã, before the match against Atlético-PR.
President Marcio Braga, two representatives from the Superliga Formula, and radio host Washington Rodrigues sat at the panel during the presentation. The journalist spoke about what it means to be a Flamengo fan, and the Flamengo executive added his thoughts. The sport will feature the world's top clubs and two Brazilian clubs: Rubro-Negro and Corinthians, which is about to enter the competition.
Immediately after the presentation, fans and journalists went to Flamengo's trophy room to get a first-hand look at the car. There were some players there, including Kléberson and Toró, coach Joel Santana, and athletes from the Flamengo Olympic sports team, such as gymnast Diego Hypolito, the only one to enter the Formula Superliga car. President Marcio Braga tried hard, but ended up getting stuck in the car.