THE GLOBE

Emotions on the surface

Minutes after nearly crying, Joel explodes in anger at Gávea.

Photo caption: Striker Souza leaves the Mexican consulate shortly after receiving his visa.

Photo caption: JOEL SPEAKS with a South African journalist: questions angered him and made him lash out against the Brazilian press.

Carlos Eduardo Mansur

Joel Santana's incredible recent trajectory at Flamengo has elevated the coach to idol status. In his day-to-day work, he deals with a level of attention similar to that of high-profile players. On the eve of his final decision before leaving Gávea, Joel's emotions are palpable. He already feels nostalgic for a club where he is beloved. He dreams of crowning with a title a job that began with the recovery of a team condemned to relegation. And he experiences the anxiety of discovering a new world in South Africa, competing in his first World Cup. Emotions that yesterday brought him close to tears and, immediately afterwards, caused him to explode with irritation.

All eyes were on Joel. Surrounded by the press, he became emotional when speaking about what could be his second-to-last game at the Maracanã during his time with Flamengo.

"As the Roberto Carlos song says, there are so many emotions... I've been on both sides, in both tunnels of the Maracanã. I've experienced so much. Now, I'm going to represent my people, my country, and have the chance to go to a World Cup. This is the ultimate experience for me. It feels like an early Christmas present," said Joel.

Later, the harassment came from South African journalists. The coach had to answer questions on more sensitive topics, such as potential language difficulties. When he finished, he seemed transformed. Nervous and in a loud voice, he accused the Brazilian press of tarnishing his image abroad and fueling the questions directed at him.

"Nobody shows up to put it up," he exclaimed.

Those who know Joel say that the final against Botafogo seems to have taken on a special meaning for the coach. As if it were a chance to make amends to Flamengo for his departure in the middle of the Libertadores Cup. As if it were also a chance to end the journey that began last year with a title.

"He's really experiencing everything intensely. It's typical of someone who's chosen a certain path due to professional circumstances, not by choice," said the football manager, Isaías Tinoco.

"He's excited and anxious. He's been putting a lot of effort into these games," added Ronaldo Torres, physical trainer and loyal assistant.

Joel has been immersing himself in videos about upcoming opponents, studying Botafogo in depth, and preparing to delve deeper into América of Mexico.

"I arrived with the team second-to-last in the Brazilian Championship. Then, we got them into the top ten and, in the end, we finished third and qualified for the Libertadores. The work has been improving. Now, this group deserves to be champions. That's what matters," said Joel, who is still discussing with the South Africans the chance to stay at Gávea until the second leg against América in the Libertadores.

The team quickly obtains the visa.

To begin deciding the State Championship, Joel lost Renato Augusto, who is suffering from pain in his right leg. Yesterday, he led a training session that practically defined Marcinho as Souza's partner in attack.

Before training, the team woke up at 5:30 am to get their visas for the trip to Mexico, where they will face América on Wednesday. By 7 am, everyone was already at the consulate, where they were received before public opening hours. Within an hour, everyone received their visas.

Defender Rodrigo, who is expected to leave the club, along with Éder and Colace, who have not been used recently, trained separately yesterday.

Like Juan, president Márcio Braga was reported to the Federation's Sports Justice Tribunal for criticizing the refereeing in the Taça Rio semi-final.

Basketball

Fla returns to the court, now for the National Championship.

The Flamengo team from Rio de Janeiro faces Minas away from home.

After tying the series for the South American Basketball League title 2-2 with Regatas Corrientes of Argentina, Flamengo will turn its attention today to the pursuit of another unprecedented title: the National Basketball Championship. At 14 PM, they will face Pitágoras/Minas in Belo Horizonte.

Flamengo leads the national competition with 35 points (17 wins and one loss), while Minas is in second place with 16 wins and four losses. In the first leg, played in Rio, Flamengo won 96-89.

Brazilian player Nenê's team plays in the NBA today.

If Flamengo wins, they will secure first place overall, giving them an advantage in the playoffs. Today, in addition to their rival, they will have to overcome the emotional strain caused by needing to win both matches against Corrientes in Rio, since they lost both games in Argentina.

"This past week has been exhausting, not only physically but psychologically as well. But the joy of having managed to tie the series and take the decision to the last game is a huge motivating factor," said Marcelinho, from Flamengo, the competition's top scorer with 415 points.

Flamengo travels to Corrientes, Argentina, on Monday, where they will face Corrientes on Wednesday at 23 PM. Whoever wins takes the title.

In the NBA, the Denver Nuggets, featuring Brazilian player Nenê, are losing 2-0 in the playoffs against the Los Angeles Lakers. Today, the teams play at 20:30 PM (Brasilia time) in Denver.

BROADCAST: Sportv

Ancelmo Gois

1 million at Maracanã

Maracanã is expected to surpass the 1 million paying spectator mark for 2008 tomorrow, in the first leg of the Flamengo vs. Botafogo final.

In 38 games this year, the stadium has received an audience of 955.525 people so far.

SPORTS JOURNAL

Renato Augusto feels pain in his knee and will not face Botafogo.

Without the number 10, Joel Santana puts Marcinho in the attack alongside Souza.

Archives

Renato Augusto is still doubtful for the match against América-MEX next Wednesday.

The suspense is over. Midfielder Renato Augusto will miss the first leg of the Carioca final this Sunday against Botafogo at the Maracanã. The player started training with the team this Friday at Gávea, but soon felt pain in his right knee and left the field visibly upset.

The number 10 player spoke with doctor Marcelo Soares, who commented on the athlete's problem.

"He did feel a problem in his right knee and we decided not to push it to preserve him for the next matches," said the doctor, who then spoke about Renato Augusto's chances of playing against América of Mexico next Wednesday.

"The pain has improved quite a bit over the last five days. It's still too early to assess, but we're working on it," said Marcelo Soares in an interview with Rádio Globo. Renato Augusto was injured in the Taça Rio semi-final on April 13th, against the same Botafogo team.

Therefore, Joel Santana's team for this Sunday will be as follows: Bruno, Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Kleberson, Ibson and Toró; Marcinho and Souza.

Renato Augusto may also be unavailable for the match against América-MEX.

While Botafogo has four players unavailable for the first leg of the Carioca Championship final, what Flamengo feared most happened yesterday. Although expected, Renato Augusto's absence due to pain in his right knee was a glimmer of hope when he tried to participate in the practice match where the starters defeated the reserves 2-1.

However, the hope was short-lived. While attempting a pass during the warm-up, he felt the pain again. Doctor José Luiz Rundo confirmed that he is out of tomorrow's game and possibly the trip to Mexico.

"Renato is still having some difficulty striking the ball and will continue training. But he's not fit to play. There has been improvement in the last five days, but we will still decide if he will go to Mexico," Runco said.

Indicted

President Marcio Braga has been indicted by the Sports Justice Tribunal (TJD) for criticizing referee Péricles Bassols after the loss to Botafogo in the Taça Rio semi-final. If convicted, he could be suspended from his position for more than a year.

Defender Rodrigo may go to São Paulo.

Signed for a hefty fee to partner with Fábio Luciano, defender Rodrigo's days at Flamengo may be numbered, and he could end up at São Paulo. He is recovering from a broken arm and is reportedly unhappy about not receiving his image rights payments.

The defender's agent, Giuseppe Dioguardi, said a few days ago that the payment was delayed because Flamengo was waiting for invoices from a company owned by the player. However, since receiving these documents, the club has been in default, which has increased Rodrigo's indignation. Therefore, the representative traveled to Ukraine this week to speak with the directors of Dynamo Kyiv, who hold his rights, to renegotiate the loan, which expires in the middle of the year. The intention is to keep Rodrigo on loan to a Brazilian club until December. São Paulo considers Rodrigo's signing a done deal.

No registration required

Since he was not registered for the Libertadores Cup, Rodrigo would be free to play for another team in the competition. The vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, declined to comment on the matter so as not to distract the club from the Carioca finals.

Daddy Joel's heartfelt outburst

Criticism of his signing angered the Flamengo coach.

Thiago Bokel and Pedro Chiaverini

Nina Lima

After training, Joel Santana met with journalists and responded to criticism, mainly from the South African press, regarding his signing.

The week began turbulently for coach Joel Santana. On Monday, just as preparations were underway for the first leg of the Carioca Championship final against Botafogo, Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, announced that the coach was leaving the club to manage the South African national team. Since then, he has had no peace.

Criticism from the South African press, reporting that he lacked international experience, didn't speak English, and still used a clipboard, angered Joel, who lashed out at those who didn't support his decision.

"They're saying I don't know how to speak English, that I use a clipboard, and they don't appreciate the fact that I was called to represent a nation in a World Cup. Salary isn't everything in life. The board, the players, and the fans understood my decision, because an opportunity like this is once in a lifetime. Later they'll say I'm nervous because of the week leading up to the final, but that's not true. I'm very calm. This is the kind of thing that irritates me."

Returning to the topic of the final, the coach doesn't see the first leg as the decisive one for Flamengo to become the Carioca champion. Even the exhausting trip to Mexico to face América next Wednesday won't harm his team. "They're very worried about that, but it's 180 minutes to decide who will win this final. Balance in both games will be fundamental to winning," warned the coach, who no longer feels nervous about playing his penultimate game at the Maracanã tomorrow: "As that Roberto Carlos song says, 'So many emotions...' I've been in charge of this wonderful group for nine months, a group that secured a spot in the Libertadores and the Taça Guanabara. My feeling is one of a job well done," he confessed.

Only one thing would do to calm Joel down: a grand farewell, with the Rio de Janeiro state championship title.

The lucky charm who switched clubs.

Toró has already played in two finals for Flamengo and won both. He wants to continue that winning streak.

Fábio Lacerda and Pedro Chiaverini

Wallace Teixeira/

Toró changed positions and clubs. But he doesn't want to change his history or become a champion.

One of the most promising players from Fluminense's youth divisions has become a reality at Flamengo. Besides the change of shirt and neighborhood – from Laranjeiras to Gávea – the biggest challenge was giving up playing as a striker to perform a role that was somewhat unfamiliar to him, as he was used to deciding matches.

It was an adjustment period for Toró. The first few days, until he got used to the position, were strange. But today, he is a key player in Flamengo's midfield and a starter for the team managed by Joel Santana.

"I had a lot of difficulty running to help with marking, even though a center forward also needs to mark. My adaptation to playing in front of the defense was complicated. And because I have the characteristic of playing further forward, Ney Franco put me to play as a defensive midfielder to take advantage of my ball distribution to attack. Then Joel came and gave me the conditioning and confidence to perform this role," recalls Toró.

Over time, Toró became Joel Santana's favorite player. And, because of that, even before the coach's departure for South Africa, a trip scheduled for the beginning of next month, Toró already imagined how much he would miss him at Gávea.

"It won't just be for me, but for the whole team. We're going to miss Joel. I can only thank him for the affection and the show of confidence he gave me. I'm sure it won't be a goodbye, and when he returns, we hope to be here with open arms. Besides being a coach, he's a great friend and advisor. A real father figure," he said.

Besides being treated with great affection by the coaching staff, Toró is a lucky charm. Having been at Gávea for two years, the player could win his third title with Flamengo. In 2006, he won the Copa do Brasil and last year, he won the Carioca championship against their rival, with whom they will face each other starting tomorrow at the Maracanã.

Souza: 'The revenge is theirs'

Flamengo will face Botafogo in two matches for the State Championship final. However, in between, there will be the important Round of 16 match of the Libertadores Cup against América of Mexico, in Mexico. A very long trip that will certainly influence the second leg of the Carioca final.

Forward Souza spoke about the match against rivals from 'Estrela Solitária'.

"These are two teams that are finding their rhythm and playing good football. It will be interesting for the fans. We will need a lot of focus to come out victorious in this first game," he stated to Rádio Bandeirantes.

The problems with the Botafogo players are now a thing of the past, according to the Flamengo striker.

"All of that is in the past. There will be nothing wrong with this game. But, the rematch is theirs, because I was state champion last year, and Guanabara Cup champion this year, against them," Souza concluded.

Flamengo faces Minas

Before deciding on the League, Flamengo has a commitment today in the National Basketball Championship.

Eduardo Vieira

Despite being focused on the South American Basketball League final, Flamengo will have to forget about the Argentinian team Regatas and turn its attention to the National Championship. Today, at 14 PM, the Rubro-Negro (Flamengo) faces Minas Tênis in Belo Horizonte, with live broadcast on SporTV.

The match could determine first place in the qualifying phase, which means an advantage in the playoffs. Point guard Hélio knows the opponent well because Minas represented Fluminense in the last State Championship.

“It will be a great match between two title favorites. Minas has a very tactically organized and fast team. Although Sucatzky is the team's main playmaker, we have to mark all of their players well, because the Minas team is quite strong. We've been playing excellent matches and we have to maintain this standard, playing collectively, both defensively and offensively.”

Flamengo leads the National Championship with a 94.4% success rate in 18 games (17 wins and one loss), while the Minas Gerais team is in second place with 80% in 20 matches (16 wins and four losses). In the first leg, in Rio, the Rio team came out on top: 96 to 89.

Coach Paulo Chupeta will, as always, adopt a strong defense and is expected to rest some players depending on how the game is going. The priority at Flamengo is winning the South American League, but the team is aware of the importance of securing home-court advantage until the National Championship final.

"This group wants to make history at Flamengo. And to pursue every possible title. We will always go into games to win," explained strategist Chupeta.

Flamengo x Minas

Flamengo: Marcelinho, Hélio, (Fred), Amiel, Coloneze and Alírio. Coach: Paulo Chupeta.

Minas: Sucatzky, Mãozão, Sóro, Wanderson and Johnson; Coach: Flávio Denis

Location: Minas Tênis Gymnasium (14 PM)

THE DAY

A cocky kid who doesn't wear flip-flops.

Juan has never been injured since arriving at Flamengo in 2006. He only missed games due to suspension.

Janir Junior

Rio - Some fans question Juan's quality, but they can never label the left-back a 'lazybones', a type of player who spends more time in the medical department than on the field.

'Marrentinho', as he is affectionately called by Joel Santana, is short in stature but has a good physique, which has led him to achieve an impressive record: since arriving at Flamengo in 2006, the player has not suffered a single injury, only missing games due to suspension.

"He is an exemplary athlete, very disciplined. I have never seen Juan in the medical department," Joel points out.

The full-back, who is known for his sobriety, recalls that his last injury was when he suffered a blow to his collarbone in 2004, while still playing for Fluminense. Four years have passed, Juan hasn't been injured again, and he has made the left-back position at Flamengo his way to try and silence the doubts of some of the Flamengo fans.

“At Flamengo, there will always be a lot of pressure,” says the player, who doesn't hide anything and sums up the spirit of tomorrow's final well: “A final is always a lot of pressure, a full stadium, we can't make silly mistakes. We need to be focused, confident and play with grit.”

Juan points out that tomorrow's derby has taken on a greater sense of rivalry after recent clashes. "It's a rivalry in every aspect, between the teams, the players, and the fans," the player stated.

For him, it will be important to gain an advantage in tomorrow's match. And the shortcut to that could be down the wing. "Both Leonardo Moura and I have the freedom to play offensively, but we can never neglect our marking," analyzes the full-back, who is one of the team's free-kick takers.

Time set

Without midfielder Renato Augusto, who is also expected to miss the game against América of Mexico on Wednesday, Joel has defined the team for the final as follows: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Kléberson, Íbson and Toró; Marcinho and Souza.

the moment of truth

Rio - Joel Santana will have the answer he's been seeking since he managed to lift Flamengo out of the relegation zone in last year's Brazilian Championship and secure a spot in the Libertadores Cup in 180 minutes. “There are so many emotions. The time has come to find out if this group is ready to be champions. The title will crown a job well done, and that's what marks a player's career,” says Joel.

Yesterday, the coach admitted the possibility of also managing the team in the second leg of the Libertadores Cup, on the 7th, against América of Mexico, at the Maracanã. The coach condemned the belief that Flamengo has to 'kill' the tie in the first game: “It's a 180-minute tie, we need to be balanced. We've reached the final, we can't afford to make mistakes.”

After tomorrow's game, the team will reconvene on Monday afternoon and travel to Mexico that night. The players have been advised to get complete rest to overcome the fatigue from the trip.

Renato Augusto is out of the first leg of the final.

Rio - Midfielder Renato Augusto will definitely miss the first leg of the final against Botafogo this Sunday at 16 pm at the Maracanã. According to Flamengo's doctor, Dr. José Luis Runco, the player is also a concern for next Wednesday's match against América of Mexico, valid for the Copa Libertadores.

"He still feels some discomfort in the movement of striking the ball, which is one of the most important aspects. We're going to try to get him back in shape for Wednesday's match," he explained in an interview with Rádio Globo.

According to Runco, making an assessment today about Renato Augusto's possible participation in the round of 16 is premature.

"The pain has been progressing quite well, it has been decreasing, but we have to wait. It would be premature to give an assessment today," he concluded.

Fla's starting lineup for the Juniors final has been announced.

Rio - Flamengo faces Fluminense on Sunday at 13:45 PM at the Maracanã, in the first leg of the Carioca Junior Championship final. The match will be the preliminary to the professional final between Flamengo and Botafogo.

After winning the Rio Cup, the Flamengo youth squad is aiming for its fourth consecutive championship in the category. Coach Adílio is expected to field Flamengo with: Marcelo, Davidson, Anderson Bamba, Wellinton, and Léo; Aírton, Antônio, Erick Flores, and Renan; Paulo Sérgio and Pedro Beda.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Renato Augusto suffers another injury and will not play on Sunday. (Gazeta Press)

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In the training session he led this Friday afternoon at Gávea, coach Joel Santana received confirmation that he will not be able to count on attacking midfielder Renato Augusto for the first leg of the Carioca Championship final on Sunday against Botafogo. The player attempted to participate in the training session but felt a recurrence of an injury in his right leg and had to leave the Flamengo field. Without Renato Augusto, coach Joel Santana confirmed that Marcinho will remain alongside Souza, as was the case last Wednesday in the match against Coronel Bolognesi of Peru for the Libertadores Cup.

Flamengo's coaching staff expects Renato Augusto to recover in time to travel to Mexico, where the team faces América-MEX next Wednesday in the first leg of the Libertadores round of 16.

Flamengo faces bureaucratic problems before trip to Mexico - Gazeta Press

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - This Friday morning, the Flamengo squad woke up early to go to the Mexican Consulate, where the players obtained visas to enter Mexico. This is because, next Wednesday, the Rubro-Negros will face América-MEX in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores Round of 16. Due to this fatigue, the coaching staff of the Rio de Janeiro team decided to cancel the trip the group was scheduled to make to Teresópolis. Instead of Granja Comary, the group concentrated its preparation for the State Championship final at Gávea. This Saturday morning, the Rubro-Negros will hold a recreational session, the last activity before the duel with Botafogo.

For the second phase of the Libertadores Cup, Flamengo has already confirmed that it will make a change to its roster. Midfielder Léo Medeiros, who transferred to Atlético-PR, will be replaced by young Airton, recently promoted to the professional squad by coach Joel Santana. The player started in the derby against Vasco earlier this month.

Flamengo will only travel to Mexico on Monday. The team's return is scheduled for Friday morning, when they arrive in Rio de Janeiro and will concentrate for the second leg of the Carioca final, which takes place two days later. Defender Rodrigo is not traveling to Mexico as he is still recovering from an arm injury.

Behind the scenes, there is speculation that the player would be willing to leave Flamengo to play for São Paulo. Rodrigo is on loan from Dynamo Kyiv until the middle of the year and has played little for the Rio de Janeiro club. Flamengo's management assures that they will only comment on the matter after the Carioca Championship final.

Justice - Off the field, Flamengo's president, Márcio Braga, may face problems at the Sports Justice Tribunal (TJD). The executive was indicted after criticizing referee Péricles Bassols Cortez, who officiated the Taça Rio semi-final between Flamengo and Botafogo, a match that Botafogo easily won 3-0.

Before Márcio Braga, left-back Juan had also been indicted for criticizing the referee in the game against Botafogo. The player will be judged next week, on Wednesday the 30th.

Souza expects Botafogo to be thirsty for revenge. - Gazeta Press

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In the last two times Flamengo faced Botafogo, they left the field defeated. But considering only the finals, the Rubro-negro (Flamengo) prevailed over their rival in the 2007 Campeonato Carioca (Rio de Janeiro State Championship) and also in this year's Taça Guanabara (Guanabara Cup). Therefore, Flamengo players expect a determined Botafogo for the state championship final that begins this Sunday at the Maracanã. “I was champion against them last year and also in this year's Taça Guanabara, and I know they want revenge. But we are prepared to play two good games and try to win another title,” stated striker Souza.

And given the decisive matches they've recently played, Flamengo and Botafogo have also seen their rivalry intensify on the field. In some games, players from both teams have even exchanged blows. Souza, who was at the center of one of these fights, hopes for a different story this Sunday.

"I think that's in the past and I hope there won't be any violence in this game," emphasized the striker, who even provoked Botafogo after the Guanabara Cup final, simulating crying in Flamengo's next game, mocking the opponent's complaints against the refereeing.

This time, however, the Flamengo player is trying to avoid any kind of provocation and prefers to praise their opponent in the Carioca final. The Flamengo striker doesn't name any favorite to win the state title.

“Both teams are in good form. Botafogo is doing well in the Copa do Brasil and is a well-organized team. The fans are the ones who benefit from this, as they will be able to see two great matches at the Maracanã,” Souza emphasized.

PELENET

Renato Augusto will miss Flamengo's first leg of the final.

Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo's coach, Joel Santana, tried to downplay it, but Renato Augusto, with a problem in his right knee, is indeed out of the classic against Botafogo on Sunday at the Maracanã, in the first final match of the State Championship.

Renato Augusto felt pain in his right thigh and was rested from training on Friday.

The absence of the midfielder was confirmed by the club's doctor, José Luiz Runco.

The young midfielder tried to train this Friday at Gávea, but soon felt the injury and returned to the locker room. The practice match was won by the starters 2-1.

"He doesn't feel pain when running, but he does when kicking. That's why he's not fit to play. He won't even be on the bench," Runco explained.

In this way, Marcinho will inherit the number 10 shirt, playing in the front line alongside Souza. The rest of the team will remain unchanged.

Therefore, Flamengo will take the field with: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Kléberson, Toró and Ibson;

Joel praises the professional attitude of left-back Juan.

Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Juan has been one of Flamengo's main weapons this season. The left-back is a constant presence when the team attacks, in addition to taking good care of his area. Because of these qualities, coach Joel Santana showed his admiration for the player this Friday.

Left-back Juan, one of Flamengo's key players, was praised by Joel Santana.

"Juan is a very important player for the group. He's called 'little cocky,' but it's an affectionate nickname. I have no complaints about his professional attitude, as he is correct and disciplined. I've never seen this player in the medical department," the coach analyzed.

The fact that Juan wasn't "training" with Flamengo's doctors was well observed by Joel Santana. The left-back revealed that his last injury was four years ago, when he was still playing for Fluminense.

"This happened in 2004. I had the misfortune of taking a blow to my right shoulder and unfortunately I was out of training for a few days," he recalled.

On the verge of winning his third title with Flamengo, nothing fazes the left-back, not even the possibility of being punished by the Sports Justice Tribunal of Rio de Janeiro (TJD-RJ) in the trial next Wednesday, the 30th.

The player, who strongly protested against referee Péricles Bassols Cortez in the Taça Rio final against Botafogo (a 3-0 defeat), was charged under article 251 (protesting, through gestures or words, against refereeing decisions). The punishment for this type of offense ranges from one to four games suspension.

"I'm calm. I'm aware of what I said. I believe I didn't mean to disrespect the referee," concluded the Flamengo left-back.

Joel says that this year's work will face a "trial by fire" in this final.

Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\

After the State Championship final, Joel Santana will leave Flamengo to coach the South African national team (replacing Carlos Alberto Parreira). According to the Flamengo coach, this means all the work done in 2008 will be put into practice in the next two Sundays against Botafogo.

Coach Joel Santana sees the State Championship final as a "baptism of fire".

"The title isn't decided in just the last week. Anyone who thinks that is mistaken. We're going to try to put into practice all the work we've done since the preseason. We'll try to show the public and the fans that we're ready for the title," he stated.

Joel Santana's confidence is so great that he preferred not to name a specific player capable of deciding such hotly contested matches as derbies. The coach took the opportunity to offer general praise.

"All thirty players are important to Flamengo. Not just one or two. I like this group because everyone is always motivated. I don't need to explain why I use this or that player," he said.

In this "end of the party" atmosphere, Joel Santana, once again, spoke about his departure from Flamengo. In the press conference this Friday, at Gávea, the coach showed some emotion.

"As the Roberto Carlos song says, there are so many emotions. I've played for many clubs and I don't have a special passion for any of them. This is my fifth stint at Flamengo. I'm happy with the opportunity given by the South Africans to represent their country in the 2010 World Cup. It's important for my professional life. I hope I have the same luck and recognition as Flamengo," he concluded.

GLOBOESPORTE

Joel is upset with the press, says newspaper.

Flamengo's coach, tired of the criticism: 'No one is there to lift us up'

Joel Santana was truly filled with "emotions" last Friday. After an interview in which he almost cried, the Flamengo coach, speaking to South African journalists, expressed resentment towards the Brazilian press.

- "Nobody shows up to put it up," said Joel Santana in statements published by the newspaper "O Globo".

According to the publication, Joel accuses Brazilian journalists of tarnishing his image abroad and fueling the questions directed at him.

Initially, the coach will leave Flamengo after the second leg of the Campeonato Carioca final on May 4th and join the team in South Africa. However, there is an effort to extend his stay until the second leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 16 on May 7th.

Fla and Botafogo begin the decision in a 'light' atmosphere

Teams forget past clashes in the first match of the Carioca final

Eduardo Peixoto and Fred Huber

Goalkeeper Bruno and top scorer Wellington Paulista are in great form and will face off in a private duel in Sunday's classic at Maracanã

The whining and the like are, until further notice, retired. Botafogo and Flamengo begin the Campeonato Carioca final this Sunday in an atmosphere that doesn't even remotely resemble the warlike atmosphere of yesteryear. The classic at Maracanã will begin at 16 p.m., with live coverage on Rede Globo and live coverage on GLOBOESPORTE.COM.

X-ray: Check out the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. Concerned about not offending or motivating their opponents with clumsy statements, the players on both teams adopted a more measured tone in the week leading up to the match. Protagonists of a verbal duel after the Guanabara Cup final, Túlio and Souza forget the warlike atmosphere.

"There's no sense of revenge. We lost last year and we have to think about being champions now," says the black and white team.

The Fla striker completes the "white flag" mood:

- That's over. I'm calm and ready for this final.

X-ray: know the strengths and weaknesses of both teams

The two starting lineups met twice in the 2008 State Championship, with each team winning once. Flamengo won the Guanabara Cup final 2-1, a match marked by controversy and debate (see the video below). The black-and-white team's revenge came in the Rio Cup semifinal: 3-0 to Botafogo. The black-and-white team also faced a mixed team from their rivals in the Rio Cup, which Cuca's men won 3-2.

In all three matches, Wellington Paulista left his mark. The tournament's top scorer (14 goals) smiles and says he's lucky against Flamengo. Modesty. The new executioner is causing concern in Gávea.

- Their center forward is in good form and scores a lot of goals - says Marcinho.

Speaking of good times, Bruno is also enjoying one. The goalkeeper scored a free kick last Wednesday against Coronel Bolognesi, confirming his status as an idol among the red-and-black fans.

"I can say that I feel very safe at Flamengo, as if I were at home. I notice every day that the fans have a lot of trust in me," says the number 1.

Renato Augusto leaves Flamengo training. The player is banned.

The final hasn't even begun, and the outlook for the second leg favors Botafogo. After all, their opponents leave for Mexico City on Monday, where they'll play the first leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 16 two days later. Because of the long trip, there's a consensus in Gávea that the team will enter at a disadvantage.

"It would be great to get a good lead right away because of this trip to Mexico. That's what we want, but that doesn't mean we'll succeed. It's very difficult," says left-back Juan.

Even with the expected wear and tear on the opponent, Cuca is favoring the red-black side.

"Flamengo is the favorite, there's no denying it. We have some players missing for this match, and they'll be practically full," says Botafogo's coach.

A loss at Fla

Coach Joel Santana's only problem for the final is Renato Augusto. The player is experiencing pain in his right knee and has been ruled out by the medical department. Marcinho replaces him. Heading off to the South African national team, the red-and-black coach is once again relying on his "elite troop" in midfield, featuring Cristian, Toró, Kleberson, and Ibson.

....and many in Bota

At Botafogo, coach Cuca has no shortage of problems when it comes to selecting his team. He will be without goalkeeper Castillo and left-back Triguinho, who both have serious muscle injuries in their right thigh. Alessandro and Jorge Henrique, both suspended, will also miss the field. This Friday, the coach led a training session and outlined the team, but preferred not to reveal the full lineup. He did confirm the presence of Renan in goal and Fábio in attack. The goalkeeper's starting lineup was hotly debated, as the 18-year-old missed a game in Wednesday's Copa do Brasil match against Portuguesa.

Renan, 18, has the responsibility of replacing Uruguayan Castillo

Cuca assured that Bota, despite not being complete, will not close in on the defensive field, and spoke of the expectations for this duel against the red-blacks.

"It's not our nature to play defensively; we'll go after Flamengo too. They're two teams that consistently reach the finals. Botafogo respects Flamengo a lot, but we know they respect us a lot too. I love playing classics; if I could, every game would be like that."

Midfielder Lucio Flavio, however, stressed the importance of the team not exposing itself too much and running the risk of letting Flamengo open up an advantage for the second game.

"We have four important absences, unlike Flamengo. We have to be careful not to let them open up a big lead going into the final. We trust the players who will play and we're going in with the goal of getting the win," he says.

Cuca: 'Flamengo is the favorite, I can't deny it'

The coach has not confirmed the starting eleven for Sunday's final.

Fred Huber

Cuca in charge of Botafogo's training session.

Despite their strong performance in the Carioca Championship and having beaten Flamengo 3-0 in their last encounter, coach Cuca believes their rival is the clear favorite for this first leg of the Carioca final on Sunday at the Maracanã. The coach bases this on the fact that Botafogo will be missing four of their starters (Castillo, Alessandro, Triguinho, and Jorge Henrique), while Flamengo will only be without Renato Augusto.

This Friday, Cuca led a practice session at Caio Martins, in Niterói. After the session, he preferred not to confirm the starting lineup for Túlio Souza and Leandro Guerreiro, but said that Renan and Fábio will play. The coach said he will use Saturday's training session to make observations, such as whether Eduardo will be included in the team.

"Flamengo is the favorite, we can't deny that. We have some players missing for this match, and they'll be practically at full strength. I won't comment on Renato Augusto's absence; I'm just focused on my team. I have a lot of problems, but I know I have solutions. I haven't finished my work for this match yet; I don't have the team defined. We have a training session tomorrow (Saturday), and I intend to observe some situations, like Eduardo's inclusion. If I make changes to the team for Sunday, I don't want people to say later that I didn't practice the formation. It's not about being secretive; we have nothing to hide," he assures.

About thirty fans went to the stadium to watch the training session. Coach Cuca didn't like it when one of them encouraged the players to put in more effort in their plays.

- A fan started shouting: "Go, get him!". So I went up to him and told him to relax, that the game wasn't until Sunday. He realized his adrenaline was too high and left on his own, without any problems - he says.

Joel says he doesn't leave for money.

Emotional coach urges team to show they are capable of winning the Carioca championship.

Eduardo Peixoto

Joel Santana gets emotional during farewell.

Joel Santana's farewell is approaching. During interviews, he constantly talks about the legacy he will leave for his successor. He recalls taking over at a time when Flamengo was despised and helped the club recover its prestige with good campaigns in the Brazilian Championship, the Libertadores Cup, and the Carioca Championship. This Friday, he became emotional when remembering that he is living his last days at Gávea.

Initially, the coach will leave Flamengo after the second leg of the Campeonato Carioca final on May 4th and join the team in South Africa. However, there is an effort to extend his stay until the second leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 16 on May 7th. In response, the coach chose English and an evasive approach.

"Maybe," she says, smiling.

'So many emotions'

But Joel's interview wasn't all smiles. At times, when he remembered that he's nearing the end of his fifth stint at Flamengo, his eyes filled with tears.

"There are so many emotions," he says, paraphrasing the singer Roberto Carlos. Then he added:

"I didn't leave Flamengo because of money. People need to stop with that. The host country of the next World Cup called Joel Santana to coach them. I'm going there to represent my people. It was an unexpected gift I received from Santa Claus."

Despite their merits, the coach believes it's time for the players to prove they form a winning team. Therefore, he believes in and maintains the core group he's had since 2007.

"It was a long job, done detail by detail. How can I change a group that has reached all the finals? We've been together for nine months and now we're going to tell the fans if we're ready to be champions," declares Joel.

'Botafogo is our biggest rival right now,' says Juan.

The left-back recalls recent clashes and says the teams already know each other.

Eduardo Peixoto

Vasco and Fluminense have fallen behind in the barometer that measures rivalry. At least in Juan's opinion. The Flamengo left-back has chosen Botafogo as the main opponent at present. The two teams decided the 2007 State Championship, repeated the final in this year's Taça Guanabara, and will face each other again on Sunday in the first leg of the Carioca Championship final.

- Botafogo has been our biggest rival in recent years. Because of the repeated matches, the teams know each other very well - says the Flamengo player. Due to Botafogo's absences and the long trip Flamengo will face next week, there's a current of thought that imagines a possible victory by a good goal margin for Flamengo as their only chance of winning the title. Juan thinks similarly.

"It would be great to build a good lead right away because of this trip to Mexico. That's what we want, but it doesn't mean we'll manage it. It's very difficult," says the left-back.

Flamengo tries to secure the lead against Minas.

Before the Copa Sudamericana final, Flamengo could secure first place in the first phase of the Brazilian Championship.

Flamengo comes into this match after two victories in the decisive series of the South American League.

The South American League final against Corrientes of Argentina will take a backseat this Saturday for Flamengo. The Rubro-Negro will try to secure first place in the regular phase of the Men's National Championship against Minas, at the opponent's home in Belo Horizonte, with live broadcast on SporTV at 14 PM. The Rio de Janeiro team has the best record, with 17 wins and only one loss, while Minas is in second place, with 16 wins and four losses.

But the concern regarding the Argentinian players will not be disregarded, since Minas has point guard Sucatzky in great form, leading the league in assists with an average of 10,7 per game. In fact, the two teams know each other very well, as Minas players both played for Fluminense in this year's Carioca Championship.

"This past week was exhausting, not only physically but psychologically as well. But the joy of having managed to tie the series and achieve our goal, which was to take the decision to the last game, is a huge motivating factor. We have a very important game against Minas, a game that will give our team greater peace of mind because we can secure first place. We've played against Minas a few times this year and we know their team well, and besides their good play in the paint and the offensive power they have from three-point range, we know that Sucatzky can't be given freedom," says forward Marcelinho, the competition's top scorer with an average of 24,4 points per game.

Flamengo fans are keeping an eye on Sucatzky.

In the first leg, in Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo came out on top: 96 to 89. The two teams have faced each other 20 times in the history of the National Championship (1990 to 2008), with 11 wins for the Minas team against nine for the Rio team. Flamengo has the most prolific offense and the least scored-upon defense in the 2008 National Championship, averaging 93.9 and 71.4 points, respectively. Minas has the second-best offense with an average of 89.6 points and the sixth-best defense with 76.8 points.

"We need to win to maintain our second-place position and keep dreaming of first place in the standings during the qualifying phase. Therefore, defense will be crucial, as Flamengo has an impressive offensive power and we have to reduce their effectiveness with good marking," says center Mãozão, from Minas.

South American League

After winning twice at Maracanãzinho and tying the series 2-2, Flamengo travels to Corrientes (Argentina) next Wednesday to face Regatas in the fifth and decisive game of the best-of-five series in the 2008 South American League finals. The game starts at 23 PM (Brasilia time) and whoever wins takes the unprecedented title.

Fla-Flu: the decision rests with the youngsters.

Tricolores and rubro-negros face off at the Maracanã for hegemony in the State Junior Championship.

Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto

Champion of the Taça Rio junior tournament, Flamengo will face Fluminense in the state championship final.

The high-profile signings and the anticipation of competing in the Libertadores Cup made Fla-Flu the most anticipated derby of this year's Carioca Championship. The heightened rivalry and quality teams were the ingredients that led all critics to predict a fiery duel between the tricolors and the red-and-blacks in a supposed championship decider. Four months have passed, and Botafogo is the team from Gávea that will decide the competition, but that doesn't mean Sunday at Maracanã will be without a Fla-Flu match. The Flamengo and Fluminense youth teams will face off at 13:15 PM in the State Junior Championship final, promising to maintain the tradition of the derby that began 'five minutes before nothing,' as Nelson Rodrigues would say. The gates will open at 13 PM.

Fluminense, champions of the Taça Guanabara, are counting on the momentum of their Xerém youth academy, who already won the Dubai Tournament this year, to put an end to Flamengo's three-year hegemony and maintain a comfortable lead in the competition's overall standings (currently 30-28). Flamengo, on the other hand, are riding high after winning the Taça Rio last weekend against Macaé. Seeking an unprecedented fourth consecutive title, the Rubro-Negros aim to ignite a fanbase that will be ready to support their professional team from the start.

The only time they faced each other in the competition, Flamengo won in the first round: 1-0, in a 'friendly' match where Flamengo had already been eliminated and Fluminense had qualified for the semi-finals.

'Reinforcements' and rest, the Tricolor's trump card.

Relaxed after winning the Guanabara Cup, Fluminense didn't even qualify for the Rio Cup semifinals. However, anyone who thinks that the inability to win the title early has shaken the squad is mistaken. Focused, the Tricolor took advantage of the 'break' to train intensively for the final. Coach Edgar Pereira, who is keeping the starting lineup a secret, is confident in their season's performance to overcome Flamengo.

Champions in Dubai, Fluminense's junior team will decide the State Championship against Flamengo.

"We've trained a lot over the last 15 days and the team is very well-integrated. We have a strong unit and we proved that this year when we won the Taça Guanabara and the International Tournament of the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi, where we defeated great teams like Liverpool, Atlético de Madrid and Genoa," he said through his press office.

Professional squad members, defender Anderson and striker Alan, were released by Renato Gaúcho to play in the final and will strengthen the team. With seven goals, Maicon, who has also played for the first team, is the Tricolor's top scorer in the competition.

Fla plays 'at home'

In theory, the Flamengo team has an advantage: they will be playing in front of their home crowd, since the game is a preliminary to the final between Flamengo and Botafogo. However, this advantage could turn into a problem, according to coach Adílio.

"Of course the players talk about it, they get euphoric about playing in a packed Maracanã. But it's also dangerous. They can get carried away, try an extra dribble, and that would hurt the team. I talk to the boys daily to prevent that from happening," he says.

Adílio has been in charge of Flamengo's junior team since 2005. He has won every title he has competed in. Now, he could achieve an unprecedented fourth consecutive championship. The team has no medical or suspension problems. However, Joel Santana promoted midfielder Aírton to the professional team this week, and his inclusion in the starting lineup is uncertain. During training, Vinícius Colombiano replaced him.

To reach the final, Flamengo won the Taça Rio by defeating Macaé 1-0, with a goal by Paulo Sergio. The striker is the tournament's top scorer with 17 goals in 15 games.

Flamengo's starting lineup: Marcelo; Davidson, Anderson Bamba, Wellinton and Leo; Vinícius Colombiano, Antônio, Erick Flores and Renan; Paulo Sergio and Pedro Beda. Coach: Adílio

Fluminense's starting lineup: Léo; Anderson, Bryan, Arthur and Matheus; Isaías, Augusto, Ferreira and Anderson Gaúcho; Alan and Dori. Coach: Edgar Pereira

Referee: Eduardo Cordeiro Guimarães

Assistants: Daniel do Espírito Santo Parro and Sergio Mantovani Cerqueira

THROW

Runco: 'Renato Augusto is out of Sunday's game'

The midfielder is doubtful for Wednesday and may not even travel to Mexico.

Renato Augusto will not play next Sunday.

LANCEPRESS!

At the end of Friday's training session in Gávea, Flamengo's doctor José Luiz Runco ruled out any possibility of Renato Augusto playing in the first leg of the Carioca final against Botafogo on Sunday.

- Renato Augusto is out of Sunday's game. He still feels pain when he hits the ball. He can perform other movements normally - said the doctor regarding the player, who has edema in his right leg.

Runco also stated that the midfielder is doubtful for Wednesday's match against América of Mexico, valid for the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores, and may not even travel with the Flamengo delegation.

"He's doubtful for Wednesday. It will be decided here in Brazil whether he's fit or not. If he's not fit, he won't even travel," Runco concluded.

Renato Augusto attempted, this Friday, for the first time to train with the ball since being injured in the Taça Rio semi-final against Botafogo. Right at the start of the session, the player felt the injury and went to the locker room without even participating in the practice match.

Juan wants an advantage in the first leg of the final.

The full-back says he's confident about taking free kicks after scoring against Cienciano.

LANCEPRESS!

Aware of the fatigue caused by the trip to Mexico, where Flamengo will play the first leg of the Libertadores round of 16 next Wednesday, Juan was receptive to the idea of ​​Flamengo quickly establishing a good advantage in the first leg of the Carioca final next Sunday against Botafogo.

The left-back believes that a positive result in the next match would even give the team greater security for the game against América-MEX.

"It would be great to gain an advantage against Botafogo. It would give us more security, especially considering the long trip we have to make and the game itself, where we don't know what will happen. We know it's difficult to get an advantage there, but if we manage to, it will be fantastic. We have to play intelligently," he advised.

The full-back even scored a free-kick goal in Flamengo's last away game in the Libertadores Cup - Flamengo 3-0 Cienciano. Despite not usually taking free-kicks near the penalty area, Juan seemed excited about this new opportunity in his career.

"I'm very confident. The goal I scored against Cienciano boosted my confidence even more. If I get an opportunity on Sunday, I'll take the chance," he promised.

In 1992, Flamengo decided the title in the first game.

Flamengo defeated Botafogo 3-0 in the Brazilian Championship final.

LANCEPRESS!

Flamengo and Botafogo faced off in the 1992 Brazilian Championship final. And, as many Flamengo fans hope for in this year's Carioca Championship final, Flamengo secured the victory in the first leg.

Without paying any attention to their opponent, Flamengo, with goals from Júnior, Nélio, and Gaúcho, crushed Botafogo and came within a step of what would have been their fifth national title.

Joel Santana heaps praise on Toró and Juan.

Players are undisputed starters on the Flamengo team and will play next Sunday\ LANCEPRESS!\

While Toró is known to be Joel Santana's favorite player, Juan is another player in the Flamengo squad who enjoys great prestige with the coach. Both are undisputed starters under Joel's command and are considered by the coach to be important players for the functioning of Flamengo's tactical scheme.

"We have a way for Toró to play. He's what you'd call a workhorse. He earned his place through his will and his behavior, and he's very important to us. Juan, on the other hand, is a correct and disciplined athlete. He's always in good spirits and is very important to us. He's a player I've never seen in the medical department," said Joel.

Marcinho highlights the importance of the Carioca Championship.

Midfielder wants to seize new opportunity in Flamengo's starting lineup | LANCEPRESS!

Another chance in Flamengo's starting lineup, another chance to establish himself. With Renato Augusto injured, Marcinho is practically a sure starter in the team that will take the field in the first leg of the Carioca final next Sunday against Botafogo.

Although he is only starting his career at Gávea, the midfielder knows how important the regional title is and how decisive it can be for the rest of the year for Flamengo.

"Last year, the Rio state championship title was very important for Flamengo, and this year will be no different. If we win the championship, it will be important for our performance throughout the year. Everyone knows the importance of this state championship. Everything will be at stake in this match, for all four months of the year," he stated.

The player also mentioned that he has consistently performed well for Joel Santana's team and that he will continue to seek a place in Flamengo's starting lineup.

"I've been playing well and scoring goals, but the most important thing is to contribute to the team. I've been working hard so that when I have a chance, I can't seize it. Especially because in a quality group like Flamengo's, you can't waste opportunities," he explained.

Joel takes the pressure off the first game of the final.

Flamengo's coach disagrees that the team needs to decide the outcome in the first match. (LANCEPRESS!)

Coach Joel Santana disagrees with those who believe Flamengo should immediately build a comfortable lead over Botafogo in the first leg of the Carioca final because of their trip to Mexico. According to the coach, the final is a 180-minute match and will not be decided prematurely.

"They're already starting to create a situation where, if we don't decide in the first game, it will be difficult. The decision will be made over 180 minutes, and there's no such thing as the first game being decisive," he stated to Rádio Tupi.