The Globe
A Christmas of race, love, passion and Libertadores
Fla beat Atlético-PR 2-0 at Maracanã, counts on Sport's help and guarantees the dream spot in advance
"Race, love, and passion." The fans' chant became a slogan printed on a t-shirt that Flamengo players wore after the final whistle. A beautiful party with 82.044 paying spectators—a record for this Brazilian Championship—celebrated the dream come true on the Maracanã pitch last night. From being seriously threatened with relegation in the first round, Flamengo secured its spot in next year's Copa Libertadores with a 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR and a providential boost from Sport, who defeated Cruzeiro 1-0 at Ilha do Retiro.
"Is the Cruzeiro game over? You're lying," a suspicious and emotional Joel Santana repeated to the reporters on the field, seconds before the confirmation that Sport had won and Flamengo was mathematically guaranteed a spot in the 2008 Libertadores. "It's a campaign worthy of our home, the Maracanã. The greatest Christmas present these wonderful fans could ever receive."
Penta party, with cups, on the Maracanã lawn
In front of a panel commissioned by Suderj (State of Rio de Janeiro) with the phrase "First five-time Brazilian champion, champion fans," the players sang, jumped, and even raised a commemorative trophy awarded by the State Government, as well as a Styrofoam cup identical to the one the CBF plans to give to São Paulo on the 3rd, at the celebration of the best of the Brazilian Championship. Seeking the national runner-up spot, which will guarantee a R$500 prize for the players, Flamengo plays its final match on the 2nd, against Náutico, at Aflitos Stadium. Yesterday's victory put the red-and-black team in third place with 61 points, one point behind Santos, who is second after their comeback victory over Paraná yesterday. Jailton and Renato Augusto, who received their third yellow cards yesterday, are out. But Toró, who served a suspension, returns to the team.
With Léo Medeiros in midfield, Flamengo started pressing and hit the post in the eighth minute with a header from the midfielder himself. But the pace dropped, and neither team produced much of anything until the end of the first half.
In the second half, Atlético-PR mounted pressure. But a beautiful one-two between Souza and Renato Augusto opened the scoring in the fourth minute. The two exchanged passes, and the number 10 fired a powerful shot from mid-range, leaving Viáfara with no chance. Flamengo didn't back down after the goal and continued to prowl the opponent's box. They scored their second goal in the 16th minute, benefiting from a refereeing error. Juan, in an offside position, received the ball from Renato Augusto almost in the six-yard box and had only to tap it into the net, taking over as Flamengo's top scorer in this Brazilian Championship with six goals.
The red-and-black party exploded once and for all when the big screen announced Sport's goal against Cruzeiro, in a combination of results that guaranteed Flamengo's spot.
On the field, the Rio de Janeiro team controlled the game without any problems and even allowed themselves the luxury of wasting chances through precision. Joel Santana then brought on Obina for Léo Medeiros to take advantage of Atlético-PR's disorganization. But Flamengo simply maintained possession, waiting for their dream to materialize at the final whistle.
"We were escaping relegation, and before we knew it, we were already fighting for the Copa Libertadores. The merry Christmas we so longed for has finally arrived," celebrated Fábio Luciano.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jailton, Cristian (Roger), Leo Medeiros (Obina) and Ibson; Renato Augusto (Colace) and Souza. Atlético-PR: Viáfara, Jancarlos, Danilo and Antonio Carlos (Marcelo Ramos); Michel (Ramon), Valencia, Clayton, Netinho (Edno) and Ferreira; Alex Mineiro and Marcelo Ramos. Referee: Wilson Seneme. Yellow cards: Jailton, Renato Augusto, Claiton, Ferreira and Alex. Revenue: R$765.564. Attendance: 82.044 paying spectators (87.895 present).
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: Playing with the number 20 shirt, he was rarely used by the Paraná attack. 6.
LEONARDO MOURA: He had a promising start and was important in the second half, showing stamina and delivering good crosses. 7,5.
FÁBIO LUCIANO: Showed confidence and personality in defense. 6,5.
RONALDO ANGELIM: He also did well in marking and even had a chance to score. 7.
JUAN: In addition to being important in support, he appeared efficiently in attack and ended up scoring a goal. 8.
JAILTON: Tactically important, he provided the necessary protection to the defense, combating the creation of Ney Franco's team. 7.
CRISTIAN: He also stayed more focused on marking to give freedom to the red-and-black full-backs. 6. ROGER came on at the end. No rating.
LÉO MEDEIROS: His introduction gave the red-and-black midfield more consistency. He hit the post with a header, fought hard in the marking, and was released with cramps. 7. OBINA came on, fought hard, but was rarely used in attack. 5,5.
IBSON: He wasn't brilliant, but he was tireless in midfield, providing rhythm and some good passes. 7,5.
RENATO AUGUSTO: The name of the game. He scored the first goal, a one-two with Souza, and then provided the assist for Juan's second. 8,5. COLACE replaced him late. No rating.
SOUZA: Even without leaving his mark, he shone with his tactical application and good passes, like the one for the first goal. 8.
JOEL SANTANA: His choice of Léo Medeiros made the team more secure. 7.
ATLÉTICO-PR
In Ney Franco's limited team, Ferreira stands out and that's it.
ARBITRATION
Wilson Seneme made a mistake in validating Flamengo's second goal.
Rio double after 23 years
Flamengo's spot secured yesterday at Maracanã guaranteed the breaking of a historic record for Rio de Janeiro football in next year's Copa Libertadores. Rio de Janeiro hasn't had two teams competing together in the continent's premier competition since 1985. The last time, 23 years ago, Vasco da Gama and Fluminense failed to advance beyond the first round.
This time, in addition to Flamengo, mathematically guaranteed, Rio will also feature the Tricolor, champion of the Copa do Brasil. It will be the ninth appearance for Flamengo, who won in 1981. The title paved the way for the unforgettable team of Zico, Júnior, Leandro, Adílio & Co. to win the Interclub World Cup, against Liverpool, in Japan. Besides Flamengo, the only Rio club to have won the Copa Libertadores is Vasco, in 1998.
Ironically, Flamengo's spot this time came with a helping hand from Sport. Twenty years ago, the Pernambuco club, champions of the Second Division, ended up competing in the Libertadores Cup in place of the Rio de Janeiro club, after being declared Brazilian champions by the CBF. That year, Flamengo won the Copa União, which brought together the country's biggest clubs.
Renato Augusto: 'I left through the front door'
Joel Santana finally celebrates qualifying for the Libertadores, takes a swipe at those who called him outdated and says that now Flamengo is seeing paradise
JUAN JUMPS over Jailton and Léo Medeiros on the lawn, imitating the men's volleyball team, at the party after the game
RENATO AUGUSTO explodes after scoring his beautiful goal, Flamengo's first
JOEL SANTANA applauds the fans, thanking them for their support of the team during this critical phase
Márcio Tavares
Still in the first half, when he received a yellow card from referee Wilson Seneme, supporter Renato Augusto—one of the Flamengo fans who had entered the field on a suspended note—found himself at a crossroads. After an inconsistent year, with excellent performances in the first half of the year contrasted with frustration with the U-20 national team and muscle injuries that sidelined him for a long time, he knew he wouldn't get another chance to justify his diamond-in-the-cutting treatment at Gávea. The explosion of joy upon celebrating yesterday's beautiful opening goal was amply justified after yesterday's match.
"I left Maracanã through the front door, feeling cleansed," the number 10 summarized. "I had a good first half, but the second was full of problems, and I know I didn't perform as well as everyone expected. When I entered the locker room at halftime, I thought to myself, 'I either excel now or I won't get another chance.' And, thank God, I had a satisfactory performance."
More than satisfactory, a decisive performance. Besides the beautiful goal that paved the way for victory, he also provided the pass for Juan's second, in a play in which he combined the tenacity to retrieve a nearly lost ball on the byline with the precision of a pinpoint pass that even confused the referee. Juan scored the goal from an offside position.
Renato Augusto actively participated in the red-and-black celebration of the team's qualification to the Copa Libertadores, which even included a collective fishball on the grass, imitating the victorious gesture of the men's volleyball team, led by Bernardinho. His most special thanks for this brilliant performance went to his mother, Salete, who was her biggest cheerleader during the most difficult moments of the year.
- She is red and black at heart and has always been by my side - he melted.
Joel Santana: "I didn't just parachute into football"
Even without Renato Augusto and Jailton, coach Joel Santana's speech after the victory, celebrated as if it were a title win, with uncontainable shouting and euphoria in the locker room, was one of tranquility and continuation of the work for the last game of this Brazilian Championship and also for the match against Náutico, Sunday, in Recife.
- We have a commitment to public opinion and to other clubs, as some teams depend on our results.
Despite his calm and focused tone, Joel didn't hide the fact that he had a little word stuck in his throat (outdated), which was stirring and stirring his pride.
"I'm not answering to anyone, I'm just very happy. But football is the only profession in the world where, once you get experienced, you become outdated. I didn't just parachute into football. It's been 25 years, and now I'm finally seeing paradise," said Joel.
The pay train on a new route
With emotional and financial support, fans take the team to the Libertadores
BOY CARRIES a red-and-black Santa Claus and a request for peace: the early gift came with the classification
FLAGS, ecstatic FANS, lights and even a coffin gloating over rival Vasco make up the party in the stands
FANS DISPLAY A POSTER WITH A DESIGN OF THE RED-BLACK CHRIST
WITH WATERMELON on their minds, fans celebrate
Pedro Motta Gueiros
The wave of prosperity, love, and respect for the club began to build when the team left the field to applause despite being eliminated from the Copa Libertadores in May. A few months later, even in the relegation zone, 40 people waited until the last minute to celebrate the victory over Náutico. For the final stage of the ordeal, the fans spent days and nights in line, were physically and morally assaulted, but emerged reborn yesterday from Maracanã. In addition to their unconditional love, the red-and-black fans practice their devotion with money. Even at the end of the month, they are always ready to pay the bill and share the joy.
"I have diabetes, osteoarthritis, I'm unemployed, and I'm single-handedly caring for a special-needs grandson and another with heart disease," said Realina Onorina da Silva, 61, sitting on the steps of the Bellini stadium, next to a yellow plastic bin where fans threw their empty cans for recycling. "Flamengo is my joy and the little money I earn."
A resident of the Antares favela, Realina receives R$76 a month from Bolsa Família, food baskets from her church, and affection from her red-and-black fans. To go to the game, she spends R$4,40 on tickets, hoping that the red-and-black fare-paying train will take her home with 230 cans worth R$30.
"I'm a Flamengo fan, a devotee of Saint Jude, and I have a lot of drive. Otherwise, I would have had a fit by now."
Yesterday, the explosion was pure joy. Responsible for 70% of Maracanã's revenue this year, Flamengo fans have been treated well by their team. As consumers, they are victims of a strange logic in which one side wants to pay while the other creates obstacles to receiving. It's been this way all year, with mile-long lines and few sales points. For yesterday's match, scalpers had their hands full of tickets while empty seats remained in the yellow and white stands. Tickets, exchanged for cans of Neston, which cost around R$5, sold for as much as R$60. Near the start of the game, prices dropped to R$20, R$10, and even R$5.
"There was a lack of respect, they fired shots in the air, we were attacked trying to get tickets," lamented Alexandre da Silva, 31, who took the subway in Inhaúma to pick up his 9-year-old son, Júnior. "I earn R$650, I have a wife and another daughter to take care of. There's a cable TV station up in the favela, you could watch it for free."
Despite his tight budget, he paid to see it, bought a R$3 hat for his son's head, and even had a glass full of beer. He tossed the empty cans into Realina's bag, accompanied by words like "excuse me," "please," and "thank you." Concerned about setting an example for Júnior, he said it was possible to support the team without dirtying the street or your mouth:
- Only inside do we swear.
Outside, the indecency was silent. Until the ball rolled, the Special Criminal Court had only recorded the arrest of a ticket scalper. The offense is paid for with food baskets. Around the stadium, the police had other sanctions in place. With a stack of magnetic cards in one hand and cash in the other, a gang member was sharing tickets with his colleagues until he was approached by police officers. Intolerance was evident on the faces of both groups. Given their mutual inability to communicate, the tickets were confiscated before any investigation. The slaps and batons were also quicker than words. Driven like cattle, gang members dispersed along with pepper spray, while the ticket holder was taken away.
"It's very unprepared and bad faith. I fell asleep in line, and when the ticket office opened, I saw the police officers leaving with a stack of tickets," said an administrator, who declined to be named.
At Maracanã, the line between protection and abandonment is tenuous. It's common to see police officers warning fans or threatening to assault them before letting them go, as if the law provided for infractions that were half or nearly crimes.
- Look, friend, I know you shouldn't even be here, but I'm going to let you pass - said a guard in the stands to a biscuit and peanut vendor.
At the entrance to the stands, around 60 street vendors were held captive by the Military Police, waiting for the Municipal Guard to seize their wares. Despite the ban on vending around the stadium, the officer in charge of suppressing it himself said he was in favor of organizing the work of street vendors. And a Flamengo game attracts hundreds of them. Besides generating revenue for the club and enriching scalpers, the fans fuel an informal economy that has grown alongside the team in the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship.
"One is five, three is ten," shouted the seller of the hair bows, decorated with red and black feathers and two plastic vultures as antennas. "A carnival artist from Treasure Beco ordered it from Japan."
Guyanese musician plays anthem in the pan
Despite its dubious provenance, the Maracanã stadium is home to a world apart. Playing the red-and-black anthem on an instrument called a steel pan, which looks more like two dog bowls, Black Prince distributed his handwritten phone number card to show off at parties. Soaked in sweat, nearly two meters tall, with dreadlocks, born in Guyana and a resident of Estácio, the musician impressed with the delicacy with which he coaxed the sound from the metal, as if it were a xylophone:
- I like Flamengo, but if you want to give me money, I accept.
He was in the right place. The red-and-black fans always foot the bill. Petrópolis resident Maurício Souza, 39, already has his passion factored into his spending.
"Flamengo is on budget, spending about R$300 a month. If we had a serious budget, we'd pay for the club to bring in a star player," he said, willing to invest in a way the club doesn't invest in its fans. "There are no tickets for sale in Petrópolis. The club would earn much more if it had sales outlets in several cities."
The son of Portuguese parents, Serafim Soares is also capable of spending what he has on Flamengo.
- If you come with R$100, it's all for free.
The reward goes beyond joy. As the owner of a recycling company, the supply of raw materials increases along with the consumption of drinks at the club's games. Today, despite the general hangover, all the excesses and sacrifices were worth it. Before the game, a banner was unfurled on the field demanding a "No to violence against women." The demand could have been extended to fans in general. But, as every red-and-black fan is born from a female womb, the banner serves to embrace the entire nation, which suffers but does not lose the strength to support the team with love and whatever it has in its pocket.
Fernando Calazans
What a Sunday!
Flamengo fans' apotheosis on a full Sunday: a victory over Atlético-PR at Maracanã, and Cruzeiro's loss to Sport at Ilha do Retiro. The result of this day adorned with red and black flags: Flamengo qualified for the Copa Libertadores and, even better, with the peace of mind and luxury of being able to play the final round as if it were a friendly, the last training session of the year.
Could anyone, even the most euphoric Flamengo fan, trust in a better outcome, after such a hesitant start, stumbling in the relegation zone?
First and foremost: a happy and well-deserved ending for a team that completely changed its appearance, a team with two faces, before and after the arrival of Joel Santana, Fábio Luciano, and Ibson. Congratulations to the entire team, but above all, these three, the architects of our qualification.
The board also deserves congratulations for a specific moment: the moment it brought Flamengo back from Ipatinga to its home in Rio de Janeiro, in Gávea, where it should never have left. With all due respect to Ipatinga. But it was necessary for the directors, who had been somewhat forgetful, to remember that Flamengo is Flamengo. The coach, the players—and the fans!—did the rest.
Did Flamengo have two faces in the championship? Well, know that in yesterday's game, too. Flamengo in the first half looked exactly like Flamengo in the first round: a disaster. Harmless, cautious, and devoid of any ambition. It didn't even seem like it was on a decisive day.
The Flamengo of the second half was the Flamengo of the second half. And the two faces of Flamengo mirrored the two faces of Renato Augusto, unproductive in the first half, decisive in the second, playing in a position closer to his own—facing the attack.
How wonderful it is to revisit a one-two in our football! It was the one-two between Renato Augusto and Souza—through the opposing defense, another luxury—that the former finished with a left-footed shot. And it was after another play by Souza and a pass from Renato Augusto that Juan—with the help of the referee and linesman who didn't notice his offside position—scored the second goal, securing the victory.
After the party, the hoopla, and the dream come true, Flamengo just needs to get back to reality. Next year's Flamengo, the Flamengo of the Libertadores, has to look like the second half and the second half. If it looks like the first half and the first half, nothing will happen.
Sports Journal
Fans in Court
To help fans who were unable to exchange their can of milk for a ticket pursue their rights in court, the Consumer Defense Commission of the Rio de Janeiro State Legislative Assembly (Alerj) placed a bus outside the Maracanã stadium yesterday from noon to 12 p.m. Before the game began, 19 fans had already stopped by to file a complaint against Nestlé, the company responsible for issuing tickets for yesterday's game.
Fans suffer from scalpers
Some Flamengo fans paid up to R$250 to see Flamengo secure a spot in the Libertadores.
Alexandre Souza, Diego Marrul and Nathan de Lima
Nina Lima
Flamengo fans put on another show at Maraca and are already dreaming of Tokyo
The red-and-black crowd arrived early at Maracanã, in a state of euphoria. Just like the match against Santos, the atmosphere was one of a championship final. After all, since Flamengo's comeback in the championship, the fans did their part and even broke the Brazilian Championship attendance record. But those who didn't secure their tickets in advance suffered at the hands of ticket scalpers, who operated freely at gate 18 and also in front of the Belini statue before kickoff. Prices were steep, ranging from R$30 to R$250.
Those looking for grandstand tickets, which cost R$25, for example, couldn't get them for less than R$50. The cheapest were the lower-seat (formerly general) tickets, which cost R$15 but were resold for double that. The most expensive were the special-seat tickets, which cost R$100 but, in the hands of scalpers, could fetch up to R$250. Apparently, those who managed to exchange their promotional ticket—the average price of a can of milk is R$5,80—for a ticket came out on top.
Athirson in the crowd
The person who was present and also seemed excited to see Flamengo securing a place in the Libertadores was full-back Athirson, who seemed tempted when asked if he would like to play in the Libertadores for Flamengo.
“I’m a Flamengo fan, right!...” he said, highlighting Flamengo’s ability to react in the championship.
"What the team went through in the first half of the season and the comeback they made in the second half was a great example of resilience. This fan base makes all the difference. I'm happy I had the chance to play here."
Ney Franco doesn't want to share the credits
Before the start of the game, all the players went to talk to Ney Franco, including Cristian
Everyone, including Ney Franco, unanimously pointed to Joel Santana as the main reason for Flamengo's fantastic run in the championship, which earned them a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores. But judging by the reaction of his former players before the match, who came to congratulate him, Joel's predecessor did indeed play a significant role in building this group and qualifying for the South American competition.
"I introduced many of the players here today, like Cristian and Toró. So, I'm happy to have been part of this group that I cherish," he said.
Regarding his participation and the “miracle”, Ney Franco analyzed it as follows:
"Flamengo had a very good start under Joel. The team grew and secured its place thanks to him and the board. When I managed Flamengo, I played most of our games away from home and had good results. We also had a good preseason. Then, when Joel left and some reinforcements arrived, and above all, the work was very good," he emphasized.
However, although he was "part of the party" and the target of questions, Ney didn't want to share the credit and assured that he returned to Rio with the intention of winning the game:
"Despite what I did, we qualified in the final stretch. That's a fact. Flamengo is playing very well. I came here wanting to win to secure a spot in the Copa Sudamericana, but unfortunately it didn't work out," he concluded.
Marcio Braga gets emotional
The celebration was intense after the end of the match, both for the spot and for the 'fifth championship'
Right after the game, Flamengo celebrated their place in the Libertadores and their fifth championship, won in 1992, with a replica of the famous 'Taça das Bolinhas', which the CBF would give to Brazil's first fifth title.
Flamengo president Marcio Braga was very moved by all the fans' displays of affection and the victory.
"My heart is at peace. Flamengo won the youth, junior, and junior championships, and now we've reached the Libertadores. This has certainly been a very important year, full of achievements, especially because we've recaptured the love of this wonderful fan base," said Marcio Braga, who is in his fifth term as president of the Rubro-Negro, but makes a point of saying that every game feels like the first.
“I've been at Flamengo for 30 years, but every time we win I get like this,” he said with tears in his eyes.
Feeling of mission accomplished
Players and coaching staff leave the field with their heads held high after securing their spot.
André Casado and Pedro Cavalcanti
Nina Lima
Striker Souza shows all his grit. He was decisive in the victory at Maracanã.
Flamengo's players, as expected, were euphoric after qualifying for next year's Copa Libertadores. Coach Joel Santana seemed incredulous that the other matches his team was interested in were over. When informed, he opened up:
"Is it over? Then congratulations to the fans and the players who were worthy of the fans in this house. We started second to last and we will represent our country in the Copa Libertadores."
Goalkeeper Bruno vented: "We've been getting hammered all year. We won the Carioca Championship and they criticized us, and in the Brazilian Championship even more. But it's on the field that we respond."
Renato Augusto, a standout performer in Sunday's match, also seemed to have a weight lifted off his shoulders. After his failure with the U-20 national team, the midfielder hadn't been performing as well as he had at the beginning of the year.
"I did my part. When the team needed me, I delivered. I scored in the Guanabara Cup final, the Carioca final, and today. I poured my heart out and exploded when I scored. If we hadn't qualified in this match, I would have felt terrible. We kept checking the scoreboard. The players and fans were so excited for it."
The midfielder also spoke about the incredible support from the fans and about his future.
"No fan base in the world does what they did. They packed the Maracanã stadium for ten games, which must be a world record. The speculation hampered my performance; every week they sold me to a different club. I have a wonderful mother who helped me a lot. After the championship, we'll sit down and decide what's best for me and Flamengo. Right now, my wish is to stay," the player concluded.
You are a traditional team!
Fla shows the strength of its shirt and fans, defeats Atlético-PR and qualifies for the Libertadores
André Casado and Pedro Cavalcanti
Nina Lima
Juan celebrated the second goal of the red-black victory.
The energy and atmosphere of a packed Maracanã stadium were crucial to the 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR, which secured Flamengo's place in next year's Copa Libertadores with a round to spare. The qualification, which could be considered a "Joel miracle," achieved in 24 acts and 15 victories, capped one of the greatest comebacks in the history of the Brazilian Championship. The fight now, who would have guessed, is for second place.
As expected, Flamengo came out on top early in the game. In less than ten minutes, at least three good chances were created. In one of them, Léo Medeiros headed the ball against goalkeeper Viáfara's right post.
Little by little, however, the red-and-black momentum faded, and Atlético began to put the ball on the ground and pass it around a little better. But both defensive systems, until then, held a clear advantage over the offensive sectors.
The wings, always heavily used by Flamengo, were the team's primary source of playmaking, with an inspired Léo Moura and a highly focused Juan playing. And it was Léo Moura who delivered the pass to Souza, who controlled it on his chest and then sent a bicycle kick over the goal, in the most beautiful play of the first half.
Show in the 2nd stage
But the red-and-black team's fine football was saved for the decisive stage. Just four minutes in, a quick one-two between the "striking duo" Renato Augusto and Souza left the former facing goal, who only had to fire the ball into the net and make the nearly 90 hearts in attendance explode with joy.
From then on, the deafening sound that came from the stands and echoed in Maracanã began to rule the team on the field, which had no difficulty in extending the lead with Juan, inside the small area and in an offside position, in the 15th minute, after receiving a pass from Renato Augusto.
The announcement of Sport's first goal against Cruzeiro was all Mengão needed to ease the tension and focus solely on securing the advantage that would give them what would once have been a laughingstock: a spot in the Copa Libertadores. There was still time for Ramon, who came on in the second half as a last-gasp substitute, to try to reduce the deficit. But it was no use. The dream had come true.
Cristian: 'I'm only leaving Flamengo for Europe'
Midfielder Cristian was one of the happiest with Flamengo's victory in this Sunday's game at Maracanã. The Red-Black team defeated Atlético-PR 2-0 in the penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship and secured a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. The emotional player sent a message to the club.
"I'm only leaving Flamengo for Europe. I feel at home in Gávea. I feel like a Flamengo fan. I don't want to leave here any time soon," said Cristian.
The red-black athlete highlighted the attitude of the fans in the stands.
"There's nothing to say about this crowd. I dedicate this to the fans," he said.
Joel Santana: 'We have regained our dignity'
The Flamengo players celebrated their qualification for the 2008 Copa Libertadores as if they had won a title. Flamengo received two trophies and a plaque with the words "Fla – 1st five-time Brazilian champion/champion fans."
Coach Joel Santana made a point of thanking Flamengo fans for their support.
"I'm moved, and those of you who have been following along can see our efforts. Above all, we've regained our dignity," said Joel Santana.
Goalkeeper Bruno highlighted the work of everyone at the club and also expressed gratitude to the fans.
"Congratulations to everyone, not just the goalkeeper. The coach, the goalkeeping coach. Congratulations to everyone. We can't forget the fans. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't be here," said Bruno.
Teams make adjustments for the semifinals
This week, the finalists for the State Futsal Championship will be announced. After nearly three months of action, the tournament has reached its final stretch.
One of the semifinals will be between Flamengo and Petrópolis. Just like in the Carioca, Flamengo is the only representative from the capital. To improve on their performance in the first half of the year, the team from Gávea will have to overcome the current state champions. The first match will be tomorrow in Gávea.
The other spot in the grand final will be decided between Teresópolis, the current runner-up, and the surprising Canto do Rio, who eliminated Cabo Frio, one of the favorites for this year's title. The dates for this match have not yet been set.
O Dia
Nation made of joy
Victory over Furacão and a place in the Libertadores leave Mengão fans euphoric
Ana Carla Gomes
Rio - The team of "race, love, and passion" repaid the support and sacrifice of its fans in style. With a new attendance record of 82.044 paying fans, Flamengo played its final home game in the Brasileirão and left Maracanã yesterday with a 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR, with goals from Renato Augusto and Juan. The result, combined with Cruzeiro's 1-0 loss to Sport at Ilha do Retiro, guaranteed the Rubro-Negro the long-awaited spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. Joel Santana's team is third in the championship.
Encouraged by their fans, who had struggled to buy tickets during the week, Flamengo pressed early in the game. Just four minutes in, Juan received the ball from Souza and attempted to chip it over the bar.
The goal was even closer in the seventh minute, when Léo Moura took a free kick and Léo Medeiros headed the ball against the post.
For much of the first half, the initial pressure gave way to a lukewarm game. But Flamengo threatened again late in the half, as Souza nearly scored with a bicycle kick in the 39th minute. In stoppage time, Ronaldo Angelim missed an incredible goal one-on-one with goalkeeper Viáfara.
But Flamengo didn't want to cause any more suffering for its fans, and the cry of goal came just four minutes into the second half: Renato Augusto played a one-two with Souza to open the scoring, setting the Maracanã on fire. And there was still time for another goal and celebration: in the 16th minute, Renato Augusto passed to Juan, who, caught offside, made it 2-0.
All it took was for the scoreboard at the Maracanã to announce the partial result of the match at Ilha do Retiro, with a goal by Sport over Cruzeiro, for the red-and-black celebration to get even bigger. That was all that was needed to seal qualification for the Libertadores.
While the fans sang nonstop, the team still went in search of a third goal. In the 28th minute, Souza had a chance to score, but he sent the ball wide.
For Furacão, Ramon even tried a shot in the 42nd minute, but Bruno saved. Yesterday was definitely not the day to spoil the red-and-black party. Gratefully, the players wore shirts that read "Race, love, and passion," proving that, in the games at Maracanã, the team took the field with 12 players.
Joel Santana with a cleansed soul
Coach Joel lets out a rant that's been stuck in his throat for years: "I didn't just parachute into something. I studied, worked with the youth team, played for clubs in Rio, São Paulo, and Bahia... I got a Christmas and birthday present."
Marluci Martins
Rio - The shouts during the match didn't leave Joel Santana speechless. At the end of the game, he was even able to vent a sentiment that had been stuck in his throat for so many years. The coach with the clipboard, so humble and mocked, is in the Copa Libertadores and, therefore, with his red-and-black soul cleansed.
"I didn't just parachute into anything. I studied, worked with the youth teams, and played for clubs in Rio, São Paulo, and Bahia," Joel recalled. "This is the only profession where, once you start gaining experience, you're considered outdated," he added. Not everything is sad in Joel's life. For him, who was born on December 25th, Christmas Day, Santa Claus came early.
"Now we're in paradise. Let's end the year happy. I got a Christmas and birthday present," he said.
Joel and the Flamengo fans' gift was commissioned on October 4th. That day, Flamengo was beating São Paulo 1-0, with a goal from Íbson, at the Maracanã. "The victory over São Paulo gave the team confidence. The players already knew what they had to do. We just made adjustments. That victory was crucial for us to get to where we are today," Joel recalled.
If he lacked boldness and more goals, Joel has the humility to justify the cautious approach he adopted at Flamengo. Cautious, yet effective.
"Sometimes we might not like it, but Flamengo conceded goals too easily. We tried to create a safer situation. It wasn't my intention, but that's how the team became more confident in training," the coach explained. And if, after all this explanation, anyone still wants to throw stones at Joel, he doesn't even need his clipboard to remind them of Flamengo's triumphs in the Brasileirão. It's all in his head:
"We beat the São Paulo champion, the Brazilian champion, the Minas Gerais champion, and the Rio Grande do Sul champion, with ease, playing better than them, like we did today against Atlético." Statue? No, Joel doesn't need one.
“What stays with the coach is the recognition of the fans, who chanted my name,” said the savior of the nation, who will take his clipboard to the Libertadores.
Seriousness until the end
Flamengo is already starting to plan for 2008, but it's not thinking about a vacation just yet. Coach Joel Santana assured yesterday that the team will face Náutico on Sunday at Estádio dos Aflitos with one goal: to win.
"We have a commitment to our people. Our fans want to win, and we're going there to play for real. We're going there to win," said the Flamengo coach, who begins negotiating his contract renewal this week.
Cristian and Renato Augusto, who received their third yellow card, will not play. The focus now is on finishing second or third in the Championship, as the fourth-place team still has to play in the Copa Libertadores preliminary round, the knockout stage of the South American competition.
The Libertadores wasn't the only topic yesterday. The controversy surrounding the five-time Brazilian championship was once again raised, as the players celebrated their victory on a podium, with the following sign in the background: "Flamengo - 1st five-time Brazilian champion. Champion fans."
The State Secretary of Sports, Eduardo Paes, took to Flamengo's locker room the prototype of the sculpture that will be given to the club in recognition of the much-questioned fifth championship.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo defeats Atlético-PR and secures a place in the Libertadores
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After spending much of the first half of the season in the relegation zone, Flamengo finally achieved its goal: a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Their qualification for the continental tournament was confirmed this Saturday, when Joel Santana's team beat Atlético Paranaense 2-0 and reached 61 points, maintaining second place. This confirmation, with one round to spare, was due to the relegation of fourth-place Cruzeiro, who were defeated 1-0 by Sport and remained at 57 points, meaning they can no longer reach the top four in the final round of the Brasileirão, which will be played in its entirety next weekend.
Flamengo thus concludes its participation in the competition next Sunday, when it travels to Recife to face Náutico at the Aflitos stadium. Atlético Paranaense, on the other hand, hosts champion São Paulo on the same day in Curitiba. Both matches are part of the 38th round of the Brazilian Championship.
The game – Excited by the support received from the Maracanã stands, which were packed to watch the red-black team's last match at the stadium in this Brazilian Championship, Flamengo launched an attack from the first minute of the game.
Thus, they got their first big chance in the fourth minute, when Juan received a pass from Souza and attempted a touch over goalkeeper Viáfara. However, the ball rose too high and went out of bounds. Soon after, in the sixth minute, Flamengo almost scored again. During the move, the team had a free kick taken on the left side of the box, and Léo Medeiros rose higher than the defense. The ball, however, hit the post.
From then on, Flamengo began to dominate possession and attack, while Atlético limited itself to pressing hard and relying on counterattacks. The pace of the match, however, dropped as the match progressed, while the violence in the tackles increased.
In the second half, however, Flamengo's finishing fortunes changed completely. So much so that just four minutes in, Renato Augusto exchanged passes with Souza and fired a powerful shot to open the scoring at the Maracanã: 1-0. The goal further motivated Flamengo, who managed to extend their lead minutes later, in the 16th minute. Once again, Renato Augusto controlled the ball in the six-yard box and found Juan, who, despite being offside, had only to tap it home: 2-0.
From then on, Flamengo's only task was to manage possession, while Atlético attempted a comeback at all costs, but to no avail. Thus, the score remained unchanged until the final whistle, to the delight of just over 87 people in attendance.
Renato Augusto praises Joel and reveals his desire to stay at Fla
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - One of Flamengo's standout players in the campaign that earned them a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores, fan Renato Augusto couldn't help but praise coach Joel Santana for qualifying for the continental tournament. He believes the manager played a key role in the victory. "He gave a new face to the team, which was doing well but wasn't winning. He established a standard for the team and made a difference. Along with the fans, who are unparalleled, I think these two factors, along with the arrival of some players, like Ibson and Fábio Luciano, were crucial to making this happen," he analyzed.
Regarding his continued presence on the team next year, the player explained that, as speculation was getting in the way, he decided to focus on the future only from now on. "Every week there was speculation, and I realized it was getting in my way. I decided to stop thinking about it and only talk about it when the Brazilian Championship was over," he commented.
Even so, he didn't hesitate to answer when asked what his wishes were now that the Rubro-Negro are in the Copa Libertadores. "Right now, I want to stay," the player declared.
PeléNet
Flamengo defeats Atlético-PR and qualifies for the Libertadores
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo is qualified for the 2008 Copa Libertadores. Rubro-Negro did its job and beat Atlético-PR, 2-0, with goals from Renato Augusto and Juan, this Sunday, at Maracanã, in the 37th and penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship.
WATCH FLAMENGO'S GOALS
But to secure their spot, the Rio de Janeiro team needed Cruzeiro to stumble against Sport at Ilha do Retiro. And that's what happened, with a 1-0 loss. With these results, Flamengo, in third place, reached 61 points, and can no longer be overtaken by the Celeste team, which has 57.
Atlético-PR, with 51 points, dropped to 11th place, but remains strong and has a good chance of qualifying for the next Copa Sudamericana.
In the final round of the competition, Flamengo takes on Náutico at the Aflitos stadium in Recife, while Atlético-PR hosts São Paulo at the Arena da Baixada in Curitiba. Both games will be held on Sunday, December 2nd, at 16 p.m. (Brasília time).
Flamengo, driven by their fans, started the match by putting pressure on Atlético-PR. Playing down the wings, with Leonardo Moura on the right and Juan on the left, was the best option.
However, Atlético-PR gradually began to level the playing field. Despite Bruno's goal failing to threaten, the Red-Black team from Curitiba was no longer letting Flamengo play.
The Rio de Janeiro team only regained control late in the first half, but nothing could change the outcome in the opening 45 minutes. "They have three defenders and two defensive midfielders. It's tough," admitted defensive midfielder Ibson.
The second half started the same way as the first: with Flamengo pressing. However, this time, the Red-Blacks found success, taking the lead to 2-0 through Renato Augusto and Juan.
With Flamengo's victory assured, the red-and-black fans began celebrating in the stadium. The 87.795 attendees didn't stop singing for a minute.
At Atlético-PR, Ney Franco, even to change something, took out Netinho, Michel and Antônio Carlos to bring in Edno, Ramon and Marcelo Ramos, respectively.
However, the changes were to no avail. Flamengo, dominant on the field, simply passed the ball around and waited for the referee's final whistle. Qualification for the Copa Libertadores was assured.
Place in the Libertadores thrills Flamengo president
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's qualification for the Copa Libertadores left club president Márcio Braga ecstatic. The director broke down and became emotional on the Maracanã pitch after Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR in the 37th and penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship.
"I've been at the club for a long time and I always get emotional. My heart is getting older and happier with Flamengo. We didn't start the Brazilian Championship well, but with the help of this wonderful crowd, we reached a spot in the Libertadores," he highlighted.
Amidst all this excitement, Márcio Braga took the opportunity to once again "poke" at São Paulo, the Brazilian champions in advance. The manager said that greater consistency from the team could lead to another title for the Rio de Janeiro club.
"If São Paulo hadn't secured the title, they would be shaking more than a green stick, because we would certainly have caught up with them. But, unfortunately, our start to the championship hasn't been good," he concluded.
Renato Augusto: "I leave Maracanã through the front door"
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Previously criticized by some Flamengo fans, Renato Augusto has turned things around. The midfielder was one of the standout performers in the Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR this Sunday at Maracanã Stadium, in the 37th and penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship. In addition to scoring the first goal, he also provided the assist for the second, scored by left-back Juan.
"I leave Maracanã through the front door. I'm aware that I was in debt on some occasions, but when Flamengo needed me most, I was there," he said.
Despite admitting to his good individual performance, the young man preferred to share the credit for Flamengo's qualification for the Copa Libertadores da América with everyone.
"We're going to come out of the Brazilian Championship on top. Everyone has contributed their part to build this wonderful house," concluded Renato Augusto.
Suspended, the midfielder will not defend Flamengo in the 38th and final round of the competition, Sunday, December 2, at 16 pm (Brasília time), at Aflitos, in Recife.
Ibson becomes an example of overcoming challenges at Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
From overlooked to key player. That's what happened to Ibson. One of Flamengo's standout players in this Brazilian Championship, the midfielder recalled the time he wasn't used by coach Jesualdo Ferreira while playing for Porto, Portugal.
"Besides the problem with the coach, who didn't even use me, I had a lot of injuries and that hindered me. But, fortunately, I returned to the club, which revealed me to Brazil and the world," he said.
To a standing ovation from Flamengo fans, Ibson recognized the value of the support from the stands. For him, the support of the "red-and-black masses" was crucial to the team's qualification for the Copa Libertadores da América.
"Even in defeat, they supported us. This fan base is passionate and really makes a difference," he concluded.
Joel Santana pays homage to Flamengo's high points in BR-07
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Joel Santana maintained his composure even after Flamengo qualified for the Copa Libertadores da América. After the club's 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR this Sunday at Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship, the coach listed the team's highlights in the competition.
"Besides the fact that the players listened attentively to what was said, the fans and the athletes who arrived during the competition helped a lot. I'm happy because everyone's work was recognized and rewarded," he said.
After discussing the feat, the coach briefly commented on the triumph, which secured Flamengo's place in the international competition. In Joel Santana's view, the Rio de Janeiro team's victory was deserved.
"Flamengo was better than their opponents for almost the entire game. After we got the result, we played the ball more so as not to expose ourselves unnecessarily," he concluded.
Flamengo brings forward its Christmas present to its fans
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Santa Claus arrived early in Gávea. Flamengo players have already brought their December 25th gift to their fans, who were able to celebrate qualifying for the Copa Libertadores after their 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR this Sunday at Maracanã Stadium in the 37th and penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship.
"Everyone was fantastic, and we were able to give this early gift to the fans. We rekindled the club's joy of representing the country in an international competition," said Joel Santana.
The red-and-black coach's speech was echoed by Fábio Luciano. The defender also praised the work of the entire team, including the directors, coaching staff, and medical staff.
"As expected, we were able to bring a happy Christmas to the fans. Now everyone can celebrate in peace and without any problems. Our team is very good and deserves congratulations," he said.
Rio de Janeiro once again has two teams in the Copa Libertadores
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
With Flamengo's qualification for the 2008 Copa Libertadores da América, Rio de Janeiro once again has two representatives in South America's premier competition. Besides Flamengo, Fluminense, the Copa do Brasil champion, will be the other Rio team in the tournament.
The last time this situation occurred was in 1985, when Fluminense and Vasco, champion and runner-up of the 1984 Brazilian Championship, respectively, represented Brazil in the Libertadores.
However, in this edition of the competition, won by Argentinos Juniors-ARG, Fluminense and Vasco did not do well and ended up being eliminated in the first phase.
Flamengo, the 1981 Libertadores champion, will be competing in the competition for the eighth time. Fluminense, on the other hand, will be the Tricolor's third appearance.
BalloonSport
Fla wins and is in the Libertadores
With Cruzeiro's defeat, the Rio de Janeiro team confirms its qualification for the South American tournament\ Márcio Iannacca\
Flamengo capitalized on the results of the round and its 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR this Sunday at Maracanã to confirm its spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. Besides achieving its main objective in the national tournament, the Rio de Janeiro club remains in third place in the Brazilian Championship. In the stands, the fans once again did their part and broke the competition's attendance record. More than 87 people were in the stadium.
With the result, the Gávea team reached 61 points and occupies third place. Furacão remained in tenth place with 51. In the final round of the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo will face Naútico in Pernambuco. Atlético-PR will face São Paulo at Arena da Baixada. Both games will be played on Sunday.
Fla has more chances, but doesn't score
Flamengo fans show off their five stars: first five-time champion
The first half began with Flamengo playing better and dominating the match. Just seven minutes in, Leo Moura crossed into the box and Leo Medeiros hit the post with a powerful header. Many Flamengo fans cheered, thinking the ball had gone in.
From that moment on, the quality of the match dropped significantly. Both teams were prone to passing errors. With Ibson well-marked by Valencia, Flamengo couldn't create chances. For Furacão, Colombian Ferreira was the standout player. He roamed the entire field and created Atlético-PR's key chances.
In the 39th minute, Leo Moura, the team's best player in the first half, crossed into the box for Souza. The striker controlled the ball and nearly scored with a bicycle kick. The play galvanized the Flamengo fans, who once again cheered the team on. At the end of the first half, Ronaldo Angelim, on the penalty spot, missed the opportunity by arriving late to the play.
Cariocas decide the game in the final stage
Flamengo came back for the second half with pressure and were rewarded just four minutes in. Souza found Renato Augusto free in attack. The midfielder burst into the box and slotted the ball past Viáfara: 4-1 Flamengo. Furacão tried to equalize, but the advantage allowed the Rio de Janeiro team to grow into the match. It didn't take long for the second goal to come.
Renato Augusto made a good play and found Juan free in the box. Atlético-PR's defense kept calling for offside, but the referee didn't call it. Flamengo 2-0. While the team did its job on the field, the fans put on a show in the stands. The "Victory Theme" and "Dust" were blaring at the Maracanã stadium. The scoreboard announced Cruzeiro and Santos's defeats further fueled the crowd's excitement.
With the final whistle and the positive result at Maracanã, the red-blacks were thrilled with their place in the Libertadores and did not miss the chance to provoke Vasco, with the song "Cry Vasco fan, the dream is over, Libertadores is me who will go".
Fla celebrates its fifth title and receives the trophy
Winning a place in the Libertadores is celebrated as a title at the Maracanã\ Márcio Iannacca\
Ibson lifts trophies given to Flamengo by fans and Suderj. Flamengo's players celebrated their spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores as if the team had won a title. Adding to the excitement, the group received two trophies, much to the delight of the fans. Furthermore, a plaque, made by Suderj, with the following slogan, provoked the São Paulo fans: "Fla - 1st five-time Brazilian champion / champion fans."
The players and coach Joel Santana, always measured, thanked the fans.
"I'm moved, and those of you who have been following along can see our efforts. Above all, we've regained our dignity," says Joel Santana.
Goalkeeper Bruno took the opportunity to praise the work carried out by the coaching staff.
"Congratulations to everyone, not just the goalkeeper. The coach, the goalkeeper coach. Congratulations to everyone. We can't forget the fans. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't be here," says Bruno.
PHOTOS: The Flamengo fans' party
With a new attendance record, the red-and-blacks celebrate their place in the Libertadores
More than 87 people (82.044 paying) attended Maracanã this Sunday. Record attendance!
Excited about their place in the Libertadores, Flamengo fans are already dreaming of returning to Tokyo for the World Cup
The red-and-black fans' party even had balloons in the team's colors to decorate the Maracanã
During the game against Atlético-PR, the red-blacks made a point of showing that they are also five-time champions
Before the match, the club presented its car for the Formula Superleague motorsport to the fans.
'Cartola-coach, Márcio Braga suffers and vibrates\ Flamengo's president lives 90 minutes of emotion at Maracanã against Furacão\ Thiago Lavinas\
Márcio Braga had an emotional day this Sunday at Maracanã Stadium, in the 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR. A mix of president, coach, and fan... a story that lasted 90 minutes and had a happy ending. Flamengo qualified for the 2008 Copa Libertadores. The Flamengo president watched the match from one of the press boxes, staring at the field and eating a chocolate bar. His first comment came after Leo Medeiros' header hit the post early in the match.
- It didn't come in... - he said, running his hand over his head.
That's when the "president-coach"'s comments began. Seeing right-back Leo Moura stop the ball during a play, Márcio Braga blurted out:
- Let's go, Leo.
I would also like to see Juan appear more in the match.
- Open here on the left, Juan - he asked.
Shortly after, he regretted a weak shot from the full-back.
- Ahhhhh...
Seeing the team playing poorly, Márcio Braga began to listen to people close to him for alternatives for the second half. And he was direct in his comment about who should come on. "It's Roger," referring to the midfielder who was on the bench wearing the number 17 shirt.
In the 35th minute, Márcio Braga shouted for the first time when he saw Leo Medeiros with space to shoot at goal.
- Hit, hit, hit... Leo (Medeiros).
After Ibson's shot went over the crossbar, the president rubbed his head. He was beginning to show concern. And with it, the reactions grew stronger.
- Uhhhh - he shouted after Souza attempted a bicycle kick.
Before the start of the second half, Márcio Braga played the prophet:
- The goal will be here in the second half. On my side - he said.
Almost missed the goal
And it didn't take long. He just didn't expect to miss the entire play that led to Renato Augusto's goal. Márcio Braga was reading a document titled "right of reply" when Renato Augusto played a one-two with Souza. Seeing the reaction of those nearby, he quickly glanced at the field and saw only the ball almost in the net. But he let out the goal cry. And he watched the Maracanã screen trying to see the replay.
The club's president paid close attention to Juan's second goal. Unsure whether the goal was valid or not, he didn't celebrate. Not a single scream!
"He didn't score, no!" he said, pointing to the linesman, who was walking slowly towards midfield.
- It was worth it - said a red-black counselor.
- Yes - he replied, but without celebrating.
Vibration with Sport and provocation to São Paulo
Márcio Braga was looking at the Brasileirão standings in a newspaper when he received the news of Sport's goal against Cruzeiro (watch the video below).
- It's over - he said in the 23rd minute of the second half, when the fans were already singing "oh, Libertadores we're here...!"
And the party was guaranteed. Flamengo is in the Libertadores in 2008! And Márcio Braga laughed and enjoyed the celebration from the stands.
"This is Flamengo. If São Paulo weren't the champions right now, they'd be shaking," said president Márcio Braga at the end of the match.
Zico congratulates Fla on their place in the Libertadores
Galinho watches the game in Türkiye and says the team could have even fought for the Brazilian title
Flag with Zico's face is a hit with Flamengo fans at Maracanã
The biggest Flamengo idol and hero of the 1981 Libertadores title, Zico celebrated from Turkey with Flamengo's qualification for the tournament in 2008. "Galinho", Fenerbahçe's coach, watched the 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR on TV Globo Internacional this Sunday and sent his congratulations on his official website.
"The team's response in the decisive matches was beautiful. A few weeks ago, I congratulated Joel and the players on their response. Now, I reiterate my congratulations to everyone and the fans for this important qualification for the Libertadores," he says.
For Flamengo's eternal number 10, the team could have gone further in the Brasileirão:
"We learned a lesson for 2008 from those who were in the relegation zone and could even be runners-up at this point. I've said it before, and I insist, that if Flamengo had entered with this spirit from the start, if they had strengthened their squad before the competition began, they could even have challenged for the title," he concludes.
Flamengo's car is presented at Maraca
Named Urubumóvel, the car will represent the club in the Superliga Formula
Marcio Iannacca
Flamengo's car is presented with the release of the red-black balconies
Flamengo's Formula Superliga car was unveiled to the club's fans this Sunday at the Maracanã stadium. At a grand celebration hosted by radio host Washington Rodigues, club president Marcio Braga and the sport's representative, Alex Andreu, showed off the car to the fans.
The vehicle, still without an engine, was pushed out of the stadium. Tests of Flamengo's new car will be conducted in 2008 to select a driver. Gualter Salles is the favorite.
"We're sure our fans will love the car. They always show their love for the club, and it won't be any different in this competition," says Flamengo's president.
Kléber Leite: Fla starts thinking about 2008
Rubro-Negro director says the team needs specific reinforcements for the Libertadores
Marcio Iannacca
Kléber Leite says Cristian and Roger's situations are priorities
Starting this Monday, Flamengo's board will start thinking about 2008. The club's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, confirmed that he will have a conversation with coach Joel Santana to discuss the club's priorities for the next season.
According to Kléber Leite, renewing the coaching staff shouldn't be a problem. For the club's vice president of football, the team will need "specific reinforcements" in 2008.
"Every matter begins to be discussed now. We have situations to resolve, some immediate. Cristian and Roger's situations need to be resolved by the 30th. The idea is to keep them both. But everything we do will be in Joel's best interest," says Kléber Leite.
For the director, 2008 will be a very different year, as the club has managed to resolve its financial situation, including receiving funds from its main sponsor.
"We'll have revenue we didn't have last year. Sponsorship money will be distributed in stages. Flamengo will enter a new phase. We can't forget Fla-TV. If every Flamengo fan understands the project, we can solve the problem of football," says the Flamengo executive.
Red and black blood
Diogo shows off his father João Nogueira's tattoo: a love for Flamengo. Like his father, who passed away in 2000, Diogo is a die-hard Flamengo fan. And he almost made soccer his career. As a striker, he played for CFZ, Vasco, and Fluminense's youth teams. In 2004, while he was turning professional for Cruzeiro, a club in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, he suffered a serious injury to his left knee and gave up his career. He eventually opted for music.
"I had the dream of playing for Flamengo, of course. Who doesn't? But now, who knows, maybe the fans will sing one of my songs at the Maracanã?" he says, smiling broadly.
The samba singer carries his love for his father on his skin. He has a tattoo of João Nogueira's signature, the sheet music for the song "Espelho," and a photo of the master. He's also a composer for Portela, like João. But it was their passion for Flamengo that united father and son.
"My relationship with him was stronger because of Flamengo; we always went to Maracanã together. We were there for every game," recalls Diogo, who became friends with Júnior and Andrade, the 1981 World Cup winners.
His singing career forced the 26-year-old to leave Maracanã. He laments:
"I'm in agony! I've been doing so many shows on the weekends that I don't have time to go to the stadium. But I'll definitely go back," he promises.
Let it be in the Libertadores.
Fanatical red-and-black, Diogo Nogueira launches his first CD/DVD this Tuesday, with a show at Canecão
Joel Santana: 'Now we're in paradise'
Coach takes Flamengo from the relegation zone to the 2008 Libertadores\ Thiago Lavinas\
Joel Santana celebrates with the fans after qualifying for the Libertadores
Joel Santana took over with Flamengo in the relegation zone. The club was in crisis, in a very difficult situation. This Sunday, with a 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR, the Rubro-Negro secured a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. It was confirmation of the turnaround and relief.
- Now we're in paradise. After a party like that, I can only say we're in paradise.
Since Joel Santana's debut, Flamengo has played 24 matches. The team's strongest point has been its defense, which has only conceded 26 goals.
"A top team like Flamengo can't stay in the situation we found ourselves in for so long. And when we realized we had the potential to strive for more, we pursued our goal, which was the Libertadores. And we achieved it. We ended the year happy. It was a wonderful Christmas present."
Joel Santana revealed the moment he became certain of qualifying for the Libertadores.
"It was when we beat São Paulo here in Rio. That gave the team a lot of confidence, and I knew we could secure a spot. That victory was crucial. From then on, we just worked on the rough edges."
Ninety tickets are found at Maraca\ Case is registered with Jecrim. It is not known whether the tickets are real or fake\ Thiago Lavinas\
Flamengo fans once again broke attendance records for the Brasileirão. The Special Criminal Court (Jecrim) had a curious incident this Sunday during Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR at the Maracanã. A police officer found 90 tickets wrapped in a cloth on the ground in the stadium.
The tickets were taken to the Jecrim (State Bank of Brazil). Police still don't know if the tickets are genuine or counterfeit. Before the match, ticket scalpers were selling tickets near Maracanã for up to R$250.
Flamengo and Atlético-PR broke the attendance record for the current Brazilian Championship with 82.044 paying spectators.
Record: 82.044 paying spectators at Maraca\ Announcement of attendance and revenue is made before the start of Flamengo x Atlético-PR\ Thiago Lavinas\
Flamengo fans break Brasileirão attendance record once again. Flamengo managed to break the attendance record for the current Brazilian Championship this Sunday at the Maracanã. Even before the match against Atlético-PR began, Suderj announced the paying attendance: 82.044 fans.
As expected, the previous record, also held by Flamengo, was surpassed by 200 people. The 81.844-paying attendance mark had been reached for the match against Santos two weeks ago, also at Maracanã. In both games, all tickets available to Flamengo fans were sold out.