The Globe
Fla climbs using Maracanã as a ladder
Rubro-negro defeats Goiás 3-1 and leaves the relegation zone with their fourth consecutive victory at the stadium
Sixteen rounds, two coaches, and a Pan-American Championship later, Flamengo finally broke free of the Brazilian league's relegation zone. In front of 45 paying fans, the red-and-black team comfortably defeated Goiás 3-1 last night, moving up to 16th place with 24 points, pushing Atlético-PR back into its undesirable spot. It was Flamengo's fourth consecutive victory at Maracanã, where they play again on Wednesday in a derby against Botafogo that promises a packed house.
- Does anyone doubt that our fans are the 12th player? - asked full-back Leonardo Moura.
Goals from Juan and Ibson bring peace of mind in the 2nd half
Without Roger, who was rested, Flamengo felt the absence of a creative midfielder. Ibson, the most talented player on the field, tried in vain to fill that role. As a result, the Rio de Janeiro team had little idea what to do with the ball. Goiás, for its part, wasn't playing well either, but was hampered by the referee in the 18th minute, when Fábio Luciano ran over Cristiano in the box, and the referee let play continue.
Still struggling to get forward with any real danger, Flamengo blundered its first chance to score. On a successful counterattack in the 22nd minute, Souza lovingly rolled the ball to Juan, who slotted it home. Léo Medeiros, in the 38th minute, couldn't miss his chance. In a play that began with a great pass from Juan, Maxi crossed low, Souza hit the post, and the defender had only to tap the ball into the goal.
Flamengo started the second half deep, but the second goal came at just the right time, as Goiás began to grow into the game. In the 12th minute, Juan hit a beautiful shot from outside the box, surprising goalkeeper Harlei. Three minutes later, in another play initiated by Juan, Ibson headed in his first goal since returning to Gávea.
Playing more calmly, Flamengo attempted some good plays but misplaced the final pass. This didn't dampen the fans' celebrations, who celebrated Obina's introduction in place of Maxi as if it were a goal. The striker did nothing more than receive a kiss from the figure known as the Kisser, who regrettably invaded the field in the presence of FIFA inspectors in the stands. Relaxed, Flamengo allowed Goiás to score a consolation goal in the 47th minute, when Paulo Baier headed the ball over Bruno. Considering the result and its impact on the standings, the fans didn't even complain.
Yellow cards: Leo Medeiros, Leonardo Moura, Victor, Leonardo, Ibson and Douglas. Revenue: R$352.463,00. Attendance: 44.920 paying spectators.
Maxi out of the classic
Joel still doesn't know who will play
After 16 rounds, Flamengo finally left the relegation zone, but that didn't mean the atmosphere in the locker room was celebratory after a solid 3-1 win over Goiás, their fourth in a row at the Maracanã. Besides being just one point ahead of Atlético-PR, who would be relegated if the season ended today, the injury to Argentine Maxi prevented coach Joel Santana from leaving the Maracanã yesterday feeling completely satisfied.
"It was a shame. With Roger's return, the team was ready for the derby against Botafogo. I'm not a doctor, but a muscle injury like the one Maxi suffered doesn't heal overnight," said Joel, who, after 26 days managing Flamengo for the first time, went to sleep outside the relegation zone.
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: He came out poorly in the play that led to Goiás' goal. But it was his only mistake. 7.
LEONARDO MOURA: He was more useful to the team than in recent games. 6,5.
FÁBIO LUCIANO: As captain, he could control himself more. Very nervous. 6.
ANGELIM: Almost always well placed. 7.
JUAN: He missed an incredible ball, but recovered with a goal and decisive passes in the game. 8.
RÔMULO: Hasty, he made unnecessary fouls. But he showed willingness. 5,5.
CRISTIAN: Important in marking. 6.
IBSON: As a creative midfielder, he made a lot of misplaced passes. He improved in the second half. 6,5. JAILTON came on and did nothing. 4.
LÉO MEDEIROS: The usual dedication and a goal of opportunism. 7.
MAXI: He pleased again with his grit and speed on the wings. He came out injured. 7,5. OBINA got a kiss and that was it. 4.
SOUZA: He played as a pivot for the team. 7. TORÓ came on at the end and didn't even touch the ball. No rating.
JOEL: Your team is starting to develop a standard of play. 7.
GOIÁS
He didn't give up, but he created little. No highlights.
ARBITRATION
Referee Paulo Bezerra did not award a penalty to Goiás.
Sports Journal
Flamengo: After the relief, the concern
Maxi, injured, and Léo Medeiros, suspended, will miss Flamengo's classic against Botafogo
Leo Schabbach
Juan shoots from outside the box and finds the net: the full-back is becoming an expert at scoring great goals.
The victory over Goiás brought great relief to the red-and-black nation. However, despite the well-deserved triumph, coach Joel Santana didn't hide his concerns regarding Wednesday's derby against Botafogo. Only today will the coach know if he'll be able to count on Roger and Renato Augusto, who are recovering from injuries.
To make matters worse, Léo Medeiros, a potential substitute, received his third yellow card and will serve a suspension. Furthermore, Maxi Biancucci left yesterday's game complaining of pain in the back of his left thigh and is unlikely to play.
"I'm not a doctor, but Maxi's chances of playing are slim. As for Renato and Roger, I'll only know tomorrow (today) if I can have both of them back, or just one," said Joel, who praised the team's progress, leaving the relegation zone: "We're only one point away from danger, but I'm happy. We're improving with every game."
With a stunning goal from outside the box, left-back Juan left the field doubly happy, as he helped the team escape the relegation zone.
"It was undoubtedly an important victory, which boosts our morale for the rest of the Brazilian Championship. I'm very happy because, in addition to the three points, I scored a beautiful goal. When I controlled the ball, I was confident and made a great connection to the ball, finding the top corner. I hope Flamengo continues at this level," said the full-back.
Compact team
Another standout, right-back Léo Moura, who provided the pass for the second goal, said that Flamengo knew how to mark well and create numerous scoring chances.
"Another great victory at Maracanã, which leaves us optimistic for the upcoming matches. Now, we'll keep working to keep winning. The team played very well today (yesterday), playing compactly and not leaving much space for our opponent," said Léo.
Flamengo wins and gets its foot out of the mud
A 3-1 victory over Goiás takes the team out of the agonizing relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship.
Sergio Mello
After heading the rebound from a shot by Souza onto the post, Léo Medeiros scores Fla's first goal
On a brilliant night, Flamengo defeated Goiás 3-1 yesterday at the Maracanã stadium, leaving the relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship, much to the relief of their immense fan base. With a standout performance from Souza and Juan, the team played well and impressed, sending the massive crowd—more than 52—into a frenzy. Paulo Baier scored the consolation goal for the Goiás team.
In the first half, Flamengo, driven by their fans, took the initiative. In the first ten minutes, they created four dangerous opportunities. Goiás gradually managed to level the score and nearly scored when Cristiano fired a bicycle kick, but Bruno saved without rebounding. The Goiás team then called for a penalty when Cristiano, in a tussle with Fábio Luciano, fell inside the box - the referee, wrongly, did not award one. Sensing that their opponent was starting to enjoy the game, the Flamengo fans stepped up and once again cheered the team on. On the field, the players responded, and in a beautiful exchange of passes, Juan fed the ball down the left for Biancucci, who found Souza. Inside the box, he left Juan free, but the shot was just wide.
The gate is open
After much insistence, Flamengo opened the scoring. Maxi cut inside and crossed low to Souza, who hit the post with a volley. On the rebound, with the goal gaping, Léo Medeiros, unmarked, scored his third goal of the competition. Flamengo 1-0. With the lead, the players tried to pass the ball around, and in the end, Flamengo almost extended their lead. Léo Moura took a free kick from the left, lofting it into the box; the defense deflected it, taking it away, leaving Souza with a clean ball. Juan: another great goal.
In the second half, Goiás tried hard to equalize, as seen in the play where, after a rebound, Paulo Baier fired a powerful shot inside Flamengo's box, but the ball deflected off the defense and went near Bruno's left post. But it was a red-and-black night. The show began when Léo Moura made a diagonal run and passed to Juan. The player adjusted and, from the middle of the field, unleashed a rocket that hit the left corner of the net, Harlei was helpless.
Stunned by the goal, Flamengo set about knocking out Goiás. Léo Medeiros played a one-two with Juan on the left flank and crossed to Souza. The defense partially cleared the ball, but on the rebound, Ibson's awkward header found Harlei's left corner. In stoppage time, Paulo Baier scored a consolation goal for Goiás, but the celebration of the relieved Flamengo fans was not dampened. Goodbye to the relegation zone.
Flamengo players are already thinking about the Libertadores
With a 3-1 victory over Goiás this Sunday at Maracanã, Flamengo managed to escape the relegation zone. Now the players' focus is on continuing to win to at least stay in the top four.
As Joel said, we're starting to dig our heels out of the mud. With the squad we have, we can't just be satisfied with this. We have to assert our home advantage and fight up front," said midfielder Léo Medeiros.
Midfielder Cristian reinforced Léo Medeiros' speech and said that everyone wants to see Flamengo at the top of the table.
"Flamengo can't stay in this situation. We're going to go for something more, go for it. This team deserves to be among the top four," Cristian said.
Striker Obina is attacked by a kisser at Maraca
The famous kisser was back in action in Sunday's game at the Maracanã. A few minutes after Obina came on for Maxi Biancucchi, José Alves de Moura ran onto the field and chased the striker.
The police intercepted him before he could reach the player, but Obina went to him, and the Kisser managed to kiss the player. Furthermore, before the police removed him from the field, José Alves threw himself to the ground and kissed the Maracanã turf.
Joel praises Fla's performance in the victory over Goiás
Playing well, organized on the field and with creativity, Flamengo left Maracanã, this Sunday, with a 3-1 victory over Goiás.
For coach Joel Santana, the team played so well that there is no way to single out any one player's performance.
"We played well in both halves, we dominated the game. This Goiás team is good, organized, and knows what it wants on the field, but we were superior and defended better. The plays came from both sides of the field, and it's difficult to single out any player today. I wasn't 100% satisfied because I conceded a goal late in the game. Now we'll prepare for the derby," said the coach.
For the game against Botafogo, next Wednesday, at Maracanã, Joel Santana will not be able to count on Máxi Biancucchi, who left the field in the second half injured, and Léo Medeiros, who received his third yellow card.
O Dia
Fla leaves the relegation zone
A 3-1 victory over Goiás leaves the team in 16th place. Excited fans celebrate and are already teasing their next opponent, Botafogo.
Marha Esteves
Rio - After 15 rounds, Flamengo fans received a reprieve yesterday. With a dedicated and exciting performance, Flamengo defeated Goiás 3-1 at the Maracanã stadium, finally leaving the relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship.
Léo Medeiros, Juan, and Íbson scored the goals for the red-and-black team. Paulo Baier pulled one back for the Goiás team late in the match.
The victory over Goiás fired up the more than 52 Flamengo fans. They left the stadium taunting their rivals, Botafogo, Wednesday's opponent. The team from Gávea reached 24 points, one more than Atlético-PR, the first team in the relegation zone.
Encouraged by the fans and the prospect of escaping the relegation zone, Flamengo launched an early rush, creating chances through Ronaldo Angelim, Souza, and Íbson, but were unable to convert. Goiás responded with a volley from Cristiano, which Bruno held firmly.
In the 21st minute, after a good exchange between Maxi and Souza, Juan received the ball unmarked, facing goal. But the full-back missed a big chance, shooting poorly and wide, angering the fans.
The red-and-black goal didn't take long to arrive. It came in the 37th minute. Striker Maxi made a beautiful run down the left and crossed for Souza to hit Harlei's post. The ball fell to Léo Medeiros to open the scoring: Flamengo 1-0.
JUAN SCORES A GREAT GOAL
The Gávea team came back fired up with a partial lead and maintained their momentum in the second half. Just 11 minutes in, Juan received a pass from Léo Moura and found the top corner of Harlei's net, scoring a stunning goal and extending the red-and-black lead to 2-0.
In the 15th minute, Íbson headed the ball to Harlei's left, scoring the team's third goal. He celebrated by hiding the ball under his shirt, in honor of his wife, Cíntia, who was seven months pregnant with his son, Íbson Júnior.
The match was interrupted when José Moura, known as the Kisser, entered the field to kiss striker Obina, who had replaced Maxi. The fan was restrained, but the striker insisted on being kissed before the invader was removed.
The fans began to taunt Botafogo, singing an ironic version of the song sung by the black-and-white fans at their team's games. Not even Goiás' goal, scored in stoppage time by Paulo Baier, a header after a rebound from Bruno, could dampen the joy of the red-and-black fans, who breathed a sigh of relief after a long time.
RELIEVED, RED-BLACKS CELEBRATE THE ESCAPE FROM KEEPING THE SLAVE
Like all Flamengo fans, coach Joel Santana went to bed happy yesterday. Even happier because he realized that today will be the first day, after 15 long rounds, that the fans won't be the butt of ridicule. The only thing he wasn't happier about was that he practically ruled out Maxi, who suffered a twinge in his left thigh and will be re-evaluated today, as well as Roger and Renato Augusto, both with right thigh injuries, from starting Wednesday.
"It's a shame Maxi is out. The team was ready. I'm not a doctor, but I think it's very unlikely Maxi will play," he lamented.
Even though he was satisfied with the victory, Joel complained about the team's lack of attention after conceding a goal, and warned that it was not yet time to completely relax.
"One point above the relegation zone is nothing. There's still a long way to go. We need to beat Botafogo, who have an excellent team. Only then will we be able to fly higher."
Supporter Léo Medeiros, who scored the first goal, received his third card and lamented the suspension. "I really wanted to stay on the team, but the victory was worth it."
In the end, the fans, who put on a show and filled the Maracanã, left warning that Botafogo's time will come.
Juan, top scorer, is already negotiating a renewal
Left-back Juan's notebook reads: four goals and eight assists in the Brazilian Championship. Flamengo's top scorer in the competition, Juan also provided passes that resulted in goals in the following matches: Palmeiras, Botafogo, Internacional, Paraná, América-RN, Náutico, Fluminense, and Juventude. He found the net against Goiás, Internacional, Juventude, and again against Goiás.
Happy with his excellent form, Juan is already negotiating a contract renewal, which ends in December of next year. He swears he never aspired to be Flamengo's top scorer. "It's nice to score goals and help the team get out of this bad situation, but I'll continue rooting for Obina, Souza, and Maxi to score a lot of goals," he said.
After suffering the pain of being in the relegation zone for 15 rounds, Flamengo still can't breathe a sigh of relief. Juan warned that there's still a lot of work ahead and that they'll need to seek victory against Botafogo on Wednesday.
"It's going to be a very tough game, and we haven't beaten Botafogo yet this year. We'll have to play a game of intelligence and patience. I hope the fans come to the stadium to cheer us on," Juan said.
Sports Gazette
Joel warns: 'One point is nothing'
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Although he's happy that Flamengo is no longer in the relegation zone after their 3-1 victory over Goiás, coach Joel Santana wants his players to remain focused on the Brazilian Championship. According to him, Flamengo needs to maintain its current form to avoid falling back into the bottom four. "We've climbed step by step. Objective by objective. But we're very close. One point is nothing. We need another winning streak to get out of this situation," the coach declared. "We've already taken a breather, but there's still a long way to go."
The coach emphasized that the pursuit of a goal was the Rio de Janeiro team's differentiator in recent rounds. "The truth is that Flamengo gave its all in pursuit of a final objective," he stated.
Despite this, Joel was concerned about Máxi Biancucchi's injury, as he left the field to be replaced by Obina in the second half. "I'm worried about the injury, but we have competent professionals to resolve this situation," he added.
Flamengo defeats Goiás and escapes the suffocation\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo finally managed to escape the relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship by defeating Goiás 3-1 in a match played Sunday night at the Maracanã. Léo Medeiros, Juan, and Ibson scored the goals for the Rio de Janeiro club. Paulo Baier pulled one back for the Goiás team in stoppage time. With the result, the Rio de Janeiro club moved up to 16th place with 24 points, while Goiás dropped to ninth with 30 points. Flamengo's victory was deserved, as Joel Santana's team showed more attacking ambition from the first minute. Goiás, on the other hand, started cautiously and, after conceding the first goal, lost heart and lacked the strength to mount a comeback. The Goiás team complained heavily about the failure to award a penalty by Fábio Luciano on Cristiano when the match was still tied.
In the next round, Rubro-negro will face Botafogo at Maracanã, while Goiás will go to Caxias do Sul to face Juventude.
With a packed Maracanã stadium, the hosts started the match enthusiastically, but struggled to break down Goiás's well-developed defense. Goiás, on the other hand, defended heavily but sought to counterattack quickly. Five minutes in, the Rio de Janeiro defenders got in a muddle, and the ball fell to Paulo Baier, who shot dangerously.
Flamengo insisted on their full-backs crossing balls that threatened Harlei's goal, as Souza had the advantage over the defenders. In the 12th minute, Cristiano received the ball inside the box and sent it towards goal with a bicycle kick, but goalkeeper Bruno made a flawless save. In the 16th minute, Cristiano was brought down inside the box by Fábio Luciano, but referee Godóy Bezerra didn't award a penalty. The play revived the Rio de Janeiro team, and in the 19th minute, Maxi made a great play and set up Souza, who delivered a precise pass to Juan inside the box, but the full-back missed the target.
Flamengo dominated the match, and Goiás merely defended without any attacking ambition. In the 27th minute, Juan crossed from the left, Angelim laid it off, and Maxi shot, but Harlei saved. From the 30th minute onward, the match became more tense, with both teams committing excessive fouls. Despite not being in good form, Goiás scored in the 37th minute. Maxi burst down the left and sent in a low cross. Souza played the ball, which ended up falling to Léo Medeiros, who was free and had no trouble opening the scoring.
Goiás were dejected by the goal and were unable to create chances to equalize while Flamengo maintained the pressure until the end of the first half.
The visitors came out more aggressive in the second half, and in the sixth minute, Paulo Baier nearly equalized with a shot that deflected off Fábio Luciano when he was on target. Just when it seemed the visiting team would equalize, Flamengo scored the second goal in the 11th minute with a beautiful play by Juan, who broke through the middle and fired a powerful lob, taking advantage of Harlei's advanced position. The goal ignited the Maracanã, and Flamengo reached the third in the 15th minute, through Ibson, who headed the ball into the net after Léo Medeiros' cross was poorly cleared by the Goiás defense.
The home side began to control the result and lost Argentine midfielder Maxi, who suffered a muscle injury and was replaced by Obina in the 23rd minute. Two minutes later, José Moura, the "kisser," invaded the pitch to try to kiss Obina, interrupting the match. He was detained by police and removed from the field.
Goiás no longer had the strength to react, but Paulo Baier, the most lucid player on the team, still gave goalkeeper Bruno a hard time, as happened in the 31st minute, when he shot from distance and forced the red-black goalkeeper to work hard to prevent the ball from going into the corner.
In the final minutes, while the fans celebrated and Flamengo was only concerned with managing the result to rest their players, Goiás still scored their consolation goal through Paulo Baier who took advantage of Bruno's indecision on a ball crossed into the area.
PeléNet
Fla wins, leaves the danger zone and keeps Goiás away from the G-4
After 13 rounds of relegation, Flamengo finally left the Brazilian Championship relegation zone with a 3-1 victory over Goiás this Sunday at Maracanã. Flamengo's second straight win—fourth in a row at the stadium—also kept them out of the top four—the group of teams that will advance to the Copa Libertadores.
Spurred on by their massive crowd—44.920 paying fans—Flamengo launched their attack with great enthusiasm at the start, but little efficiency. So much so that the team only opened the scoring in the 37th minute, with Léo Medeiros.
However, Flamengo took off in the second half. Left-back Juan, who had already scored a stunning goal last Thursday against Juventude, added another in the 11th minute. Four minutes later, Ibson scored his first since returning to the club, extending the lead. Paulo Baier pulled one back in the end.
"I had two chances in the games against Náutico and Juventude and I couldn't. But today [Sunday] I was able to do it and dedicate it to my son," celebrated Ibson.
With the victory, Flamengo reached 24 points in 19 matches—two fewer than most of its opponents. Thus, it surpassed Atlético-PR and jumped from 17th to 16th place, the first place outside the relegation zone. The Rio de Janeiro team had been in the risk group since its draw with Inter in the sixth round.
Furthermore, Flamengo shows that it is making good use of the series of matches it has to play at Maracanã to pursue a more honorable objective in the championship.
There, the team thrashed Juventude 4-0 last Thursday, won the derby against Fluminense 1-0 and defeated Náutico 2-1. And Flamengo still has three more consecutive games to play at Maracanã - against Botafogo, Sport and Figueirense.
"We're happy to get another win at Maracanã to get us out of this situation," commented right-back Leonardo Moura. "Everyone knows how strong our fans are. They ignite the game and push the team. We still have hope of achieving something better in the championship," observed left-back Juan.
On the other hand, with the defeat, Goiás remained in ninth place with 30 points. A win would have allowed them to move up to sixth place and close in on the top four. Furthermore, the negative result extended the team's winless streak, which has now reached three games without a win.
Now, Goiás will look to bounce back next Wednesday against Juventude in Caxias do Sul. Flamengo will try to get back on track in the derby against Botafogo on the same day.
Problems in scaling Fla in the classic worry Joel Santana
Despite a comfortable 3-1 victory over Goiás this Sunday in the Brazilian Championship, coach Joel Santana appeared in the Maracanã interview room with a worried expression. This is because the coach is having trouble selecting his team for the derby against Botafogo next Wednesday.
Joel Santana still doesn't know if he'll be able to count on midfielders Roger and Renato Augusto, who are still recovering from muscle injuries. To make matters worse, Léo Medeiros, who replaced Roger this Sunday, received his third yellow card against Goiás and will serve an automatic suspension against Botafogo.
Furthermore, Argentine Maxi Biancucchi felt a twinge in the posterior muscle of his left thigh after sprinting on the field tonight and this is also a concern for Flamengo's medical department.
"These problems are worrying me. We've had a series of injured players. But we have competent professionals who will know how to solve this problem," commented the coach, who, despite his confidence in the club's medical department, still doesn't have an idea of the team he'll be able to field.
"I should know tomorrow [Monday]. We will have a reassessment and then we will have an idea of the group that I will have available," he said.
The only player already out, midfielder Léo Medeiros lamented his suspension, just as he was gaining the trust of coach Joel Santana - the player came on in the second half of the last two matches and had good performances.
"Unfortunately, I won't be playing. I'm not a player who commits fouls, I didn't deserve the card. But if the referee decided that I did, I just have to comply. But I hope to return against Sport," he said.
Flamengo thanks fans for their support towards a new goal
Cheered on by more than 50 fans (44.920 paying) at the Maracanã stadium, Flamengo secured its fourth consecutive victory at the stadium by defeating Goiás 3-1 this Sunday. With the 12 points obtained in this run, the team left the relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship after 13 rounds.
Therefore, after the match, the red-blacks thanked the fans for their support, which encourages the team to pursue a more honorable objective in the competition.
"We're committed to this cause and to these fans, who have been cheering us on. We've left the relegation zone, but we're still close. Now, we have to move away to aim for something better in the championship," commented midfielder Léo Medeiros, who scored the first goal of the game against the Goiás team.
Coach Joel Santana was another who thanked the fans, but tried to avoid euphoria by reminding them that Flamengo needs to gradually seek a new objective in the Brazilian Championship.
"The team played well, and the fans did the rest. They kept up the momentum, and the players repaid us with a great result. We're climbing step by step, goal by goal. We've already achieved our first goal, but we're still close to the relegation zone, just one point," commented the coach.
"We need another winning streak to get out of this once and for all and then we can think about flying higher. But with calm and our feet on the ground," said the coach, who, on the other hand, is very happy to be out of the risk group. "Now there won't be any more teasing with the fans tomorrow [Monday]."
The Flamengo defenders also praised the fans' performance in the victory over Goiás. "Does anyone doubt that these fans are our 12th player? They deserve congratulations. We'll do everything we can to not disappoint them. We're happy to have another victory at Maracanã to get us out of this situation," said Leonardo Moura.
"Everyone knows how strong our fans are. They ignite the game and push the team. We still have hope of achieving something better in the championship," Juan emphasized.
Full-back Juan gets into gear and becomes Flamengo's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship
In his prime, left-back Juan has become Flamengo's top scorer. With two goals in his last two matches, against Juventude last Thursday and Goiás this Sunday, he has become the team's leading scorer in this Brazilian Championship.
However, Juan is still far from the competition's top scorers, as he only has four, counting the one scored this Sunday - the competition's top scorer is Josiel, from Paraná, with 13. In any case, the full-back is thrilled with his good form, especially because he scored two great goals at the Maracanã.
"The ball bounced, but I was able to control it. I was lucky to get a good hold of the ball and thank God I scored," commented Juan, referring to the goal scored this Sunday.
Interestingly, half of Juan's goals in this Brazilian Championship have come against Goiás. In addition to his Sunday goal, the full-back also scored one in the first-round match in Goiânia. The other two came against Internacional and Juventude.
Thus, the full-back holds a one-goal lead over the team's second-highest scorer in Serie A, midfielder Léo Medeiros. Forwards Souza, Obina, Maxi, Leonardo, and Paulo Sérgio have only scored two, as have Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, and Renato, who has already left the club.
BalloonSport
Bonamigo: 'Flamengo was exceptional'
The emerald coach highlights the support that the red-black fans gave to the team at Maracanã
After seeing his team defeated by Flamengo 3-0 last Sunday (watch the video with the goals from the game), coach Bonamigo revealed that he had already spoken to the Goiás players so that they would not let the red-black fans get too excited during the game.
"I said that if we let the Flamengo fans into the game, it would be difficult. They did, and they made exceptional use of the chances they created," he lamented.
Maxi should not face Bota
The striker suffered a muscle injury against Goiás and will be re-evaluated this Monday.
Henrique Netto
Forward Maxi is virtually out of next Wednesday's derby against Botafogo in the Brazilian Championship. He suffered a muscle injury in his left thigh in the second half of the match against Goiás this Sunday and left the field in severe pain (watch highlights from the match in the video below). Maxi will be re-evaluated by doctors on Monday, but according to Joel Santana, he's unlikely to be fit to play.
"I'm not a doctor, but I think it's very unlikely he'll be in the derby. From what I've seen, I'm not counting on him. But I need to wait for the opinion of the doctors, who are the experts on the subject," says Joel, showing great distrust.
Midfielder Leo Medeiros, who scored one of the goals in the 3-1 victory over Goiás this Sunday, received his third yellow card and is out of the derby.
Joel explains the reason for his success
Coach says players' donations and fans' support are essential
Henrique Netto
Less than a month after taking over at Flamengo, coach Joel Santana has already achieved his first goal: pulling the team out of the uncomfortable relegation zone. Relieved, the Flamengo manager knows the reason for the team's recent success (watch the goals from the victory over Goiás in the video below).
"It's a healthy mix of the players' dedication and the strength of this wonderful fan base. This group bought into the fight, bought into the idea, and that's why they were able to turn things around. Our fans can sleep soundly, because we're no longer in the relegation zone. Those typical jokes will subside," he says.
Experienced Joel Santana, however, remains grounded. According to him, there's no reason to relax, as much still needs to be done for Flamengo to finish this Brasileirão with dignity.
"I'm relieved, but I can't be happy. The relegation zone is no place for Flamengo. No one is happy about being so poorly placed. But this happiness is no reason to relax. We haven't achieved anything yet. And the gap to Atlético-PR, the first team in the relegation zone, is only one point. A slack off would be fatal. We'll climb little by little, step by step," he assures.
Juan says he wants to stay at Fla
Left-back says chances of moving to Spain are slim
Henrique Netto
Flamengo's standout left-back Juan celebrated his goal and his excellent performance in the 3-1 victory over Goiás (watch the goals in the video below). He said the team's strong form is the main reason they're flying high on the field.
"I'm definitely in the best phase of my career. I like attacking, and I've been doing it well. And the goals are coming slowly and naturally. But I have an obligation to share this with my teammates. When the group is doing well, when the team is in good form, individual brilliance shines more easily," he explains.
His form is so good that it has sparked interest from Almeria, the team that was promoted to Spain's Primera División this year. Despite the European offer, Juan assures that his mind is set on Mengão.
"The chance of me leaving is slim. I'm negotiating with Flamengo's board to renew my contract. The talks are well underway, which makes me happy and there's no reason to leave the club. My focus is on helping Flamengo, and I hope to get this done as soon as possible," says the full-back, who is expected to sign a contract until 2010.
Fans do their part at Maraca
More than 50 fans turn out to push Flamengo over Goiás
Flamengo fans celebrate victory over Goiás at Maracanã. Over 50 attend. Flamengo's fans prove every day that they are not only the largest in Brazil, but also the most passionate. So much so that in the last rounds of the Brazilian Championship, even with the team in the relegation zone, when the game was played in Rio, Maracanã drew a large crowd. This Sunday, over 50 people attended the match in which the Red-Blacks beat Goiás 3-1 and escaped the relegation zone. They are now in 16th place, with two games in hand.
One might think that Sunday's attendance was a record for the Brasileirão. But the answer is no, as the number of paying spectators was 44.920, less than the Fla-Flu match, which drew 49.828. In any case, the Mengão fans don't have to prove anything to anyone.
Kisser 'participates' in the game
Folklore fan enters the field during the match against Goiás, at Maracanã
Striker Obina came on in the 26th minute of the second half, when Flamengo was already leading Goiás 3-0 this Sunday, in the 21st round of the Brazilian Championship, but he didn't expect such a warm welcome. (watch the video with the goals from the match).
The red-and-black favorite was "attacked" by the famous Kisser. José Alves de Moura invaded the field, went after Obina, and got what he wanted: a kiss on the Bahian striker.
And he went further. Even surrounded by police, he kissed the grass of the World's Largest Stadium, but was soon removed so the match could continue.
Fla calmer after leaving the danger zone
Ibson and Cristian warn that the red-black team will now seek the top positions
Henrique Netto
Flamengo managed to escape the Brasileirão relegation zone after languishing among the bottom teams for several rounds. And the players left the Maracanã pitch elated with their achievement. For fan Ibson, now it's time to think about bigger things. (Watch the video below with the midfielder's goal).
"That situation has been bothering me for some time. We know we have an excellent team that deserves to be in a much better position. I'm happy because this victory took us out of the relegation zone, but we have a long way to go. We want to fight for the top spots."
Midfielder Cristian echoed his teammate's sentiments. Relieved by the victory, his fourth in five games, he's already thinking about bigger achievements.
"In Rio, this team has done its homework. We won another match at Maracanã and moved out of the relegation zone. We spent 15 rounds among the relegated teams, and that's in the past now. Flamengo's greatness doesn't allow that. We'll look for more wins and the top spots. We have the team to fight for a spot in the Libertadores."
Fla runs over Goiás and escapes relegation
Rubro-Negro wins for the fourth time in five games and escapes the relegation zone
With the excitement of more than 50 fans (44.920 paying), Flamengo defeated Goiás 3-1 this Sunday at Maracanã, once again demonstrating its ascendancy in the Brazilian Championship. This was Mengão's fourth victory in the last five games, a result that lifted coach Joel Santana's team out of the relegation zone. Flamengo, now with 24 points and two games in hand over most of its rivals, sits in 16th place in the standings. Goiás, with 30 points and in ninth place, remains in contention for a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Despite being without the injured Roger, the team's main creative player, Flamengo did not disappoint its fans early in the match. Exploring the plays on the side of the field, with Leonardo Moura, on the right, and Juan, on the left, and the fast attacks of the agile Maxi, coach Joel Santana's team did what was expected of them: they pressed from the first minute.\
Juan breaks down the left side
Within 15 minutes, the red-and-black team had already wasted three clear scoring opportunities with shots from the edge of the box. Yes, with long-range shots, because the Goiás defense was well-organized and made penetration difficult. Despite defending well, Goiás didn't give up on the attack. The team had possession and created danger down the left flank, with runs from full-back Chiquinho and forward Cristiano, who even managed a dangerous overhead kick that Bruno saved.
Maix was very well marked in the game
Flamengo fans were singing loudly in the Maracanã stands. And the players were running at full speed on the field. Despite the pressure on the Goiás team, Flamengo couldn't find the net, and the first half was heading for a 0-0 draw. But Juan stole the ball in midfield and advanced down the left. The full-back beautifully dribbled past Vítor and passed to Maxi, who crossed perfectly for Souza. The striker hit the post, and Leo Medeiros, on the rebound, shot into an empty net to make it 1-0. A Mengão celebration at the World's Biggest Club.
Red-black tractor runs over Goiás
After the break, Flamengo didn't settle down and didn't even give Goiás time to breathe. Pressing the Goiás half, they scored their second goal in the 11th minute after forcing a mistake from the opponent's clearance. Juan hit a rocket into the top corner of Harlei's net, sending the crowd into an eruption.
Without giving in to bad luck and doing their homework properly, Mengão's pressure resulted in another goal, this time in the 15th minute. Ibson headed in a rebound from the defense and gave Harlei no chance. The red-and-black fans celebrated at the Maracanã stadium. To the chants of "dust, dust," they pushed their team forward, as it rolled over the enemy like a tractor.
Goiás's focused and dedicated first half gave way to a team that was dejected in the second half. After conceding two goals in 15 minutes, coach Paulo Bonamigo made changes to his lineup. In an attempt to reduce the deficit, he took off Fábio Bahia and Cristiano and brought on Harrison and Felipe, respectively. Goiás applied some pressure and managed to pull one back through Paulo Baier in the 47th minute, but it was too little too late.
Throw
Flamengo defeats Goiás and leaves the relegation zone
Rubro-Negro wins its fourth consecutive match at Maracanã and, finally, can breathe in the Brazilian Championship
Fla takes advantage of the Maracanã factor and leaves the relegation zone (Credit: Júlio César Guimarães)
Rafael Ximenes
Encouraged by their fans and enjoying a positive atmosphere at the Maracanã Stadium, Flamengo defeated Goiás 3-1 this Sunday and escaped the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship, after languishing at the bottom of the table for nearly two months. With the victory, Flamengo reached 24 points and surpassed Atlético-PR, which lost 1-0 to Inter and remained on 23. The Gávea team is in 16th place, while the Goiás team remained in ninth place with 30 points.
In addition, Flamengo matched a record from last year's Brasileirão: four consecutive wins at Maracanã (Náutico, Fluminense, Juventude, and Goiás). In 2006, the four consecutive home wins were against Botafogo, Cruzeiro, Fluminense, and Corinthians.
By the 15th minute, both teams had already had five shots. For Flamengo, Ronaldo Angelim, Souza, and Ibson threatened Harlei's goal. Goiás, on the other hand, had a chance with Paulo Baier and a bicycle kick from Cristiano, which was well saved by Bruno.
Even with only one striker, Cristiano, Goiás was threatening. The Red-Blacks struggled to break through the Goiás midfield, which was playing with six men and heavily marking. Realizing this, coach Joel Santana moved left-back Juan into the middle. Léo Medeiros began covering on the wing.
Flamengo had an excellent chance in the 20th minute. Maxi and Souza made a good play. Souza passed the ball to Juan, who, free in the box, made a mistake and wasted the best chance of the first half.
From then on, the match slowed significantly and became very choppy in midfield. Goiás barely threatened Bruno's goal. Flamengo also barely managed to get close. However, in the 37th minute, Flamengo scored their goal. Maxi Biancucchi advanced down the left and crossed. Souza challenged the defender, and the ball hit the post. Harlei, already beaten, could only watch as Léo Medeiros pushed the ball into his net.
Goiás came back much stronger and tried to equalize in the opening minutes, but Paulo Bonamigo's 3-6-1 formation wasn't helping. Flamengo, with their first attack in the second half, scored their second goal. In the 11th minute, the Goiás defense misplayed the ball. Léo Moura recovered and passed to Juan. The left-back, who was in the middle, received the ball and fired a powerful shot from outside the box. Harlei, who was playing forward, tried hard, but the ball ended up in the back of the net.
The Red-Blacks were thrilled and scored their third goal four minutes later. Juan played a pass to Léo Medeiros, who crossed. Defender Amaral made a poor clearance, and Ibson headed the ball into the right corner. Coach Paulo Bonamigo even made some changes to his team, but it was too late to make any difference.
From then on, Flamengo fans were all in for a treat. Even the famous Kisser entered the field and chased down striker Obina, getting what he wanted: a kiss on the Flamengo fan's favorite. And he went even further. Even surrounded by police, he kissed the pitch of the Greatest in the World.
Goiás still scored their consolation goal, with a beautiful header from Paulo Baier, who lobbed the ball over goalkeeper Bruno, in the 47th minute.
Next Wednesday, Flamengo will face Botafogo in the derby at Maracanã Stadium, while Goiás will face Juventude at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium.
Maxi Biancucchi will not face Botafogo
Argentine striker feels a twinge in his left thigh against Goiás
Maxi felt a problem and is out of the classic against Botafogo (Credit: Júlio César Guimarães)
Substituted by Obina in the second half, Argentine Maxi Biancucchi will be Flamengo's main absence in the classic against Botafogo, next Wednesday, at Maracanã.
The striker felt a twinge in his left thigh and will be re-evaluated this Monday by the club's doctors, but coach Joel Santana announced that it will be very difficult to count on him.
In compensation, the coach is expected to have his key creative players back. Roger has recovered from the pain in his right thigh, and Renato Augusto from his injury. Both will participate in a training match against Guanabara this Monday in Gávea.
Léo Medeiros suspended for the classic
Midfielder scores goal, but will not face Botafogo
Midfielder Léo Medeiros started and scored Flamengo's first goal in the 3-1 victory over Goiás, this Sunday, at Maracanã, in the Brazilian Championship, but he is already a certain absence for next Wednesday's classic, against Botafogo, at the Biggest in the World.
The player received his third yellow card and found referee Paulo Henrique de Godoy Bezerra's punishment unfair.
"I don't usually foul and I didn't deserve the card, but I just have to accept what the referee did. Now we just have to wait and see what we can play against Sport on Sunday," said Léo Medeiros, who replaced midfielder Roger.
Juan scores and is Flamengo's top scorer
The full-back scored his second goal against Goiás in this Brazilian Championship
Left-back Juan scored the second goal in Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Goiás this Sunday at Maracanã, in the 21st round and became the team's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship with four goals.
In the 11th minute, the Goiás defense made a poor play. Léo Moura recovered the ball and passed it to Juan. The left-back, who was in the middle, received it and fired a powerful shot from outside the box. Harlei, who was playing further forward, tried hard, but the ball ended up in the back of the net.
This was the full-back's second goal against Goiás, having already scored in the first-round victory, also 3-1, but this time at Serra Dourada. The player's other goals came in the 2-2 draw with Internacional and in the 4-0 rout of Juventude last Thursday.
Midfielder Léo Medeiros is Flamengo's second-highest scorer, with three goals.
Léo Moura praises Flamengo fans
For the side, the red-black fans are the 12th player
Cheered on by more than 44 Flamengo fans, Flamengo's players didn't disappoint and beat Goiás 3-1. Right-back Leonardo Moura was one of the most enthusiastic at the end of the match, and made a point of thanking the support from the stands:
radio l! - Does anyone doubt that this fan base is the 12th player? No, they've shown it. We, on the field, will always try to do our best for them - declared Léo Moura.
Flamengo players are already thinking about the top of the table
Rubro-Negro has won four straight games at Maracanã
Flamengo's fourth consecutive victory at Maracanã, 3-1 over Goiás, this Sunday, in the 21st round of the Brazilian Championship, has already made the red-black players start thinking about the top of the table.
The Red-Blacks reached 24 points and escaped the relegation zone, a zone they'd occupied for nearly two months. Midfielder Cristian is already hoping for a spot in the Copa Libertadores.
"Flamengo can't stay in this situation. We're going to go for something more, go for it. This team deserves to be among the top four," the player stated.
"As Joel said, we're starting to dig our heels out of the mud. With the squad we have, we can't just be satisfied with this. We have to assert our home advantage and fight up front," said midfielder Léo Medeiros, who scored the first goal on Sunday.
Kisser celebrates at Flamengo's game
Striker Obina is rewarded with a kiss from the folkloric fan
Striker Obina came on in the 26th minute of the second half, when Flamengo was already winning 3-0 against Goiás, this Sunday, in the 21st round of the Brazilian Championship, but he didn't expect such a warm welcome.
The red-and-black favorite was "attacked" by the famous Kisser. José Alves de Moura invaded the field, went after Obina, and got what he wanted: a kiss on the Bahian striker.
And he went further. Even surrounded by police, he kissed the pitch of the World's Greatest, but was soon removed to continue the match.