THE GLOBE
Flamengo's situation improves, but the game in Cuzco remains decisive.
After a 0-0 draw between Cienciano and Bolognesi, the team needs a point at altitude
Photo caption: IBSON AND BRUNO during Flamengo training, in Gávea: players watched the draw between the Peruvian rivals in the Copa Libertadores
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
The 0-0 draw between Cienciano and Coronel Bolognesi slightly improved Flamengo's situation in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. However, Flamengo still needs to earn at least one point in Cuzco, against Cienciano, on April 9th, to reach the final round depending only on a victory at the Maracanã, against Coronel Bolognesi.
If they win at the altitude of Cuzco, Flamengo will qualify in advance. If they draw, they will qualify if they beat Bolognesi at home in the final round, by any score.
If they lose, Flamengo will likely enter the final round in third place with seven points, behind Cienciano, who would have 10, and Nacional, who should have nine, as they face a weak Bolognesi side at home in the penultimate round. It's crucial that Flamengo avoid a heavy defeat if they lose in Peru.
In this scenario, Flamengo would go into the final round having to beat Bolognesi at Maracanã and watch the match between Nacional and Cienciano in Uruguay. If Nacional wins, Flamengo would tie Cienciano for second place with 10 points, and the decision would be made on goal difference. Currently, the difference is one goal, but if Flamengo loses in Cuzco, it would reach at least three goals in the final round. If Nacional and Cienciano draw, Flamengo and Nacional would finish tied in second place. Flamengo would, in this case, have to make up a goal difference of at least three goals—even considering a possible Flamengo loss in Cuzco and a Nacional win in the penultimate round. If Cienciano wins, a Flamengo victory by any score at Maracanã guarantees the spot.
Yesterday, CONMEBOL spokesperson Nestor Benitez confirmed that the altitude issue will be discussed by the Executive Committee on April 3. Regarding a possible change in the location of the match between Flamengo and Cienciano, he noted that other matches in this Libertadores have already been played at altitude.
For the president, Flu and Vasco are a 'gang fight'
Off the field, the club is mobilizing for the trial of four players at the TJD: Bruno, Jônatas, Obina and Toró.
"Perhaps Toró is the most concerning. On the other hand, I found the accusation against Bruno somewhat exaggerated. We intend to take the four athletes to the TJD," said Flamengo's legal director, Michel Assef Filho.
Flamengo president Márcio Braga said he was approached by Ricardo Colombini, a Nike executive, to discuss the dispute between the club and the company. Braga admitted to talks, but Flamengo still wants to end the partnership. To this end, the contract requires the appointment of an arbitration tribunal. According to Adalberto Ribeiro, Flamengo's attorney general, the discussion would take months.
Márcio Braga was harsh when commenting on the fight between Fluminense and Vasco, in the case of Leandro Amaral.
"Pardon the joke, the bandits got into a fight. This is a gang fight. One steals another's player, the other goes to file (the paperwork), and the president of the Federation runs away because it's a match day between them," Márcio told "Sportv." "Fluminense and Vasco are always on the side of the corrupt Rio de Janeiro soccer gang."
Timemania also worries him. Today, he goes to the Caixa Econômica Federal. According to Márcio Braga, the revenue from the first contests was low.
Fla pulls off a rout inspired by flowers, scares and beautiful goals
Victory over Friburguense (4-1) leaves the team one draw away from the semifinals
Photo caption: RENATO AUGUSTO carries Marcinho, after scoring his first goal in 2008, Flamengo's second
The flowers captain Fábio Luciano handed to the female refereeing team before the game predicted a night at Maracanã would be a bed of roses. Not so much. Flamengo had a few scares, but thrashed Friburguense 4-1, reaching 15 points. Flamengo needs a draw against Madureira on Saturday to reach the semifinals in Group A of the Taça Rio.
The result provides some peace of mind for the Copa Libertadores. With the 0-0 draw between Cienciano and Coronel Bolognesi, the situation in Group 4 has improved. If they can secure a point in Cuzco against Cienciano on April 9th, they'll reach the final round depending on a victory in Rio over Coronel Bolognesi. A win in Cuzco will see Flamengo qualify.
Souza and Jônatas are injured and cause concern
Before building the victory, Flamengo had a few scares. They had clear chances through Marcinho and Ibson, but gave Friburguense space, forcing goalkeeper Bruno to make some saving tackles. But in the 18th minute, Juan sent the ball into the box, and Marcinho scored a goal with the back of his head (his third in this State Championship and sixth of the season). Two minutes later, a ball centered by Leonardo Moura and deflected off the defense, Renato Augusto caught it first time, scoring a beautiful goal, his first of 2008.
- I knew that one day the goal would come and it did - celebrated Renato Augusto at half-time.
At the start of the second half, justice was served for Friburguense. Léo Andrade pulled one back in the 10th minute with a beautiful goal. In the 29th minute, Ziquinha nearly equalized, but a minute later Leonardo Moura made it 3-1 with a pass from Obina. In the 33rd minute, in a blistering counterattack, Marcinho sealed the score with a superb pass from Juan. But the rout had a bitter taste: Souza came off complaining of pain in his left knee. And Jônatas, who had just come on, strained the hamstring in his left thigh when he fell while controlling the ball.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Ibson (Jônatas), Toró and Renato Augusto (Diego Tardelli); Marcinho and Souza (Obina). Friburguense: Adriano, Everton, Cadão, Felipe Marques and Gilson; Elan, Cassiano, Victor Hugo (Diego) and Carlos Alberto (Guido); Alex (Ziquinha) and Léo Andrade. Referee: Simone Xavier de Paula e Silva. Assistants: Fernanda Lisboa da Silva and Lilian Bruno (RJ). Yellow cards: Cristian, Felipe Marques, Elan. Revenue: R$78.323,50. Attendance: 7.818 paying spectators.
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: Made a great save in the first half from a shot by Carlos Alberto, played well in his clearances, and distributed the ball well. He wasn't to blame for Léo Andrade's goal, as he unleashed a powerful shot that went unchecked. 7.
LEONARDO MOURA: As always, the Flamengo full-back supported the attack with skill and consistency. In fact, it was his cross, after reaching the baseline, that resulted in Renato Augusto's goal, Flamengo's second against Friburguense. When Flamengo was most attacked by their rival, he scored a beautiful goal, the team's third. 7.
FÁBIO LUCIANO: He had difficulty marking the Friburguense team, especially in the first half. But, in the second, he established himself. 6.
RONALDO ANGELIM: At the same level as his defensive partner, but with greater support for attacking plays. 6.
JUAN: He was a bit off-target when finishing, but he delivered a good free kick that Marcinho scored. In the second half, he had a much more effective performance for the team. 6,5.
CRISTIAN: As a third defender, he also had difficulty combating his rival in the match. 5,5.
TORO: Had a good ball out to attack, failing at times to protect the defense. 6.
IBSON: The player alternated between good moments in the game and misplaced passes on counterattacks, which could have been dangerous. He had more brilliant performances. 6. JÔNATAS replaced him and started the play for the fourth goal. He came off injured, leaving the team with 10 men. 6
RENATO AUGUSTO: Scored the second and beautiful goal for the red-and-black team in the match, in which he displayed good technique and movement on the field. 6,5. DIEGO TARDELLI replaced him near the end and did little. No rating.
MARCINHO: His header, Flamengo's first, gave the team peace of mind and created space for counterattacks. He also scored the fourth. 7,5.
SOUZA: Good movement in search of space, but poor finishing in the first half. In the second half, in pain, he asked Joel Santana to come off. 5. OBINA came on and tried to give the attack options. 5.
JOEL SANTANA: Faced with the rival's fragility, his team was supreme on the field, although they gave Friburguense a lot of space. 6.
FRIBURGUENSE
Friburguense's standout performer was Carlos Alberto, especially in the first half. In the second half, Léo Andrade was the standout, scoring a stunning goal with a powerful shot.
ARBITRATION
Referee Simone Xavier and assistant referees Fernanda Lisboa and Lilian da Silva earned the flowers the Flamengo players presented them before the match. They performed their duties with restraint. Simone Xavier imposed herself discreetly. She was attentive and closely involved in the play. Demonstrating good physical fitness, she didn't appear tense, despite refereeing a First Division match for the first time. The teams, in a way, contributed to the trio's strong performance: there were no violent plays or excessive complaints.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Fla plays well and thrashes Friburguense
Frizão tries hard, but can't avoid defeat at Maracanã
Despite the 4-1 scoreline, Friburguense sold Flamengo a high price for their victory this Wednesday at Maracanã. Showing seriousness from start to finish, the Rubro-Negro impressed with a strong performance and virtually secured a spot in the Taça Rio semifinals. With 15 points in Group A, only a disaster will keep the team out of the next round.
The first half began with Flamengo attacking Friburguense. Despite the greater volume of play, it was from set pieces that Flamengo created the most danger. In the 9th minute, from a corner kick, Fabio Luciano rose above the entire opposing defense and headed the ball into the six-yard box. Marcinho, unmarked, fired over the bar.
After Ibson threatened with a shot from outside the box, another opportunity arose for Juan to send the ball into the box. Juan took a free kick from the edge of the box toward goal. Marcinho, always him, got ahead of the goalkeeper and headed the ball into the net.
Encouraged by the crowd, Flamengo put even more pressure on Friburguense's fragile defense and scored their second goal. Léo Moura made a good run down the right and crossed. The ball bounced in the half-moon, and Renato Augusto fired a rocket into Adriano's right corner: 2-0.
The team from Gávea continued to create scoring chances, but failed to finish. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Bruno struggled to save easy balls, but without any serious consequences.
Still with slim chances of qualifying, Frizão returned for the second half to go all-out. And in the 10th minute, they managed to reduce the deficit. After a long ball, Léo Andrade outpaced the opponent and hit a beautiful shot into Bruno's left corner, unstoppable.
Flamengo continued to attack, but began to give their opponents more freedom, which threatened with counterattacks. In one of these, in the 18th minute, they nearly equalized with another shot from Léo Andrade.
Looking for more composure, Flamengo scored their third goal in the 28th minute. Obina received the ball at the edge of the box, saw Léo Moura pass on the right, and tapped it in. With skill, the full-back displaced the goalkeeper and went for the hug.
Desperate, Friburguense began to leave spaces in defense as well. On one of the attacks, the Rubro-Negro launched a lightning-fast counterattack with Juan and Marcinho. The left-back carried the ball into the penalty area and passed it to the striker to extend the lead and virtually secure qualification for the Taça Rio semifinals.
Souza supports his colleagues in the dock
Striker Souza, who has already been in sports courts as a defendant, spoke about his teammates, Toró, Bruno, Obina and Jônatas, who will probably face a trial next week at the Rio Sports Court of Justice.
"They need to stay calm. It's important at this moment to stay calm and hope for a minimum sentence or acquittal. If I had been at that game (against Botafogo), I could have gotten involved in the fight, especially given the 'hot blood' of the moment," Souza told Rádio Bandeirantes.
He also stated that, after being penalized by the STJD last year, he has been trying to change his behavior on the field.
"Now I take a deep breath and count to ten before doing anything on the field. The five-game ban I received in last year's Brazilian Championship made me change," says the striker.
Ronaldo Angelim returns with full steam
The defender was rested in the last round and hopes to do well against Friburguense
Nina Lima/JS
Angelim is Flamengo's absolute starter
Defender Ronaldo Angelim was rested from Flamengo's last match against Cabofriense, but he's back in the lineup for Wednesday's match against Friburguense at Maracanã. Angelim considered it a positive move not to play in the last match, as he himself said he was suffering from fatigue due to too many games. The defender hopes to return to the team in top form.
"It's good to be rested, because it gives us a rest, because we've been playing every game and I hope to be fit enough to play a good match against Cabofriense. It's always good to rest some players so they can be at 100% for matches," Ronaldo Angelim told Rádio Brasil.
The red-and-black defender admitted that this edition of the Campeonato Carioca, where teams considered 'small' cannot face the big teams in their stadiums, was formulated to favor the four big teams in the capital.
"The Carioca is strong, but the way it was run this year, it's more for the big teams. It's tough for the smaller teams; it was a championship prepared for bigger teams, but the smaller teams are giving them a hard time too," commented Angelim, who assured that Flamengo is in the fight to win the Taça Rio and be crowned Carioca champion without the need for a final.
"Flamengo is preparing, and we know the other big names will come out swinging. But Flamengo also wants to win the Rio Cup. We're in a good spot, and the team is performing well. We have to be focused to get the win against Friburguense," Ronaldo concluded.
Diego Hypólito shows confidence in recovery
File/JS
Brazilian gymnast Diego Hypolito is confident and hopes to return to training soon.
Gymnast Diego Hypolito, who left the Copa D'OR hospital in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday after surgery to correct a medial meniscus injury in his right knee, is confident that he will return to training within a month and that he will be able to perform at his best at the Beijing Olympics in August, where he will perform the most difficult series he has ever performed.
"I'm very confident. The surgery was simple. I'm sure the recovery will be smooth. I trained for four years for the Olympics, and these few weeks won't set me back. If I don't win, it won't be because I didn't have time. I ask everyone to stay calm and root for me, because I'm sure everything will work out," said the gymnast, who recalled the difficult times he went through in 2005, when he spent seven months recovering from ankle surgery and, after three weeks of training, won gold at the world championships on floor exercise for the first time.
"Will I be ready for Beijing? Absolutely! I went through some very difficult times in 2005; this is just an obstacle to a story that will end well, just like it did then," Hypolito said.
Flamengo without fear of the Argentines
The team awaits the definition of its opponent in the South American semifinals
Pedro Ivo Almeida
File/JS
Winger/point guard Hélio has been improving his performance in recent South American League games
After the celebrations for securing an unprecedented berth in the semifinals of the South American Basketball League, Flamengo turns its attention to the duel that will decide its opponent in the next round. Boca Juniors and Libertad Sunchales face off tonight at the Libertad gymnasium in the second game of the best-of-three series. In the first game, played at their home gym, La Bombonerita, Boca won 82-79 with a basket by Léo Gutiérrez with four seconds remaining.
If they win again, coach Gabriel Piccato's team will advance to the semifinals. If Libertad wins, a new, decisive match will be played tomorrow.
For the red-and-black wing/point guard Hélio, who had an excellent performance in the last match, scoring 18 points, a team that wants to win the title cannot choose its opponent, it has to be prepared for whatever comes.
"We're preparing hard to achieve this goal and to be able to give this unprecedented title as a gift to this wonderful fan base. I think a team that wants to get there can't choose too much; it has to be always prepared. And that's what we're trying to do: train harder and harder to come out stronger, whether against Boca or Libertad."
Hélio also commented on the good moment he is experiencing at Flamengo.
"Sometimes I start, sometimes I don't, but I don't think that's the main thing. I'm aware that the secret to our success has been the team; everyone who comes in has delivered. In my case, I try to seize the opportunities Chupeta gives me, and with each game that passes, I try to increase my court time, hoping to contribute even more," the player concluded.
Another series
Regatas de Corrientes (ARG) also secured a spot in the semifinals of the South American competition. The Argentine team beat Deportivo Táchira (VEN) 93-64 last Tuesday and closed the series 2-0, having won the first duel 79-68.
THE DAY
Fla thrashes Friburguense 4-1
Team only needs one more point to qualify
Martha Esteves
Rio - Combining both halves, Flamengo needed no more than half an hour to score a 4-1 victory over Friburguense this Wednesday at Maracanã. With the result, the Rubro-Negro now has 15 points and will mathematically qualify for the Taça Rio semifinals with a draw against Madureira on Saturday.
Before the game, captain Fábio Luciano presented a bouquet of flowers to the female refereeing trio who worked the match. "It's a great initiative, and we hope they do a great job in the State Championship," said the defender.
Fluminense fans, who remained in the stadium after the victory over Mesquita in the preliminary round, took the opportunity to provoke their rival and shouted olé with every touch of the ball by Friburguense, who got excited.
Flamengo started out on top, and Marcinho missed an incredible chance in the ninth minute, inside the six-yard box. Then, after a high-speed play, Renato Augusto laid off Íbson, who fired a shot just wide of the post.
Carlos Alberto threatened goalkeeper Bruno in the 15th minute, but Rubro-Negro opened the scoring shortly after. Juan took a free kick, and Marcinho got ahead of goalkeeper Adriano to head the ball into the net. The second goal wasn't long in coming. In the 20th minute, Renato Augusto took advantage of a loose ball from the defense and fired a powerful shot. It was the defender's tenth goal for Rubro-Negro. With the advantage, Joel Santana's team slowed down and didn't threaten again in the first half.
Friburguense took advantage of Flamengo's drowsiness and pulled one back in the 10th minute. Léo Andrade, on a breakaway, received the ball alone in the box and found the top corner of Bruno's net: 2-1. The fans were growing impatient and became even more enraged when Léo Andrade missed a backheel goal inside the six-yard box in the 18th minute. From the stands, chants for courage arose.
In the 28th minute, Friburguense nearly equalized. Ziquinha received the ball in the box and sent it past Bruno, but the ball went wide. Flamengo's first threat in the second half saw them extend their lead. Léo Moura received the ball from Obina on the right and fired a powerful shot into Adriano's corner. The team from Serra lost heart and conceded their fourth goal in the 33rd minute. In a perfect counterattack, Juan passed the ball to Marcinho, who finished from a free kick.
Ronaldo Angelim says the sequence of games will tire the team
Rio - One of Flamengo's standout performers this season, defender Ronaldo Angelim, knows the team will soon begin to feel fatigued due to the sheer number of matches played. Despite this, he knows this is a time for overcoming challenges.
"We're still at the beginning of the season, but there are a lot of games and fatigue is starting to set in, but the group is good, and whoever comes in is responding," said the defender, in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Regarding the Campeonato Carioca, the defender echoes coach Joel Santana's sentiments about the importance of winning the Taça Rio to avoid having to play in the final. He also said that the big clubs benefited from playing at home.
"We'll do everything we can to win the Rio Cup and avoid two more games. But it won't be easy, because even though the big teams have the advantage of playing at home, the smaller teams have been giving us a lot of work," he said.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo beats Friburguense and gets close to the spot\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo virtually secured a spot in the semifinals of the Taça Rio, the second round of the Campeonato Carioca, by beating Friburguense 4-1 on Wednesday night at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro, in the sixth round. With the result, the Rubro-negro reached 15 points and needs one more to mathematically secure their spot. Even if they lose their remaining two games, Flamengo can still qualify on goal difference.
Marcinho (2), Renato Augusto and Leonardo Moura scored for the winners, while Léo Andrade pulled one back for the team from Serra, which has 17 points in the overall standings, which takes into account the sum of the two rounds, and continues to fight for a spot in the next Série C of the Brazilian Championship. Wednesday's game was the first in the history of the Carioca with an all-female refereeing trio.
Friburguense had the first chance to score in the third minute. After a good attacking triangulation, Éverton crossed, Léo Andrade shot from inside the box, and the ball hit the outside of the net. Flamengo responded six minutes later. Leonardo Moura took a corner, Fábio Luciano headed it in, and Marcinho, from the six-yard box, finished over the goal.
In the 11th minute, Marcinho crossed, Renato Augusto controlled, and Ibson shot wide, grazing the left post. The play already demonstrated Flamengo's dominance, and they managed to open the scoring in the 18th minute. Juan took a free kick, and Marcinho headed it past goalkeeper Adriano.
It didn't take long for Flamengo to extend their lead. In the 20th minute, Leonardo Moura crossed from the right, the defense cleared, and Renato Augusto collected the rebound to fire a powerful shot past Adriano.
After the goals, Flamengo tried to hold on to their lead, and the game slowed down. Friburguense narrowly missed scoring before halftime. In the 35th minute, Alex fired a powerful shot from the edge of the box, Bruno rebounded, and Léo Andrade squandered the opportunity by shooting straight at the goalkeeper.
The second half began with Friburguense pressing and Flamengo feeling sluggish. The Nova Friburgo team capitalized on the situation and managed to pull one back in the 11th minute, with a well-executed counterattack from their forwards. Ziquinha found Léo Andrade, who fired a beautiful shot into the top corner, but Bruno was unable to stop him.
The game then opened up, with both teams creating good chances. In the 13th minute, Leonardo Moura received the ball in the box and shot, but Adriano made a good save. Five minutes later, Carlos Alberto crossed and Léo Andrade, with a backheel, headed wide, wasting a good opportunity to equalize and prompting Flamengo fans to call for more spirit.
Friburguense would then miss a clear goal, with Ziquinha shooting wide, straight at Bruno, before Flamengo doubled their lead in the 29th minute. Obina provided a beautiful assist for Leonardo Moura, who fired a powerful shot past the goalkeeper.
Four minutes later, Flamengo scored their fourth goal. Renato Augusto led a counterattack and found Juan. The full-back cut in from the left and passed to Marcinho, who followed suit.
In the 38th minute, Flamengo, which had already made three changes, was left with a man down after Jônatas suffered a muscle injury and had to leave the field. After that, Flamengo managed to hold on to its lead until the end.
Next Saturday, at 16 pm (Brasília time), Flamengo will host Madureira at Maracanã Stadium. Friburguense will travel to the Lagos Region to face Macaé on Sunday at 15 pm (Brasília time).
PELENET
Fla thrashes Friburguense and is close to the semi-finals of the Taça Rio
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo has all but secured a spot in the semifinals of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. On Wednesday night at the Maracanã, the Rubro-Negro thrashed Friburguense 4-1 in the sixth round. The goals were scored by Marcinho (2), Renato Augusto, and Leonardo Moura. Léo Andrade pulled one back.
CHECK OUT THE FIVE GOALS OF THE MATCH
With the win, Flamengo reached 15 points in Group A, one behind leader Fluminense, who mathematically qualified for the semifinals. Friburguense, on the other hand, has seven points in Group B and is completely free of relegation, and needs a miracle to keep its sights on the Taça Rio title.
In the next round, Flamengo faces Madureira this Saturday at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium. On Sunday at 15 p.m., Friburguense faces Macaé away from home.
Striker Souza, complaining of pain in his left knee, and midfielder Jônatas, with a left thigh injury, left the game, raising concerns among the club's medical staff. Both will be examined this Thursday in Gávea.
The match started evenly, with Friburguense troubling goalkeeper Bruno. However, within two minutes, Flamengo scored twice and put the game away. Marcinho opened the scoring in the 18th minute, and Renato Augusto doubled the lead in the 20th.
With the result secured, Flamengo relaxed, but still had chances to go into halftime with an even bigger lead. In the 38th minute, Souza received the ball inside the box and shot over the crossbar. Five minutes later, Juan fired a shot, and goalkeeper Adriano saved Friburguense.
The second half didn't start well for Flamengo. In the fifth minute, Souza, complaining of pain in his left knee, came off, making way for Obina. In the tenth minute, Léo Andrade pulled one back for Friburguense.
The goal lifted the spirits of Tricolor da Serra. Flamengo, meanwhile, had fallen off and nearly conceded an equalizer. From then on, Flamengo, realizing they could be in trouble, decided to wake up.
In the 29th minute, Leonardo Moura scored the third. Four minutes later, on a counterattack, Marcinho scored his second, Flamengo's fourth, and sealed the victory.
In the end, in the 38th minute, Jônatas, who had come on six minutes earlier in place of Ibson, ended up injuring his left thigh. Since Flamengo had already made its three substitutions, it ended the match with ten men.
Renato Augusto is disillusioned and vents. "It's always good to score."
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Renato Augusto scored his first goal since returning to the field after a facial injury. Besides the goal, a shot from outside the box at 135 km/h, the midfielder also participated in other important plays in Flamengo's 4-1 victory over Friburguense this Wednesday at Maracanã in the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship.
In one of them, the player led a deadly counterattack and delivered a beautiful pass to Juan, who set up Marcinho, who sealed the victory. It was his sixth game, his fourth as a starter, after 49 days on the sidelines.
"It's always good to score. It was important to stay calm, because at some point I knew the goal was going to come," said the player, who played until the 36th minute of the second half, when he was replaced by Diego Tardelli.
Renato Augusto also highlighted the importance of Flamengo, champion of the Guanabara Cup, first round of the competition, also winning the second round of the State Championship.
"Our goal is to also win the Rio Cup and avoid a final (April 27 and May 4). This would save the team from the strain of the Copa Libertadores da América," he analyzed.
With the victory, Flamengo reached 15 points in Group A, one behind leaders Fluminense, who are mathematically qualified for the semifinals. To advance in the Taça Rio, Flamengo needs only a draw in their next two games.
This Saturday, Flamengo faces Madureira at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium. The team concludes its campaign against Vasco on April 6 at 18:10 p.m., also at Mário Filho Stadium.
Despite the rout, Joel knows that Fla's triumph was not peaceful
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Joel Santana was pleased after Flamengo's 4-1 rout of Friburguense this Wednesday at the Maracanã in the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. However, despite the large score, the Flamengo coach denied any alleged ease.
"If I say it was calm, I'm lying," defined Joel Santana, who "blamed" the time of the match (21:45 pm) as the main problem for the team's drowsiness in the second half.
"That's how a game is at this time of day; the players relax. Besides, all the smaller teams face the bigger teams, wanting to win at any cost. It's like a World Cup final," he added.
Striker Marcinho, Flamengo's top scorer this season with seven goals and five in his last seven matches, earned praise from the coach. "He played well today (Wednesday). He's showing consistency, and I hope it continues," he said.
As usual, the red-and-black manager didn't hold back on talking about Toró. "People only talk badly about Torozinho. They never say anything good. He had a great game against Friburguense," he argued.
Regarding Jônatas's suspected strained adductor muscle in his left thigh, Joel Santana expressed concern. "I wasn't even going to start him. I was thinking Maxi Biancucchi or Diego Tardelli. It was bad luck. The pitch was slippery, and he stretched his leg too far," he lamented.
Finally, the Flamengo coach commented on the fatigue some players suffered before and during the game. "Leonardo Moura didn't do well in the training camp. Bruno injured his back during the warm-up. Souza has been complaining of pain (in his left knee) since last year," he concluded.
Juan highlights his decisive passes for Flamengo's triumph
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Does providing a goal pass make a player as happy as scoring a goal? If it's up to Juan, the answer is yes. The left-back was one of the standout performers in Flamengo's 4-1 rout of Friburguense this Wednesday at Maracanã Stadium in the sixth round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship.
"I'm happy, especially because of my role, which is to provide the forwards and midfielders with supplies. I did my job well and I hope I can maintain consistency for the rest of the season," said Juan.
With the victory, Flamengo reached 15 points in Group A, one behind leaders Fluminense, who are mathematically qualified for the semifinals. To advance in the Taça Rio, Flamengo needs only a draw in their next two games.
This Saturday, Flamengo faces Madureira at 16 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium. The team concludes its campaign against Vasco on April 6 at 18:10 p.m., also at Mário Filho Stadium.
GLOBOESPORTE
Fla doesn't forgive and wins another small one
The team struggles, but beats Friburguense 4-1 and maintains its 100% record against the younger teams.
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo didn't even deserve it. But by dint of least effort, the red-and-black team defeated the tenth team considered small in this Campeonato Carioca. The victim this time was Friburguense, who lost 4-1 on Wednesday night at the Maracanã. Marcinho, twice, Renato Augusto, and Leo Moura scored Flamengo's goals.
The hard-fought victory leaves Flamengo in second place in Group B with 15 points. To miss out on qualifying for the Taça Rio semifinals, Joel Santana's team needs to lose its two remaining games (Madureira and Vasco) and Caxias must win its remaining matches by a good goal difference.
As in other matches, Rubro-Negro built a good lead before the 20-minute mark and then relaxed. It was enough for Friburguense to threaten and irritate coach Joel Santana. But, with quick counterattacks, the Rio de Janeiro team decided the match. The team from the Serrana region remains with seven points in Group B and has no chance of qualifying, nor of relegation.
Tricolor drying
Flamengo started the match hearing chants of "olé" every time Friburguense touched the ball. It wasn't a protest from the Flamengo fans, but rather from Fluminense fans who remained at the Maracanã after the rout of Mesquita and decided to thwart their rival.
Despite the opposing fans, Flamengo nearly opened the scoring in the ninth minute. Fábio Luciano laid the ball off, and Marcinho flicked it over the bar from inside the six-yard box. A minute later, Renato Augusto rolled the ball over, and Ibson fired wide.
Until then harmless, the team from the Serrana Region pressed from the 16th to the 18th minute, and Bruno appeared well, with three saves.
Marcinho and Renato Augusto celebrate Flamengo's goal against Friburguense
But then Marcinho appeared. In the 19th minute, Juan took a free kick from the edge of the box, and the striker, with his back to the goal, opened the scoring. It was his fourth goal in the last three games.
The second goal wasn't long in coming. Leo Moura made a beautiful run down the right and crossed. Marcinho set it up, and Renato Augusto fired a powerful shot to score his first goal of 2008. With that, in the 21st minute, the resilient Fluminense fans headed for the stadium exits. Bruno took advantage of the situation, after another fine save, to wave goodbye to the Tricolor.
Temporary suffocation
The quick lead forced Flamengo to hit the brakes and bring monotony to the game. Between one yawn and another, Bruno faltered in the 35th minute and let fly a weak shot from Everton. But, on the rebound, the goalkeeper recovered and saved it from Leo Andrade's foot. The biggest thrill at the start of the second half was when Souza came off injured to make way for the favorite Obina. After so much stalling, Flamengo ended up being punished. Leo Andrade fired a powerful shot in the tenth minute to reduce the deficit. The Friburguense forward nearly equalized with a backheel shortly after.
Flamengo's blackout featured Obina's stumbles, Toró's misplaced passes, and calls for more spirit from the fans. Oh, and Friburguense missed goals. In the 28th minute, Ziquinha wasted a one-on-one with Bruno.
The Tricolor's punishment came next. Leo Moura received the ball and fired a powerful shot to make it three in the 30th minute. In a quick counterattack that went through Jônatas, Renato Augusto, and Juan, Marcinho slotted it into Adriano's net and turned the previous stalemate into a rout in the 33rd minute. Shortly after, in the 38th minute, the team lost Jônatas, who was injured unintentionally, and were left with 10 men, as Joel had already made all three substitutions. But the match was already sealed.
Fla admits relaxation after second goal
Coach Joel Santana praises Bruno's performance. Marcinho asks for more attention.
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo scored two goals in less than 20 minutes this Wednesday. Then they retreated, fell back, and were pressured by Friburguense, narrowly missing an equalizer (watch the video below with highlights from the match). In the locker room, both coach Joel Santana and forward Marcinho acknowledged that they were complacent.
"There was a natural relaxation after two goals. We have to score two, three, and only slow down with five or two minutes remaining. This can't happen again," declares Marcinho, who scored two goals.
The 4-1 rout of Friburguense leaves the Rubro-Negro very close to a spot in the next round. To do so, they need only one point in the final two rounds. Joel Santana acknowledges that the victory was not easy.
"We took the lead, and the game was between scoring a third goal or conceding the first and struggling. Bruno had to work hard. He's a great goalkeeper, and he showed that today (Wednesday)," the coach declared.
Famous boot helps Marcinho
Flamengo striker wears the same model as Cristiano Ronaldo and is in good form
Eduardo Peixoto
Five goals in his last three games. Marcinho scored in style for Flamengo. From a reserve, he became responsible for maintaining coach Joel Santana's two-striker system and a supporter. (Watch Marcinho's goal with his lucky boot)
- With Marcinho playing like this, it's impossible to change the scheme - says the red-black coach.
But coincidence or not, Marcinho's good form has been accompanied by a change in his footwork. In the match against Nacional, the red-and-black debuted his sponsor's orange cleats. The model is identical to those worn by the Portuguese.
"The orange boot was lucky. I'm happy because I've earned coach Joel Santana's trust," says the Flamengo player. Marcinho was hired at the end of 2007 and is Flamengo's top scorer this year with seven goals. Souza is right behind him with six.
Fla gives flowers to the referees
Club congratulates quartet led by Simone Xavier before the game against Friburguense
Eduardo Peixoto
Instead of insults and booing, Flamengo welcomed the referees of their match against Friburguense with flowers. (see video below)
Goalkeeper Bruno and supporter Renato Augusto presented bouquets of roses to the four match commanders.
The quartet was led by Simone Xavier and also had assistants Fernanda Lisboa and Lilian da Silva and the fourth referee Sulamir de Souza.
- They studied hard to get to this position of refereeing the First Division of the Campeonato Carioca and they deserve the tribute - says the red-black coach, Joel Santana.
Erick shines in the juniors' rout
Supporter scores twice and the red-black team runs over Friburguense
Eduardo Peixoto
Erick Flores had a standout performance in the Flamengo junior team's victory
Unlike the first round, when they missed out on the semifinals, Flamengo's youth team returned to form in the Rio de Janeiro State Championship. On Wednesday afternoon, the Rubro-Negro thrashed Friburguense 5-0 in Gávea.
The standout performer of the game was midfielder Erick Flores. He scored twice and had a hand in two other goals. Paulo Sergio, Renan, and Diego Oliveira completed the scoring.
Flamengo leads Group A with 16 points and is on the verge of securing a spot in the Taça Rio semifinals. Their next match will be against Madureira on Saturday.
Cienciano: eight months without losing in Cuzco
Peruvians, however, have already been defeated five times at home in the Copa Libertadores.
Eduardo Orgler
Cienciano and Juan's Flamengo are fighting for a place in the round of 16
The goalless draw between Coronel Bolognesi and Cienciano last Tuesday night in Tacna left Flamengo in a slightly more comfortable position in the fight for a spot in the round of 3.360 of the Copa Libertadores. Even if they lose to Cienciano at 9 meters in Cuzco on April 4, the red-and-black team will reach the decisive round depending on a good goal difference victory over Coronel Bolognesi at the Maracanã (click to see the situation in Group XNUMX).
A victory in Cuzco mathematically guarantees Flamengo a spot in the second round. The mission, however, doesn't seem straightforward. Cienciano hasn't lost on home soil since July 22nd of last year, when they were defeated 3-2 by Universitario de Lima in the first round of the Clausura Tournament. For those watching from a distance, Cienciano's long unbeaten home streak is instantly associated with the altitude of the Garcilaso de la Vega stadium. Peruvians have a very different perspective.
"Here in Cuzco, we believe that altitude isn't the determining factor in Cienciano's performance, but rather the players' technical ability. Just look at Chivas (MEX), who played here in 2005 and won 5-1," argues Marco Antonio Casas, a journalist for "Diario del Cusco," in a telephone interview with GLOBOESPORTE.COM.
Regarding the supposed hostile climate that Flamengo fears encountering in Cuzco due to the controversy surrounding holding games at altitudes above 2.750m, the journalist believes the Rio de Janeiro team has nothing to worry about:
"I don't expect Flamengo to be met with hostility because the Cusco crowd has a great appreciation for Brazilian football. Proof of this is that in the first match against Coronel Bolognesi, the stadium was practically empty because the fans saved up for the match against Flamengo. Then the stadium will be completely full (42 fans)," explains Casas.
History\ Chivas's excellent result three years ago isn't exactly considered a feat. Cienciano has performed well in Cuzco in the Libertadores history, but they're far from unbeatable. In 15 matches, they've won ten and lost five, including one of them to São Paulo, 2-0, in 2006. Last year, they also lost at the top of the hill: 1-2 to Toluca (MEX). See below the Peruvian team's complete history in Cuzco in the Libertadores history.\
CIENCIANO'S GAMES IN THE LIBERTADORES\ YEAR (PHASE) GAMES\ 2002 (first phase) Cienciano 3 x 0 12 de Octubre (PAR)\ 2002 (first phase) Cienciano 2 x 1 Grêmio\ 2002 (first phase) Cienciano 2 x 0 Oriente Petrolero (BOL)\ 2002 (round of 0) Cienciano 1 x 2004 América (MEX)\ 1 (first phase) Cienciano 0 x 2005 El Nacional (EQU)\ 1 (pre-liberators) Cienciano 5 x 2006 Chivas (MEX)\ 0 (first phase) Cienciano 1 x 2006 Chivas (MEX)\ 2 (first phase) Cienciano 1 x 2006 Caracas (VEN)\ 0 (first phase) Cienciano 2 x 2007 São Paulo \ 1 (first phase) Cienciano 2 x 2007 Toluca (MEX) (URU)\ 5 (first phase) Cienciano 1 x 2007 Nacional (URU)\ 3 (first phase) Cienciano 0 x 2008 Coronel Bolognesi (PER)\
The other two games in the first phase were held in Arequipa, at an altitude of 2.325m.
'Supplier attacked Fla', says president
But Marcio Braga receives a call from a Nike executive seeking reconciliation
Eduardo Peixoto
Zero grade.
Flamengo president Marcio Braga was less than kind when he analyzed the work of the club's sports equipment supplier. The natural outcome for such dissatisfaction would be, by Tuesday night, the termination of the contract (watch the director's interview with "Arena SporTV" in the video below).
However, a call from Russia gave Nike-Flamengo a new lease on life. One of the company's vice presidents, Ricardo Colombini, agreed with all of Marcio Braga's criticisms and was even harsher.
"He told me that if I give him a zero, he'll give Nike a minus one for the services provided. I've been with Flamengo for 30 years and I've never seen the club treated so poorly by a partner," Marcio told GLOBOESPORTE.COM by phone.
But what's so wrong with the relationship? The issue is complex and has been dragging on for months. Nike has been allied with Flamengo since the Edmundo Santos Silva administration in 2000. But the relationship soured when the company began delaying the supply of equipment.
On several occasions, the club has had to use old kits. Behind the scenes, players often mock the situation. One of them, goalkeeper Bruno, even publicly criticized the company for not even having a match jersey. He played in some matches wearing the adapted training uniform.
Bruno complained about the material sent by Flamengo's supplier
Recently, the American company sent a basketball uniform without Flamengo's approval. According to Flamengo's executives, the colors used do not match Flamengo's standard, and this behavior would have been grounds for termination of the contract. The supplier's delay in responding prevented the club from signing a licensing agreement with Warner.
Nike currently pays R$9 million annually. Other companies offer proposals for as high as R$20 million. Recently, the current supplier offered a raise and promised to improve the relationship. It didn't do much good.
Aggression and embarrassment
Last Monday, during the launch of the third uniform, two more embarrassing incidents occurred. To promote the jersey, a photo of a crumbling wall in Gávea was used.
"Flamengo was attacked by them. I found it hard to believe that a partner of ours would be capable of such aggressive behavior," declares Marcio Braga.
At the request of Flamengo's board, the material was immediately removed from the company's website. Another embarrassment involved the other sponsor. Petrobras complained when it saw that the shirt - which will debut next Saturday - advertised the product as the "Petrobras Card," which no longer exists.
"There really was a mistake. We're announcing something that no longer exists. We need to change this as soon as possible. If Petrobras wants Lubrax back, we have to accommodate them," explains the Flamengo president.
For now, there's no timetable for resolving the issue. Since the club's contract runs until June 2009 and carries a hefty termination fee, the club must wait if it doesn't want to face a grueling legal battle.
"I'm neither optimistic nor pessimistic. I just want the best for Flamengo. We'll see what they do. But I'm very, very, very unhappy with Nike," concludes Marcio Braga.
THROW
Flamengo gets a scare, but thrashes Friburguense
After a good start, the team relaxes, but then wakes up and wins again
Marcinho scored twice and became Fla's top scorer in 2008 (Credit: Cleber Mendes)
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
Souza, Obina, or Diego Tardelli? None of them! Marcinho was the deciding factor once again, scoring twice in Flamengo's 4-1 rout of Fribuguense this Wednesday at Maracanã. Renato Augusto and Leonardo Moura scored the other goals for Flamengo. Léo Andrade scored for the team from the Serrana region.
With the victory, Flamengo remained in second place in Group A of the Rio Cup, now with 15 points, one behind Fluminense. With these goals, Marcinho now has seven goals this year and becomes Flamengo's top scorer this season.
The first half showed Flamengo far superior to Friburguense. There were seven clear-cut scoring chances, two of which Souza missed due to excessive individualism. Two other chances resulted in Flamengo scoring. Friburguense only threatened with two shots from outside the box, one from Carlos Alberto and the other from Victor Hugo.
In a move characteristic of Joel Santana's team, Flamengo opened the scoring: Juan took a free kick into the box, the short Marcinho anticipated and, with a header, scored in the 19th minute.
And Friburguense didn't even have time to recover. In the 20th minute, Léo Moura appeared on the right and crossed into the box. The ball fell to Renato Augusto, who unleashed a powerful shot, scoring a stunning goal.
The team from the Serrana region, desperately in need of a win, came out swinging in the second half and was rewarded just ten minutes in. From the left flank of Friburguense's attack, Ziquinha found Léo Andrade, who put the ball in front and scored a stunning goal with his right foot.
The red-and-black victory was threatened on two occasions: Léo Andrade, with a backheel, nearly equalized. And Ziquinha, in the most dangerous play, missed a clear chance in the 29th minute.
Ziquinha's punishment came a minute later: Léo Moura, after receiving a beautiful pass from Obina, fired a shot past goalkeeper Adriano, preventing any chance of a slip-up.
Despite a poor second half, Flamengo turned their victory into a rout in the 39th minute. Renato Augusto made a run from his own half and passed to Juan. The Flamengo number 6 drove the ball into the Friburguense box and passed it to Marcinho, who scored the fourth.
Marcinho: 'I've never scored so many goals in a team before'
Player highlights that he has been acting more centrally in Joel's scheme\ LANCEPRESS!\
Marcinho, Flamengo's top scorer this season with seven goals, sees his scoring streak as a new development in his career. The attacking midfielder believes it's linked to the freedom Joel Santana has given him.
"I've never scored as many goals for any team I've played for. I'm having a lot of fun right now. Joel tells me to position myself more inside the box and let Renato Augusto create the plays," he said.
The strength of the red-black squad was indicated by the red-black number 22 as something that motivated him even more to fight for a place among the starters:
"When I arrived at Flamengo, I knew the squad had a lot of quality and that I would have to seize opportunities to start. I did well in my first game, and things have just happened. I've been repaying those opportunities with goals and good performances."
Renato Augusto wants to beat Madureira to rest
With a triumph over Tricolor Suburbano, Fla qualifies for the semifinals\ LANCEPRESS!\
Renato Augusto, who scored a stunning goal and played a beautiful play in Flamengo's fourth goal in their 4-1 victory over Friburguense, has already set a victory over Madureira on Saturday as his main goal. With a victory over Tricolor Suburbano, Flamengo will advance to the semifinals of the Taça Rio.
- We'll have a tough game against Madureira, but if we win, we'll have one more day to rest - explained the number 10.
Regarding the great performances he had after returning from the facial injury, Renato Augusto points to patience as something that helped him return well.
"When I got injured, people asked me how I planned to come back, and I said I just wanted to be healthy, whether I started again or not. I'm working to keep playing well," he concluded.
Juan highlights his participation in Flamengo's goals
Left-back provided the pass for both goals scored by Marcinho\ LANCEPRESS!\
Left-back Juan, a cornerstone of Joel Santana's system, was pleased to have been instrumental once again in a Flamengo triumph. On Wednesday, he crossed for both Marcinho goals in the 4-1 victory over Friburguense.
"I had a hand in two goals, one of which was a beautiful play by Renato Augusto (Flamengo's fourth goal). We got a good win and we'll fight for the team to have a good season," he says.
Despite the thrashing of Friburguense, Juan is already thinking about the Libertadores, a competition prioritized by the club in 2008:
- We have to keep winning and go after the Libertadores, our main objective - he concludes.
Joel should repeat the formation in Saturday's game
Coach says he will only not do it if he has injured players\ LANCEPRESS!\
After playing at full strength in Flamengo's 4-1 victory over Friburguense, Joel Santana said he's expected to repeat the lineup from Wednesday's game. Changes will only be made if there are any medical issues within the Flamengo squad.
"I'm not going to rest, unless it's for a medical issue. After this game, we won't play until the following weekend, and that's a long time to be out. I gave up on some situations back then, because up front, we have some decisive games, and I had to put on the brakes," he explained.
Souza complained of pain in his right knee, something Joel says has been happening since last year. Jônatas, meanwhile, suffered a strain in the hamstring of his right thigh at the end of the match against Friburguense.
Joel says winning 1-0 is better than going 2-0 up
In pearl, coach believes that a two-goal advantage causes complacency\ LANCEPRESS!\
When talking about Flamengo's 4-1 victory over Cabofriense, coach Joel Santana was analyzing the match, until he mentioned the difficulties the team started to have after going 2-0 up, when he dropped the pearl
"The score of 2-0 is ungrateful. I prefer 1-0, because then we stay alert," he said.
The coach stressed that, despite the four goals, the red-black triumph was achieved with difficulty:
"We suffered for ten or fifteen minutes. I'm not going to say it was an easy victory, because that's not true. But the result left us more relaxed in the table."
Toró redeems himself with Flamengo fans
Follow the player's movements in the victory over Frizão
Toró committed only one foul against Friburguense (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
Leandro Amaral RIO DE JANEIRO
Toró's return to Flamengo's starting lineup—Kléberson is suspended after receiving a third yellow card—was in style. In the Flamengo team's 4-1 victory over Friburguense this Wednesday at Maracanã in the sixth round of the Taça Rio, the midfielder excelled in almost every aspect.
In his fouls and disarming, for example, the player managed to erase the bad impression he left against Botafogo - when he kicked goalkeeper Castillo in the head - and against Nacional, from Uruguay - when he assaulted a ball boy and was sent off. The Gávea number 21 committed only one foul, and managed to disarm opponents on five occasions.
Always well-positioned, especially covering left-back Juan, the defensive midfielder had the upper hand in most plays. However, things weren't always smooth sailing. His only mistake resulted in Friburguense's consolation goal, scored by Léo Pereira, who received a superb pass from Ziquinha behind the player, who came through Fluminense's youth ranks.
Other notable aspects were his finishing and passing. The red-and-black's number 21 didn't take a single shot throughout the match. However, his passing accuracy—although he didn't provide any decisive touches—was excellent: 11.
Check out the player's play-by-play throughout the game:
Disarms five\ Fouls committed one\ Fouls suffered two\ Successful passes eleven\ Wrong passes three\ Dribbles two\
Marcio Braga makes harsh criticisms of the State Championship
Flamengo president calls for a leaner state competition\ LANCEPRESS!\
Flamengo president Marcio Braga, in an interview with "SporTV," harshly criticized the format of this year's Campeonato Carioca. The Flamengo director argues that big clubs are at a disadvantage when facing so many smaller teams.
This year, the Rio state increased the number of clubs from 12 to 16. This swelling causes a lot of damage to the big clubs, according to Marcio Braga, who also criticized the Rio de Janeiro State Football Federation (FERJ).
"This championship is a disaster. Every game, the big teams have to contribute R$40 to the smaller teams, who never play at home. We argued with the federation that this wouldn't work, but they keep getting worse. Flamengo can't face clubs like Cardoso Moreira, Macaé, and Resende, which have no football tradition whatsoever," he lamented.
Marcio Braga was also against the holding of double rounds, such as the one that will take place this Wednesday night at Maracanã (Fluminense x Mesquita and Flamengo x Friburguense).
"Big clubs need to make money, and that doesn't happen in the Carioca Championship. In the doubleheader, things get worse, because the money is divided among four clubs," the director argued.
Braga requested the return of regional tournaments and a reduction in the duration of state tournaments.
"The Rio-São Paulo Tournament should be brought back, because there's revenue in almost every match, unlike the Carioca. Which is better: Flamengo vs. Santos or Flamengo vs. Mesquita?" he complained.