THE GLOBE
Even Chico sees Obina pass by
Photo caption: OBINA THANKS the heavens for the goal he had just scored, the only one in Flamengo's victory over Botafogo, yesterday afternoon, at Maracanã
Fellipe Awi
Duly baptized by the splashes of a beer glass thrown into the air, Chico Buarque stretched his arms out and, at 63, became a Flamengo fan for the first time. Just ask the boy wearing Flamengo's number 35 jersey, also named Francisco, who, ultimately, was the only explanation for that scene. He was the first to hug his grandfather, followed by the strangers around him, like the black guy in front who shook his hand so hard he felt more like an old and dear friend. Chico didn't even notice—he seemed to understand that joy in soccer creates instant bonds of intimacy. Only then did he adopt the smile that, by now, was already plastered on the faces of the thousands of Flamengo fans around him. It was XNUMX minutes into the second half at the Maracanã, and down below, Obina had just scored the winning goal against Botafogo in the first leg of the State Championship final. He looked like "the goal man tearing up the ground" from his song, "O Futebol." Fourteen minutes later, with the final whistle, the grandfather and the boy would leave the stadium amidst the crowd. Hand in hand with his son, Chico Buarque, a Tricolor fan, kept a smile on his face.
Fla comes out ahead with the old and the new talisman
With the support of Tricolor Chico Buarque and a goal from favorite Obina, the team beats Botafogo and needs a draw to win the bi
Photo caption: CHICO BUARQUE watches the decision between Fla and Botafogo, next to his grandson (on the right)
Photo caption: OBINA, WHO had just entered, is faster than Renato Silva (3) and scores the red-black goal
Fellipe Awi
Chico Buarque can't even remember the last time he went to see a game at Maracanã. With his traditional shyness, mixed with his discomfort with interviews, he snapped his fingers and replied: It's been a long time. Thanks to his grandson Francisco, son of Carlinhos Brown and his daughter Helena, he agreed to return to a stadium in celebration, but without the three colors that have always symbolized tradition and passion. Perhaps that's why he opted for the neutrality of a blue and white jersey. Without realizing it, he may have witnessed the first step toward the loss of his Fluminense team's absolute dominance in Rio. With yesterday's 1-0 victory, Flamengo needs a draw on Sunday to win its 30th Rio de Janeiro title, equaling Chico's team. When asked if he was happy with the result, he smiled, looked at his grandson, and nodded. Yes, he was happy.
Had he said more, Chico Buarque probably wouldn't have expressed the same satisfaction with the quality of the performance he'd just witnessed. It wasn't a match on par with his music, but the artist probably didn't doubt for a moment that he was witnessing a championship final. A fast-paced, tense game, every tackle a battle. The team that, despite its limitations, entered the field to win, not to draw, won. Now, Botafogo needs to defeat its rival by two goals on Sunday. If it's by just one goal, the decision will go to penalties.
Eduardo hits the post in the best chance for the black and whites
With the ball already rolling, seated in the special seats at Maracanã, Chico received a tempting invitation from a friend. Higher up, there was a reserved spot where he and his shyness could watch the game more quietly. He looked excitedly at his grandson, who gave him a disapproving look.
- He wants to stay here - he replied, resigned.
With no other option but to be among the red-and-black crowd, Chico tried to forget the surroundings. Uncomfortable with the people standing in front of him, he was unable to join the traditional chant of "sit down!" It was with his neck craned that he watched the game begin with a tight midfield, with many misplaced passes and very little football. Referee Gutemberg de Paula called any fouls that occurred—and even simple collisions—which only served to further disrupt the match. The first dangerous play didn't happen until the 23rd minute, when Ibson delivered a good pass to Souza, who shot straight at Renan. Francisco, the boy, applauded, but Chico remained silent. He only got back up on a quick counterattack in the 43rd, which Marcinho wasted with a cross shot. Renan palmed it away, and Souza didn't get there in time to finish.
Although the first half was miserable, Chico must have enjoyed the break less. Without the competition on the field, some eyes turned to him. Embarrassed, he posed for cell phone photos. Luckily, the younger girls seemed more interested in actor Dado Dolabella, who was also there. At least he was able to enjoy a hot dog with his grandson. When the ball started rolling again, Chico was once again just a grandfather watching Souza miss his best chance so far, three minutes in, from inside the six-yard box. Renan made an excellent save.
Botafogo rarely took any risks in attack. With four players missing, including the speedy Alessandro and Jorge Henrique, they played too slowly and also struggled against the Flamengo defense. The best chances came from free kicks crossed into the Flamengo box. At these moments, Chico would playfully shake his hands, as if to show his grandson that his team was in danger. On one of these balls, in the 15th minute, Fábio headed the ball over Bruno's crossbar. Flamengo responded in the 21st minute with a shot from Marcinho from the edge of the box: Renan parried it once again. Seven minutes later, in the black-and-white's best chance, Eduardo cut in from the left and hit Flamengo's right post. For the first time, Chico would raise his hand to his head and let out a cry—who knows whether of relief or despair.
The match continued to impress more for the players' dedication than their technique. The moment for Obina's goal and the scene described at the beginning of this story was approaching. The red-and-black favorite had come on for Ibson and, with his somewhat clumsy manner, had already made a good play down the left. In the 35th minute, Leonardo Moura stole the ball and started the counterattack in one of the rare moments when the black-and-white defense opened up. Diego Tardelli, who had come on for Kleberson, took the ball to the bottom and crossed low for Obina to score from a dead stop.
In the midst of the Flamengo apotheosis, Chico Buarque seemed enchanted by the parody song created to mock the black-and-white fans' tears during the Guanabara Cup final. Afterwards, he received a kiss from his friend and journalist Scarlett Moon, wearing a Flamengo jersey. Someone malicious might say it was a welcome kiss to the Flamengo nation. Not at all. Chico remains a Tricolor fan, of course, but for 90 minutes, it was as if he were enveloped by feelings stronger than any rivalry. For one afternoon, the boy Francisco changed his daily routine.
Yellow cards: Tulio Souza, Renato Silva, Diguinho; Marcinho, Souza, Fabio Luciano and Jailton. Revenue: R$1.333.455,00. Attendance: 63.413 paying spectators.
Photo caption: SOUZA TRIES the play without stopping to pull Renato Silva's shirt
Photo caption: RENAN anticipates and holds the ball: the goalkeeper had a good performance
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: Thanks to Botafogo's defensive posture, he was mainly required to play crosses into the box, which he did well with. He also played quickly. 6.
LEONARDO MOURA: He wasn't at his most inspired, but at least he didn't hide from the game. He stole the ball and started the counterattack that culminated in the winning goal. 6,5.
FÁBIO LUCIANO: He played with his usual seriousness and didn't think twice before kicking the ball forward. 6,5.
RONALDO ANGELIM: He made the worst mistake of the game, but he was another player who never tired of fighting for every ball. 6.
JUAN: Like Leonardo Moura, he looked for the game on both sides of the field, but he also made more mistakes than he got right. 5,5.
CRISTIAN: He ran a lot and, alongside Toró, did the guard dog work that Joel Santana loves so much. 6.
KLÉBERSON: He missed another chance to win over the fans in a decisive match. He was slow, misplaced passes, and delayed plays. He came off at halftime. 4. DIEGO TARDELLI came on poorly, fumbling with the ball, but contributed to the victory with a good pass to Obina. 5.
IBSON: He tried to push Flamengo forward, launching counterattacks, but he misplaced too many passes. He seemed overeager. 4,5. OBINA came in with his usual eagerness, made a good run down the left, and was rewarded with an opportunistic goal. A goal that perfectly reflects his personality. 8.
TORÓ: He was the image of Flamengo yesterday. Not at all brilliant with the ball at his feet, but he was feisty, tireless, and fought for every play knowing there was a trophy at stake. 7,5.
MARCINHO: He moved well, trying to take advantage of the rare spaces left by Botafogo's defense. He was hasty in some plays, but he gave his opponents trouble. 7.
SOUZA: He tried to play intelligently, dropping to the wings. This was more useful than his specialty, scoring goals: he missed an incredible one, one-on-one with Renan. 6,5. Jailton came on in his place when Flamengo was already winning the match. He was only supposed to hold on to the result, but he almost complicated things by committing a foul outside the play near the Flamengo box. 3.
JOEL SANTANA: He relied on his elite squad, with defensive players, in a game where the opponents were defensive. His team didn't impress anyone, but they showed a spirit worthy of a decisive victory. 6.
Joel: gratitude in an emotional speech
Before the victory, as if he were saying goodbye, Fla's coach touches everyone's feelings
Photo caption: JOEL despairs in one of the many emotional moments in the final against Botafogo. After the derby, the coach warned: "We haven't won anything."
Márcio Tavares
It was a lot of emotion for one day. Before the 1-0 victory over Botafogo, in a speech that could easily have been seen as an early farewell, coach Joel Santana became very emotional in the locker room. Struggling to hold back tears (unsuccessfully), Papai Joel praised and thanked the Flamengo players for their behavior. It was as if he were already saying goodbye to a group he began managing nine months ago and who are about to see him leave for South Africa—Caio Júnior currently appears to be the most likely replacement.
After the match, having recovered from the emotional climate that followed the loud shouting in the red-and-black locker room, the coach expressed his concern about the atmosphere of exaggerated confidence that was beginning to be created:
- We have nothing to celebrate. We haven't won anything.
Renato Augusto preserved for second decision
Joel will likely decide whether he will coach Flamengo's final Libertadores match around the 4th. Until then, the coach will focus his attention on the team that will play América de México on Wednesday at the Azteca Stadium. Today, he will speak with his coaching staff, and, as he himself has decided, the team will be selected by doctors, physiologists, and physical trainers.
The players will do light training in the afternoon in Gávea, and in the evening they'll fly to Mexico. The delegation is scheduled to return to Rio on Friday, complicating planning for the decisive second match of the Carioca Championship.
"It's a shame we have to go so far. Today (yesterday), we played healthy. Next Sunday, because of all this physical and emotional exhaustion, I don't know what it will be like," he said.
Since he won't have Renato Augusto, who is in Rio undergoing treatment and training to strengthen the muscles on the outside of his right knee, to be in perfect condition next Sunday, Joel thinks it's best to listen to everyone's opinion before choosing who will play in the altitude of Mexico City.
"The players' health comes first. I'll check with the doctors, trainers, and physiologists to see who's fit. I also want to see footage of América's games. The only thing I know is that they won all three home games and lost all three away. Whoever's fit gets in."
Joel wasn't too carried away by the victory in the first decisive match. Calm and with his familiar rhetoric, he didn't want to pose as a hero. Mainly because he knows that in decisive matches, football quickly turns heroes into villains. What he was actually celebrating was the confirmation that his attempts to improve the red-and-black team's performance yesterday had yielded positive results.
"It's worth watching Flamengo's training sessions because you'll see for yourself that things don't just happen. I only regret not bringing Obina on earlier. We needed to gain an advantage today because we're going to have a tough week. But there on the sidelines, we don't have time to think much. That's where the clipboard and the assistants come in. I took a risk; I could have conceded a goal. But we got lucky," Joel joked.
Despite the advantage of playing for a draw next Sunday, Joel didn't let off any fuss. Instead, he maintained his cautious stance.
"I've played in so many finals, won and lost. You have to be balanced. We played six, seven games against Botafogo, I don't know. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. We're still not the team I like, the one from the Brazilian Championship, vibrant, willing, and balanced. There's no point in celebrating because Botafogo has the quality to overturn this advantage."
Obina says his goal was a work written by God.
Obina, who scored the winning goal, shares his manager's stance. The Bahia native also believes the advantage is good, but not significant. Smiling and content with life, Obina simply defined his entry.
"When God writes, there's no way around it. This goal means a lot to me. We tried to do more, but it wasn't possible. Let's not fall into the trap of playing for a draw in the second leg."
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: Thanks to Botafogo's defensive posture, he was mainly required to play crosses into the box, which he did well with. He also played quickly. 6.
LEONARDO MOURA: He wasn't at his most inspired, but at least he didn't hide from the game. He stole the ball and started the counterattack that culminated in the winning goal. 6,5.
FÁBIO LUCIANO: He played with his usual seriousness and didn't think twice before kicking the ball forward. 6,5.
RONALDO ANGELIM: He made the worst mistake of the game, but he was another player who never tired of fighting for every ball. 6.
JUAN: Like Leonardo Moura, he looked for the game on both sides of the field, but he also made more mistakes than he got right. 5,5.
CRISTIAN: He ran a lot and, alongside Toró, did the guard dog work that Joel Santana loves so much. 6.
KLÉBERSON: He missed another chance to win over the fans in a decisive match. He was slow, misplaced passes, and delayed plays. He came off at halftime. 4. DIEGO TARDELLI came on poorly, fumbling with the ball, but contributed to the victory with a good pass to Obina. 5.
IBSON: He tried to push Flamengo forward, launching counterattacks, but he misplaced too many passes. He seemed overeager. 4,5. OBINA came in with his usual eagerness, made a good run down the left, and was rewarded with an opportunistic goal. A goal that perfectly reflects his personality. 8.
TORÓ: He was the image of Flamengo yesterday. Not at all brilliant with the ball at his feet, but he was feisty, tireless, and fought for every play knowing there was a trophy at stake. 7,5.
MARCINHO: He moved well, trying to take advantage of the rare spaces left by Botafogo's defense. He was hasty in some plays, but he gave his opponents trouble. 7.
SOUZA: He tried to play intelligently, dropping to the wings. This was more useful than his specialty, scoring goals: he missed an incredible one, one-on-one with Renan. 6,5. Jailton came on in his place when Flamengo was already winning the match. He was only supposed to hold on to the result, but he almost complicated things by committing a foul outside the play near the Flamengo box. 3.
JOEL SANTANA: He relied on his elite squad, with defensive players, in a game where the opponents were defensive. His team didn't impress anyone, but they showed a spirit worthy of a decisive victory. 6.
The eternal rowing fight between Fla and Vasco has already emptied even the boat.
Rubro-negro ignores fair play and throws eight into the water with six rowers
Photo caption: Flamengo's EIGHT, with only six athletes: without support to avoid the loss of rowers, the club left sportsmanship aside yesterday
Ary Cunha
Protests, arguments, and heated rivalries at the State Rowing regattas have long been no surprise. This time, however, the perennial backstage feud between Flamengo and Vasco erupted onto the track, creating a regrettable scene in the most anticipated race for the small crowd that watched the second stage of the competition yesterday morning at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. Unhappy with the transfer of Olympic rowers Thiago Gomes and Thiago Almeida, who qualified for the Beijing Games in the lightweight double sculls, to their rivals, the Flamengo board ignored fair play and fielded a boat with only six rowers in the eight-seater race.
The two Thiagos are in Seville, Spain, competing with the Brazilian national team. Given the controversy surrounding the transfer, Vasco officials brought the transfer forms signed by the athlete last March to the regatta, informing the Rio Rowing Federation (Frerj) of the change.
Flamengo relies on the CBJD and Vasco cites the Pelé Law
While Flamengo cites the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD) to claim that athletes could not transfer while they are working for the Brazilian Rowing Confederation (CBR), Vasco uses article 36, paragraph 2 of the Pelé Law regulations, which allows amateur athletes to transfer freely.
"They both have contracts with us. Since they're with the national team, they couldn't transfer. So, if they want to destroy the sport, there will come a time when they'll be left alone," says Vasco's vice-president of rowing, Raul Bagattini. "Since they don't win anything in football, Vasco invests in rowing, which is cheaper. The Olympics will be over, and they'll abandon everyone."
On Vasco's side, vice-president of rowing, Antonio Lopes Lourenço, rejected the idea of Flamengo competing with six rowers in the eight out of mere protest. The two Thiagos switched clubs to receive a R$4 salary, according to Lourenço. He denied that the club would pay R$120 in bribes to Gomes, with whom Vasco allegedly owes labor debts.
"They ran with six players because they made an irregular substitution, as the two Thiagos weren't fit to be here. We have nothing fabricated. The transfer is fully documented. The players came to us because they weren't getting paid at Flamengo."
Bagattini admitted that the club owed the Thiagos two months' salary. The Federation, in turn, acknowledges having already received the transfer documentation from Vasco.
"By right, they're still Flamengo fans because they're on the national team. But in fact, they transferred to Vasco. Healthy competition is on the water," said Frerj president Alessandro Zelesco.
On the track, Vasco won, winning the second regatta of the State Championship, by 100 to 80.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Obina, enlightened and humble
Scorer of yesterday's winning goal, Obina doesn't mind remaining on the bench, he just wants to help
Once again, the Flamengo fans called for their favorite, Obina, to come on, and he delivered. Just as the game seemed headed for a scoreless draw, the striker received a good pass from Diego Tardelli and found the back of the net for Botafogo, securing Flamengo's victory. This triumph by the Gávea favorite allowed Flamengo to play the return leg with the advantage of a draw, next Sunday at Maracanã.
As expected, Obina was all joy at the press conference.
"I'm very happy. I'm enlightened by God, who always gives me strength in these times. Thanks to him, I was able to score this important goal and give Flamengo the victory," said the darling.
Obina, unlike many players, doesn't mind being on the bench. According to him, the most important thing is knowing he's in coach Joel Santana's plans.
"The teacher knows that I'm always ready to help. Even when I come on during matches, I try to do my best and score goals," said Obina.
For Flamengo to be crowned champions on Sunday, Joel Santana's men simply need to keep a clean sheet. Despite this advantage, the favorite kept his feet on the ground, saying the team hasn't won anything yet and made a point of praising the opponent. "We have to keep our feet on the ground because, just like we won today (yesterday), Botafogo has every chance of beating us on Sunday," concluded Obina, who scored again, just as he had done against Coronel Bolognesi.
Cristian satisfied with the advantage
Besides the darling Obina, another player highly praised by Flamengo fans in yesterday's victory over Botafogo was midfielder Cristian. The number 16, who has been adapting to a new role in Joel Santana's system, has demonstrated on the field an ingredient that fans always demand of their players: grit. Despite being pleased with the positive result against their rival, Cristian expressed concern about the marathon of games ahead for Flamengo.
"We did our part today (yesterday). We know it was a tough match, but we have a good advantage to decide the State Championship. Now it's time to rest, since we have a very tiring trip to Mexico, and we'll prepare to play another good match," said the player.
Cristian also made a point of praising the support he received from the stands. For him, the fact that Flamengo fans supported the team throughout the 90 minutes was one of the factors that led the team from Gávea to victory yesterday afternoon at Maracanã. "In the second leg of the final, the attitude has to be the same. Their behavior was crucial. I'm sure the fans will support us again on Sunday," he concluded.
Mixed team in Mexico, Joel?
After the victory, the coach is expected to rest some players for the final. Renato Augusto remains out.
Pedro Chiaverini and Thiago Bokel
Fotocom.net
Ibson, in the middle of three black and whites, tries to lead another red-and-black attack. However, the midfielder's performance was not the best and he was substituted.
The first step has already been taken. The narrow but important 1-0 victory over Botafogo yesterday at Maracanã gave Flamengo the advantage of a draw in the Campeonato Carioca final, next Sunday at 16 p.m., at the same stadium. Now the focus in Gávea is on the match against América-MEX, in the round of XNUMX of the Copa Libertadores. However, Renato Augusto will also be out for this match.
He was evaluated yesterday in the locker room before the match, and since the trip to Mexico is exhausting, the coaching staff decided to leave him in Rio to prepare for the second leg of the final. In addition to the midfielder, coach Joel Santana is still considering the possibility of not using other players.
"I haven't decided yet whether I'll field the full team. We were fully qualified today (yesterday), but there's no denying that next Sunday we'll be worn out from the trip. Only those who are fit will play. The decision will be made by the medical department and the fitness coaches," explained Joel, who already dreams of leaving Flamengo on Sunday with the trophy under his arm. "The team is ready, the fans love me, and there's no way to think about South Africa yet. It would be great to leave this club as champions," he said.
Despite the victory, the coach is still not satisfied with the team's performance. Yesterday, he surprised coach Cuca by sending Toró in to mark Lucio Flavio.
"Every game is a story. I don't know how many times we've faced Botafogo this year alone. I bet on Toró because I saw his skill and quality. I know he made mistakes, but they've heaped an avalanche of criticism on him. To be a champion, you need players who can help the coach's game plan, and Toró does that. The team has improved a bit today, but it's still not the same simple style of play as last year," the manager assessed.
Ronaldo in the VIP area\ Yesterday, striker Ronaldo once again watched the game from a VIP area. This time, the result was much better than the Taça Rio semifinal, when Flamengo lost 3-0 to Botafogo. The player is already dreaming of the possibility of defending the club. "Today, I'm just another fan among these incredible fans, but to play for Flamengo one day, my knee will just have to let me," Ronaldo warned.\
Rodrigo close to goodbye\ Defender Rodrigo could be saying goodbye to the club today. São Paulo is racing against time to secure the player's release from Dynamo Kyiv so he can register him for the Copa Libertadores knockout stage—registrations close tonight. The defender has already signaled his intention to move to São Paulo.
Mengão one draw away from the second
Obina's second-half goal secures the red-black victory in the first game of the Carioca final
Alexandre Souza and Fabio Lacerda
Fotocom.net
Toró and Lucio Flavio open the pace: Flamengo takes the lead
Flamengo has one hand on the trophy. The 1-0 victory, with a goal by Obina, was all the red-and-blacks needed to travel comfortably to Mexico City, where they will face América in the round of 19 of the Copa Libertadores on Wednesday at 30:XNUMX pm (Brasília time). In addition to his grit on the field, Joel Santana once again demonstrated his competence and made good changes. The two derbies the black-and-whites lost in this Carioca Championship were against Flamengo.
The tone of the first half was strong marking. Until the 15th minute, Flamengo pushed forward more offensively. The difference was the number of shots on goal. Botafogo managed a single shot on Túlio Souza's free kick, while Flamengo attempted four attempts. The most dangerous shot came from striker Souza, who shot down the line at Renan, who palmed it away for a corner. In the 19th minute, Cuca wisely took off Túlio Souza and brought on left-back Eduardo. Botafogo's number 2 had already been booked, and Cuca was cautious because Juan was supporting and could have forced his sending-off. In the 44th minute, Marcinho cut in from the right and, from a poor angle, sent a cross-shot. Renan rebounded, but Andre Luis was dominant on the rebound.
The second half started completely differently. In the first minute, Marcinho received a pass, advanced down the right, and sent a low cross to the far post. Souza, at the edge of the six-yard box, fired a left-footed shot, and Renan made a great reflex save. In the sixth minute, Botafogo took the lead. Diguinho won the ball from Diego Tardelli after a throw-in, burst into the box from the right, and crossed for Wellington Paulista to head wide, rousing the crowd. In the 15th minute, Lucio Flavio lifted the ball into the box (a free kick), and Fabio headed wide, beating Bruno. In the 28th minute, with the clearest chance to score, Eduardo made an individual run, flicked it between Cristian's legs, and shot. The ball hit Bruno's left post.
In the 34th minute, the red-and-black goal came. Eduardo's individual error while trying to dribble past Leonardo Moura caused the full-back to win the ball and quickly pass to Diego Tardelli, who entered the space left by the full-back, penetrated the box, and passed to Obina, who laid it off and ran into the screaming red-and-black crowd.
Just one point away from the second championship title, which will put Fla equal to Flu as the biggest winner of the Carioca.
Protest in red and black
In protest against the departure of two athletes to Vasco, Flamengo competed with only six rowers in the Eight With event, one of the most anticipated of the day.
Athlete turnover continues to shake up the sport
In addition to the fierce rivalry, the Regatta was marked by issues involving athlete transfers from one club to another. Rowers Thiago Almeida and Thiago Gomes, who are both selected to represent Brazil in the Olympic Games, are the main players in the dispute.
They were part of the red-black team and at the beginning of the month Vasco made an offer and they decided to change shirts and wore the Vasco shirt.
However, the transfer sparked a series of conflicts, both between the clubs and with the Federation. The "transfer law" prohibits players from switching clubs when called up, but the Pelé Law allows any player to transfer to any club they wish.
As a result, in the 8th Con race, won by Vasco, the red-and-black athletes protested after believing their rival was acting in bad faith. The boat took to the water with only six rowers, leaving the place previously held by the two Thiagos vacant. This promises to be a major problem until the third Regatta.
José Antonio Gerheim
Free pass
Flamengo starts well
José Antonio Gerheim
Any two-game decision like the ones currently taking place in most state championships, as a rule, turns the first match into a game played with extreme caution. When one team exposes itself more, or the other demonstrates a blatant superiority, then routs often occur, and the advantaged team, through its own merits and the opponent's mistakes, builds a virtually unassailable advantage.
This is the case of Cruzeiro, who massacred Atlético, in the year of its centenary, by a crushing 5-0. A victory so devastating that it gives coach Adilson Batista's team not only a front the size of a Chinese wall for the second leg, on Sunday, but also leaves them with extremely high morale to go to Buenos Aires on Wednesday, at the Bombonera, to face Boca in the first leg of the round of XNUMX of the Libertadores.
In the first act of the Rio final, Flamengo started well, with a goal from Obina, who capitalized on a cross from Diego Tardelli. He, again, followed a well-organized counterattack by Léo Moura, after a childish error by the makeshift full-back Eduardo. The same Eduardo who, minutes earlier, had made a beautiful play, broke free into the box and shot against the post.
In reality, Flamengo and Botafogo played a balanced game, lacking in technical brilliance. Individually, Joel Santana's team stood out: the two full-backs—which is nothing new—Toró and goalkeeper Bruno, who made a fine save in the first half. And, of course, full credit to Obina, who came on and made no mistake, leaving Flamengo with a good, but not yet decisive, lead to seek their second title on Sunday, which they won, by the way, against the same rival.
Botafogo, even after the defeat, will have a week to recover its strength, recover the injured players, and rediscover its strong form, which, without a doubt, right-back Alessandro and, especially, Jorge Henrique were sorely missed and made a difference. Yesterday, the team was nothing but a fighter, and the standout individual was goalkeeper Renan. If it weren't for two spectacular saves, Botafogo could be much more like Galo than Raposa at this point.
What's needed is for the black and white fans, who against Portuguesa brought over 40 to the Engenhão stadium, to come out and support the team on Sunday, as the red and black fans always do. Whoever wins, Rio will have a great champion.
THE DAY
Fla beats Botafogo and takes the lead in the Carioca final
Nilo Junior
Rio - Flamengo prevailed in the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final. With a goal from Obina in the 35th minute of the second half, the red-and-black team defeated Botafogo 1-0 this Sunday at Maracanã, taking the lead in the final. In next Sunday's match, Flamengo will play for a draw, while the black-and-white team will have to win by two goals. If they win by just one goal, the title will be decided on penalties.
The first leg of the final featured two distinct halves. The first half featured many misplaced passes and few chances. The second half featured a more open game, with good opportunities for both teams. In the end, coach Joel Santana's star shined once again, pushing the team forward and making the right substitutions, taking off Ibson—well-marked by Diguinho—and bringing on Obina, the goal scorer.
The game started out tense, with numerous fouls and misplaced passes. Just three minutes in, Botafogo had a good chance, a free kick on the edge of the penalty area. Lúcio Flávio took the shot, but Bruno saved it without any problems. Flamengo only responded in the tenth minute, with a long-range shot from Juan. The ball sailed past Renan's left post, but the referee had already called offside.
At 18, Cuca made his first substitution. Túlio Souza, who was replacing starting right-back Alessandro, received a yellow card and immediately committed another foul. Fearing losing the player, the black-and-white coach brought on Eduardo. Shortly thereafter, at 25, the red-and-black team had the best opportunity of the first half. Ibson crossed from the left, Souza headed it to Léo Moura, who received the ball back. The number nine shot powerfully, and young goalkeeper Renan made a good save (photo).
Botafogo threatened in the 30th minute. Fábio controlled the ball well at the edge of the six-yard box, turned, but was blocked as he shot. In the 44th minute, Flamengo received another good chance. Toró delivered a great pass to Marcinho. The forward burst into the box and fired a cross-shot. Renan saved, and the rebound went to the black-and-white defense.
Quite the opposite of the first half, the second half started at full speed, with Souza again having a great opportunity in the second minute. Following a cross from the right, the striker, unmarked in the six-yard box, shot, and Renan made an excellent save.
In the next play, Diguinho made a good run down the right and crossed for Wellington Paulista, but the striker headed wide. In the 12th minute, another free kick was taken by Lúcio Flávio, but Bruno managed to punch it away.
Four minutes later, Botafogo nearly opened the scoring from another set piece led by the club's captain. This time, Fábio got ahead of goalkeeper Bruno, and the ball sailed just wide, over the goal.
The game was back and forth. In the 20th minute, Marcinho took a shot from the edge of the box, and Renan palmed it into the middle of the box, but no one got to the rebound. The game continued to be fast-paced, but the scoring chances dried up until the 29th minute, when Eduardo dribbled through the red-and-black defense and shot against the post, nearly scoring a great goal. On the rebound, Túlio pulled off a play so bizarre it was almost comical. The midfielder attempted a shot with his left foot, missed the ball, and fell to the ground.
Joel and Obina's star shines brightly
Shortly after, Joel Santana replaced Ibson with Obina, proving once again that he's a star. The midfielder left the field in a huff and went straight to the locker room. The striker's first attempt was a good one, and he crossed, but no one took advantage of the opportunity. The second time he touched the ball, the striker scored.
Diego Tardelli made a good play on the right and crossed perfectly for Obina to put Fla in front, in the 35th minute. The last ten minutes were very busy, especially for the Botafogo team, who threw themselves into the game in search of an equalizer.
In the 42nd minute, Flamengo had an excellent chance. Jaílton fouled the ball off the edge of the box, and the referee signaled it. Lúcio Flávio took the shot, and the ball deflected off the wall. It was the last chance of the game. Flamengo held on, waited for the final whistle, and took the lead in the final.
Fábio Luciano: 'The advantage is small, but it's ours'
Rio - Flamengo captain Fábio Luciano left the Maracanã stadium satisfied with the red-and-black team's 1-0 victory in the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final. The defender said the result is important and should be celebrated, but only today, as the team has a very difficult match against América of Mexico in the Copa Libertadores on Wednesday. He also praised the black-and-white team and said they have nothing secured, despite playing for a draw in the second leg of the final.
"Botafogo has a very strong group, which deserves respect. The advantage is small, but it's ours. The trip to Mexico is exhausting, but we'll be able to overcome this sequence of three decisive games," he said.
Obina celebrates the goal and says he is enlightened
Rio - Striker Obina once again demonstrated this Sunday why he's the darling of the Flamengo fans. The striker scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Botafogo in the first leg of the Carioca final and put Flamengo ahead in the return leg. Despite this, the player is cautious when discussing the result.
"Before the final, we have to think about the match against América from Mexico, in the Libertadores. Botafogo can win the next game, as they have a good team."
Humble, the number 18 says he doesn't mind being a reserve, as he knows he has the trust of the coach and his teammates.
"I think God always enlightens me and the most important thing is that I'm on the bench, but at any moment the team will need me and I'll come in to help," he says.
Joel says Fla played with his heart
Rio - Flamengo coach Joel Santana praised the team's performance on the field in Sunday's 1-0 victory over Botafogo. The team's lead was celebrated by everyone, including the coach, who justified his substitution choices.
"Sometimes, there on the sidelines, you don't have much time to think. That's when the old clipboard comes in, the things you've written down throughout the week, the conversation with the coaching staff. The advantage is important. The team played with heart," said the red-and-black manager, who then lamented the exhausting trip the team will have to make to Mexico to face América in the Copa Libertadores.
"It's a shame to have to travel so far and not go into the final as rested as them," he said.
Finally, Joel said he would love to present all the red-blacks with the state title, before leaving the club to manage the South African national team.
"I would like to leave here as a champion. I leave a ready team, a fan base that loves me and a board that trusts me."
Ronaldo goes to Maraca and ends his reputation as a jinx
Mauro Leão
Rio - Ronaldo has put an end to the reputation that he's a jinx and that he ruins Flamengo's lives when he goes to Maracanã to support his favorite team. Yesterday, once again, the "Phenomenon" showed up at the stadium accompanied by family and friends and accurately predicted the score. "It'll be 1-0 Mengão," the striker bet upon arriving. And he was right. Watching the match from a VIP box, Ronaldo cheered intensely and even suffered from the ineffectiveness of the Flamengo forwards, who couldn't find their footing, especially in the first half.
When asked if he wanted to step onto the field and join Flamengo's bandwagon, Ronaldo struck first. "Right now, it's not possible. I'm out of action. But I'd really like to one day defend these red-and-black colors. Everyone knows I've been a Mengão fan since I was a kid," said the striker, who went to Maracanã wearing the club's number 2 jersey.
Happy to be recovering from surgery on his left knee, he hopes to return to the field sooner than expected. But he didn't want to reveal his fate. "Everyone knows I want to play for Flamengo. First, though, I have to be ready to go on the field. This isn't the time to rush," commented Ronaldo, who celebrated the red-and-black victory.
From the box where he sat with his family, the Phenomenon watched another show by the fans. In greater numbers, the red-and-black fans finally united and declared peace, putting an end to the internal wars that frightened those who brought their relatives to the stadium. Yesterday, on the Flamengo side of the stands, a large banner announced peace: 'Nação Rubro-Negra, the biggest fan base in the world.'
The demonstration wasn't limited to a peace pact. Flamengo fans pushed their team forward and went wild with Obina's goal. But Botafogo fans weren't left behind. Despite being without four starters and under pressure most of the time, the black and white fans roared and cheered their team on.
Despite the celebration, two fan clubs left the stadium in deep sadness: Botachoop and Flamanguaça. Strongholds of self-confessed drinkers, their fans suffer in advance. "The CBF banned beer at Brasileirão games. That's really annoying," criticized Paulinho, from Botachoop.
Joel may field a mixed team in Mexico
Rio - Flamengo travels to Mexico tonight, where they face América in the Copa Libertadores on Wednesday. Given the long trip, Joel Santana admitted yesterday that he may field a mixed lineup for the match. The coach's decision is driven by his desire to leave Flamengo with a title.
"I'll talk to doctors and fitness coaches to see if we'll go there with a full team. We don't want to go through the same disappointment as the last trip, when we went to Cuzco and lost 3-0 to Botafogo on the way back. Those who are fit will go on board; those who aren't will rest until Sunday. Football is about health," said the captain, who will take over the South African national team on the 6th.
SPORTS GAZETTE
With a goal from Obina, Flamengo defeats Botafogo in the first game\ Gazeta Press\
Photo: Disclosure/Fotocom
He doesn't forgive: Obina put Rubro-Negro in the lead
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In a classic marked by numerous fouls in the first half and a dramatic final, Flamengo managed to get the better of Botafogo in the final of the Campeonato Carioca. Thanks to their favorite Obina, the Rubro-Negro team defeated their rival 1-0 this Sunday at Maracanã and came within a draw of winning the state championship for the second year in a row. To lift the Campeonato Carioca trophy for the second consecutive year, and once again overcoming Botafogo in the final, Flamengo only needs to hold on to a draw next Sunday, again at Maracanã. The team from General Severiano, in turn, needs to win by at least two goals to secure the title. If they win by just one goal, the decision will go to penalties.
To do so, however, Botafogo will have more time to prepare for the second match against the red-and-blacks. With no Copa do Brasil commitments, the Alvinegro will only train for the decisive second game, while Flamengo travels to Mexico to face América on Wednesday in the Copa Libertadores round of 16.
The game: The first dangerous move in the final came just three minutes in, when Botafogo was awarded a free kick just outside the box. Lucio Flavio's shot, however, was saved by goalkeeper Bruno. Flamengo, meanwhile, relied on the speed of their full-backs to try to attack early in the match, but were hampered by the poor positioning of their forwards.
Referee Gutemberg de Paula Fonseca had his work cut out for him, as both teams were overly fouling and complaining. Concerned that Túlio Souza had a yellow card and was having trouble stopping Juan, coach Cuca took the player off the field less than 20 minutes into the match.
Complaints aside, Flamengo almost took the lead in the 25th minute, when Souza exchanged passes with Leonardo Moura and fired a powerful shot that Renan palmed out for a corner. In the 44th minute, Toró passed to Marcinho, who fired a cross that the Botafogo goalkeeper stretched to prevent. These were the only moments of excitement for the fans.
The second half, on the other hand, started more lively. Just two minutes in, Souza missed a great chance in the six-yard box when he shot straight at Renan. Botafogo responded the following minute, when Zé Carlos sent the ball into the net. The goal, however, was disallowed by the referee, who flagged the black-and-whites for offside. In the sixth minute, Glorioso threatened again, with Wellington Paulista nearly scoring with a header.
The good chances excited both sets of fans, who began a beautiful celebration at Maracanã. And it was in this atmosphere that, in the 15th minute, Botafogo wasted another good opportunity: Lucio Flavio took a free kick into the box, Bruno came out of goal poorly, and Fábio failed to capitalize, heading over the bar.
Flamengo was also dangerous in the match. In the 19th minute, Marcinho made a great play with Juan and took a chance from the edge of the box, but goalkeeper Renan appeared well again and palmed the ball away.
In a great chance, in the 28th minute, Botafogo's Eduardo made a beautiful individual play and played the ball between Cristian's legs, but when it came time to finish, he sent the ball into goalkeeper Bruno's post.
Shortly after, coach Joel Santana brought Obina into the game and took off Ibson, who left the field in a huff and quickly went to the locker room. The change, however, paid off in the 34th minute, when the darling Obina capitalized on Diego Tardelli's cross and scored the goal that sealed Flamengo's victory.
Obina: 'I am enlightened'\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Once again, striker Obina showed why he is considered a favorite among Flamengo fans. He came off the bench to score the goal that secured the Flamengo victory over Botafogo in the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final this Sunday. "I am enlightened by God. God always gives me good things. The team needed this victory and thank God I was able to score the goal that helped our team," commented the striker.
With spirits high, Flamengo heads to Mexico this Monday. On Wednesday, the team faces América in the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores. With a right leg injury, attacking midfielder Renato Augusto will remain in Rio de Janeiro for treatment and will attempt to face Botafogo next Sunday.
PELENET
Fla beats Botafogo and opens up an advantage in the State Championship final
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo took the first step toward winning its second state championship and its 30th title in history. This Sunday, in the first leg of the final, the Red-Black team defeated Botafogo 1-0, with a goal from striker Obina in the 34th minute of the second half, three minutes after replacing Ibson.
To lift the trophy next Sunday at 16 p.m., also at Maracanã, Flamengo needs a simple draw. Botafogo, on the other hand, needs to win by two or more goals. If they win by the minimum score, regardless of the score, the title will be decided by penalties.
However, this Wednesday, Flamengo faces América-MEX in Mexico in the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores. Botafogo, meanwhile, has been training all week.
The match started tensely, with numerous fouls. In the first minute, Túlio Souza received a yellow card. Seeing that he could lose a player to a red card in the first half, coach Cuca, in the 19th minute, took off the right-back and brought on defender Eduardo.
With this change, Leandro Guerreiro moved from defense to midfield. Túlio moved from holding midfield to taking Túlio Souza's place.
Flamengo was slightly better in the first half. The Red-Blacks had two key chances. However, goalkeeper Renan saved the Black-and-Whites from shots by Souza and Marcinho in the 25th and 44th minutes, respectively.
The second half, unlike the first, had a different rhythm. Within a minute, Renan once again prevented Flamengo from scoring. In the 15th minute, it was Botafogo's turn to waste a chance through Fábio.
The match remained evenly balanced in the final stage. Flamengo had a good chance with Marcinho. Botafogo retaliated and Eduardo hit the post of goalkeeper Bruno.
As time passed, Cuca decided to push Botafogo back, with Edson replacing Zé Carlos. Joel Santana pushed Flamengo forward, with Obina replacing Ibson. Earlier, Diego Tardelli had already replaced Kléberson.
And it was precisely because of Joel Santana's courage that Flamengo, through Obina, in the 34th minute, scored the winning goal and took the lead in this State Championship final.
Flu comes from behind to beat Fla in the first game of the junior final
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Fluminense took the lead in the final of the State Junior Championship. This Sunday, at Maracanã, the Tricolor defeated Flamengo 3-2 in a comeback victory. Alan, Sandro, and João Paulo scored the goals, with Renan scoring both for the red-and-black team.
The second match will be held next Sunday, May 4th, at 13 p.m., at Maracanã Stadium. Fluminense, who haven't won the State Championship since 2004, can only hope for a draw to be crowned champion.
Flamengo needs to win by two or more goals to win its fourth championship. If it wins by the minimum goal difference, regardless of the score, the title will be decided by penalties.
Renan opened the scoring for Flamengo in the 23rd minute of the first half. The same player added the second in the 42nd minute. However, Alan pulled one back for Fluminense in the 45th minute.
In the second half, Fluminense equalized in the eighth minute through Sandro. The match remained even until the end, when João Paulo sealed Fluminense's victory in the 41st minute.
Obina praises the fans and asks the Flamengo team to be humble
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Obina entered the field in the 31st minute of the second half and, three minutes later, scored the winning goal for Flamengo, defeating Botafogo 1-0 this Sunday at Maracanã, in the first leg of the State Championship final. A beaming striker thanked the Flamengo fans for their support.
"The affection the fans have for me is the result of my work and my humility. This support is important and I try to do my best to help the Flamengo team," he highlighted.
Despite the goal and the possibility of becoming the hero of Flamengo's triumph, Obina chose not to demand his starting spot. The Flamengo fan favorite believes that will come with time.
"I'm ready to play at any time. Joel Santana just needs me. Little by little, with humility, I'm scoring goals and earning a starting spot," he emphasized, adding about Flamengo's advantage in the final.
"It's not much, but it's an advantage. It will give us peace of mind for the next match. We need to act intelligently and keep our feet on the ground. We can't wait for the opponent on our field," he added.
Finally, Obina warned that the players will do everything they can to ensure that Joel Santana (who will manage the South African national team after the State Championship) leaves Flamengo with the title. "He has the affection of the group. We want to win and give him the title," he concluded.
Joel Santana: "We needed this advantage"
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo took the lead in the State Championship final. The 1-0 victory over Botafogo gave the Red-Blacks the advantage, a fact considered crucial by coach Joel Santana, as the team heads to Mexico this Monday to face América in the Copa Libertadores, and only returns on Friday.
FLA BEATS BOTAFOGO IN THE 1ST FINAL
Flamengo took the first step toward winning its second state championship and its 30th title in history. This Sunday, in the first leg of the final, the Red-Black team defeated Botafogo 1-0, with a goal from striker Obina in the 34th minute of the second half, three minutes after replacing Ibson.
To lift the trophy next Sunday at 16 p.m., also at Maracanã, Flamengo needs a simple draw. Botafogo, on the other hand, needs to win by two or more goals. If they win by the minimum score, regardless of the score, the title will be decided by penalties.
"We needed this advantage, as we have a long trip during the week. The substitutions gradually improved the team. We went 1-0 up and could have come away with a bigger score," he added.
"When I forced with another attacker (Obina in place of Ibson), I knew we could concede a goal on the counterattack. However, it would also be difficult for Botafogo to withstand an opponent with three attackers, two of whom were in the box," he added.
Although satisfied, Joel Santana "regretted" not having brought on Obina, the goal scorer, earlier. The red-and-black fans' favorite replaced Ibson in the 31st minute of the second half.
"I could have put him on ten minutes earlier. But in a decision, there isn't much time to think," concluded the coach, who will swap Flamengo for the South African national team right after the State Championship final.
GLOBOESPORTE
Fla has a week with an invisible enemy
The word tiredness never leaves the players' and coach Joel Santana's speeches.
Eduardo Peixoto
Every response to the America-MEX match has one ubiquitous word: fatigue. Facing the 7.700 km distance between Rio de Janeiro and Mexico City, Flamengo will have a marathon, and they make a point of emphasizing this at every turn.
Between the departure and return journeys, the delegation is expected to spend more than 24 hours flying or waiting in airports. Departure is scheduled for 20:40 PM this Monday. The Copa Libertadores Round of 19 match takes place on Wednesday at 45:XNUMX PM (Brasília time) at the Azteca Stadium.
The plane is scheduled to land in Rio de Janeiro at 8 a.m. on Friday. This means there will be only 32 hours until the start of the Campeonato Carioca final against Botafogo on Sunday to relax and recharge.
- Our biggest concern is the trip and the tiredness on the way back - says Obina, who scored the red-black goal in the victory over Alvinegro in the first game of the final.
Full delegation?
Coach Joel Santana is considering resting starters for the match against América-MEX. Some complain that the club can't "prioritize" the Campeonato Carioca. However, the coaching staff's planning is based on the players' reactions.
Anyone who isn't 100% fit will be out. Renato Augusto is unlikely to play on Wednesday. As a precaution, Flamengo is expected to bring all 25 players registered for the Libertadores. Even 18-year-old Aírton is initially included. Only if the medical department rules out someone—Maxi, for example—will the delegation remain incomplete. The Flamengo coach wants "health" to be the most important factor.
- It's a shame that we're now going so far away to make a decision and can't play rested next Sunday - says coach Joel Santana (in the video above, Joel talks about the game against Botafogo)
The ghost of 2007
In 2007, Flamengo faced a similar situation at practically the same time of year. Between April 29 and May 9, they faced Botafogo twice and Defensor Sporting twice, both from Uruguay, in the round of 27 of the continental tournament. Now the "vital days" are between April 7 and May XNUMX.
Even with a trip to neighboring Montevideo, the club failed to handle both situations and was eliminated from the Copa Libertadores. At least they won the Rio de Janeiro title. However, given the board's investment, a regional title alone won't suffice.
"We don't have a priority. Our team is experienced and capable of achieving both objectives," declares goalkeeper Bruno.
Soon, the Rubro-Negro team will sign off on the goalkeeper's words. Or not.
Chico Buarque accompanies Fla's victory
Fluminense fan, singer, and songwriter takes 11-year-old grandson to Maracanã\ Flamengo's victory over Botafogo in the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final was attended by a famous fan... Fluminense! Singer and songwriter Chico Buarque, 63, went to Maracanã to watch the final with his 11-year-old Flamengo fan, Francisco.\
Chico Buarque with his grandson Francisco watches the match between Flamengo and Botafogo
According to columnist Ancelmo Gois, from the newspaper “O Globo”, the two were in the special chairs section
Fla also takes the best in the stands
Botafogo fans disappoint and the red-blacks are the majority in the first State final\ +\
GLOBOESPORTE.COM\ Flamengo fans' banner "Biggest fans in the world" at Maracanã\
During the week, Zé Carlos bet that Botafogo fans could share the Maracanã equally with Flamengo fans. But that didn't happen. In the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final, the narrow scoreline only existed on the field. In the stands, Flamengo dominated.
Of the 63 paying spectators, a military police officer present at the stadium estimated that 50 were red-and-black fans. Visually, the difference was stark. The black-and-white fans couldn't fill the green section completely. The yellow section had several flashes.
According to self-employed Francisco Guilherme, the situation was caused by two factors:
"The team was severely understaffed. And in classic matches against Flamengo, some Botafogo fans are afraid of violence. But even so, I expected more from my fans," says the Botafogo fan.
Even outnumbered, the black and whites tried to push the team to victory. They even had some good moments, it's true. Especially on free kicks near the box, when Lucio Flavio's hope fueled a show of rotating shirts.
But, at least in the first game of the final, the red-and-blacks won. Two beautiful banners (pictured) were unveiled, replacing the ones bearing the names of the organized fan groups. One read "Nação rubro-negra" (Rubro-Negra Nation), and the other added "A maior torcida do mundo" (The Biggest Fan Group in the World). The red-and-blacks, far outnumbered by the crowd, left the stadium shouting "Cry Again," provoking the Botafogo fans.
Next Sunday, because of the advantage, the red-blacks are demanding that the yellow part of the Botafogo stands be theirs.
"It was a massacre. Everyone was crammed in on our side. They could have watched the game lying down if they wanted. For security reasons, the military police should have given Flamengo their yellow jersey," says Wilson Gregório, 25.
Joel could field a mixed team in the Libertadores\ Coach leaves decision in the hands of Flamengo's doctors and physical trainers\ Eduardo Peixoto\
Libertadores Cup or Campeonato Carioca? Flamengo wants both, but fitness issues could force coach Joel Santana to rest some starters for Wednesday's match against América-MEX in Mexico City.
After the 1-0 victory over Botafogo this Sunday, the red-and-black coach raised the possibility of leaving some starters out of the match to prepare them for the second leg of the final on Sunday. Joel said that there is still "nothing good" in the Carioca and praised the introductions of Tardelli and, especially, Obina.
Rest starters in Mexico? I have to talk to doctors and fitness coaches to see if we'll go there with a full squad. We don't want to go through the same disappointment again as last time, when we went to Cusco and lost 3-0 to Botafogo. Whoever's fit gets in; whoever's not is left for Sunday. I have a group and I trust it. Football is health.
Advantage gained\ There's nothing cool yet. The cool thing is winning titles. It's a shame that now we have to go so far to make a decision and can't play rested next Sunday.\
Experienced clipboard\ In a match like this, you don't have much time to think. That's where the old clipboard comes in. The team improved a bit with Tardelli and much more with Obina. I regret bringing Obina on so late. But it was a good thing. When you win, everything is fine.\
The moment of farewell is approaching. My moral commitment to the players, fans, and management doesn't allow me to think about anything else. I'd like to leave here as a champion because I'm leaving a team ready. With so many decisions to make, I try to remain as balanced as possible.
'Fla? It just depends on the knee,' says Ronaldo
Striker watches the Carioca final and praises the red-black fans
Eduardo Peixoto
GLOBOESPORTE.COM\ Ronaldo 'Fenômeno' cheered for Flamengo in a box at Maracanã\
It seems that as the days go by, Ronaldo is becoming more and more convinced of the idea of playing for Flamengo. This Sunday, the striker watched the first leg of the Campeonato Carioca final at the Maracanã stadium, raising hopes that his return to the field will be with Flamengo.
- To play for Flamengo it only depends on the knee - he says.
The Phenomenon intends to return to the field in six or seven months. Wearing the Flamengo's number 2 uniform, he praised the massive Flamengo fans' presence at Maracanã.
"These fans are incredible. I'm just another fan," he says, before quickly returning to the box to watch the final minutes of Flamengo's 1-0 victory.
Ronaldo was in the semi-final of the Rio Cup, when Flamengo lost 3-0 to Botafogo, and at that moment he said that playing at Gávea was a "difficult dream".
Obina comes in, scores, and Fla beats Bota
In a balanced game, Rubro-Negro takes the upper hand and now has the advantage of a draw
Fred Huber
In a thrilling match for both Flamengo and Botafogo fans, Flamengo defeated Botafogo 1-0 this Sunday at the Maracanã stadium, taking the lead in the Campeonato Carioca title. Obina, in one of his first plays on the field, scored the goal and became the hero of the day. The two teams face off again next Sunday, May 4th, with Flamengo having the advantage of a draw. If they lose by one goal, the match will go to penalties.
The week will be one of intense training preparation for Botafogo, while Flamengo travels to Mexico, where, on Wednesday, they face América-MEX, in the Libertadores.
Very nervous start to the game
The match started tensely, with neither team taking many risks. In the second minute, Túlio Souza fouled Toró hard and received a yellow card. Shortly after, the black and white midfielder fouled Juan again. Concerned about a possible red card, Cuca brought on Eduardo early in the match. The first dramatic moment came in the fourth minute. Cristian fouled Wellington Paulista near the left edge of the box, and Lucio Flavio's shot was superb, forcing Bruno to stretch to make the save.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM\ Toró and Diguinho in a duel during the match\
With the game's momentum increasing, Flamengo relied on Juan's runs down the left to attack. But it was on the right that Flamengo got its first chance to score. In the 26th minute, Leo Moura found Souza behind the defense; the number 9 hit a powerful cross, but Renan made a fine save. Flamengo's response came two minutes later: Zé Carlos passed to Fábio inside the box; the striker turned and shot, but Leo Moura, midway through, prevented the ball from reaching Bruno's goal.
Flamengo and Botafogo players committed numerous fouls, and the game became a tight one. Seemingly nervous, the players repeatedly complained to the referee. The last thrill of the first half came during a high-speed Flamengo attack. In the 43rd minute, Toró delivered a superb pass to Marcinho on the right; the striker burst into the box and fired a cross-shot. Renan parried the ball poorly, but Souza couldn't get there in time to tap the ball in.
The second half starts strong and fires up the fans
Encouraged by the fans, the red-and-blacks returned from the locker room determined to open the scoring and nearly did so before the second minute. Marcinho made a run from the baseline on the right and crossed into the middle of the box. Souza's left-footed shot from the edge of the six-yard box was met by a spectacular save from Renan, saving Botafogo. Recovering from the scare, the lone star team responded in kind. In the fifth minute, Diguinho reached the right wing unmarked and crossed to Wellington Paulista, who rose higher than the defense and headed the ball just over Bruno's crossbar. Earlier, the team had a goal disallowed. Zé Carlos collected a rebound from the defense and sent it into the back of the net, but he was in an offside position.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM\ Obina throws himself and scores the winning goal for Flamengo over Botafogo\
In one of their specialties, the set piece, Botafogo drew a "Uhhh" from their fans. In the 18th minute, Lucio Flavio lifted the ball into the box from the left wing. The defense stopped, and Fábio headed it in before Bruno could get to the goal. The ball sailed over the goal. The game opened up, and in the 21st minute, Marcinho, from the edge of the box, fired a powerful shot into the corner; Renan made another good save. The goalkeeper, whose starting lineup was questioned due to a mistake in the previous game, showed character and had a great performance.
At 28, Botafogo had its best chance. Eduardo made a good play on the left, left Leo Moura behind, entered the box, shot, and hit the Flamengo crossbar. With Flamengo being dominated, coach Joel Santana changed the team (Obina in place of Ibson) and pushed the team forward. At 35,