The Globe
FIFA bans games over 2.500m
La Paz, Quito, Potosí and Cuzco will no longer be able to host international matches
ZURICH. Bolivia and Ecuador have lost their main advantage: altitude. FIFA's Executive Committee decided yesterday to ban international matches in cities located 2.500 meters above sea level. As a result, to the delight of Brazilian players, qualifying and Copa Libertadores matches will no longer be played in cities like La Paz (3.600m) and Potosí (4.000m), both in Bolivia; Quito (2.800m), in Ecuador; and Cuzco (3.300m), in Peru.
The Bolivian and Ecuadorian national teams play their games in La Paz and Quito, respectively, which will no longer be possible, including starting in September for World Cup qualifiers. Peru also saw its plans to play in Cusco thwarted.
For Blatter, games at altitude cause distortions
The organization released a statement explaining its decision: "For medical reasons and to protect the health of the players, the Committee has resolved that, in the future, international matches should no longer be held at an altitude above 2.500m."
FIFA President Sepp Blatter admitted the decision would create controversy in South America.
"I know there will be complaints about our decision, especially in South America, but we have to think about the health of the players first," Blatter explained. Furthermore, games at altitude also lead to distortions.
The Executive Committee meeting, which includes CBF president Ricardo Teixeira as one of its members, also served as preparation for the FIFA Congress, which will be held on the 30th and 31st at the organization's headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland. At yesterday's meeting, the committee expressed yet another vote of confidence in South Africa's preparations to host the 2010 World Cup. According to a statement, "FIFA would like to express its absolute confidence in the local organizers."
The organization also announced that, in honor of the 89th birthday of former South African president Nelson Mandela, a game will be held between a world team and a combined African players on July 18, in Cape Town.
In relief and in lamentation, a script that repeats itself
Fla and Botafogo draw 2-2 for the third time this year, with the black and whites letting the advantage slip away again
For the fourth time this season, a high-scoring Rio derby clash, but without a winner after 90 minutes, took place. In a fast-paced game in which the black-and-whites once again failed to hold on to their lead, Flamengo and Botafogo ended 2-2 last night at the Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship. With the result, Cuca's team moved up to seven points, occupying fifth place, compared to just four for Ney Franco's team, which sits in tenth place. But contrary to what the standings might suggest, the dissatisfaction yesterday was all black and white.
"It's best to keep quiet. It's shocking what's happening," Dodô said as he left the field, irritated by yet another classic in which Botafogo retreated excessively in the second half, allowing their rivals to react.
On the other side, Claiton started to provoke.
"They say they're the best team in Rio, that they're being ripped off, that sort of thing. But they can't beat Flamengo. How are they the best in Rio?" he asked.
Ney Franco is honored and Renato Silva returns to play
It was the third consecutive time the score was the same between the teams. In the first duel, for the GB Cup, the match ended in a 3-3 draw. In the State finals, two 2-2 scores were recorded, with the red-and-blacks winning the title on penalty kicks. Undefeated at Maracanã this year, Botafogo has not defeated Flamengo in 13 matches, dating back to March 14, 2004.
Before the ball rolled, Ney Franco was honored with a commemorative plaque for completing one year at the helm of Flamengo. At Botafogo, the news was the debut of defender Renato Silva, who had been suspended for marijuana use and returned to the field yesterday.
The derby started at a fast pace. More creative from midfield forward, the black and white team finally opened the scoring in the 17th minute. On a well-rehearsed free kick, Zé Roberto passed the ball to Lúcio Flávio, who fired a superb shot into the left corner, but Bruno was careless and made trouble: 1-0.
Flamengo upped the tempo and the equalizer came in the 40th minute. Renato passed to Paulinho, who passed to Juan on the left side of the penalty area. The winger crossed, the defense broke, and Leonardo headed the ball over Júlio César. The ball gently hit the post, and the number 1 stretched to clear it from inside the net: 1-1.
While the Flamengo fans were still celebrating the goal, Dodô put Botafogo ahead again in the 45th minute. André Lima crossed from the right, low, Zé Roberto deflected it, and the ball fell to the top scorer, who fired it into Bruno's right corner. It was Dodô's fourth goal against Flamengo this year, one in each match.
With Léo Lima replacing Paulinho, Flamengo increased its attacking force but opened up spaces in midfield. In the eighth minute, Neymar made another change, taking off Leonardo and bringing on 17-year-old Paulo Sérgio.
Flamengo grew into the game, and, as in the State finals, Botafogo retreated too much. Cuca even brought on Adriano Felício for Joílson, but it was of little use. In one of the rare attacks in the second half, Botafogo nearly grabbed a third in the 31st minute, with a point-blank header from André Lima. Bruno made an excellent save. A minute later, they got their revenge. Juan passed to Ronaldo Angelim on the left. The defender crossed low, and Paulo Sérgio sealed the score, scoring his first professional goal: 2-2.
Referee: Heber Roberto Lopes (PR). Yellow cards: Thiago and Renato. Revenue: R$199.317,00. Attendance: 12.321 paying spectators.
Paulo Sérgio refuses to wear the hero's cape
17-year-old, who scored the goal that prevented Flamengo's defeat, is severely self-critical and ignores his achievement.
Márcio Tavares
Paulo Sérgio's mother, Maria Aparecida, may have been overcome with emotion and felt bad after the game, in which her 17-year-old son saved Flamengo from a defeat to Botafogo. But the striker didn't want to play the hero. Surrounding him, more than the opportunism shown in the equalizer in the 2-2 derby, the excitement reflected the certainty that the bet on him had paid off.
But the player, instead of assuming the air of a hero, surprised with his maturity, serenity and fierce and extremely realistic self-criticism.
"I wasn't prepared for this moment. I missed my first chance because I hit the ball too hard, and I asked God for another opportunity. And he answered me. I was lucky. It wasn't the Paulo Sérgio everyone expected, but I'm happy. I look back and see the difficulties my family and I faced, and I feel rewarded," Paulo Sérgio said in a short press conference, as he was worried about his mother's health.
Ney Franco says his bet on the young man was a good one
For coach Ney Franco, Paulo Sérgio's performance wasn't a surprise. In the coach's view, he simply confirmed everything everyone at Flamengo projected in him by bringing him from the youth team to the senior team.
"I don't see Paulo Sérgio in a different light today. I see him with the same eyes that led me to bet on a 17-year-old player, fast and promising. He only confirmed the bets we made on him, showing that he can improve a lot," said a proud Ney Franco.
A celebration for Paulo Sérgio, a hint of discontent for Leonardo, scorer of the first goal in the derby. After recovering from a complicated left ankle injury, he also showed opportunism by heading the ball, which caused controversy, with the black and white fans complaining that it hadn't gone in. But he wasn't completely satisfied in the end. The substitution upset him.
"We always get upset when we leave. I need to play to get into the swing of things, and I was a little upset when I was substituted. I still feel discomfort when I try to turn my body, and I want to see if I can get over it soon. My intention is to give the coach a headache," said Leonardo.
Ney Franco understood the striker's reaction. The coach appreciated the team's performance, which managed to avoid defeat after falling behind twice:
"It was another evenly matched game. Two attacking teams put on a good show in search of a goal. The fourth draw only shows how evenly matched the two sides are. We had the strength and character to equalize twice."
The draw wasn't the only reason for celebration and pride among Flamengo fans. FIFA's decision to end games at altitudes above 2.500 meters was celebrated by Flamengo's board.
"We want to commend the courage of our president, Márcio Braga, who took on a difficult fight, and the firmness of Ricardo Teixeira, president of the CBF, who knew how to act behind the scenes. This is a victory for humanity," said vice president of football Kleber Leite.
FLAMENGO
BRUNO: He made a mistake on Botafogo's first goal by jumping carelessly and letting the ball slip from his hand. He wasn't at fault for the second, making a miraculous save in the 30th minute that gave the team the edge to equalize. 7.
RONALDO ANGELIM: A performance of extreme tactical efficiency. Not only did he help with marking, he also moved up to attack and surprised the black and white defense with his runs down the left. 7.
THIAGO PIMENTEL: With the ball at his feet, he's a very skilled player. He knows how to get out and play. He struggled in marking and resorted to fouls. 5,5.
IRINEU: He had a lot of work to do with Botafogo's attack. The black and white team, on the other hand, found it easy to work with. 4.
LEONARDO MOURA: Brief flashes on the right flank. A beautiful pass to Paulo Sérgio in the second half. He appeared little in the game. 5.
PAULINHO: Solid in his marking and made a beautiful pass to Juan, who crossed for Leonardo's goal. He felt muscle pain at halftime and had to be substituted. 6,5. LÉO LIMA came on in his place but wasn't as effective for the team. 4.
CLAITON: Good in marking, but with many errors in passing. 5,5.
RENATO: In the first half, he was the one who caused the most trouble for Botafogo's defense. In the second, he was dropped back to set up the play and maintained the pace. 7,5.
JUAN: In defense, he gave space. In compensation, he created good attacking plays, including the pass for the first red-black goal. 6,5.
RENATO AUGUSTO: He had good and bad moments in the match. 6,5.
LEONARDO: He scored a goal and wasn't doing too badly when he was substituted. 6,5. PAULO SÉRGIO came on in his place and gave the black and white defense a hard time with his extremely fast pace and individual skill. His first goal as a professional was a classy one. 7,5.
NEY FRANCO: His team was twice behind on the scoreboard and had the personality to fight back. The team improved under Paulo Sérgio. 7.
Sports Journal
Ney praises his power of reaction
Coach says Flamengo is growing in production with each game in the Brazilian Championship
Patrick Tostes
Marcos Queiroz/JS
Renato Augusto tries to escape the marking of Alvinegro defender Asprilla. Playing up front, the number 10 had a rather quiet performance yesterday.
After Flamengo's third consecutive 2-2 draw with Botafogo, the mood in the Flamengo locker room was one of satisfaction with the team's comeback, which once again fell behind and didn't give in. Ney Franco was pleased with what he saw. The coach, who received a commemorative plaque before the derby for completing a year in charge of the Gávea team, believes the team still needs to address some flaws, but assured that Flamengo is on the right track.
In a match marked by evenly matched play, Flamengo left Maracanã with that famous draw that felt like victory. Ney believes yesterday's match was thrilling, and those in attendance witnessed a great performance. "It was another very even match. Both teams came out on the field with attacking intentions, constantly seeking victory, and those who watched not only this match, but the four derbies played this year, witnessed some great matches," commented the Rubro-Negro coach.
Ney Franco made a point of emphasizing his team's resilience, which once again fell behind, but showed it isn't easily defeated and once again managed to rally. "Of the four classics, we fell behind on three occasions, and once again we managed to rally. We're on the right track in this Brazilian Championship, as we played two good matches, against Goiás and Botafogo."
The Flamengo manager, however, remained down-to-earth, and despite the team's comeback, he lamented his defense's lapses. "We're still making some defensive mistakes. But as the games continue, we'll correct our mistakes," he analyzed.
Young striker Paulo Sérgio, who scored his first professional goal, received high praise from Neymar, who is confident in his potential. "Paulo Sérgio has been proving his quality. Today (yesterday), he just confirmed what we see on a daily basis," he said.
Leonardo and Paulo Sérgio took the chance
Flamengo's two goals in yesterday's derby against Botafogo at the Maracanã stadium were scored by two previously underperforming forwards. Leonardo, now recovered from injury, and Paulo Sérgio, recently promoted from the youth team, were responsible for Flamengo's comeback and showed they have a lot to offer a team that is currently experiencing a shortage of offensive players.
Leonardo is slowly returning after injuring his left knee. The striker's return couldn't have been better, including the goal that sparked Flamengo's comeback. His desire to play was so strong that, after being substituted in the second half, he left the field with a sour expression. After the game, Leonardo admitted he was upset but downplayed it. "We always get upset, right? Especially when it's a derby. But this is just a demonstration of my desire to help Flamengo. Now I'm going to work hard to prove to Neymar that I can be a starter," he stated.
And the striker is really keen to earn a starting spot in the team, especially with the departure of Roni, who went to Cruzeiro last week. "If I'm at Flamengo, it's because I believe in my potential. Otherwise, I'd pack my things and leave," said Leonardo.
Paulo Sérgio, who scored his first professional goal, was ecstatic after the game. "It wasn't the Paulo Sérgio everyone expected, but I had my chance and scored. I'm very grateful to God for this opportunity," he commented.
Ney Franco: 'Draws show the balance between Flamengo and Botafogo'
Flamengo coach Ney Franco has an explanation for the fourth consecutive draw between Flamengo and Botafogo.
"Those who came to Maracanã saw a good game of football. The four draws show the balance between the two teams," the red-and-black coach emphasized to Rádio Tupi.
Regarding the circumstances of this year's games between the two teams, the coach talks about the offensive characteristics of both teams and the alternation of favorable moments for both.
"These are two teams constantly looking for a goal. Two teams looking to leave Maracanã with a win. In these four games, Botafogo was superior at times, and Flamengo dominated at others," said Ney Franco.
Claiton questions who is the best team in Rio
Once again, Flamengo falls behind and manages to draw with Botafogo. The fourth edition of the classic this year ended in a 2-2 draw this Sunday at Maracanã.
Midfielder Claiton left the field with the thought of mission accomplished.
"I did it again. This battle is tough. The players over there say they're the best team in Rio, and they can never beat us, always saying we're being ripped off. You have to think about who's the best," Claiton lamented.
Flamengo wins Paulista in the National Basketball Championship
Renatto Thielle/JS
Duel — Point guard Fred had a great duel with American Shamell, the standout player for the Paulistano team and the game with 36 points
Flamengo defeated Paulistano 95-82 (46-30) at the Gávea gymnasium yesterday. Paulistano's Shamell and Flamengo's Olivinha were the top scorers, with 36 and 34 points, respectively. The result gives the red-and-black team confidence heading into the final stretch of the National Men's Basketball Championship. Flamengo finished the qualifying stage with 12 wins and 11 losses and awaits the definition of its opponent in the National playoffs.
"We had an excellent week of training, and our defense was crucial to this victory, which boosts the team's morale for the playoffs. The group is improving, and regardless of our opponent in the next round, we have every chance of competing for a spot in the semifinals," said Olivinha.
Flamengo's opponent will be Uberlândia or Franca
Flamengo: Gustavo (17), Olivinha (34), Léo (5), Fred (13) and Coloneze (9). Entered: Guto (2), Igor and Olívia (15).\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta.\
Paulistano: Shamell (36), Ricardo (12), Guilherme (5), Janjão (11) and Jhonatan (8). Entered: Luís Felipe, Renato (7), Thiago (1) and André (2).\ Coach: José Neto\
gymnast Victor Rosa is the highlight in Curitiba
Gymnast Victor Rosa is the two-time Brazilian Artistic Gymnastics champion. He earned 86.500 points and took the top spot on the podium yesterday in the all-around finals of the Brazilian Adult Gymnastics Championships at the Tarumã Gymnasium in Curitiba. The silver medal in the all-around went to Diego Hypólito, who was fighting for his first title and finished with 84.900 points.
With the gold medal, Victor secured his second championship title alongside Flamengo, who are also celebrating their second. "I'm happy, I dedicated myself a lot, but it was unexpected. This medal is very important to me. There are two joys: Flamengo winning their second championship title and my individual achievement," said the gymnast, elated with the victory.
The achievement is extremely important for the athlete, as this competition was the final qualifier for the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro. The gymnasts who will make up the Pan American team were evaluated during the Brazilian Championships.
Free pass
Rio is still beautiful!
José Antonio Gerheim gerheim@jsports.com.br
Flamengo is the 2007 Rio de Janeiro champion; Botafogo is the runner-up and has not lost any of its three matches against Flamengo, 3-3 in the first and 2-2 in the two that decided the title. Yesterday, on a cold Sunday, the two teams met again at the Maracanã, this time with a small crowd considering the size and tradition of the derby. Once again, no one won: 2-2, this time in the first round of the Brazilian Championship, still in its third round.
But what mattered in the fourth meeting between these two great clubs was the will to win. Despite being severely weakened and still suffering the visible trauma of their unfair elimination from the Copa do Brasil final, Botafogo proved they have a team capable of leading them to this year's Brazilian title challenge. Besides having three star players who make a difference, such as Lucio Flavio, Dodô, and Zé Roberto, and three young guns, Leandro Guerreiro, Túlio, and Diguinho, Cuca also has three good defenders, such as Juninho, Alex, and, as he demonstrated yesterday upon his return to the field, Renato Silva. And good options on the bench, such as André Lima, Juca, and Adriano Felício. They just need to strengthen the flanks, add another good striker, and carefully reevaluate whether another experienced goalkeeper would be a good idea. Even for the promising Júlio César to have a shadow.
While Botafogo, despite being shorthanded, returned to playing well, Flamengo, despite a lackluster start, also demonstrated the qualities of the excellent team Ney Franco assembled at Gávea. They reacted to Botafogo's increased play, equalized, conceded a second goal, but then came back to equalize and earned it deservedly. There's no doubt: Flamengo has what it takes to challenge for the title and finish among the leaders.
Another team doing well in the championship is Vasco, coached by Celso Roth. After winning their first two games and seeing Romário reach his thousandth goal, the team had to draw with the depth of their soul and Morais' talent, a draw that tasted like victory against Náutico at Aflitos Stadium. This draw was achieved when the team was playing with only nine players and trailing 2-1.
And, to the general joy of Rio de Janeiro football, Fluminense, now under the direction of Renato Gaúcho, with a reserve team, thrashed the Club World Cup champions, Internacional, 3-0, with Pato, Galo and everything else. And their fanatical fans are preparing to fill the Maracanã on Wednesday to face Figueirense in the race towards the Copa do Brasil title.\ Under the blessings of Christ the Redeemer!\
O Dia
In a thrilling game, Flamengo and Botafogo draw 2-2.
Alberto João
Rio - In another thrilling match between the two teams, Flamengo and Botafogo drew 2-2 in a third-round match of the 2007 Brasileirão. It was the fourth meeting between the teams this year and the fourth consecutive draw. Lucio Flávio and Dodô scored for Flamengo. Leonardo and Paulo Sérgio scored for Flamengo. Only 12 people attended the Maracanã.
With this result, Flamengo now has four points in the competition, while Botafogo has seven points. Check out the 2007 Brasileirão standings here.
Cuca: 'Botafogo played better once again'
The game
Before the match started, coach Ney Franco received a commemorative plaque (photo) for completing one year as Flamengo's coach.
Botafogo started better and showed no signs of discouragement after being eliminated from the Copa do Brasil. Just four minutes into the first half, Zé Roberto made a good run down the right and crossed, but Paulinho put the ball over the goal line.
A minute later, Lucio Flávio took a corner from the right and Renato Silva headed it over goalkeeper Bruno's goal.
With Flamengo slow on the field, Botafogo took advantage and opened the scoring. In the 17th minute, Zé Roberto made an individual play, got past Thiago, and was brought down two steps from the box. Lucio Flávio set up the ball for the shot and slotted it into the left corner, unstoppable for Bruno.
The goal from General Severiano's team woke up Flamengo. In the 21st minute, Renato Augusto took a corner kick, but goalkeeper Júlio César palmed it away for a corner.
At 24, coach Cuca had to make a change at Botafogo. Defender Alex went off injured, and the coach brought on Asprilla.
In the 31st minute, Renatou unleashed a powerful free kick, but the ball flew just wide of Júlio César's post. The red-and-black goal was ripe for the taking.
The equalizer came in the 40th minute of the first half. Juan was released into the box and crossed into the middle. Leandro Guerreiro couldn't clear it, and Leonardo headed the ball into the right corner. The ball hit the post, and goalkeeper Júlio César tried to clear it, but the ball was already in the net.
However, Botafogo was better and managed to score their second goal. In the 45th minute, André Lima crossed from the right, the ball went through the entire Flamengo defense, and Dodô (pictured) fired a first-time shot into the right corner.
At halftime, coach Ney Franco took off midfielder Paulinho and brought on midfielder Léo Lima. Just two minutes in, Renato took a free kick, but Júlio César palmed it wide.
Botafogo nearly extended their lead three minutes into the second half. Joílson crossed from the right, André Lima made a slight deflection, but Bruno saved. In the seventh minute, Joílson controlled the ball at the edge of the box and shot toward goal. Bruno made a calm save.
To seek an equalizer, coach Ney Franco took off striker Leonardo, the scorer of the goal, and brought on young Paulo Sérgio. Cuca also made changes to the team, taking off full-back Joílson and bringing on Adriano Felício.
And it was young Paulo Sérgio who nearly tied the game. He burst into the box but fired a powerful shot past goalkeeper Júlio César.
In the 29th minute, goalkeeper Bruno saved Flamengo. Lucio Flavio took a corner from the right, André Lima headed it into the left corner, and the goalkeeper made an excellent save.
Paulo Sérgio, just 17 years old, shone in the 31st minute of the second half. Ronaldo Angelim was released on the left and sent in a low cross. Paulo Sérgio got ahead of Júlio César and deflected the ball into the back of the net.
At the end of the match, both teams went on the attack, but the score remained 2-2.
Author of the second of Fla, Paulo Sérgio left early because Maria Aparecida felt unwell
Marluci Martins
Rio - Paulo Sérgio had all the makings of the party. After all, he scored his first goal for Flamengo's professional team, and it was the equalizer against Botafogo. It was a day for interviews and celebration. But he couldn't answer more than four questions. His mother, Maria Aparecida, was unwell somewhere in the Maracanã.
"It must have been the emotion," said Paulo Sérgio, worried and in a hurry. If his mother wasn't prepared to see her son score a goal for the professionals, what can we say about the 17-year-old, who has been touted as the club's biggest prospect?
"I confess I wasn't prepared for that moment. I had two chances. I missed one and took advantage of the other. I know I wasn't the Paulo Sérgio everyone expected, but the goal helped me," said the striker, who replaced Leonardo in the second half. On the field, Paulo Sérgio suffered more than his mother, Maria Aparecida. When he missed a clear goal in the 23rd minute of the second half, the player nearly despaired.
"I was facing Júlio César, and I hit the ball really hard, and it went up. I asked God to give me another chance. When I scored, years of hard work came flooding back to me. I've been playing soccer since I was 5. When I look back, I see the hardships I've faced in life," he recalled.
If Paulo Sérgio left the field grinning from ear to ear, Leonardo wasn't so lucky. Starting in place of Souza, who injured his thigh on Saturday, Leonardo didn't hide his annoyance when he was replaced by Paulo Sérgio.
He walked off the field slowly, with Flamengo still trailing 2-1. "I was upset, yes, but it's over now. It's just that I wasn't used to being substituted at the clubs I played for..." lamented the striker, who scored the team's first goal, the equalizer in a 1-1 draw, and also complained about the long-standing pain in his left ankle.
Ney approves the system with three defenders
Rio - Flamengo didn't exactly impress, but it made a good impression on coach Ney Franco. He no longer doubts that the three-defender formation—which he calls 3-5-2—is ideal for the team.
"It was our second game with this formation. We'll likely stick with this formation, but, of course, with the goal of continually improving," the coach stated.
With four points from nine played, Ney Franco hopes that the team can recover in the next round, playing against Sport, in Recife.
"Fortunately, the other teams ahead of us haven't pulled too far ahead. We're in the mix. We have to make up for those lost points in the next game against Sport," the coach stated.
While the team is on break, the board hopes to finalize the details of the signing of midfielder Dinélson today, whose economic rights belong to Corinthians, but was on loan to Paraná.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo and Botafogo draw for the fourth time this year\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In the fourth derby between the two teams in 2007, Flamengo and Botafogo drew for the fourth time. This Sunday, the two teams tied 2-2 in a third-round match of the Brazilian Championship. With the result, Flamengo has four points in the competition, three less than Botafogo. Lucio Flavio and Dodô scored Botafogo's goals, while Leonardo and Paulo Sérgio found the net for Flamengo. Flamengo's next match is against Sport, away from home. Botafogo faces Grêmio, in Rio.\ Just as in the first three derby matches of the year, Flamengo and Botafogo started the match focusing on attack. From the opening minutes, both teams made it clear they were going for the win. Playing with a three-forward formation, Botafogo gave them a bit more trouble. And so, the team from General Severiano found the net first. In the 17th minute, Lucio Flavio took a perfect free kick and gave goalkeeper Bruno no chance. Botafogo 1-0.
Trailing, Flamengo struggled to press, but the team still managed to equalize in the first half. In the 40th minute, Juan was released and crossed to Leonardo, who had been largely absent from the game. Despite his awkwardness, the striker headed the ball, and the ball hit the post before going in, despite goalkeeper Júlio César's efforts to clear it.
The Red-Blacks had little time to celebrate. In the 44th minute, Joílson crossed from the right, and top scorer Dodô made a powerful save to put Botafogo back in front at the Maracanã before halftime.
Without injured midfielder Paulinho, Flamengo returned for the second half with midfielder Léo Lima. For Botafogo, coach Cuca urged his team to avoid creating space for the opposition's counterattacks. And in the first 20 minutes, despite having more possession, Flamengo barely troubled the Black and White.
In Flamengo's first big chance of the second half, defenders Renato Silva and Asprilla clashed heads, but striker Paulo Sérgio wasted the chance by shooting over the goal, past goalkeeper Júlio César.
Until then, Botafogo's attacking ineffectiveness in the second half, came very close to scoring their third goal in the 31st minute, but Bruno made a great save to prevent André Lima's header from going in. On the counterattack, however, Flamengo would equalize. Ronaldo Angelim advanced down the left and crossed for Paulo Sérgio to finish.
Botafogo still tried to take the lead again and had good chances with shots from Zé Roberto and Jorga Henrique, but the score remained at 2-2. With the result, Flamengo remains without winning a classic in 2007, while Botafogo remains without beating its rival since 2004.
For Ney Franco, Flamengo has to find balance
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Coach Ney Franco said in an interview after the 2-2 draw with Botafogo this Sunday at Maracanã, that his team alternated between good and bad moments in the match, and that they still haven't found a balance between attack and defense with the new three-defender formation, adopted in the last two matches. "We played well in the first half, but our performance dropped off at the beginning of the second. We have to find a balance for the team because at times we attacked recklessly and left the defenders exposed," the coach said.
The coach considered the round's results positive for Flamengo, which now has four points. "Fortunately, the teams didn't get too far ahead of us, we're in the mix and we have to bounce back in the next matches," he concluded.
PeléNet
Ney Franco downplays Paulo Sérgio and Léo Lima's performances\ From the Newsroom\ In Rio de Janeiro\ In his first match after completing a year in charge of Flamengo, coach Ney Franco - who was honored with a plaque before this Sunday's classic against Botafogo, in the Brazilian Championship - once again showed his characteristic balance in the post-game interviews.\
After the 2-2 draw with their rivals, the coach avoided praising young striker Paulo Sérgio, who scored his first goal as a professional, and crucifying midfielder Léo Lima, who angered the fans with a lackluster performance.
"I'll look at Paulo Sérgio with the same eyes, because he proved to me a long time ago that he has quality. I still have the same vision. Besides scoring a goal, he had an opportunity. He confirmed our bet," commented the coach.
Meanwhile, midfielder Léo Lima misplaced passes that could have led to dangerous counterattacks for Flamengo. Despite another lackluster performance from the player, Ney Franco sought to defend him.
"Today [Sunday] Léo Lima missed two passes that could have put his teammates in front of goal. But he had vision on both plays. The mistakes were evident to the fans, but from the field, I saw his intention. It was a different play. And he needs rhythm," said the coach.
Leonardo scores for Flamengo after nearly two months out\ From the Newsroom\ In Rio de Janeiro\ With striker Souza injured, who felt a twinge in one of his thighs last Saturday, Leonardo returned to play for Flamengo this Sunday, against Botafogo, in the Brazilian Championship. The player had been out of action for nearly two months due to an injury. And even without match fitness, he scored a goal and helped the red-and-black team secure a 2-2 draw with their rival.\
Incidentally, Leonardo's goal was a tearful one. After the striker's header, goalkeeper Júlio César cleared the ball from the net, but the referee upheld the move.
"It took a while to recover, but I'm already better. In a week, I'll be 100%. The goal was a tearful one, but the important thing is that the ball went in. You could clearly see that the goalkeeper cleared the ball from well behind the goal line," commented Leonardo, adding that he still feels pain.
"It's because I play with my back to the game and that makes things difficult. I always get hit from behind. I still feel a bit of pain, but I've had tests done that don't show any injury," he revealed.
Leonardo had not played since April 1st, when he sprained his left ankle during the match against Friburguense, in the Rio State Championship.
The injury sidelined Leonardo just as he was about to earn a starting spot in the Copa Libertadores against União Maracaibo-VEN in Venezuela. Now that he's recovered, he promises to fight for his place in the first team.
"I played two games [for the reserve team] in the State Championship and then I got injured. But that's just football. I'm going to train hard to try and get back into the team. If I settle for the reserves, I have to pack my things and go. I have to fight for a starting spot," concluded the striker, signed from Paraná this year.
Flamengo coach celebrates 'chasing' leaders\ From the Newsroom\ In Rio de Janeiro\ After Flamengo's fourth draw with Botafogo this year, coach Ney Franco celebrated the result. According to the coach, the result allows the team to remain in "chasing" the competition's leaders, despite being five points behind the leader.\
"The teams at the top haven't been very far apart. It was a round with many draws. The leader [Paraná] has nine points, but we're in the mix," commented Ney Franco.
With the draw, Flamengo moved to four points in the table and dropped to tenth place. Having lost the first game and won the second, the team also missed out on winning four more. Despite this, the coach insisted that Sunday's draw was a positive result.
"It's a 50% success rate. I'm happy. Now, it's up to us to recover the four lost points starting in the next game, against Sport," he said.
In fact, despite praising this Sunday's draw, Ney Franco assured that Flamengo will not play for new draws in the next two games, against Sport and Figueirense, as they are away from home.
"Now it's time to get the group together and show the importance of winning points away from home. We can't go to Recife and Florianópolis looking for a draw. We're going after victories," he concluded.
Flamengo maintains three-year unbeaten streak against Botafogo\ From the Newsroom\ In Rio de Janeiro\ In addition to preventing Botafogo from reaching the top of the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo maintained, this Sunday, an unbeaten streak of more than three years against its opponent by achieving a 2-2 score. The match was held at Maracanã.\
Flamengo's last loss to its rival came in March 2004, 1-0, with Alex Alves' famous backheel goal, in the Rio State Championship. Since then, the teams have faced each other 13 times, and Flamengo has not lost a single one.
However, Flamengo has yet to beat Botafogo this year. This Sunday marked the fourth consecutive draw between the rivals. The first was 3-3, and the last three were 2-2. The two previous to tonight's were in the Rio State Championship finals, which Flamengo won on penalties.
Interestingly, Flamengo managed to equalize in all of them. In the first, they took the lead, allowed a comeback, but then fought back. In the second, they started 2-0 down but scored twice in the second half. In the third, they took the lead but let Botafogo take the lead and again fought back to equalize.
Check out Flamengo's unbeaten streak over Botafogo below: 27/05/2007 - Flamengo 2 x 2 Botafogo - Brazilian Championship 06/05/2007 - Flamengo 2 x 2 Botafogo - State Championship 29/04/2007 - Botafogo 2 x 2 Flamengo - State Championship 11/02/2007 - Botafogo 3 x 3 Flamengo - State Championship 10/09/2006 - Flamengo 2 x 0 Botafogo - Brazilian Championship 07/05/2006 - Botafogo 0 x 1 Flamengo - Brazilian Championship 25/02/2006 - Flamengo 3 x 2 Botafogo - State Championship 18/11/2005 - Flamengo 1 x 0 Botafogo - Copa Record 06/11/2005 - Flamengo 3 x 1 Botafogo - Brazilian\ 31/07/2005 - Botafogo 0 x 2 Flamengo - Brazilian\ 06/03/2005 - Flamengo 2 x 2 Botafogo - State\ 21/11/2004 - Botafogo 0 x 0 Flamengo - Brazilian\ 28/07/2004 - Flamengo 0 x 0 Botafogo - Brazilian\ 14/03/2004 - Botafogo 1 x 0 Flamengo - State\
BalloonSport
Botafogo and Flamengo draw again\ Rubro-Negro has fallen behind twice, but has the strength to recover\ Thiago Lavinas\ Botafogo played better and had a chance, but couldn't end Flamengo's 12-game winless streak. Despite taking the lead twice in Sunday's derby at Maracanã, the team allowed the draw. It was the fourth meeting of the year between the two teams and the fourth draw. The last three ended in the same score: 2-2.\
With this result, Botafogo lost the chance to take the lead in the Brazilian Championship. The team dropped to fifth place with seven points. In the next round, the Alvinegro faces Grêmio at Maracanã. Flamengo, meanwhile, has four points and is in 10th place. Next Sunday, June 3rd, the club faces Sport at Ilha do Retiro.
Dodô leaves his mark. Botafogo started the derby better, with Zé Roberto dropping deep on the right flank. The midfielder created dangerous plays, exploiting the defensive lapses in the area. And the black-and-white goal came from there. The number 10 was fouled by Juan at the edge of the box. Lucio Flavio's shot found the left corner of the net, past goalkeeper Bruno, who stretched but couldn't reach the ball, making it 1-0!
Even with the lead, Botafogo continued to dominate the match. Disorganized and missing Souza in attack—he was ruled out due to left thigh pain—Flamengo couldn't trouble goalkeeper Júlio César. The game was dull, without much excitement. That's when Juan risked a run up front and crossed. Leonardo tangled with the defender and headed the ball awkwardly. The ball slowly drifted into Júlio César's right corner in a rather confusing play in the 40th minute.
But the red-and-black fans didn't even have time to celebrate. Shortly after, defender Asprilla sprinted and launched a pass to André Lima with his outside of the net. The striker crossed, and the ball fell to Dodô, who fired a shot from the penalty spot, leaving Bruno with no chance. It was the black-and-white's second goal.
In the second half, Léo Lima returned in place of the injured Paulinho. But Flamengo, despite being more offensive, didn't improve. They were exposed to counterattacks. The first chance to equalize only came in the 24th minute, when defender Renato Silva made a mistake and the ball fell free in the box. Paulo Sérgio fired a powerful shot, but it went over the goal.
Botafogo had a chance to extend the lead with André Lima. The striker headed the ball, and goalkeeper Bruno made a difficult save. Soon after, it was Zé Roberto's turn to shoot low and wide. A counterattack led by defender Ronaldo Angelim equalized. He crossed into the box, and Paulo Sérgio finished under goalkeeper Júlio César's legs: 2-2. It was the striker's first professional goal.
And Flamengo fans left Maracanã shouting "we're champions" provoking the black and whites...
"I'm very happy. It's my first goal as a professional and it was a very important goal for Flamengo. It's a moment that will stay in my memory." Paulo Sérgio, Flamengo striker
Bolivia at war with Flamengo\ Authorities blame Rio de Janeiro club for banning high-altitude matches\ Eduardo Peixoto\ FIFA's decision to ban international matches at altitudes above 2.500 meters has outraged Bolivians. And the main target of this fury is Flamengo.\
According to local officials, the measure was only adopted because the Brazilian club has enormous prestige and cried foul after a 2-2 draw with Real Potosí on February 15th, at an altitude of almost 4.000 meters. The day after the game, the board declared that it would never play in such "inhumane" conditions again. Later, continuing its campaign, Flamengo submitted a medical report to FIFA and secured the support of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
- This ban is an attack on the universal nature of football - complains Jorge Pacheco, treasurer of the Bolivian Football Federation, to the Bolivian website "Erbol".
On the same website, there's an editorial criticizing the "cowardice" of the Rio de Janeiro club (erroneously called Flamengo FC). "They don't care if the matches take place at 40-degree temperatures," reads one excerpt from the article. Bolivian authorities promise to appeal the ban.
"It's a shock! If this is confirmed, it will be the beginning of FIFA's destruction," threatens the representative of the Bolivian Footballers' Association, former player David Paniagua, to the website "Facetas Deportivas."
Ney Franco: 'Leaders are not that far away'\ Coach considers that Flamengo is in the mix and talks about victory against Sport\ Thiago Lavinas\
Ag. O Globo\ Flamengo coach Ney Franco considers the draw with Botafogo fair\ The 2-2 draw with Botafogo left Flamengo in 10th place in the Brazilian league standings. Despite this, coach Ney Franco believes the team's start to the championship could be quite reasonable.\
"It's an average performance, around 50%. We haven't lost touch with the leaders. The leaders aren't far behind. It was a round with many draws, and that helped. The leader (Paraná Clube) has nine points, but we're right there in the mix."
In the next round, Flamengo faces Sport at Ilha do Retiro. The team hopes to perform well again away from home, as it did against Goiás.
"We need to recover the lost points starting in the next game. It's important to win away from home. We can't go in thinking about a draw. We're going after victories."
Flamengo maintains its record against Botafogo\ Rubro-negro has gone 13 matches without losing to its Rio rival\ Thiago Lavinas\
AGÊNCIA O GLOBO\ Renato Augusto tries to make a move for Flamengo against Botafogo\ With the 2-2 draw this Sunday at Maracanã, Flamengo maintained its three-year and two-month unbeaten streak against Botafogo. They have gone 13 games without losing to their Rio de Janeiro rivals. The last defeat to the Alvinegro was in March 2004, 1-0, with a goal by Alex Alves, in the Campeonato Carioca.\
This year alone, the two teams have faced each other four times. All three games ended in a draw, with the last three ending in a 2-2 draw. Coach Ney Franco considered Sunday's result fair.
"The result was fair considering what both teams showed. Flamengo improved in the second half. For the third time, we fell behind against Botafogo. This shows that our team has the character and strength to go after the result."
The two teams scored 18 goals in the four games, an average of 4,5 goals per game. Weak defenses? According to the red-and-black coach, no.
- Two teams that play forward. Anyone who watched the four games saw that they were open games.
Despite failing to beat Botafogo this season, Flamengo defeated their rival in the Carioca championship. After drawing both games in the final, Flamengo won the final on penalties.
Paulo Sérgio celebrates the equalizer\ 17-year-old striker scores his first professional goal for Flamengo\ Thiago Lavinas\
Paulo Sérgio, just 17 years old, was Flamengo's hero in their 2-2 draw with Botafogo this Sunday at the Maracanã. The striker came on eight minutes into the second half and scored the goal that saved the Flamengo from defeat with a beautiful touch inside the box. The ball went between the legs of goalkeeper Júlio César. After the match, the striker celebrated the goal, his first in a professional Flamengo jersey.
"I'm very happy with this goal, which was important for the team. It's a moment that will be etched in my memory. It's good to help Flamengo."
Paulo Sérgio Luiz de Souza was born on June 11, 06, in Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro. He is 1989'1,81" and weighs 70,5 lbs. A product of the youth academy, he made his debut on April 01, 04, in a 2007-2 victory over Friburguense. The striker made his fifth professional appearance for Flamengo.
"I'm tired. The Maracanã field is very big," the striker added, having difficulty speaking.
After three rounds, Flamengo sits in tenth place in the Brasileirão standings with four points. The team lost to Palmeiras in its opening match, beat Goiás, and is now tied with Botafogo.
Ney Franco is honored by Flamengo\ Coach receives a silver plaque for completing one year in charge of the club\ Thiago Lavinas\ Ney Franco received a commemorative plaque from Flamengo's board this Sunday before the derby against Botafogo, at Maracanã. The tribute took place after the coach completed one year in charge of the Rubro-negro on May 23rd.\
"It's a source of pride. I'm happy to be leading the red-and-black nation, and I hope to stay here even longer. Little by little, I'm establishing my name in the coaching scene. And with that, my responsibility only increases," says Ney Franco.
Ney Franco Era\ Games: 65\ Wins: 32\ Draws: 13\ Losses: 20\ Performance: 56,25%\ Titles: Copa do Brasil, Taça Guanabara and Campeonato Carioca\ This is a significant achievement, not only by Brazilian standards, but also due to the fact that Flamengo was experiencing a period of coaching turnover before Ney Franco's arrival. The last coach to stay at the club for more than one season was Zagallo, who led the club to its third state championship in 2001.\
Ney Franco has a 56,25% success rate as Flamengo's manager. In 65 matches, he has won 32, drawn 13, and lost 20. During this period, he won the Copa do Brasil, the Taça Guanabara, and the Campeonato Carioca.
Throw
Fla and Bota draw once again: 2-2\ In the fourth classic of the year, once again no one came away with the victory\ Rodrigo Mandarini\
After three thrilling classics this season, Flamengo and Botafogo played this Sunday in the third round of the Brazilian Championship, in a virtually empty Maracanã stadium. Just like in the first three matches, the teams provided the few fans present with a lively game. As in the previous games, there was no winner. And, in yet another coincidence, the score was 2-2, for the third consecutive time.
In the 17th minute, Zé Roberto was brought down by Thiago on the edge of the box. As has been the case this season, a free kick from that spot poses a threat to Botafogo's opponents. Zé Roberto set up the free kick, and Lucio Flavio sent it into the top corner, which Bruno still had to score, but it didn't stop Fogão from opening the scoring.
The game remained lively, with both teams missing good chances. The more skillful Botafogo came closer to extending the lead than Flamengo did to equalizing. But, as in the previous encounters between the teams, Flamengo failed to put the game to bed.
Flamengo had the better of the game, tying the score in the 40th minute: Juan crossed, Leonardo headed, and the ball hit the post and narrowly crossed the goal line. Complaints from Botafogo fans, as has been the case in recent matches, but the goal was upheld by referee Héber Roberto Lopes.
The red-and-blacks didn't even have time to celebrate: in the 44th minute, Asprila advanced, passed to André Lima, who crossed into the box. As has also happened routinely in classics against Flamengo, Dodô slotted home and scored a beautiful goal. It was the top scorer's fourth against the rival in four games this year. And that was only in the first half.
In the second half, with Léo Lima replacing Paulinho, Flamengo gave the impression they would attack Botafogo. However, that was just an impression. Léo once again failed to capitalize on the chance he received from Ney Franco, angering the Flamengo fans. The coach also took off Leonardo, another ineffective player, and brought on the young Paulo Sérgio.
Botafogo could have extended their lead in the 31st minute. André Lima headed the ball, but Bruno made a spectacular save, showing that the fans are right to fear losing him to European football.
As if you don't score, you'll concede. Fogão proved the saying right and conceded the equalizer in the 32nd minute: Ronaldo Angelim crossed from the left and Paulo Sérgio, who had missed an easy goal minutes earlier, got there first and tapped the ball into the net to tie the game: 2-2.
In this game of coincidences, between the two teams led by coaches who completed a year in charge this week, the score couldn't have been any different. Once again, the third consecutive 2-2 draw. The question of who is better, the state champion or the team playing the most eye-catching football in the city, remains. Bring on the second-round derby.
In the next round, Flamengo, which reached four points, faces Sport at Ilha do Retiro. Botafogo, which has seven points, hosts Grêmio on Saturday at Maracanã.
Paulo Sérgio celebrates his first career goal\ Flamengo's youngster is still trying to adapt to the professional ranks\ Rodrigo Mandarini\
Striker Paulo Sérgio celebrated his first goal for Flamengo, and he never thought it would happen so early in his career. He scored the equalizer in a 2-2 draw with Botafogo this Sunday at Maracanã.
"I'm not even prepared for all this. Everything is happening so fast. I had the first chance, I missed it, and I asked God for another chance. He gave it to me, and I managed to equalize," said the player.
The main name in Flamengo's youth academy, the youngster, just 17 years old, says he can still achieve more:
"The fans can expect a lot from me. I haven't been the Paulo Sérgio everyone expects yet, but that will happen soon," promises Paulo Sérgio, who was thrilled when he scored his goal.
"All the hard work and struggle to get here came to mind. I went through many difficulties, but I thank God that today I am winning," said the player, who left the locker room in a hurry because his mother, Maria Aparecida, fell ill in the stadium after her son scored the goal.
Flamengo coach praises Paulo Sérgio\ Ney Franco says he has a lot of confidence in the young Flamengo striker\ LANCEPRESS!\
Paulo Sérgio, who scored Flamengo's equalizer in Sunday's derby against Botafogo, which ended 2-2, was highly praised by coach Ney Franco in the press conference. Despite missing two good chances, the 17-year-old has been catching the coach's eye.
"He's already proven to me that he has qualities. Paulo Sérgio has been training well. Besides scoring goals, he's had opportunities and confirmed our vision of always developing good players for Flamengo," Ney Franco emphasized.
Leonardo is thrilled with his new opportunity at Flamengo\ The striker scored the team's first goal in the draw with Botafogo\ Rodrigo Mandarini\
Sidelined for the match against Botafogo, Souza was replaced by Leonardo, and the latter did not disappoint. He showed excellent movement and scored Flamengo's first goal in a 2-2 draw with their rival. Having recovered from a serious left ankle injury, he celebrated his return to the team.
"Thank God I'm better. In a week I'll be 100%. I still feel a little sore, especially since I play with my back to the goal. But in a game or two I'll be better," said Leonardo, assuring that the ball went in his goal.
"The goal was a tearful one, but I'm glad it went in. I was sure the ball actually went in. It was very close to the goal," he confirmed.
Botafogo's drought against Flamengo persists\ Alvinegro hasn't beaten its biggest rival since 2004, in the State Championship\ LANCEPRESS!\
After Botafogo and Flamengo's third consecutive 2-2 draw this Sunday, a nagging taboo persists for the black and whites. The Glorioso fans haven't celebrated a victory over their biggest rival since 2004 (or 11 games). The last time was in the Campeonato Carioca that year, a 1-0 victory, with a backheel goal by Alex Alves.
In addition to this drought, Botafogo remains without a win against Flamengo in the Brazilian Championship since 2000. That year, the black and white team won 3-1, with goals from Dênis, Donizete, and Sandro, with Petkovic scoring the equalizer. Sunday's draw was the fourth in four games in the 2007 season.
Renato Augusto praises the fighting spirit\ Flamengo supporter says the team made some mistakes\ LANCEPRESS!\
Flamengo supporter Renato Augusto said after the 2-2 draw with Botafogo this Sunday that the Red-Black team made mistakes in some of the match, especially in the opponent's two goals. Even so, he was pleased with the result.
"We made some mistakes. We conceded silly goals, but our fighting spirit and the draw we achieved were worth it," the player noted.
Flamengo's next match in the Brazilian Championship will be next Sunday, against Sport, at Ilha do Retiro, in Recife.