THE GLOBE
Joel asks for more participation to continue offensive
Flamengo coach wants attackers to score. Team has three doubts
Since taking over Flamengo, Joel Santana has rarely fielded three attacking players. Today, with Renato Augusto, Marcinho, and Souza, the coach believes he has made the team more aggressive. However, the chances the team has been giving opponents trouble him.
"Everyone needs to help us score. Offensively, it's been working well," said Joel, who notes that goalkeeper Bruno has been working beyond his ideal level in recent games.
Kleber wants the team ready to play in Cuzco
The coach will maintain the lineup. He has three issues for tomorrow's game against Madureira: Jônatas, with a muscle problem in his left thigh, is almost out; Souza, with tendonitis in his left knee, is doubtful; and Bruno, with back pain, is expected to play.
Despite the board's attempt to change the location of the game against Cienciano, the club's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, said that the team must prepare to play at altitude.
Kleber wants to revisit the Romário issue next week. Recently, president Márcio Braga said the player is welcome to appear on FlaTV, but not to play. Yesterday, Embratel was confirmed as FlaTV's sponsor. Next Wednesday, the players, who are partners of the channel, will meet to learn how much has been raised so far.
Fernando Calazans
Beauty in goals
Did you think there couldn't be a good match between a big team and a small team in this championship? I did. The first one I saw was Flamengo's 4-1 victory over Friburguense. The downside was precisely the score, a bit exaggerated and somewhat unfair to Friburguense, who would have lost to Flamengo but didn't deserve the thrashing. Both teams played well.
And, even though they weren't the best placed among the smaller teams, Friburguense showed, at least in this game, a touch-based football, a collective football and above all a clean football, pleasing to the eye.
To enhance the (good) spectacle, the goals were also beautiful, including Friburguense's so-called consolation goal, a beautifully struck shot by Léo Andrade. In this case, a true consolation goal.
In a way, I get the impression that the female refereeing trio contributed to the players' good behavior. It seems the women awakened the men's chivalry, who behaved civilly throughout the game (perhaps with the exception of Cristian), unlike last week, when they shouted that "Flamengo isn't a women's team," that "soccer is for men," and other nonsense that gives the impression that those players have a certain aversion to women.
The rehabilitation began with the good idea of Flamengo's board (I imagine) that their captain should give flowers to the three ladies before the match. The initiative went down well and transformed the players' spirits, in turn contributing to the work of the young women who were making their first-division debut.
Three Flamengo goals enriched the night: the second, a well-placed shot from Renato Augusto; the third, another shot, this time from Leonardo Moura; and, above all, the fourth, from Marcinho, thanks to the beautiful play between Jônatas, Renato Augusto and Juan, which reached Marcinho.
Leonardo Moura (returning to Leonardo Moura) and Juan played very well. More than wingers, they seem like wingers from a time when football had wingers, and Brazilian teams and national teams played more than they do today.
NATIONAL BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
In the National Men's Basketball Championship, Flamengo will face Ciser/Univille/Joinville (SC) today in Gávea at 21 p.m. Flamengo is currently leading the championship. Also today at 18 p.m. in Gávea, Iguaçu vs. Univates/Bira (RS) will play.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Opposing destinies
Ibson and Renato Augusto are living different moments in their respective careers
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Nina Lima/JS
While Ibson wants to stay at Flamengo, Renato Augusto wants to go to Europe
Both youth academy products, fans' idols, and considered indispensable to Flamengo. These are the only characteristics that unite Renato Augusto and Ibson today. One can't hide the fact that he wants to make 2008 his year of breakthrough, while the other doesn't even know what his future will be after June 30th. One aspires to play in European football, while the other makes no secret of the fact that a return to the Old Continent isn't ideal at the moment.
The four years separating Ibson's birth from Renato Augusto's seem significant. But for the former, it already served to provide experience dealing with disciplinary issues. One example of this was his discontent with Porto coach Jesualdo Ferreira, who wouldn't even bench him. Renato Augusto, while he hasn't yet displeased any coach, has already dealt with serious injury problems, such as the most recent one, suffered at the beginning of the year, in which he fractured his cheekbone.
Another difference between the two is that, while Renato Augusto is considered the player who could ease the club's finances, with a possible transfer abroad, Ibson's permanence would require some kind of madness from the directors, as Porto wants at least R$11 million to release him.
"Haste eats waste. We have three months to resolve this situation. I had lunch yesterday with the FlaTV team, but patience will be needed," said vice president of football, Kleber Leite.
When launching the red-black channel on the internet, the directors expected to raise R$5 million/month and, with this money, keep Ibson.
If Ibson is experiencing anguish over his uncertain future, Renato Augusto is enjoying the good times after difficult times. The goal he scored against Friburguense—his first since his return—was only the 10th of his career. Even so, he has a strong alibi: "I scored goals in the finals of the Guanabara Cup and Carioca last year, and I also scored in the match that secured Flamengo's qualification for the Libertadores. The important thing is that I'm delivering in the decisive moments," said Renato Augusto, who still harbors a dream for this year: "I want to be part of the group that will go to the Olympics. If Dunga calls me, I'll do everything I can to show my good work," he promised.
Even with destinations that may be different from July onwards, Ibson and Renato Augusto can boast of having achieved what few have managed: the affection of the fans.
Vetoed, Jônatas will not face Madureira
Striker Souza is also at risk of being left out of the match
Although the results of Jônatas' MRI aren't yet available, Flamengo's medical department has already ruled him out of the next match, Saturday, against Madureira. He arrived at the club limping and with severe pain in the adductor muscle of his left thigh.
As there is no time to recover from the injury, doctor Walter Martins explained the case and is only waiting for the details of the examination to determine the period that Jônatas will be out of action.
"He's out of the game. When we get the results, we'll know how long he'll be out," he said.
Besides Jônatas, goalkeeper Bruno and center forward Souza also experienced problems in the rout against Friburguense. The number 1 suffered a slight back strain, but it's not a concern for the rest of the season. The forward has tendonitis in his left knee and will wait until Friday to find out if he'll be fit to play the following day.
A new Mengão show is coming
Undefeated in 20 games, Flamengo hosts Joinville today at 21 pm at the Gávea gymnasium
Pedro Ivo Almeida
Ursula Nery/JS
Center Wagner has been performing well in the offensive department
After beating Sol de América from Paraguay last Tuesday and reaching an unprecedented place in the semi-finals of the South American League, Flamengo turns its attention to the National Basketball Championship.
The Gávea team takes to the court today at 21 pm at the Gávea gymnasium to face Ciser/Joinville, seeking to maintain their unbeaten run, which has lasted 15 matches, and further increase the gap over second-placed Pitágoras/Minas.
The team's standouts in recent matches, pivots Coloneze and Wagner know the difficulties they will face against the Santa Catarina team, which is fighting to secure a spot in the playoffs, and knowing that everyone is currently extra motivated against Flamengo, looking to break this unbeaten streak.
Seriousness
"It will be a tough game. Joinville is a great team, motivated by their recent good results and boasting good players like point guard Espiga and center Olívia. Our team is strong and committed to maintaining our unbeaten run. To do so, we have to continue defending well and attack calmly, without rushing," Coloneze said.
"We're having a very long run of games, and there's also the fact that everyone wants to beat us today. We have to stay calm and manage these two factors to get another victory," said Wagner.
Marcelinho is in doubt
The team's and the competition's top scorer, winger Marcelinho, suffered a strain in his right thigh and is doubtful for today's game. "I felt some discomfort in my thigh and I'm undergoing intensive treatment. I want to play, but I need to be fit enough. I hope to be okay for this game, but if that's not possible, I hope to return on Sunday (against Univates). Flamengo's strength isn't individual, it's the team, and if I can't be there, I know the group will fulfill my role well," said the winger.
This could be the most important season in Flamengo's basketball history, as they are close to winning two unprecedented titles: the National Championship and the South American League. However, according to coach Paulo Chupeta, the goal is to focus on each game individually.
Eduardo Lacombe
The Red and the Black
I also make mistakes
elacombe@jsports.com.br
Okay. It's all my fault. I said, here in O Vermelho e o Negro, that I didn't believe in the standings. But admit it, I said that before seeing Cienciano play against Coronel Bolognesi. And, I confess, I was horrified! How come Flamengo didn't beat Bolognesi out there in the desert? And how come Flamengo didn't thrash Cienciano, here, at Maracanã. As the Bahians say, is it or isn't it something to be turned on by? After all, what I couldn't watch in the 90-plus minutes they were on the field was soccer. It can be called anything. Except the violent British sport, as the old announcers used to say.
Besides speaking before the match between the Peruvians, I spoke before seeing Renato Augusto return to play football. What beautiful football, well played, with well-placed passes and, above all, beautiful goals.
But I wonder: was qualifying easier because of our better quality or because of our opponents' lack of quality? After all, between us, we're going to have to play football, aren't we? And once and for all, let's put an end to this paranoia of being afraid to climb a step in the Andes only to immediately start feeling short of breath.
We have to arrive at the men's house with an open heart, unafraid to be happy. We might even lose. It's part of the game, but we can't be afraid. The one who should be afraid is Cienciano.
And I just learned that they're the Peruvian champions. Imagine what kind of football the last-place team must play. Because one thing is clear: The lack of oxygen isn't exactly proportional to good football.
Soccer aside, what a campaign the basketball guys are having, huh? I'm even afraid to praise the guys outside of soccer because I'm not really interested in other sports. But I can't help but admire what these guys are doing. It's true that the best teams in the country are outside the National League. But I don't even care. It's Mengão, and they'll be champions, easy. In a few years, no one will remember this. Only the epic campaign will be recorded in history, which, if the gods, all the gods, allow, will be undefeated.
THE DAY
Renato Augusto immortalizes the shirt
Rio - The jersey worn in the match against Friburguense will be immortalized by Renato Augusto, symbolizing his comeback after being away from the team for nearly 50 days due to facial bone surgery. The 136 km/h rocket, which resulted in the second goal of the 4-1 victory, showed that the supporter has lost his fear of shooting. Now, he needs to curb his fear of using his head in aerial plays.
Despite having Gávea's number 10, coach Joel Santana has some issues assembling his team. Jônatas suffered a muscle strain and couldn't even make the bench. Goalkeeper Bruno suffered a mild lower back strain and underwent an MRI but is doing better. Souza, meanwhile, complained of tendonitis in his left knee.
This Thursday, president Márcio Braga apologized to Rio's president, Roberto Horcades, but didn't mention Vasco. The club's president stated that both clubs are part of the "rotten band" of Rio de Janeiro football.
Now, just enjoy
Neither São Januário nor Gávea. Romário announces he's done playing, and on Sunday, when his contract with Vasco ends, he'll be packing his bags to enjoy his first days of retirement in the Caribbean.
Marluci Martins
Rio - The phone recorded just over 11 minutes of conversation, and that was the only detail that recalled the jersey number that Romário immortalized. In just 11 minutes and 44 seconds of the interview, he announced to ATAQUE, exclusively, what he had postponed for so long: his retirement. "I'm not playing anymore. I'm done playing. I can't do it anymore. It's not for me anymore."
Relive the best moments of the star's career\ Do you agree with Baixinho's retirement?\ Rewatch the special 'Romário 1000 goals'\
There's no need to be sad. If Romário could control time, he'd even make that long-awaited Sunday, the last day of his contract with Vasco, arrive faster. On Monday, the start of his retirement, he'll be free, but who said he's thinking about work? In his debut as a former soccer player, Romário will be traveling to the Caribbean with a tough group of his best friends. But there's still one possibility that could ruin his trip, and his life: América's relegation to the Rio de Janeiro second division.
Are you already wearing a Flamengo shirt?\ — (Laughs) No way! I've been traveling a lot.\
How is your situation?\ — My situation is as follows: I will be unemployed from the 30th. Then, I will look for a job.\
Didn't you quit your job?\ — I'm not going to work, but they're not paying me either. And the friendship continues... I already told Vasco I was leaving, but I had to fulfill the contract. I told Eurico (Miranda) what I thought. I have nothing against him. We just had different opinions.\
Is there any possibility of you reaching an agreement with Vasco?\ — No. I'm not going back to Vasco...\
Are you going to Flamengo?\ — No. We talked once back then... There was a possibility of me doing something related to Fla TV. Kléber Leite was supposed to contact me, but so far, nothing.\
You're not very excited. Are you interested in working at Flamengo?\ — Depending on what it is, I might be interested. But there really isn't anything. Now that I'm done playing, I'll have to do something.\
Are you convinced you're done playing?\ — I am. I don't play anymore, no. I've already stopped playing. I can't do it anymore. I haven't played since November. If I'm not mistaken, my last match was against Palmeiras... It's been a long time. I can't do it anymore... (Actually, that match was Romário's second-to-last. His last was the 2-1 loss to Internacional, at São Januário, on November 4th).\
You didn't even expect this now, did you?\ — Everyone gets what they deserve. Suddenly, that's what I deserved.\
For everything you've done in football, don't you think you deserved to have retired in a different way?\ — Ah, but I always wanted to end the way I started: without anyone noticing. I said that, before anyone knew it, I'd be done. Suddenly, what I planned one day ended up happening. But maybe I'll still play one or two farewell games... Who knows?\
What do you plan to do in the future, since you'll be retiring as of Monday?\ — I don't know... I'll wait for something really cool to come along. I wanted to do something for the 2014 World Cup. I've already fulfilled my role, which was assigned by the CBF. I'd like more... I'd like to be part of some committee.\
Are you going to talk to Ricardo Teixeira?\ — No, no one has any obligation to me, no. Nor do I have any obligation to anyone... Things are simple for me. I only do things in life that are good for me.\
Are you happy?\ — Yes. I'm in this situation by choice. If I wanted to be playing, I would have gone back to Vasco. But I have no plans. I've been enjoying my kids and traveling a lot. These are the things that make me happy.\
Are you following the Championship?\ — No. I don't read the newspaper... Is there a game on now?\
It is (laughs)...\ - I know my Mequinha is screwed... How many rounds are left?\
Two... Your Edevair really wanted you to finish your career at América, didn't he? They need you there, huh...\ — (Laughs). Wow, see? He knew what he was saying. My father must be screwed... But América won't go down... At least that's what I hope... Really?\
What are you going to do on Monday, your first day of retirement?\ — I'm going with the best group to Curaçao (laughs). What do you think? Am I in a bad way? I'm going to go for a walk, man...\
Are you taking your class with you?\ — I am. We're going to spend 10 days there, okay? Is it bad? I'll enjoy it. (Laughs)\
New proof of love for Perlla
Full-back Leonardo Moura gets a new tattoo on his leg to show his love for the funk singer
Martha Esteves
Rio - It's love that makes Leonardo Moura this happy: on and off the field. The seventh tattoo the right-back got on his leg to declare his love for funk singer Perlla cost no more than 300 reais. But for Léo Moura, no amount of money could match his emotion when the singer saw the surprise. She cried nonstop and, even two weeks later, shows off her boyfriend's 'tribute' to anyone who hasn't seen it yet.
For the player, the tattoo of an angel surrounded by musical notes brought him even more luck. The full-back scored a beautiful goal against Friburguense. And he still hopes to be called up by coach Dunga.
"I'm so happy. My life has never been so cool, so in tune. I'm having a great time at Flamengo and I'm still in love with Perlla, who enchants me more and more," he reveals.
During their ten-month relationship, the singer received many gifts: lotions and makeup (she didn't give perfume because she knew it was bad luck). When they completed their first year, Léo Moura planned to surprise her: a romantic dinner complete with an engagement ring. The "Attack" ruined the surprise, but the marriage proposal will go ahead.
"It's the first time I've felt so happy. She takes care of me, she's always concerned about treating me well," says the player, who highlights his muse's favorite songs: 'Menina chapa-quente' and 'Tanta solidão'.
If luck continues, Léo Moura would love to score another goal tomorrow to help Flamengo secure their place in the semifinals, and, as a bonus, repeat the gesture of the player Pato, making a heart with his hands again.
Renato Augusto celebrates goal and sequence of games
Rio - After his sixth consecutive match since returning from a long period of inactivity due to a facial injury, Renato Augusto celebrated the sequence of matches that gave him game rhythm and the goal scored against Friburguense in the 4-1 victory, the midfielder's first of the year - and the tenth for Flamengo's professional team.
"It was good, I think not just because of the goal, but because of the sequence of games that I needed. Of course, this sequence isn't that good, but, for me, it ended up being due to the game rhythm I acquired. But the important thing is Flamengo's victory," he revealed in an interview with Rádio Globo.
Renato Augusto also commented on his fear of tackling and heading the ball, due to a recent injury to his cheekbone:
"I think I'll only lose my fear by putting my head down, and that's what I'm trying to do. Of course, there's still some fear, but it's better than before," he assured.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Joel avoids choosing an opponent in the Rio Cup semis\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo will likely face a derby in the semifinals of the Rio Cup. However, coach Joel Santana isn't showing a preference between facing Vasco or Botafogo. Flamengo defeated both opponents in the Guanabara Cup, but lost to Botafogo in the second round. 'In football, you can't pick and choose your opponent. Football is won on the field, and we don't have to choose your opponent. This could be seen as contempt, and here at Flamengo, we try to respect everyone,' Joel Santana emphasized.
For Saturday's match, Flamengo will be able to count on the return of midfielder Kléberson, who missed the Friburguense match due to suspension. Therefore, Joel Santana will have to decide whether to replace Toró and bring on the five-time champions. Meanwhile, injured reserve Jônatas is expected to miss the match. Forward Souza, who complained of knee pain, will remain under observation until Friday.
"I don't want to spare anyone. I'm only going to leave out those with medical problems," said the Flamengo coach.
Confirmed for the game is striker Marcinho who, with the two goals scored against Friburguense, became the top scorer for Rubro-Negro in 2008 with eight goals scored.
Apologies - One day after taking a swipe at Vasco and Fluminense directors, classifying the dispute over striker Leandro Amaral as a gang fight and criminals, Flamengo president Márcio Braga apologized at least to the tricolor leader, Roberto Horcades.
“Forgive me, Horcades, if I used a harsh word when referring to the Leandro Amaral case, I didn't mean to offend you personally,” Márcio said in a statement posted on the club's official website.
Renato Augusto celebrates his first goal after returning
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Midfielder Renato Augusto scored his first goal since returning to the field after facial surgery on Thursday. He scored Flamengo's second goal in the 4-1 rout of Friburguense at the Maracanã stadium.
“It's always good to score a goal and it was important to stay calm because I knew he would leave at some point,” said the player, who was away for almost two months and, after returning, had already played six games, four as a starter.
"When I was injured, people asked me how I wanted to come back, and I always said I wanted to be fit, whether I was back in the starting lineup or on the bench. I want to keep playing well," commented Renato Augusto.
With qualification to the semifinals of the Taça Rio practically assured, the midfielder said that Flamengo has to win the second round of the Cariocão to win the title early and focus solely on the Libertadores.
"Our goal is to win the Rio Cup as well to avoid the strain of the Libertadores final," the midfielder stated. "Now we have to beat Madureira to get another day to rest," he concluded.
Another player celebrating his good form is left-back Juan. He hasn't scored in his last two Carioca matches, but he was one of the most decisive players in both victories over Cabofriense and Friburguense.
In the match against the Nova Friburgo team, last Wednesday, Juan had the chance to score his goal, but preferred to pass it to Marcinho to complete the 4-1 rout at Maracanã.
"I'm a full-back, and my main role isn't to score goals, but to pass to the forwards and our midfielders. And thank God, I've been able to contribute to Flamengo in recent games," said the left-back.
PELENET
Jônatas is out and Souza and Bruno are a concern for Saturday
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The medical department has not yet received the results of the MRI on Jônatas' left thigh. However, the player is already certain to miss Flamengo's match against Madureira on Saturday at Maracanã for the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship.
The midfielder, who was Ibson's replacement, left the team with ten players and left the field crying in the red-black's 4-1 victory over Friburguense, Wednesday, he arrived at Gávea limping and still complaining of a lot of pain in the region.
In addition to Jônatas, coach Joel Santana could be without goalkeeper Bruno and striker Souza for the weekend's clash against Tricolor Suburbano.
The goalkeeper suffered a mild lower back strain, underwent an MRI, and is also unsure. The forward has tendonitis in his left knee.
According to the medical department of the Gávea club, on Friday morning there will be a decision as to whether or not Souza will participate in Saturday's match.
After statement, Márcio Braga apologizes to Roberto Horcades
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo president Márcio Braga called Fluminense's top manager, Roberto Horcades, and apologized for the words he spoke on the Arena Sportv program, broadcast on Wednesday.
"Forgive me, Horcades, if I used a harsher word when referring to the Leandro Amaral case, I didn't mean to offend you personally," declared the club's director, through the club's press office.
The Tricolor president, included by the Flamengo director in the "rotten band" of Rio de Janeiro football, for supporting the current administration of the Rio de Janeiro Football Federation (Ferj), released an official statement announcing that he will request the recording of the program to "analyze and take appropriate measures".
The statements also drew reactions from the Federation's president, Rubens Lopes, who said he was not surprised by the words "coming from this citizen." The leader is willing to analyze the images and prosecute Márcio Braga if the offenses are proven. "We will have our legal department ready to take him to court," he stated.
Márcio Braga attacked Vasco, Fluminense, and the Federation, based on the court's accusations of conspiracy and embezzlement. "The Public Prosecutor's Office did its part, but the clubs failed to act. Flamengo, Botafogo, and América are on one side, while Fluminense and Vasco are on the other. They are, unfortunately, part of the corrupt group," he declared. Vasco's board has not yet officially commented.
For the prosecutor of TJD-RJ, the most serious case is that of striker Obina
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Four Flamengo players will be tried on the 2nd for the problems they caused in the match against Botafogo (a 3-2 defeat for the red-black team) on March 16th, for the Rio Cup, second round of the State Championship. Goalkeeper Bruno, defensive midfielder Jônatas, midfielder Toró and forward Obina.
According to the prosecutor of the Rio de Janeiro Sports Court (TJD-RJ), André Luís Valentin, the most serious case concerns Obina. The player will be charged with a violent tackle on Lúcio Flávio and a punch to the back of goalkeeper Castillo, following the second goal for the red-and-black team.
"He was indicted under articles 254 (violent play) and 253 (aggression) and he is still a repeat offender," explained André Luís Valentin, in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Regarding goalkeeper Bruno, Valentin denied that the indictment request was excessively harsh. "It was an unquestionable incident. If you watch the video, Bruno tries to kick Wellington Paulista," he noted.
The prosecutor also commented on the words of Carlos Augusto Montenegro (a member of Botafogo's board of directors), who called him a "clown." "People need to complain if they're unhappy, but they should consult the club's legal department before speaking out. I wasn't the one who indicted Montenegro. Prosecutor Rogério Calazans filed the complaint," he stated.
Finally, Valentin did not leave unanswered the official's insinuations about the judge's supposed impartiality due to his passion for the Gávea club.
"I do my job normally, and the players are the ones who play. There's an article that punishes the prosecutor for failing to show decency. I'm a Flamengo fan, but that has nothing to do with it," he concluded.
GLOBOESPORTE
PHOTO: Zico's grandson is now a Flamengo fan
At just two days old, Felipe has already received a kit with Fla clothes.
On just two days of his life, Felipe, son of Bruno and Danúbia—and grandson of Zico—received a basket of Flamengo children's products from the club's president, Marcio Braga. Felipe is still too small for clothes, but he's already using the Flamengo pacifier. Zico remains in Turkey managing Fenerbahçe and was unable to attend the birth of his first grandson last Tuesday.
Jônatas will not face Madureira
The midfielder arrives at Gávea limping this Thursday. Striker Souza is also expected to miss the match.
Eduardo Peixoto
With pain in his left thigh, midfielder Jônatas will not face Madureira
The results of the MRI on Jônatas' left thigh aren't available yet. But the player is expected to miss Flamengo's match against Madureira next Saturday. He arrived at Gávea on Thursday limping and complaining of pain in his adductor muscle.
As the time for the match is short, even without an accurate diagnosis of the type of injury, his participation is unfeasible.
"He's out of the game. When we get the results, we'll know how long he'll be out," says Flamengo's doctor, Walter Martins.
Goalkeeper Bruno and forward Souza are also on the list of injuries for the next game. Souza suffered a slight lower back strain but performed better this Thursday. Despite this, he underwent an MRI scan.
Souza's problem is tendinitis behind his left knee. However, a decision on his presence in Saturday's match was postponed until Friday morning.
Kléber on Ibson: 'The hasty eat raw'
The director remembers that Fla is not Milan and needs planning to buy the player
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléber Leite is in no rush to define Ibson's future at Gávea
Ibson has admitted a few times that the uncertainty surrounding his future even affects his sleep. In Gávea, he also experiences more introspective moments. This Thursday, for example, while his teammates played in the pool, he preferred solitude. Quiet, he gave few short laughs.
His loan contract with Flamengo ends on June 30th, and the midfielder's head has turned into a clover. He fears it's not the right time to return to Porto. After all, he has a young son, and coach Jesualdo Ferreira, the same one who didn't use him, remains strong and steady at the helm of the Dragons, having recently renewed his contract for another season.
However, as he's committed to the Portuguese club until the 2011 season, he's very cautious in his statements. A recent interview with the Portuguese newspaper "Record" raised doubts among the club's fans. Ibson said he was ready to return and turn things around.
But that's not quite the case. Flamengo has not yet signaled any official offer to sign him. Nor will it do so at this time. The club—as usual—is facing financial difficulties and doesn't have the funds to pay Porto the more than R$11 million they want to release him.
"Haste makes waste. We still have three months, and here at Flamengo, time is precious. We're not like Milan or Real Madrid. Our finances need to be studied," says Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite.
Flamengo's initial plan was to use the FlaTV funds to acquire the player's federation rights. The board estimated a monthly profit of almost R$5 million. However, the project hasn't taken off yet, and it will be necessary to consider other alternatives to keep a player at Gávea who even received a personalized flag from the fans.
Renato Augusto approves marathon
Unlike other players, midfielder takes advantage of the sequence to get in shape
Eduardo Peixoto
Matches on Wednesdays and Sundays mean fatigue for the players. Right? Almost always, yes. In Renato Augusto's case, however, the situation is reversed. After spending more than 40 days recovering from a facial fracture, the midfielder isn't bothered by the series of consecutive matches.
All to get in shape. The tactic worked. Since returning six games ago, he's had strong performances and finally found the net again in last Wednesday's match against Friburguense (watch the video below with the midfielder's goal).
"For me, this run of games was important. I'm pretty close to my best form. But I was definitely surprised by what I did in these games," says the player.
The fans' affection has also returned. While Renato Augusto endured boos in 2007, he now receives applause with every play. He even received a personalized name, in the same style that the red-and-black fans used to chant Renato Gaúcho when he was a player.
At the beginning of the year, his hesitant speech indicated an imminent departure from the club that revealed him. But his current concern is to write his name into Flamengo's gallery of idols.
- If I help the team win the Libertadores, I will certainly put my name in the club's history - says the player, who was already champion of the 2006 Copa do Brasil and the 2007 State Championship
Flamengo welcomes Joinville to Rio
Qualified for the semi-finals of the South American League, the team defends its unbeaten record in the National Championship
Marcelinho is doubtful for this Friday's match against Joinville
Undefeated in the National Men's Championship, with 15 wins, Flamengo is counting on the strength of its fans to extend its record this Friday against Joinville. The match, held at the Hélio Maurício Gymnasium in Gávea, Rio de Janeiro, at 21 p.m. (Brasília time), will be broadcast live on SporTV.
The team takes the court buoyed by their unprecedented qualification for the semifinals of the 2008 South American League, achieved last Tuesday. However, the red-and-black team risks playing without winger Marcelinho, their main star this season.
Marcelinho is doubtful for the match
Flamengo captain Marcelinho suffered an injury to his right thigh and will be evaluated by club doctors to see if he will be able to play this Friday.
"I felt some discomfort in my thigh and I'm undergoing intensive treatment. I want to play, but I need to be fit enough. I hope I'm okay for this game, but if not, I hope I can play on Sunday against Lajeado. The important thing is that I come back well and recovered," Marcelinho said through his press office.
The winger predicts a tough match against Joinville, whom he considers a tall, well-marked team. However, Marcelinho believes his absence won't be a problem for Flamengo.
- We have a very strong group in all positions, which can make up for any absences. Flamengo's strength is not individual, it's the team - he assesses.
Joel will not spare the starters
Coach wants to use the main team in Saturday's match against Madureira
Eduardo Peixoto
After a 4-1 rout of Friburguense (watch the match's goals in the video below), Flamengo needs only a draw next Saturday against Madureira to secure a spot in the Taça Rio semifinals. And coach Joel Santana expects to field a full squad for the match.
Unlike previous games, the coach won't rest anyone. The only absences will be due to medical issues.
- I won't spare him. Only if the player has a medical problem - declares Joel.
Among the likely injury absences are Souza, Ibson, and Jônatas. The latter is a reserve. The trio will be re-evaluated this Thursday. Joel's decision to play with the main squad on Saturday has an explanation. Flamengo has no games scheduled for the first week of April.
"We'll have plenty of time for the next game. We'll play this Saturday and then only the following Sunday. It would be 11 days between the Friburguense match and the next one, against Vasco. There's no point in skimping," says the coach.
Flamengo trains this Thursday afternoon at Gávea. The match against Madureira will be at 16 p.m. on Saturday at Maracanã.
THROW
Romário is back in the spotlight at Flamengo
Kléber Leite says negotiations will resume next week
LANCEPRESS!
Striker Romário has been largely absent from the news, but that doesn't mean he's been forgotten, especially in Gávea. Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, reaffirmed his interest in the player this Thursday.
"I haven't spoken to him (Romário). There's nothing new, there were other priorities, and next week is a good time to discuss this matter. It will be revisited," the director stated.
Romário's contract with Vasco expires next Sunday. After resigning as coach of the São Januário club on February 6, the striker's situation remains uncertain.
Kléber Leite announced that the club has a comprehensive plan for the player, including a farewell match and a program on Fla-TV. However, there's a chance Romário will end his career with the club.
According to the Gávea team leader, the presence of president Márcio Braga is essential for the deal to be finalized.
- Márcio Braga was traveling and he has to participate in the discussions on this matter - said Kléber Leite.
Flamengo confident in Ibson's permanence
The athlete's contract ends two days before the final match of the Libertadores
Profit from Fla-TV is one of the alternatives to keep Íbson (Credit: Cléber Mendes)
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo is trying to find a way to extend midfielder Ibson's contract with the club - the contract ends on June 30th and, after that, he must return to Porto (POR).
Showing confidence, Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, believes that it is possible to find a positive solution for Flamengo fans in this case.
- There is still time to find a solution and we will find it - said the leader.
The main concern in Gávea is that the player's contract with Flamengo ends two days before the scheduled date for the second leg of the Libertadores final.
Renato Augusto hopes to maintain his good form
Supporter celebrates the great goal scored against Friburguense
LANCEPRESS!
Happy to be back in the starting lineup and after scoring a great goal in the 4-1 victory over Friburguense last Wednesday, Flamengo supporter Renato Augusto hopes to maintain his good form.
"I hope more goals come. Of course, without anxiety or rushing. When I scored, a movie played in my head for the time I was standing still. I don't score many goals, but I've been scoring at important moments," the player told Rádio Manchete.
Marcinho confirms tribute to Atlético-MG
Player, by bringing his right hand to his head, imitated a rooster's comb
Rooster, Rabbit? What's up, Marcinho? (Credit: TV Reproduction)
Marcinho's celebration after Flamengo's fourth goal against Friburguense, in which he raised his right hand to his head, was a tribute to the centenary of Atlético Mineiro, the club he played for between 2006 and 2007.
"It was a tribute to the affection the club had for me, to the fans. I thought it was cool to remember Atlético's centennial," he explained.
This Thursday, LANCENET! published a story in which Flamengo fans, on a social networking site, raised several hypotheses about what Marcinho's celebration would be. Besides the club's centennial, netizens thought of the Easter Bunny and two cartoon characters.
Former futsal teammates defend Toró
Coach and supervisor guarantee that the player has always been loyal on the court
Toró is very popular in futsal circles (Credit: Paulo Sérgio)
Bruno Braz RIO DE JANEIRO
Much criticized for recent disciplinary incidents against Nacional (URU) in the Libertadores and Botafogo in the State Championship, midfielder Toró has gained strong supporters. Having endured a terrible time with accusations that he was a violent player, he now finds comfort in people who have the authority to speak about his career. Observers of the youngster since his youth days, Ricardo Ferreira (futsal coach) and Paulo Roberto Mello (longtime futsal supervisor), assure that the athlete has always been disciplined, respectful, and loyal on the court.
"People don't know his origins. He had a demeanor of respect for his opponents, he didn't humiliate anyone. When he played between the defender's legs, it was because he was going to score. His attitude on the court was top notch; he even had the potential to be arrogant, but he wasn't," says Ricardo Ferreira, Toró's coach in Fluminense's youth futsal category.
Well respected and well known in the sport, Paulo Roberto Mello, who was the Tricolor's futsal supervisor at the time, is another who makes a point of giving his opinion in favor of the now red-black player:
"He was always a cool kid, calm, and played a lot of football. He always got along well with his teammates. He was hard to mark, he took a lot of hits, and he always respected his opponents. As far as I remember, he was never sent off during his futsal days," said the current Vice President of Sports at Grajaú Country Clube, who worked with, among many others, Júlio César (Inter Milan), Juan (Roma-ITA), Athirson, Djalminha, and Renato Augusto.
But after all, with so many qualities on display, why would Toró have pushed a ball boy and kicked Alvinegro goalkeeper Castillo? According to both, it was simply an excessive desire to establish himself, definitively, at Flamengo:
"He's fighting for a spot on the team and sometimes he can't control his will. I know his background, his family. He received a great education," confirms Ricardo, who is echoed by Paulo:
"Suddenly, he's trying to prove he has what it takes to secure the spot. I think he's thinking he can't miss the opportunity. This may be affecting him emotionally. Toró isn't an aggressive person; he's actually quite docile. Anyone who talks to him will notice that."
Zico's grandson receives a gift from Flamengo
Basket contained club's children's kit and a card written by Marcio Braga
LANCEPRESS!
One day after being born (March 25), Felipe Coimbra, Zico's grandson, was given a Flamengo product kit by the red-black board, as well as a handwritten card by president Márcio Braga, all sent in a basket.
Bruno Coimbra, Felipe's father and a die-hard Flamengo fan, was very happy with the gift, thanking Marcio Braga and all the Flamengo fans.
"I wanted to thank Marcio for the gift and also take this opportunity to extend this gratitude to friends, Flamengo fans, and so many people who have shown me so much affection lately. I'm very happy, and now Flamengo fans have gained another fan," he said, gushing in a statement to Zico's official website.
Felipe, who was due to be born in the second week of April, arrived prematurely due to the many sporting events, according to Bruno's joke.
"Look, there are a lot of decisive games ahead. Flamengo has important matches in the Copa Libertadores, Fenerbahçe is battling Chelsea in the Champions League. Do you think he'd want to be trapped inside your belly without being able to see? He came out right away," the son of Flamengo's greatest idol in history joked.