THE GLOBE
All that's missing is the fans
Despite a good start to the State Championship, Fla has seen a drop in attendance compared to 2007
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Leading its group with a 100% record, Flamengo has started 2008 very close to its target. The exception is the attendance at its games at Maracanã. The impressive crowd turnout in the final stretch of last season predicted full stadiums at the start of the State Championship. However, ticket prices and the way the championship is played are seen as factors in dampening enthusiasm.
In its first three games of the year at Maracanã, Flamengo brought 58.878 paying spectators to the stadium. In 2007, it was 78.718. In other words, the reduction was 25%. The drop drops to 19% considering only the first two games in Rio each year, as last year's third match was a derby against Botafogo. Even with the price increase, Flamengo has so far had a net revenue of just over R$159. Last year, in its first three games, it managed to raise R$320.
Flamengo president Márcio Braga blames the price hike, but says the Federation, through its Arbitration Council, decided to set these values. The case has put the club and Suderj on a collision course.
"Flamengo advocated for a new ticket pricing policy. But the secretary's (Eduardo Paes) stance made dialogue impossible. He made a speech claiming a possible price reduction. Flamengo also thinks it's expensive. Only the Federation can resolve the issue. But the secretary is a public authority. He can, indeed, intervene. And he shouldn't place the burden of fleecing fans on the clubs," said Márcio. "Flamengo authorizes him to act to reduce the price."
Eduardo Paes countered the leader's arguments. Today, at a meeting at Suderj, he will meet with the presidents of Flamengo and Fluminense, who will compete in the Libertadores at the stadium.
"I'm not taking any responsibility. The clubs were responsible for the increase and will be responsible for the reduction. At the meeting, I think Fluminense will announce new prices, and I hope Flamengo will too. The Federation has already officially stated that clubs can lower prices," Paes said.
Paes recalls that, as a sign of a truce with the clubs, Suderj reduced the number of messages displayed on the stadium screen that blamed the clubs and the Federation for ticket prices.
Flamengo president Márcio Braga says the meeting's topic is the partnership project between the clubs and Suderj for the Maracanã bidding process, not tickets.
Flamengo coach Joel Santana sees another reason for the reduced attendance.
"We're between the end-of-year festivities and Carnival. People are saving money. The championship hasn't heated up, and so far, the opponents are unknown. The price also matters, but Flamengo fans will show up," said Joel.
Maracanã could lose Libertadores
Midfielder Ibson warns about another aspect of the drop in attendance.
"There are R$40 tickets. If a fan pays that price on Sunday, Wednesday, and Sunday, they've spent R$120 in a week. That's a lot of games," the midfielder said. "Even so, Flamengo fans have come to help us."
The concentration of games is another change compared to 2007. Last year, because there were games at the smaller teams' home grounds, Flamengo played its first three matches at Maracanã in a span of 17 days. In 2008, it did so in a week.
Another topic is expected to be discussed at this morning's meeting between Suderj, Flamengo, and Fluminense. Yesterday, the CBF announced that the deadline for submitting reports for stadium approval for the Copa do Brasil and Libertadores Cups expires today. According to the organization, Maracanã has not yet submitted a health inspection report; without it, the stadium will not be approved for the Libertadores. The deadline had already been extended once.
Leonardo Moura: partying away from carnival
Full-back called up to play for the national team on Ash Wednesday
LEONARDO MOURA celebrates his first call-up to the Brazilian national team: his debut will be in Ireland
Right-back Leonardo Moura learned late yesterday afternoon that he won't be able to attend Carnival in 2008. His reaction was to celebrate. The player was called up to the Brazilian national team that will face Ireland in Dublin on February 6, Ash Wednesday.
"Carnival is held every year. This year, mine will be with the national team. It was a dream, and I was sure that one day I would be able to make it come true," he said.
During the last few national team call-ups, the full-back didn't hide his excitement. He asked club officials and staff about the dates and times for the release of the lists. Yesterday, however, the good news came at an unexpected time, as the call-up followed the injury of Inter Milan's Maicon. Leonardo Moura was informed by Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite.
"I was online and didn't know anything. Until my phone rang and Kleber said he had good news. He said, 'You can celebrate, you've been called up.' I asked him three times to make sure it was true," he said.
At 29 years old, the full-back received his first call-up of his career.
While Leonardo Moura celebrated, goalkeeper Bruno said yesterday that he will start practicing free kicks. He took his first free kick last Sunday against Duque de Caxias.
"Goalkeepers in Brazil are almost all the same. You have to have something different," said Bruno.
Yesterday, Flamengo officially released midfielder Kléberson, who was serving a four-month suspension imposed by FIFA for abandoning Besiktas of Turkey. The player will now be fit to play against Macaé tomorrow at Maracanã.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Ibson says vanity has no place in the red-black squad
Flamengo's standout performer in the rout of Duque de Caxias, with two goals and a stellar performance, midfielder Ibson denied any problems with the squad following the penalty incident in Sunday's match. However, he warned that if the opportunity arises in the match against Macaé, he will be the one taking the penalty.
"There's no problem at all. We're a group, and there's never been any problems or vanity. We have common sense and we talk things out. We thought it was best for Souza to take the penalty, and thank God he did. In the next match, if there's a penalty, I believe I'll be the one taking it. I've been training hard, but when it comes to the match, common sense prevails," Ibson explained in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
Regarding his first performances of the season, the athlete states that the red-black group is still evolving in physical and tactical aspects.
"The debut is always difficult. We're not yet 100% physically. The second game was much better, and against Duque de Caxias, I was fortunate, I scored two goals, and I was able to help the team," he said.
Bruno will take penalties and free kicks
Goalkeeper Bruno trained yesterday at Gávea, but didn't take any free kicks in the training session
One of the main characters in the controversy over who would take the penalty against Duque de Caxias, at Maracanã, goalkeeper Bruno, spoke for the first time yesterday, in Gávea, about the fact.
From the outset, the player tried to ease the situation by making it clear that there were no relationship problems between the athletes in the red-black squad.
"We know that Ibson is the official penalty taker, but yesterday, Souza asked to take the penalty and he did. He wanted to keep up his scoring streak, so there's no problem," he stated.
Another hotly debated aspect of yesterday's game was the attempt to emulate Vasco's goalkeeper Tiago, who scored a penalty in the Cruzmaltino victory. The goalkeeper denied wanting to emulate his rival and noted that both his and the club's fans' desires date back much further.
"I don't think the fans asked me to take the penalty just because of Tiago. In the match against Volta Redonda last year, the fans also asked me to take it," he recalled.
Regarding his free kick during the game, the goalkeeper admitted he didn't take it well and gave it a five. Despite this, he said that from now on, he will practice more to take more accurate shots.
"I was already working on free kicks and penalties, I'm going to intensify my training and when I get the chance, I'll go out there and take them well," he said.
Look at Cristian's hair!
Flamengo players who didn't start the match against Duque de Caxias last Sunday held a small training session against the reserve youth team yesterday in Gávea. The match itself didn't attract much attention, but defensive midfielder Cristian's new look was the highlight of the match.
The athlete, who was a starter for most of last year and only recently lost his place to Jônatas, decided to abandon the black power style he had been using and decided to put some braids in his hair.
Kleberson regularized
Midfielder Kleberson was officially regularized yesterday by the CBF and can play in tomorrow's match against Macaé, at 19:30 pm, at Maracanã. The player was suspended by FIFA for four months for breach of contract with Besiktas, from Turkey. The athlete signed a contract with Flamengo on the 26th, the date on which his suspension ended.
Jaílton highly rated in set pieces
The beautiful free kick by midfielder Jailton, which led to Leonardo Moura's goal, the team's third, led the athlete to be considered as one of the team's options in dead balls.
What came as a surprise to many was simply a consequence of his training for the player. Throughout his career, the midfielder scored only four goals, three against Ipatinga and one for Flamengo in 2007 against América-RN. All of them came from shots outside the box.
"Since Renato Abreu left, the team has lost a long-range free-kick taker. I've always had that trait, and I try to work on that type of play in training. In the game against Caxias, I was fortunate enough to get a good touch on the ball and make life difficult for the goalkeeper. That's the goal; if I don't score, I try to place the ball in a way that makes things difficult for the defense," explained the player.
Little by little, the understated midfielder from Sergipe has been demonstrating his importance to the red-and-black team. He enjoys prestige under coach Joel Santana. Since taking over as midfielder, he has been used as the first defensive option in midfield.
Léo Moura is a member of the National Team!
Full-back called up by coach Dunga to replace Maicon to face Ireland
Nathan de Lima
Photo by Úrsula Nery
Full-back Leonardo Moura was thrilled to receive the news of his call-up
Flamengo fans have been asking for it for a long time, Joel Santana had already suggested it, but only now, thanks to a minor injury to Maicon, that coach Dunga decided to call up right-back Léo Moura for the Brazilian National Team's friendly against Ireland on the 6th, in Dublin.
When he left Gávea yesterday, where he had been doing some physical training, Léo Moura had no idea what news awaited him. After arriving home, the player was informed by Kleber Leite, the vice-president of football, that he had been called up for the first time to wear the yellow jersey.
"I got the news while chatting online with my friends. Kleber Leite called me to let me know, and then I saw it on the CBF's official website. I'm very happy, it was my first call-up and I hope I can do a good job to be remembered more often," said Léo Moura, who took advantage of the press conference, held at his home in Barra da Tijuca, to thank the club and the fans for the chance to join the national team.
"I thought I would be called up earlier, but that doesn't mean I wasn't happy. I want to take this opportunity to thank Flamengo and the fans who helped me a lot. I'm sure that the fact that I continued at a club helped me be remembered by the national team coach," commented Léo, warning that he won't have any problem playing further back.
"I have to adapt to the national team's style of play, but that's not a problem. I'll have to mark a little more, but I know that if I have the opportunity to attack, I'll try to do so, since that's my main characteristic. Setting up plays for attackers like Pato and Robinho only increases our responsibility," the full-back added.
Goalkeeper Bruno, who like Léo is having a great time, was very happy when he heard about his friend's call-up and said that in his opinion there is no better full-back than Léo Moura in the country.
"Léo deserved this call-up a long time ago, he's a different player and in my humble opinion, Léo Moura is the best full-back in Brazil," said Bruno.
Very balanced in the National
Undefeated in the Men's National Championship with six wins, Flamengo's campaign is boosted by recent results. The mighty Universo (the current champion, who played for Vasco da Gama in the State Championship) was defeated 78-76 by Uberlândia on Sunday night. The Triângulo Mineiro team has a longtime friend of the red-and-blacks in its squad: power forward/center Olivinha.
Flamengo will only play again after Carnival against Minas Tênis, on February 8th, at the Hélio Maurício gymnasium, in Gávea.\ Minas, which represented Fluminense in the last State Championship, is also competing in the second phase of the Pan-American League. Their star player is Argentine point guard Sucatzky.\
Sergio Du Bocage
Favorites?
Sergio Du Bocage bocage@jsports.com.br
After three rounds of the Campeonato Carioca, only two teams have a 100% record: Flamengo and Botafogo. Fluminense, considered a strong title contender, has already stumbled once and came very close to another upset against Caxias.
Would the red-blacks and black-and-whites be the favorites to win the Guanabara Cup?
It's too early to say, but the duo is heading in that direction. Mainly because this current championship was "rigged" for the big teams. By including 16 clubs in the competition, many of which lack the slightest qualification to play in the First Division, the directors drastically reduced the technical quality of the tournament. And by ordering the big teams to no longer play outside the capital, they also decreed the end of the remote chances of a smaller team pulling off a surprise.
So the story is already written, and all that remains to be seen is who will prevail. From what I've seen so far, Flamengo and Botafogo are well ahead. For Flamengo, this was expected, as they maintained their core and strengthened their squad. But not for the other team. Cuca, once again, worked a magic trick, getting his team to play beautiful, engaging football. Congratulations to Botafogo, and the third goal against Americano was a precision effort by all four players.
Of course, Flamengo also deserves praise. Some of the new signings haven't even debuted yet. If we look at the Libertadores, Flamengo is pulling ahead of Fluminense, which hasn't yet found its style of play. Souza has been playing well, as has Leonardo Moura. Hopefully, the current success won't interfere with the rest of the season, which hasn't even started yet. Besides, we can't forget what happened against Caxias. Joel Santana's words should be definitive: those who practice, will take penalties. Wait a minute: Souza, the center forward, doesn't practice penalties? It seemed like he doesn't. And what's more: Souza has the right to want to score goals in three consecutive games; but Ibson, the official penalty taker, can't want to score three goals in a single game? And to make matters worse, Bruno showed up, as if trying to copy Tiago's goal, scored for Vasco the day before. An embarrassing, unnecessary situation. The scoreboard smothered the case. But the wear and tear could have been avoided. Those who train take penalties.\
Luiz Mendes
Running the round
Luiz Mendes lmendes@jsports.com.br
The performance of the smaller teams hasn't been as good as it was in last year's Campeonato Carioca. The explanation is that clubs from the Second Division are entering the competition, making their first appearance in the elite of Rio de Janeiro football and lacking experience at the higher level they reached. This can even cause emotional imbalance in the players facing opponents, many of whom are even fans.
Anyone who saw Duque de Caxias against Fluminense and then against Flamengo probably didn't think they were the same team. I also saw matches from other clubs from the interior, where their players seemed dazzled by their opponents. It's been too easy for the big teams. Looking closely, only Americano, Volta Redonda, Friburguense, and América are already accustomed to our domestic league, and even they don't feel at the same level as in 2007, so their clashes with the four big clubs are very uneven.
In the last round, only Macaé didn't succumb to the complex of being small and a newcomer to the First Division. They secured a glorious draw with Fluminense, which also failed to show its true colors as a major club, the most decorated in the Rio de Janeiro championship. Mesquita, even against a Vasco side that isn't quite ready, offered no resistance and didn't justify their return to the elite of Rio de Janeiro football. Vasco needs to improve significantly, and I believe they will eventually achieve a level of performance worthy of their 'position' on the map. On Sunday, Americano faced Botafogo and put on a display of beautiful collective football, moving from defense to attack with incredible speed and efficiency.
The Duke of Caxias watched Flamengo play, and if we hadn't known since last year's Brazilian Championship that Flamengo is a great team, we wouldn't know whether the red-and-black team's impressive performance was achieved on its own merits or due to the weakness of its opponent. The truth is that the two best teams are Botafogo and Flamengo. They still have a long way to go before they reach a level capable of taking them to greater heights, while Fluminense and Vasco, especially Vasco, still have a long way to go. However, I believe they will reach a peak in technical performance.
THE DAY
Romário admits he listens to Joel Santana's advice and irritates Vasco's fans
Rio - If Romário's tongue is tied, only speech therapists know. Fans have a different idea of him: someone with a tongue bigger than his mouth, so loose that he's capable of revealing secrets like confessing to asking Flamengo coach Joel Santana for tips.
Do you agree with Romário asking Flamengo coach Joel Santana for advice?
Yes. Joel is a professional and experienced coach and deserves to be heard.\ No. Even though Joel has his qualities, he manages the arch-rival's team.\
This time, Vasco president Eurico Miranda refused to believe what he heard on Friday. Advice for anyone at Flamengo? Honestly...
"Romário certainly doesn't call to ask how he's going to select the team. Joel couldn't even contribute anything, as he doesn't know Vasco's players. Romário probably only calls to exchange ideas, not to get advice, as he doesn't even ask his mother anything. Have you ever thought about Romário using a clipboard like Joel? Absolutely nothing," Eurico pointed out.
Flamengo president Márcio Braga doesn't mind paying salaries to those who might be helping the 'enemy.' If it were up to him, Joel Santana could continue helping Romário: "I'm 70 years old and I still consult my friends."
RED-BLACK HELP
His vice president of football, Kléber Leite, believes that, deep down, Joel Santana is helping a Flamengo fan: "It's normal to help Romário, one of the greatest Flamengo fans I've ever known." For Joel, it doesn't work that way. Friends are friends, they settle business on the field, each in their own way: "He talks to me the same way I've talked to Parreira and several others. But I can't teach him the trick, and neither can he. Romário is too cunning, but every monkey in its own tree. Two on top, and the tree breaks. Soon we'll cross paths, right, man? And what he'll get from me is a clipboard that I'll put in an envelope and send to him."
Vasco idol Roberto Dinamite turned up his nose: "What about when Vasco faces Flamengo? What will he do? Will he talk to Joel? I don't understand. At Vasco, everything seems so normal."
Singer Fernanda Abreu, a Vasco fan, thinks it's normal: "If he learns from Joel and manages to make Vasco a champion, I think it's great. I don't condone rivalries. I think Brazil needs competent people."
Another Vasco fan, actor Eri Johnson, is a friend of Romário and doesn't believe Joel is giving him advice.
"Joel just made a mistake by ordering Bruno to take a penalty. If he makes a mistake for his team, he'll make a mistake for others. Romário wanted to boost Joel's morale," he believes.
Former player Júnior, a Flamengo fan by birth, also doesn't believe in his opponent's advice: "I don't think he'd ask Joel for lineup tips. It would be disrespectful to Alfredo Sampaio, who also has experience."
IRRITATION ON ONE SIDE, IRONY ON THE OTHER
"Romário has nothing to learn from anyone. He doesn't even ask his mother anything. Have you ever thought about Romário using a clipboard? It doesn't make any sense." Eurico Miranda
"Romário is a real rascal, but to each his own, because soon we're going to cross paths, right, man? And what he's going to get from me is a clipboard." Joel Santana
"Romário has to find his own path. Throughout his life, he's been so independent... And when Vasco faces Flamengo? Will he call Joel?" Roberto Dinamite
"The teacher is very good, but he won't teach you the trick. And Romário can do anything, because he's one of the greatest Flamengo fans I've ever met." Kléber Leite
Fla: Léo Moura will spend Carnival in Europe
Star called up for game against Eire on Ash Wednesday
Rodrigo Lima
Rio - Leonardo Moura's Carnival will be more extensive this year, complete with green and yellow costumes. While most Brazilians will mourn the end of the nation's biggest celebration on Ash Wednesday, for the Flamengo right-back, the festivities will extend for another day to the capital of Ireland, where he will be representing the Brazilian national team in a friendly against the home team in Dublin.
The Flamengo player was called up for the first time in his career, replacing Inter Milan's Maicon, who was ruled out due to lack of match fitness after recovering from a left thigh strain. "Maicon was scheduled to return to the Inter squad on Sunday. Since he didn't play, Dunga decided to release him so as not to hinder his recovery," the CBF press office reported.
With the joy of a harlequin, Leonardo Moura didn't care much about Maicon's cut, as wearing the national team jersey is a dream come true. "When I heard the news, a movie played in my head, of my entire football career, the difficult start in Botafogo's youth academy, the distance from my family, and all my dedication and anticipation when I saw my name being considered since I've been excelling at Flamengo," the full-back revealed, still elated.
The player celebrated his first chance with Dunga's team yesterday with family and friends. "It hasn't sunk in yet. It was online and I didn't even know it. When Kléber Leite called me, I was shocked, because he never calls me. But he said he had good news for me, and when he revealed it, I asked him three times to find out if it was true or a joke," he said.
With the call-up, Léo Moura doesn't know if he'll face Volta Redonda on the 7th, one day after the national team's match. Furthermore, the player won't be able to enjoy Carnival, as he leaves for Europe on Saturday, after the match against América. "Carnival happens every year. My celebration is playing for the national team, and my costume is the yellow jersey," said the reveler.
Full-back will ask Jorginho for 'tips'
Leonardo Moura hasn't even announced himself yet, but he wants to make the national team and stay. To that end, he'll seek advice from Jorginho, the former Flamengo full-back who won the 1994 World Cup with Brazil and who serves as Dunga's assistant. "No one can tell me better than him how to stay in the squad. I need to seize this opportunity, because the competition to stay in the national team is tight," revealed the full-back from the Gávea team.
Flamengo expects a strong matchup with Rafinha, also called up to right back: "He should be tested, as he's old enough to compete in the Olympics. But I won't let him off the hook, as I've been fighting for recognition all this time at Flamengo. I can't let him down."
Kleberson hopes to be 'flying' in the Fla-Flu
Rio - Ready to play and with no bureaucratic issues pending, midfielder Kleberson says he is eager to debut in the Flamengo shirt, and hopes to be in perfect shape for the classic against Fluminense, on February 10th.
"Thank God this anxiety is coming to an end. I just needed to get everything back to normal. According to my lawyer, everything will be back to normal today or tomorrow so I can make my debut on Wednesday against Macaé," said the five-time world champion in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
The player was hoping to play this weekend against Duque de Caxias. The suspension he was serving for unilaterally leaving his former club was due to expire on January 26th, but Flamengo didn't want to take any chances, and Kleberson also preferred it.
"I'm even grateful to them for not bringing it forward. Flamengo has a strong squad, a focused, prepared team. The anxiety was high, but a concrete opportunity would have been better," explained the player, who played his last official match almost a year ago.
"I think the last game was in March of last year, and there were training matches. But today I can say that I'm at the same level as the other athletes to perform on the field."
Ready for Fla-Flu
Kleberson said he's incredibly anxious, having waited four months to play at Macaranã. "I'm getting butterflies in my stomach, but I just want to be on the field," revealed the midfielder, who hopes to be in top form for his first derby against Fluminense.
"Given the rivalry, and the signings both clubs have made, it's going to be a spectacle for the fans, and I'll see what it's like on the field, which is much bigger. I'll try to prepare myself to get into the right rhythm of the game and be at my best against Fluminense."
Kleberson also said that he still doesn't know how he will play on the team within Joel's tactical scheme.
"In 2002, I played as a second midfielder. But I can also perform other functions. That depends on Joel, how he wants to use me. I'll try to use the experience I bring so that Flamengo can achieve good results," he concluded.
Bruno on free kicks: there has to be something to differentiate
Rio - Flamengo goalkeeper Bruno said he's not jumping on the trend of goal-scoring goalkeepers out of rivalry with Vasco's Tiago, but to differentiate himself. According to the player, all goalkeepers in Brazil are the same, and they have to have something to differentiate themselves.
"We have Rogéio and Tiago, so we use them as role models. We have the desire. But it's no use, you have to have quality and get into the game and hit well," he emphasized.
According to Bruno, the fact that Tiago scored from the penalty spot didn't excite him, as he and the fans have long been eager to do so. "Tiago has nothing to do with taking the penalty. Against Volta Redonda last year, the fans asked me to take it too. Against Caxias, the fans asked in the heat of the game, and Joel approved. But Souza was confident and took the penalty."
The Vasco goalkeeper also dismissed any controversy or dispute with the Flamengo player. "There's no dispute between Tiago and Bruno. There's a Vasco vs. Flamengo match, and I hope Vasco wins," Tiago told Rádio Globo.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Léo Moura is called up to replace Maicon in the national team\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Right-back Leonardo Moura, who is enjoying a strong run at Flamengo, has helped the team maintain a 100% record in the Campeonato Carioca. He was rewarded on Monday with a muscle injury for Inter Milan's Maicon. Coach Dunga decided to call up the Flamengo player for the Brazilian national team's friendly against Ireland on February 6 in Dublin. "Léo had an excellent Brazilian Championship last year and continues to perform excellently. He's an experienced player who has been with Flamengo for a long time and deserves this call-up," said Brazilian national team assistant coach Jorginho in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
Before announcing Leonardo Moura's call-up, Jorginho admitted to speaking with Maicon, who seemed understanding. "We talked to Maicon, and he agreed that it was better to have a little more time to recover from a muscle problem."
In recent days, Leonardo Moura has expressed his dream of being remembered by Dunga. This is the first time Flamengo's number 2 has been called up by the Brazilian national team coach and becomes the second player from the club to appear on the coach's list: the first was midfielder Jonatas, in 2006, called up for Dunga's first friendly as Brazil manager, against Norway.
In the 2007 Brazilian Championship, Léo Moura was a standout player in Flamengo's campaign, which helped them escape the relegation zone and secure a spot in the Copa Libertadores. He was named the best player in his position in the tournament by the CBF and the Troféu Mesa Redonda.
Two days before his debut at Flamengo, Kléberson is anxious\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - One of Flamengo's standout players in the preseason, midfielder Kléberson has not yet been able to help the team at the start of the season. But with his FIFA-imposed suspension due to a breach of contract with Besiktas-Turkey ending, he should be able to face Macaé on Wednesday at Maracanã. "This story is coming to an end. My suspension ended on the 26th, and I have a chance to debut on Wednesday. The time is approaching. I'm getting butterflies in my stomach. This moment has been eagerly awaited by me and my family," admitted the Flamengo player in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Last weekend, there was even talk of Kléberson being fielded against Duque de Caxias. Since the CBF didn't approve the player, the club's board decided to postpone the midfielder's debut, which agreed with the club's decision.
"Flamengo has a very strong squad, everyone is very focused and has plenty of options for Joel. The excitement about debuting was huge, but it's better to debut with everything in place, to avoid any problems," he emphasized.
Kléberson has been training with Flamengo since the end of last year. And, despite the long period without playing an official match, the player guarantees that he will be in good condition to play as long as coach Joel Santana deems necessary.
"My last match was on April 15th or May, if I'm not mistaken. But I tried my best in training and practice matches, and I can say I'm on par with the rest," he commented.
Joel Santana will only lead a ball training session before the match against Macaé. And it will be during Tuesday's training session that the coach is expected to confirm whether Kléberson will start. The player could earn a chance in place of Toró.
The fact that Flamengo has won its three games in the Campeonato Carioca and is leading Group A alone should give Joel Santana even more peace of mind to test Kléberson in this Wednesday's match.
Joel clarifies the impasse between Bruno and Souza
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - An unusual incident sparked controversy during Flamengo's 5-1 rout of Duque de Caxias this Sunday at the Maracanã. In the 42nd minute of the first half, Juan was awarded a penalty, and the Flamengo fans called for goalkeeper Bruno to take the penalty. However, it was Souza, who is fighting for the top scorer spot in the Campeonato Carioca and had spoken with Íbson, the official taker, who ultimately converted the penalty. The incident sparked controversy because Flamengo's number one had already crossed the entire field to take the penalty, after being authorized by coach Joel Santana.
After the game, however, the Rubro-Negro manager assured that the incident had been resolved and even took the blame for the impasse. "This issue was resolved in the locker room. At halftime, I had the sensitivity to talk to the players to avoid any resentment," he explained.
"Souza caught the ball, but I didn't see it, and it was my mistake. The fans chanted Bruno's name, and he looked at me with that look of desire. I let Bruno go, but when he arrived, the two argued over who would take the shot. But the important thing is that they understood each other, and the problem was resolved," Joel added.
In addition to explaining the controversy surrounding the penalty kick, Joel also analyzed Flamengo's impressive rout. "The first half was excellent, practically error-free. But I didn't really like the second half because we gave them free rein and ended up conceding a goal," concluded the demanding coach.
PELENET
Leonardo Moura replaces Maicon for the national team's friendly match
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's Leonardo Moura has been called up to the Brazilian national team. The right-back replaces Inter Milan's Maicon, who is injured, in the friendly match against Ireland in Dublin on the 6th.
The CBF's official website doesn't go into much detail about Maicon's cut. According to the organization, the Brazilian national team's coaching staff simply preferred to play it safe, as the player didn't play for Inter Milan in this weekend's 0-0 draw against Udinese in the Italian Championship.
"We spoke with Maicon because he had a muscle problem. Leonardo Moura is already having a great time in the Brazilian Championship and has been under a lot of pressure for a long time. That's why he deserves this call-up," confirmed the Brazilian national team's assistant coach, Jorginho, who added.
"I'm from Rio de Janeiro and I watch all the State Championship games. We know Leonardo Moura's ability and his merits for the call-up," he added, in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
The player said he was surprised by the news. "I didn't know whether to believe it or not, but now it's sunk in. I see it's true, and I'm very happy to have been remembered," Leo Moura told ESPN.
"It's logical that, when I make it to the national team, I'll show that I'm ready and that I want to be called up again. I'll work to stay permanently," added the full-back, who said he's not worried about any difficulties adapting.
"I think anyone on the national team adapts quickly. You have to be well-rounded to be there, and I'm happy to have shown consistency. Regardless of the formation, I'm satisfied," he added.
With the call-up of Leonardo Moura, Flamengo will not have its right-back in the match on February 7th, against Volta Redonda, at 19:30 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, for the sixth and penultimate round of Group A of the Guanabara Cup, first round of the State Championship.
Brazil has already scheduled another friendly match for 2008. The team will face Sweden on March 26th in London, in a match commemorating the 50th anniversary of the final between the two countries in the 1958 World Cup.
The national team's first official matches of the year, however, will not be until June. In a difficult sequence, Brazil faces qualifying leaders Paraguay in Asunción on the 14th, and hosts Argentina three days later at the Mineirão stadium.
Jaílton applies to be Flamengo's official free kick taker
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo is still searching for a free-kick taker. Leonardo Moura, Marcinho, Renato Augusto, and even goalkeeper Bruno have all tried their hand at free-kick takers, but to no avail. Realizing the team's shortcomings, midfielder Jaílton applied for the position and actually performed well in the 5-1 rout of Duque de Caxias this Sunday at Maracanã Stadium, in the third round of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the State Championship.
The number 5 took a powerful free kick just before the half-moon, and opposing goalkeeper Fernando couldn't save it. Leonardo Moura simply tapped the ball into the back of the net, scoring the third goal for the red-and-blacks.
"I've always had this characteristic and I try to work on this type of play in training. In the game against Caxias, I was fortunate enough to get a good touch on the ball and make life difficult for the goalkeeper. That's the goal. If I don't score, I try to place the ball in a way that complicates the defense and makes it easier to get a rebound," explained the player.
And the new weapon presented could act decisively in favor of coach Joel Santana's "watchdog", who is still searching for his definitive place in the team.
"I try to do what the coach asks of me to the best of my ability. Right now, I'm helping the defense combat the attackers and the arrival of the midfielders, not giving them space to create plays that could put Bruno in danger. I believe that not only I, but all the players have understood Joel's work philosophy, and that's why we're achieving positive results," said the midfielder.
Kléberson eager for his debut at Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
For unilaterally breaking his contract with Besiktas-Turkey, Kléberson paid dearly. He was suspended by FIFA and, as a result, has not played an official match since April 15, 2007. Having trained with Flamengo for four months, the midfielder will finally be able to make his debut for the red-and-black jersey.
Suspended by FIFA, Kléberson has not played an official match since April 2007
His sentence ended on Saturday and, therefore, he should be included in the squad for the match against Macaé, Wednesday, 19:30 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, for the fourth round of Group A of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the State Championship.
"This story is finally coming to an end. The punishment is over and now all that's needed is for FIFA to send a release to the CBF. I spoke with Dr. Michel (Assef Filho, vice president of legal affairs for the club) and he said this should happen today or, at the latest, tomorrow," he added.
"The anxiety is immense. I've been waiting for this moment for a long time. I can't wait to put on this jersey and play at the Maracanã. I'm starting to get butterflies in my stomach, because the desire to play again is so great. It's a moment I've been waiting for for a long time for me and my family," he admitted in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Although there is still a long time to go, Kléberson is already thinking about the game against Fluminense, on February 10th, at Maracanã, for the last round of the Taça Guanabara.
"It's going to be great. Because of the rivalry and the signings the two clubs have made, it's going to be a spectacle in itself. It's going to be great. My first derby. I'll finally be able to get a feel for what a game of this magnitude is like from the field," he projected.
According to Flamengo's fitness coach, Ronaldo Torres, Kléberson, despite his long layoff, is in excellent physical condition. Torres went so far as to emphasize that he has rarely worked with such a dedicated athlete in his career.
Leonardo Moura approves the State competition formula
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The start of the season is always a "villain": players still far from their ideal physical condition and the team out of competition rhythm. Therefore, Flamengo right-back Leonardo Moura considers the State Championship format ideal, in which the big clubs start by facing weaker opponents and play the first derby only in the final round.
"It's much better this way. Because the team can get into sync quickly and more easily. It's possible to test out some options with the kids before playing the classic," the player said in an interview with the Arena Sportv program.
"We're slowly getting into the swing of things. The foundation from last year has been maintained, and that's good. The new reinforcements are also getting into the swing of things, and soon everything will be fine," he added.
The full-back also highlighted how well the team has assimilated coach Joel Santana's orders. According to the red-and-black number 2, everyone knows exactly what to do on the field.
"We created an identity. Joel asks to mark, steal the ball and pass it to those responsible for the ball out. Everyone knows their role perfectly," he said.
However, despite the group's quality, there's no room for favoritism. Leonardo Moura recognizes Flamengo's great potential, but warns that without seriousness, the team won't get anywhere.
"We already proved our quality last year. And now we're in the right place. Great players have arrived, and that increases the fans' excitement. But there's no such thing as favorites. We have to play seriously, maintain the rhythm, and get wins, even if it's by 1-0," he emphasized.
GLOBOESPORTE
Leo Moura celebrates 'new costume'
Called up for the first time, Fla's right-back doesn't mind missing Carnival
Eduardo Peixoto
Leo Moura is thrilled at his home in Rio
The crowd was large and included family members and children from his condominium in Barra da Tijuca. Sitting on a sofa wearing his shiny jersey, Leo Moura celebrated his first call-up to the Brazilian national team, which faces Ireland on the 6th in a friendly in Dublin (watch the video of Leo Moura's interview with SporTV's 'Tá na Área' below).
Flamengo's right-back received the news early in the evening, as soon as he arrived from training. But at first, the phone call from the club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, startled him.
"I thought it was strange because he never calls me. I was chatting with some friends online and got a call from Kléber. But I only believed it when I looked at the CBF's official website," the player says.
At 28, Leo has never worn a Brazil jersey. Not even in the youth divisions. All the more reason to be convinced that the move to Gávea was the best move for his career.
"It was worth staying here. My consistency got me into the national team, and Flamengo gave me that. It will be unforgettable and special," says the full-back.
The right-back replaced Maicon and will travel with the delegation to Dublin, the capital of Ireland, on Sunday, where he will face the local national team. Missing Carnival didn't affect him.
"Carnival is every year. This yellow costume will be very special," says Leo Moura.
For Flamengo fans, the news must be received with two distinct feelings: joy at seeing the player in the national team, but sadness at knowing that he will not be able to face Volta Redonda at Maracanã, Flamengo's opponent in the Campeonato Carioca.
Leo Moura celebrates 'new costume'
Called up for the first time, Fla's right-back doesn't mind missing Carnival
Eduardo Peixoto
Leo Moura is thrilled at his home in Rio
The crowd was large and included family members and children from his condominium in Barra da Tijuca. Sitting on a sofa wearing his shiny jersey, Leo Moura celebrated his first call-up to the Brazilian national team, which faces Ireland on the 6th in a friendly in Dublin (watch the video of Leo Moura's interview with SporTV's 'Tá na Área' below).
Flamengo's right-back received the news early in the evening, as soon as he arrived from training. But at first, the phone call from the club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, startled him.
"I thought it was strange because he never calls me. I was chatting with some friends online and got a call from Kléber. But I only believed it when I looked at the CBF's official website," the player says.
At 28, Leo has never worn a Brazil jersey. Not even in the youth divisions. All the more reason to be convinced that the move to Gávea was the best move for his career.
"It was worth staying here. My consistency got me into the national team, and Flamengo gave me that. It will be unforgettable and special," says the full-back.
The right-back replaced Maicon and will travel with the delegation to Dublin, the capital of Ireland, on Sunday, where he will face the local national team. Missing Carnival didn't affect him.
"Carnival is every year. This yellow costume will be very special," says Leo Moura.
For Flamengo fans, the news must be received with two distinct feelings: joy at seeing the player in the national team, but sadness at knowing that he will not be able to face Volta Redonda at Maracanã, Flamengo's opponent in the Campeonato Carioca.
Angelim: from the donkey's back to Gávea
Defender recalls the journey that took him from the interior of Ceará to Flamengo
Eduardo Peixoto
Ronaldo Angelim lived for a few years on the Coxos farm, in the rural area of Porteiras (credit: Luís Carlos). Go back about 20 years in time. In the small town of Porteiras, in southern Ceará, you'll find the boy Ronaldo Angelim on the back of a donkey, at 3 a.m., riding leagues as far as the eye can see to get water for cooking.
Flamengo and professional soccer, at most, were just conversations with friends. The reality was different. Digging artesian wells, plowing the land, and dreaming. His father, Antônio Leite Angelim, never abandoned the idea of migrating to Brazil's metropolises.
In Porteiras, Angelim became a painting. At the time, wearing the Fortaleza jersey
There were dozens of trips on pau-de-arara—makeshift trucks for irregular passenger transport—to São Paulo. On one of them, Ronaldo was born. But it was only by accident. He soon returned to Ceará. He considers himself a citizen of Porteiras, and upon seeing the photo of the Coxos farm, where he lived for a few years, he becomes emotional. He stops, observes the details of the image, and comments.
"I've lived in worse houses. On this farm, which once belonged to my grandfather, I stayed with my parents and eight siblings. But I miss it. See there (pointing to the left side of the photo)? I'd spend hours having fun under the cashew tree. There was also a corral," says the Flamengo defender, now 32.
The film of his painful life comes to mind, and Angelim falls silent for a few moments. But he avoids melodrama. He prefers to extol the hardships he's experienced and feel proud of his journey.
"I'm really proud. It's not for everyone. I've been through a lot of difficult things, and today I'm at Flamengo," he says.
Having lived in Rio de Janeiro for over two years, the defender chose Copacabana to live with his two children (Riquelme and Ronald De Boer) and wife (Ricássia). But Porteiras hasn't been forgotten. During his vacations, he always goes to the city to see friends and play a charity game.
Whenever he goes to Ceará, the defender meets up with his friends from Porteiras
He brings joy to the little over 16 residents. And he receives idolatry in return. Paintings of Ronaldo Angelim are scattered throughout the city. Even a soccer stadium bears the defender's name. It's no coincidence that he was nicknamed the Prince of Cariri—a microregion located in southern Ceará and encompassing eight municipalities, including Juazeiro do Norte and Porteiras.
And the "royalty" has a request to make.
"Please tell me that I sent my regards to Chico de Isa. If I'm here today, I owe a lot to him," he says.
Kléberson is cleared to play
The 120-day ban ended on January 26. The midfielder is expected to make his debut against Macaé.
Eduardo Peixoto
Joel Santana can now call up Kléberson for the next games
After nearly four months at Flamengo, midfielder Kléberson is finally fit to play. The club consulted the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) after the 120-day suspension imposed by FIFA ended on January 26th. There was some doubt as to whether this period would actually start on September 26th, 2007, the date the player signed his contract with Flamengo, which is what ultimately happened.
Kléberson was punished by FIFA for unilaterally breaching his contract with Besiktas-Turkey. With a five-year contract with Flamengo, the five-time world champion is the club's biggest prospect for 2008. Available to coach Joel Santana, he is expected to make his debut against Macaé next Wednesday. However, since he hasn't played an official match in a long time, he's likely to be on the bench.
Ibson warns: 'The next penalty is mine'
Flamengo player says argument with Souza was 'boring', but it's in the past
Eduardo Peixoto
Ugly and boring. With these simple adjectives, Ibson defined the argument among Flamengo players over who would take the penalty against Duque de Caxias last Sunday. The midfielder is the team's official penalty taker, but Souza took the ball and said he would take it (watch the video below).
With the score at 3-0 in the first half, coach Joel Santana had allowed goalkeeper Bruno to take the penalty kick. But it was in vain. In the competition for top scorer, the number 9 took the shot and scored. Ibson didn't even celebrate with his teammate.
- I was tired. And the game was also 3-0 - he explains.
In the second half, the two celebrated the fifth goal together and walked off the field arm in arm. No more unnecessary controversy. But what if there's a penalty in the next game?
- Professor Joel determined that it's me. So, even if he wants, the next penalty is mine - warns the number 7.
Shortly after, he showed he wasn't so radical. He warned that if the match was decided, he could let his teammate take the penalty.
"My job isn't to score goals, but to help Souza score them. It was a bit annoying, a bit ugly for those watching from the outside. We have to be sensible and avoid these situations," warns the midfielder, who has scored three goals in the Campeonato Carioca. Interestingly, the same number as the striker.
Joel has secret weapons up his sleeve
Kléberson, Diego Tardelli, Gavilán and Éder have yet to make their debut for Flamengo
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson is expected to make his debut for Fla this Wednesday, in the game against Macaé
If Flamengo fans were optimistic about the team's 2008 season after three games, they can expect even more from now on. Everyone knows the club is preparing to debut its secret weapons soon: some with devastating potential, others true unknowns.
The fact is that Flamengo will have new additions in the coming rounds. The first of these will be Kléberson. The five-time champion has been training at Gávea since October, but he'll only be able to play properly now. And he's not hiding his excitement.
"I've waited a long time for this moment. I'm fully adapted and I won't have any excuses," says the player, who hasn't played since April of last year.
Joel Santana knows the player will feel the lack of match fitness and may opt to leave him on the bench against Macaé. Diego Tardelli's situation is a little different. The striker is not yet at his best physical condition and is expected to be included in the squad for the match against América on Carnival Saturday.
The list of new signings includes Paraguayan Gavilán and promising prospect Éder. The former is awaiting a "clear" from the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) to be released from the 120-day suspension imposed on him. The former Guarani striker, meanwhile, is a prospect for the future and, according to the coaching staff's plans, should only play a few games at the beginning of the year.
THROW
Leonardo Moura is called up to the National Team
The full-back will have his first opportunity to wear the yellow jersey
Leonardo Moura shows off the yellow shirt
Flamengo right-back Leonardo Moura was called up on Monday for Brazil's match against Ireland on the 6th in Dublin. He will replace Inter Milan's Maicon, who was ruled out due to injury.
Léo Moura will compete for the starting spot with Rafinha, from Schalke 04. This is the red-and-black player's first opportunity with the national team.
2008 seems to have started the way Leonardo Moura dreamed. In three games for Flamengo this year, he's already scored two goals, and the team has a 100% record in the state championship. And now the call-up has arrived. The full-back celebrated the opportunity.
"I thank God and my Flamengo teammates for this gift. I hope to live up to expectations," he declared.
Ibson reveals the secret behind Rio's best attack
Flamengo has already scored 11 goals in three games in the Campeonato Carioca\ LANCEPRESS!\
Flamengo has the best attack in the State Championship so far, with 11 goals. Along with Souza, Ibson, one of the team's top scorers with three goals, revealed the team's secret to scoring so many goals this early in the season: 11 in three games, an average of almost four goals per game.
"It's the strength of the group. It's not just the forwards who are scoring goals. We haven't focused on just one player. May we continue like this, scoring our goals," said Ibson, not forgetting the team's leading scorer:
- And let Souza make the fourth, fifth...
Kleberson is released to play for Flamengo
The five-time champion was suspended by FIFA but is now authorized to play.
Kleberson is at Joel's disposal
Cassius Leitão IN RIO
One of Flamengo's signings for this season, midfielder Kleberson was released this Monday to make his debut for the club next Wednesday against Macaé. He was suspended by FIFA for four months for breaking his contract with Besiktas of Turkey.
Since the five-time champion began his contract with Flamengo on September 26th, he served his suspension until Saturday, the 26th. Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Asseff Filho, secured the player's release.
"I just received clearance from the CBF. In other words, he can play on Wednesday. They responded to my letter and agreed to end the suspension. Therefore, he is at Joel's disposal," the lawyer revealed.
Ibson and Souza in the fight for Flamengo's top scorer
Both have three goals, but the midfielder says his role is different.
With his two goals in the 5-1 rout of Duque de Caxias, Ibson tied Souza for the Carioca Championship scoring charts with three. But the scoring charts might have looked different if the striker hadn't snatched the ball from the midfielder at the penalty spot.
Ibson avoided controversy. He doesn't rule out competing for the top scorer spot, but he left that goal to Souza.
"He's fighting for the top scorer spot and wanted to take the penalty. It was no problem. My job is to pass the ball to him to score. But if I keep scoring, it will always be good to fight for the top scorer spot," he stated.
Regarding who will take the penalties from now on, Ibson guarantees that it will be him, but that this could change during the game:
- Joel decided that I'm the kicker. I'm training. But on the field, we have to use common sense to decide who's going to take the kick.
Leonardo Moura highlights the importance of Toró
The full-back tried to put an end to the controversy surrounding Souza's penalty kick
LANCEPRESS!
Right-back Leonardo Moura, excited by Flamengo's good form, saw Toró in midfield as a key player in coach Joel Santana's scheme.
"We have a strong squad, with players like Jonatas and Diego Tardelli arriving. The competition for positions will be strong. Another positive is a player many people don't like, but the positive is Toró, who scores and goes forward. People need to pay more attention to him," the player warned in a statement to Sportv.
Regarding the controversy created by the penalty that led to Flamengo's fourth goal - Souza took the penalty, preventing Bruno from taking the place of the official taker Ibson -, Léo Moura made a point of clarifying that everything has already been resolved:
"Joel says Ibson is the first batter. If he's not on the field, I'll bat. Souza was in the running for top scorer, there was a disagreement, but everything was resolved right then and there. However, Joel admitted he made a mistake in allowing Bruno to bat," he concluded.
Toró: 'The problem was resolved on Sunday'
Midfielder defended Souza and said that Bruno did not cause controversy
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
The controversy surrounding Souza's penalty kick, which he took after preventing Bruno and replacing the official taker Ibson, has come to an end. Midfielder Toró asserts that everything was resolved on Sunday, moments after Flamengo's 5-1 victory over Duque de Caxias. The Flamengo player was in the LANCE! newsroom, where he participated in a chat.
- Everything was resolved yesterday (Sunday). Joel admitted his mistake in front of our entire group, which is a family - he explained.
The 21-year-old explained what happened during the game, as well as coming to Souza's defense:
"The game was decided. Ibson is the penalty taker, and if he feels uncomfortable, he'll take it to Léo. Souza runs a lot, gives his life for Flamengo, and needed to score. He might have other opportunities, but he might not, and he needs to be the top scorer. If I keep talking about Souza, I'll take up all his time, because he's a great friend and wants the best for the team. Bruno understood the situation and wasn't upset either," he concluded.