Clipp April 2

Flamengo news in the media

By - in 02/04/2008 às 09:11

THE GLOBE

Amid suspicions and criticism, Fla faces a decisive day in court

Club abandons diplomacy ahead of trial that could leave it short-changed

Photo caption: GOALKEEPER BRUNO makes a save in training: today, he will be at the TJD

The trial of four Flamengo players today at the Rio de Janeiro Football Federation court is creating tension in Gávea. The risk of losing Bruno, Toró, Obina, and Jônatas on the eve of the State finals is so disturbing that coach Joel Santana, try as he might, couldn't avoid his words raising suspicions about the trial date. Goalkeeper Bruno also expressed his dismay.

"I'm worried. This thing dragged on and happened right on the brink of a final decision. In São Paulo, they acted as expected. In Rio, the thinking seems different, especially with Flamengo," said Joel.

For Bruno, serial allegations hinder football

The red-and-blacks will be tried for incidents during the classic match against Botafogo on March 16. The delay in scheduling the TJD session is the coach's complaint:

"I'm not trying to say anything. But they're taking an unnoticed incident in a strange direction. Rio de Janeiro football is growing, and suddenly they want to destroy it. The big four should help each other and have the best players in the finals."

Bruno also oscillated between criticism and diplomacy.

"Today, everything is a judgment call. It's disrupting football. It's up to the referee to act, not outsiders to create intrigue. But competent people will judge," said the goalkeeper, who preferred not to go to the TJD. "I wouldn't feel comfortable. I'm not a criminal. If I have to go, I will."

Flamengo's lawyers want to take the four judgments to the TJD.

Yesterday, the players underwent physical tests, some aimed at the game against Cienciano, at the altitude of Cuzco, on the 9th. Tomorrow, the board will be in direct contact with Ricardo Teixeira, president of the CBF, who will represent Brazil at a meeting with Conmebol, which will discuss the veto on games at altitude.

"The decision there must be political, despite our progress. The greatest hope is action at the CAS (Court of Arbitration for Sport)," said president Márcio Braga.

Today, Joel will decide whether to use the reserves in the game against Vasco, which has been brought forward to 16 p.m. on Sunday. Coach Ronaldo Torres says the starters could play and travel to Cuzco. But he thinks it's better to rest them.

The MFD investment fund has practically completed the purchase, for 1 million, of one of the 2% shares of the rights of all Flamengo players.

Champions of land and sea

Fla celebrates title won by rowers from community project

Antonio Maria Filho

If, today, the red-and-black nation—estimated at around 30 million Brazilians—has the privilege of beating its chest and declaring that Flamengo was the champion on land and sea last season, it should be grateful and honored by rowers Francisco Carvalho and Pedro Carvalho, who, helmed by Maurício de Abreu, defeated the favorites Vasco da Gama last Sunday in Lagoa, in the two-man rowing event, which had been sub judice since last September. Although they share the last name Carvalho, Francisco and Pedro are not brothers like Ronaldo and Ricardo, two-time Pan American rowing champions in the two-man rowing event, whose names are inscribed in the glorious history of Flamengo and Brazilian rowing itself, but it almost seems like they are, such is their close bond.

The new champions come from humble backgrounds: the first lives in the Rocinha favela, and the other in the Rio das Pedras community. Still emotional, they confessed that they never imagined they would face such a difficult mission.

"When we crossed the finish line, I couldn't believe it. The night before the race was one of those nights where I slept poorly. I kept waking up, thinking it was time to go to Flamengo's garage," said Francisco, 20, the boat's paddler (who sets the rhythm for the rowing).

Technician bets on a promising future

Pedro, 23, also experienced difficult times:

- Only those who go through it know. We think: if we win, Flamengo will win the Rio title. If we lose...

Indeed, a lot of responsibility for two beginners. The title fired up the red-and-black rowing team.

"The 2008 season starts this Sunday. Our atmosphere is different now, thanks to these two kids. We were champions, and everyone is filled with motivation. We need to build on this momentum and think even more about the future," said coach Marcão.

Francisco and Pedro aren't used to fame. The title hasn't sunk in yet. When they're told they've both made history at the club, they don't know what it means.

Pedro, a waiter at a restaurant in Barra, had to work normally the day before the final because he couldn't be excused, as another employee had to miss work. His only regret is that his parents didn't get to see his victory:

- I really wanted to, but my mom had to take my dad to the doctor. We'll celebrate later.

Francisco's mother was very anxious and preferred to stay at home.

"It was better this way. Knowing she would be at the rowing stadium, my anxiety would be even greater. I couldn't disappoint her," he said.

The two are now enjoying the glory of the title, but they make a point of remembering that they came from the Remo na Escola project and that they were discovered by Chicão, former Brazilian champion.

"He picked us up at the André Maurois State School in Gávea. Now it's time to think ahead and try to one day make it to the Brazilian national team in the lightweight category (up to 72 kilos)."

Marcão bets on both:

"This victory shows their determination. It's about always thinking big. It's a two-way street that can achieve exceptional results. You just have to work hard."

The victory of the two-with red-black team was categorical.

"Vasco took the lead, and it looked like the 500-meter race would only be 600 meters. In the XNUMX, we caught up and overtook them, finishing with a huge gap. An undisputed victory," said the helmsman.

The coach and crew members are keen to highlight the work of Carlos Maria, aka Peru, a former helmsman with extensive experience.

"They say that when things were tough, Buck would call Peru. He'd show up and help make decisions. This time, inexplicably, he called me and asked for help. He helped immensely. He acted as a skipper and really trained the boat. He weighed far more than a helmsman (50kg), since he weighs 75kg, when he gave his place to Maurício, the boat took off," says Marcão.

One of the most striking things about this achievement is the memory of coach Guilherme do Eirado Silva, known as Buck, whose statue, located on the boat ramp and on the edge of Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, is still revered today by all rowers.

"Buck must be happy. Laughing out loud. This one's for you, Buck!" said Marcão.

SPORTS JOURNAL

To avoid déjà vu

Fla doesn't want to relive the trauma of 2007, when they played at altitude and were thrashed on their return to Rio.

Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel

File/JS

Joel Santana and Bruno fear that altitude sickness problems will happen again this year.

Fate was cruel to Flamengo. After suffering from the altitude last year, going to play in Potosí, at 3.967 meters above sea level, everyone at the club hoped to never have to endure this nightmare again. Now, Cusco, at 3.360 meters above sea level, appears on the way. And to avoid a similar situation as last year—when some players fell ill and, on the way back, the team was thrashed 4-1 by Madureira—planning is already underway.

The trauma of the Bolivian adventure was reflected in the high temperature at Moça Bonita Stadium in Bangu. However, while that match was part of the Guanabara Cup group stage, Fla's return to Rio will now face the Rio Cup semifinal, a classic. The problem is on coach Joel Santana's mind.

"This issue worries me a lot. It's humanly impossible to play a game like this and then return to Rio to face a final. The dates need to be better studied, we need to think of a way to participate in national and international competitions without harming the clubs. The way this calendar is being designed, it can't continue," said Joel.

Goalkeeper Bruno — who fell ill after taking a throw-in on that occasion — believes that last year's experience will serve as an example.

"Flamengo is better prepared. We have experienced players who have already been through this type of situation. It will always be difficult, but we will need strong psychological preparation and we cannot blame this factor for a defeat," explained the goalkeeper.

That time, Flamengo managed to bounce back, advancing to the next stage of the Libertadores, winning the Taça Guanabara, and then the Carioca. Everyone's focus now is on learning from last year's suffering and achieving a happy ending.

Joel decides to field reserves against Vasco

File/JS

Joel will once again field the reserve team in the Carioca

Coach Joel Santana revealed on Tuesday that, for the third time, he will field his reserves in a Carioca derby, this time against Vasco da Gama, next Sunday. The reasoning couldn't be more different. With qualification for the state championship final secured and also qualified for the Taça Rio semifinals, the coach will rest his starters for the battle at the altitude of Cuzco, where the Rubro-Negro will face Cienciano (PER).

In case of victory, the team from Gávea will guarantee a place in the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores da América.

"We're going to prepare our schedule with two teams. One for the game against Vasco and another for the game against Cienciano," declared Joel Santana.

It is worth remembering that the strategy did not work on the last two occasions, when team B lost to Fluminense and Botafogo.

Confidence is total in Flamengo

The team travels today to face Boca Juniors in the semifinals of the South American Basketball League

Pedro Ivo Alemida

Jair Motta/JS

Point guard Fred (L) and winger Marcelinho are two of Flamengo's weapons to face Boca Juniors

On the eve of their departure for Argentina, where they face Boca Juniors tomorrow in the first match of the best-of-three semifinal series of the South American Basketball League, Flamengo held a light training session marked by the group's relaxation and joy. In addition to the team's good form, the return of point guard Fred, who was out for three matches due to an injury, is another reason for the red-and-black team's spirits to be lifted.

ROI

Having been out of the team for over a week, the point guard acknowledges that he's still lacking some game rhythm, and that this will only come as the games progress. But the important thing is to be with the group and be able to help when asked.

"I feel 100% physically, but I think the lack of match rhythm is still a bit of a hindrance. However, I'm ready if Chupeta wants to use me during the game; I want to be able to help the team in this crucial phase. We know that Boca is a team that plays well-organized, tight, European-style, with a strong defense. We have to use speed and accelerate the game to prevent them from having the composure they usually have in attack," said the point guard.

Another player who seemed quite motivated and optimistic for tomorrow's match was forward/guard Duda. According to him, this is a chance to make amends for the team's loss in the Liga de las Américas in December and show that the team has matured and is in a better place.

Trusted

"We have to keep up the good work we've been doing, and that's how we'll reap the rewards in the end. The loss to them (Boca) in the Liga de las Américas was a learning experience; the team has evolved a lot since then, and I'm sure the story will be different now. It'll be a tough game, with the fans putting a lot of pressure on us, but we have to be prepared for it all. A team like ours, that wants to go far, has to be prepared for these adversities, and it's in these moments that we grow even more," said Duda, who performed very well in the decisive matches against Sol de América, also in the Liga Sudamericana.

John Areosa

Free Kick

The mosquito and altitude

João Areosa areosa@jsports.com.br

Today I woke up feeling sluggish, unwilling to do anything for humanity. Lie down, yawn, stretch my arms, and lie back down—that's the question.

Is it just laziness, a virus brewing, or the damn dengue fever that's causing tragedies in this battered city? My God, how can a lowly, vagrant mosquito be capable of such devastation?

But I'm not here to talk about mosquitoes, but about football. However, along with the deaths caused by the killer mosquito, I learned of other tragedies.

I wanted to discuss the trajectory of a ball rolling, a star dribbling, a cheering crowd. But today, aside from laziness, dengue fever, or a virus (turn your mouth away, João!), deaths are coming up to discuss. Look what I read on the internet.

"Ajaccio president Michel Moretti committed suicide on Monday. The 47-year-old director of the French Second Division club had been suffering from health problems for several years. Moretti, a former sports journalist, was responsible for Ajaccio's return to the First Division in 2002. He also signed Brazilian players such as Antônio Carlos (now at Atlético-PR), Marcelinho Carioca and André Luiz (formerly of São Paulo).

Children die in Rio, the young leader dies, and I wondered if there would one day be deaths at the altitude of these South American cities, which insist on promoting ball games where only llamas should dare to run.

I read about the coach's death, and I also read about the death of a 23-year-old player in Potosi, Bolivia. Potosi is so high that planes climb to land there.

The curious thing is that this fact was only discovered by a stroke of luck. Scientists from Bolivia and Mexico conducted a study to prove that playing at altitude does not affect athletes' health. They ended up realizing they were wrong. In short, just like the mayor of Rio, who didn't believe in the killer mosquito, soccer officials will only ban games at absurd altitudes when more deaths occur. Will Flamengo heed the order to play on the hill?

THE DAY

Diego Hypólito is thrilled with his recovery

Gymnast is euphoric and should return to training next week

Rio - Gymnast Diego Hypólito, who underwent arthroscopy on his right knee last week, is amazed at his recovery. His deadline to return to training, previously scheduled for a month, has now been reduced to 25 days, which could bring his return to competition sooner.

"The recovery is going great, my knee hasn't swollen at all. I'm feeling very calm," Diego said in an interview with TV Globo.

Diego said he should return to training within a week and could return to competition at the World Cup in China in May. "If I don't win the Olympics, it won't be because of the surgery," said the Brazilian, one of the favorites for the gold medal in Beijing.

Tomorrow's trial won't take Bruno's concentration away

Rio - Goalkeeper Bruno, who will be tried tomorrow by the Sports Justice Court (TJD) for having been involved in an alleged altercation in the classic against Botafogo, on March 16, says he is calm, and with his head focused only on Sunday's classic against Vasco.

"I'm not worried about the ruling. I'm thinking first about Vasco, because it's a classic, and it's always important to beat an opponent with a historic rivalry. I'll leave the ruling to the competent people. In my opinion, I didn't do anything; I can't keep complaining or crying. There are competent people to handle this matter."

The player took the opportunity to clarify that he did not attack Wellington Paulista at any time.

"Wellington Paulista is a kid I admire greatly, so much so that we talked a lot during the Guanabara Cup final, and I consoled him after Botafogo's defeat. I hope he's very happy in his career, because he's showing he has the talent to achieve it. Some outsiders don't understand that friendships can also exist between people off the field. Many things that happen during a game are part of football."

At the press conference after training this morning, in Gávea, Bruno made a point of saying that Flamengo cannot choose an opponent in the Taça Rio semifinal.

"Flamengo needs to focus on winning its games, regardless of its opponents. We took the first step by winning the Guanabara Cup, but the three competitors are very strong and have proven this with each passing game."

Fla worried about tomorrow's trial at the TJD

Rio - Flamengo's biggest concern isn't Sunday's derby against Vasco da Gama. Already qualified for the Taça Rio semifinals, the club is worried about the trial by the TJD (Department of Justice) of the four players (Bruno, Jônatas, Toró, and Obina) involved in the brawls during the last match against Botafogo.

The defense attorney for the red-blacks, Dr. Michel Assef Filho, revealed in an interview with Rádio Globo which case he is most concerned about.

"Everyone is concerned, after all, they are very important players. The prosecutor was harsh in his accusations. All the athletes will be charged under Article 253 (a sentence of 120 to 540 days). We will try to downgrade some cases to more lenient articles or even acquittals. By tomorrow, we will have defined the path to follow," he declared.

The good news at Gávea came from striker Souza and defender Rodrigo. The number 9 appears to have recovered from tendinitis in his right knee, and the reinforcement, a former São Paulo player who is recovering from a broken arm, is already working on his fitness and is about to be available for Joel Santana.

Flamengo players return to Gávea

Rio - After two days off, Flamengo's players returned to work this Tuesday morning. Led by fitness coach Ronaldo Torres, the group performed an activity in Gávea.

Torres divided the field into circuits and monitored the athletes via computer. The goal is to prepare the team for the decisive week ahead. The marathon begins Sunday with the derby against Vasco, continues on Wednesday when the team travels to Cuzco, Peru, to face Cienciano at an altitude of 3.380 meters, and concludes the following weekend with the semifinal of the Taça Rio.

Joel names reserves in the classic

Rio - Sunday's derby is looking like a simple friendly. Yesterday, coach Joel Santana practically confirmed that he won't use his starters against Vasco, in the final round of the Taça Rio. He's expected to rest them for the match on the 9th against Cienciano in Group 4 of the Libertadores. The only starter is expected to be goalkeeper Bruno.

The coach wants to rest his players for the match in Cuzco and will take advantage of the fact that the derby doesn't have much value, as both clubs have a guaranteed spot in the semifinals.

"We're going to set up our schedule with two teams. One for the game against Vasco and another for the game against Cienciano," said Joel, who performed poorly in the other two derbies he rested his reserves against, Fluminense and Botafogo.

Flamengo must release Gavillán

Rio - Flamengo is expected to release midfielder Gavillán in the coming hours, after he was on a risky contract with the club. The player had a three-month contract and failed to perform as expected by the board and coaching staff.

The Paraguayan midfielder was released by the club after medical examinations detected a chronic knee problem, but the decision was later reconsidered and resolved with the signing of a risk contract.

"His situation is complicated," said coach Joel, referring to the excess of players unfit to play. Jônatas, Rodrigo Arroz, and Souza are in the club's medical department.

Joel also admitted that he is anxious and worried about the trial of four Flamengo athletes at the Sports Justice Court (TJD-RJ). Bruno, Toró, Jônatas and Obina will be tried.

"I'm worried because this is a trial that dragged on and, on the verge of the decisions (semi-finals), he appeared," he concluded.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Flamengo turns its attention to the TJD this Wednesday\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - All Flamengo fans' attention will be focused this Wednesday on the Rio de Janeiro Sports Court of Justice (TJD-RJ). It is there that goalkeeper Bruno, defensive midfielder Jônatas, midfielder Toró, and forward Obina will be tried for the incidents that occurred in the derby against Botafogo on March 16th. If they are severely punished, these players could miss the Flamengo team's final stretch of the Campeonato Carioca. In the match against Alvinegro de General Severiano, Jônatas and Obina were sent off by referee Marcelo de Souza Pinto, while Bruno and Toró were indicted by TJD prosecutor André Valentim after watching television footage. The goalkeeper was booked for attempting to attack Wellington Paulista with an elbow, while the midfielder was caught kicking Castillo in the head while the Botafogo goalkeeper was down on the pitch.

The player most at risk of a harsher punishment is striker Obina. A repeat offender, he was already tried this year after attempting to assault a Fluminense player in a Guanabara Cup derby. The case that worries the coach most is Bruno, as the goalkeeper is a key player on his team. Furthermore, he's also concerned that reserve Diego doesn't have the trust of Flamengo fans, and he also performed well when he was called up in the match against Fluminense.

"I'm calm. My situation is in the hands of competent people," said goalkeeper Bruno. "In my opinion, I didn't do anything wrong. I'm not going to sit here crying and complaining. Wellington is a great player, he's doing very well, and I'm rooting for him. I didn't do anything to offend him," he added.

Jônatas, like Obina, has also been on the bench in recent matches. Toró, on the other hand, alternates starting with Kléberson, who is expected to take over the starting role if his rival is severely punished.

While awaiting the trial of their players, the Flamengo squad returned to training this Tuesday, where they worked full time, with an eye on next Sunday's match against Vasco, in the final round of the Taça Rio.

The players have already stated that they have no preference for opponents in the final stage of the second round of the Campeonato Carioca. "Flamengo has to play and think about winning the games. Regardless of who we face, they are three great opponents and they demonstrated their competence by qualifying," stated goalkeeper Bruno.

"I think the big four have a chance of being champions. But Flamengo took the first step, winning the first round. That's why everyone wants to beat us," Bruno said.

After facing Vasco, Flamengo will face Cienciano next Wednesday in the high-altitude Cuzco, Peru, in the Copa Libertadores. Flamengo admits that the match is seen as a decisive one for the team.

'We know it's very difficult to play at altitude, but we're going to treat this game like a final, the game of our lives,' said the red-and-black goalkeeper.

Flamengo has seven points in Group 4 of the Libertadores and has lost the lead to Cienciano only on goal difference. A draw at altitude could leave the Rubro-Negro in a good position to qualify, as Flamengo plays in the final round of the first phase against the weak Coronel Bolognesi at home.

Behind the scenes, the legal department is still working to prevent Flamengo from being forced to play at altitude. CONMEBOL is expected to issue a statement on the matter next Thursday. FIFA recently spoke out against matches at altitudes above 2.750 meters. Cuzco is 3.400 meters above sea level.

Bolivia hid player's death at altitude, newspaper says

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - According to a report published Tuesday by the newspaper Lance, Bolivian doctors sent Flamengo a fax denouncing the concealment of a study confirming the health risks of athletes playing at altitude. They also allegedly revealed the death of a 23-year-old player in Potosí, at almost 4000 meters, due to respiratory problems in June of last year. The Bolivian Football Federation reportedly hired a special team of doctors to prove that altitude poses no health risks to athletes, but since the results were precisely the opposite, the country's officials promptly concealed the study. The doctors, who requested anonymity, confirmed the allegations.

"We don't want to be persecuted in our country and found guilty or prevented from practicing our profession," said one of the doctors involved. Flamengo is leading a campaign to ban matches at high altitudes and still hopes to avoid being forced to play in Cusco (3400 meters) against Cienciano on the 9th in the Copa Libertadores.

PELENET

Defender Rodrigo returns to running at Flamengo

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

After nearly two months of being sidelined by the medical department, defender Rodrigo returned to the Gávea field this Tuesday. Although in a more measured fashion, the player walked laps around the pitch and did some light ball work.

By the end of this week, the defender will be re-examined by the club's medical department to fully assess his progress. He was initially expected to be out of action for four months, but this period could be reduced.

Rodrigo suffered a serious injury to his right arm during the 2-1 victory over Volta Redonda, in the penultimate round of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the State Championship, on February 7th.

Signed at the beginning of the season from Dynamo Kyiv-UKR, Rodrigo was a key hope for a solid defensive position for the red-and-blacks. As he hasn't yet established himself for a variety of reasons, Fábio Luciano and Ronaldo Angelim remain in charge of the defense.

Joel Santana admits to fielding the reserves against Vasco

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Joel Santana has apparently decided to change his mind and may field a Flamengo reserve team for this Sunday's derby against Vasco da Gama at 16 p.m. at Maracanã, in the eighth and final round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. The coach gave some indication after Tuesday's training session at Gávea.

Fotocom/Disclosure

Flamengo could face Vasco on Sunday at Maracanã with a reserve team

"We'll analyze our needs to decide what to do for Sunday, as we're aiming for first place in Group A. But we haven't decided anything yet," Joel Santana emphasized.

Even admitting the possibility of fielding reserves, the Flamengo coach highlighted the importance of finishing first in the group, in addition to beating their biggest rival.

"We can't consider the derby against Vasco a friendly. The fans demand a victory both here and there. Being in first place is always good," he warned.

Flamengo leads the group with 16 points, tied with Fluminense. However, Flamengo has the advantage on goal difference: 10 to 9. In the final round, Flamengo faces Madureira in Volta Redonda.

With the starters out of action, Joel Santana could work the team better for the important Libertadores match, on April 9th, against Cienciano-PER, in the altitude of Cusco.

"We're worried about all the games. It's an important month, with a lot of definition in the Libertadores and the fight for the State title. The objectives of the first half of the year are at stake, and we have to plan well to achieve what we want," he concluded.

Goalkeeper Bruno refuses to accept an apathetic Fla against Vasco

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo has already qualified for the semifinals of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship. However, the players are taking the final match of the first round, Sunday at 18:10 PM (Brasília time), at Maracanã, very seriously. The reason is obvious: their opponent is archrival Vasco.

"It's always great to play against them. It's special. And I believe it's for both sides," said goalkeeper Bruno, adding:

"In this type of game, no one wants to lose. Because there's much more at stake than just three points. There's a whole rivalry and history behind it," he concluded.

With 16 points, Flamengo leads Group A, ahead of Fluminense on goal difference (10 to 9). Vasco is second in Group B with 15 points. Botafogo has 21.

GLOBOESPORTE

Juniors: Paulo Sérgio shines and Fla wins

The striker scored three goals in the victory over Madureira and became the Carioca top scorer

Flamengo confirmed its qualification for the Rio Junior Cup semifinals this Wednesday. Playing in Conselheiro Galvão, the Rubro-Negro defeated Madureira 3-2 and moved to the top of Group A with 19 points. Next Sunday, at São Januário, the opponent will be Vasco.

The standout performer this afternoon was striker Paulo Sérgio, who scored all three of the club's goals. With his performance against the Tricolor from the suburbs, he took over the top spot in the category, alongside Diego from Cabofriense. Both have 13 goals.

Flamengo, Vasco, and Fluminense (the Guanabara Cup champion) have already secured their places in the Rio Cup semifinals. Five other teams are vying for the final spot, which currently belongs to Botafogo and will be decided in the weekend round.

Judgment makes Joel repudiate the 'créu'

Coach calls for unity among major clubs and says that 'revenge and créu lead to nothing'

Cahê Mota

Joel Santana is not happy with the constant indictments in Rio de Janeiro football.

Bruno, Toró, Obina, and Jônatas will sit in the dock at the Rio de Janeiro Sports Court this Wednesday to be tried for the incidents from the last match against Botafogo. The possibility of having the squad reduced for the decisive matches of the Rio Cup angered Joel Santana, prompting the red-and-black captain to rail against the system currently governing Rio de Janeiro football.

"The trial isn't keeping me up at night, but it's worrying. It's something that's dragged on for too long and suddenly appears, on the verge of a decision. I've been following São Paulo football, and they've been acting as they should. They take the image, judge, and punish. Here, the thinking is different, especially regarding Flamengo. Let's wait and see what happens."

With his experience as a former defender, Joel complained about the constant indictments of players due to incidents that, according to him, are part of the sport.

"Sometimes, unnoticed incidents happen in games, football incidents, and there's no intention of violence. Especially because we don't go onto the field with that objective. We go to put on a show, and they take certain situations in a strange direction. It's detrimental to the club and the show. Rio de Janeiro football has been on the rise, but suddenly it's destroying that. We've entered a zone of revenge, fighting, and bullshit, which leads nowhere."

The coach even called for unity among the big clubs in Rio de Janeiro, and cited the recent controversy that occurred in Santa Catarina to show that the rivalry that emerged in the State Championship leads nowhere.

"We saw what happened in Santa Catarina because of a stupid dance they created. The four Rio clubs have to come together to put their best on the field in the finals. The State Championship is a mirror for the Brazilian Championship, and we want everyone to be strong."

'Pole position' and rivalry motivate Joel

Coach tries to highlight the classic against Vasco, but highlights the trip to Cuzco\ Cahê Mota\

Joel guarantees he has no preference for an opponent in the Rio Cup semifinal

Flamengo takes the field next Sunday to face Vasco in the final round of the Taça Rio, already qualified and poised for the decisive match against Cienciano in Peru, in the Libertadores. Enough factors to treat the derby as a mere friendly at Gávea, right? That's not what Joel Santana thinks. Or at least, that's not what he's trying to convey to the press. This Tuesday, he focused on the match, but he doesn't hide the fact that planning the trip to Cuzco is a priority.

"It's a classic, and given the rivalry, it can't be treated as a friendly, no matter the circumstances. Both clubs prepare to win, both there and here. Every time we step onto the field, it's for that purpose. But we have to understand that we have objectives in place, a long trip on Monday, and decisive games in the pipeline."

A victory against their biggest rival could guarantee Flamengo first place in Group A of the Rio Cup, and consequently a rematch with Vasco. Joel, however, assures that choosing an opponent is not part of Flamengo's plans.

"Being first is always good. We become leaders overnight, and I've always argued that I like to see my team in pole position. The process here isn't about choosing an opponent, but about always achieving the best position. That's what satisfies the fans."

The coach did not confirm the selection of a reserve team against Vasco, but he did let slip that he would divide the group in training this week.

"We haven't decided yet. We're at the beginning of the week and conducting a series of tests to see how the players behave physically. We'll work on two fronts: one for the Vasco game and the other for the Libertadores."

Rodrigo returns to running in Gávea

Two months after surgery, the defender does light exercises with the ball and will undergo tests.

Cahê Mota

Rodrigo returns to training in Gávea with a protection on his right arm

Nearing two months after surgery on his right arm, defender Rodrigo has taken another step toward his return to the field. Away from the team since sustaining a fracture in the match against Volta Redonda in the final round of the Taça Guanabara, he ran around the Gávea pitch for the first time, wearing a brace on his operated arm, and did some light ball exercises with members of the fitness team on Tuesday.

Later this week, Rodrigo will undergo a new series of tests to reevaluate the injury, which was initially expected to keep him out of action for four months. Signed by Flamengo from Dynamo Kyiv in Ukraine after a serious knee injury, the defender underwent special physical training to regain his fitness and is aware that upon his return, he will have to go through "another preseason."

Doctors reveal death of athlete in Potosí

'Lance!' says Fla also received a fax alleging concealment of a study on altitude

Renato Augusto at the Fla game in Potosí, in February last year

Flamengo's fight against high-altitude matches has gained support in Bolivia, a country with several cities above 2.750 meters and directly affected by FIFA's ban on matches at these locations. According to the newspaper "Lance!", Flamengo received a fax from Bolivian doctors with two complaints: one about the death of a player in Potosí and the concealment of a study commissioned by the Bolivian Football Federation that proves the harmful effects of playing high-altitude matches without time for acclimatization.

The doctors requested anonymity, but confirmed the allegations to the tabloid:

- We don't want to be persecuted in our country and considered guilty or prevented from practicing our profession - says a doctor who participated in the studies.

According to him, Mexican doctors also participated in the scientific research and have copies of the studies. The federation's goal was to prove that games in high-altitude cities are not a problem, but the study proved otherwise after tests on several players, including electrocardiograms, blood counts, and echocardiograms.

Furthermore, according to these doctors, Bolivian authorities concealed the death of a 23-year-old player in June of last year in Potosí, where Flamengo played four months earlier in the Copa Libertadores (and where Cruzeiro will play again this year, on the 16th). In that game, defender Moisés and midfielder Renato Augusto were the ones who suffered most from the effects of the 3.850m of the Bolivian city.

The deceased player was reportedly from Oruro, a city at roughly the same altitude as Potosí, where Santos recently played and lost to San José. He reportedly suffered a sudden illness 41 minutes into the match, during an interprovincial championship, and was reportedly dead when he arrived at the hospital. An autopsy revealed respiratory problems caused by the effects of the altitude.

Fla hopes not to play in Cuzco

Flamengo hopes that in the meeting to be held next Thursday, at the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), to discuss the FIFA rule prohibiting games in cities that are 2.750m above sea level without an acclimatization period, it will be decided that the game against Cienciano, on the 9th, will no longer be in Cuzco (3.400m above sea level).

Bolivian doctor unaware of death case\ A reference in matters of altitude, Jorge Flores suggests changing football rules\ Cahê Mota\

In Machu Picchu, there was already a defense for games at altitude

The controversy surrounding the holding of games at altitude without an acclimatization period gained a new chapter this Tuesday with the news outlet "Lance!" reporting the death of a player in Potosí during an inter-provincial tournament. The news, however, took one of Bolivia's leading authorities on the subject by surprise: Dr. Jorge Flores, former president of the Bolivian Football Federation's medical commission, current member of CONMEBOL's anti-doping commission, and medical advisor to Blooming.

"I didn't know about that news. I was in the US at the time, but to this day, I've never heard of a player dying on the field at altitude. Until 1995, we studied 2.748 players and didn't find any fatal cases. The most common problems detected were encephalitis (headache) and vomiting."

Jorge Flores, a collaborator on studies commissioned by Cornell University in New York, presents data confirming the benefits of high-altitude games for home teams.

We studied over 3.600 matches played by teams and national teams, and it was found that teams adapted to altitude win about 80% of the points. There's an advantage, but it can be offset.

For the doctor, who lives in the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, changes to football rules appear to be fairer solutions than restricting games at altitude.

- A greater number of substitutions would protect the health of the players and put the teams on a more equal footing. I believe at least six. Wear and tear is greater in the last 15 minutes of the first half and the last 30 minutes of the second. These changes could solve this problem. There is a pilot plan on this subject, and I believe it should be tested initially in Bolivia.

Romário increasingly far from Gávea

Kléber Leite and Marcio Braga practically rule out Baixinho's return to Flamengo

Cahê Mota

President Marcio Braga not knowing about the Romário issue in Gávea

While Romário left Vasco saying he would soon have a grand welcome party at Flamengo, the news coming from Gávea isn't good for the little one, at least for now. About to decide the Campeonato Carioca title and the future of the Libertadores, the directors have left the matter "in God's hands."

"There's a rush to say the matter is closed. In reality, what we have is this: yesterday (Monday) we met and concluded that any action that would distract from the club's focus is unfeasible at this time. It's not in our best interest to divert the matter from our priorities. What may happen in the future, only God knows," declares Kléber Leite.

Despite the vice president of football's caution not to close the matter, there are rumors that Marcio Braga is against any kind of celebration. The president is emphatic when commenting on the topic.

"We need to end this discussion and stop talking about it. The matter is on hold. Let's put the focus where it belongs."

Without a contract with Vasco since last Sunday, Romário traveled this Monday with his family and friends to the Caribbean, where he will spend ten days while waiting for an offer to return to the field.

Rubro-negros resigned to the altitude

Despite the board's efforts, players say they 'have to face any difficulties'

Cahê Mota

Bruno believes Flamengo must prepare psychologically for the match against Cienciano at altitude. Flamengo's board is constantly fighting against playing at altitude and trying to avoid the 3.360 meters of Cuzco. The club is hopeful and awaiting a final decision from CONMEBOL on the matter after a meeting next Thursday in Asunción. However, the mood within the Flamengo squad is one of complete resignation. Not even the news of a player's death in Potosí, reported Tuesday by the newspaper "Lance!", was able to bolster the athletes' discourse.

"We're worried, but we're in the middle of football and we have to face any kind of difficulty we face. The field factor, the altitude, these off-field dangers. We have to face them to honor our club's jersey and meet expectations," says midfielder Kleberson.

The five-time champion, who faced the 3.660-meter altitude of La Paz in 2002 for Atlético Paranaense, shows confidence in the work carried out by the coaching staff and prefers not to get involved in political matters.

"That's up to the board. We're here to play. Preparations have been underway for a while now, we're taking medication, and that's important. Everyone who goes there suffers; it will be an important game, but we have to forget about that and trust the club's professionals to perform well."

Famous for his controversial statements, goalkeeper Bruno was another who seemed resigned to the issue.

"Playing up there is always more difficult and can be quite damaging, but we have to prepare ourselves, especially psychologically, to go out there and play. Our qualification depends on it. Let's approach it as if it were the game of our lives. It's a final. This isn't the time to shift responsibility," declares the number 1, who faced Real Potosí 3.850 meters above sea level in the 2007 Copa Libertadores.

Lawyer confident in altitude veto

Pedro Trengrouse defends Brazilian clubs and Fla may not be forced to play in Cuzco

Flamengo may still have hope of avoiding playing at 3.400 meters above sea level in Cusco against Cienciano in the Copa Libertadores. Attorney Pedro Trengrouse, who represents Brazilian clubs in this matter, guarantees this.

Conmebol will meet this Thursday, and he believes it may not be to ratify what was agreed in January, as FIFA maintained the restriction on matches over 2.750 meters at the last executive committee meeting in March.

"The decision to restrict high-altitude matches was made in October 2007 by FIFA's executive committee. CONMEBOL requested a review, and in March of this year, FIFA not only confirmed the restriction but also reinforced that it be adopted in all international competitions, including the Libertadores," Trengrouse told SporTV Newsroom (watch the lawyer's interview above).

The lawyer hopes that CONMEBOL will decide to accept FIFA's recommendation, even though the competition is still underway. He believes that if the change in stance is confirmed, the athletes' lives will be preserved.

"It's important to make it clear that this isn't a sporting issue; it's not a question of fear of playing here or there, because Brazilian football can compete with anyone, anywhere. We're dealing with a humanitarian issue, which is the risk to the lives of athletes who practice sports at these altitudes without proper acclimatization," he states.

Trengrouse points out that home-field advantage, the reason given by those interested in holding matches at altitude, is not absolute. After all, if a club doesn't have a minimum capacity in its stadium or adequate safety conditions, the match must be played elsewhere.

If CONMEBOL maintains the high-altitude matches, there is still hope for Brazilian clubs. They have filed a request with the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland, to compel the South American Confederation to comply with the restriction. Trengrouse expects an injunction this week.

Cienciano striker provokes Fla

Vassallo hopes that Rio de Janeiro players will stop being so 'whimsical' and play at altitude on the 9th.

Gustavo Vassallo provokes Flamengo

Flamengo still has a slim hope of not playing at the 3.360m Cuzco stadium. To that end, they're awaiting the CONMEBOL meeting next Thursday in Asunción. However, for Cienciano's players and directors, the match on the 9th is more than confirmed for the Garcilaso de la Vega stadium.

Striker Gustavo Vassallo, who scored the Peruvians' goal in the Rio match, criticized the red-blacks' attitude.

"They (Flamengo fans) should stop being so pretentious. I have nothing to say to Flamengo; the answer will be on the field. We're waiting in our stadium and we're ready to win," he told the local newspaper "La República."

embezzlement

Cienciano drew 2-2 with Mineros away from home last weekend. The team is currently in eighth place in the Peruvian Championship and will have two key absences for the match against Flamengo.

Midfielder Julio García suffered a torn ligament in his right ankle and will be out for a month. Striker Chiroque, who tormented Leo Moura on the left wing, suffered a muscle strain and will also be out of action.

THROW

Joel is expected to field reserves on Sunday

Coach says he will separate two teams for next week

Joel is already thinking about the Libertadores clash (Credit: Ricardo Cassiano)

LANCEPRESS!

Coach Joel Santana hinted Tuesday that he will not use his starting players in next Sunday's derby against Vasco da Gama, in the final round of the Taça Rio. He is expected to rest them for next Wednesday's match against Cienciano in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores.

The coach knows the importance of the commitment to the South American competition and will take advantage of the fact that the derby against Vasco doesn't have much value at the moment, as both clubs have guaranteed places in the second round of the Campeonato Carioca.

Mothers worried about the health of the red-black players

Léo Moura and Renato Augusto's mothers fear Cuzco's altitude

Renato Augusto fell ill in Potosí last year (Credit: Cléber Mendes)

LANCEPRESS!

The dramatic scene of Renato Augusto wearing an oxygen mask against Potosí (BOL) in last year's Copa Libertadores shocked his mother, Salete Augusto. She and other family members don't want to see a similar situation again, knowing the risk of the game in Cuzco on the 9th against Cienciano, at an altitude of 3.400 meters.

"I'm very concerned because my son told me what he felt during that game. He told me he felt like he was gasping for air, and with the physical exertion, it got worse. I hope there's a consensus so as not to harm the players," Salete said.

Right-back Leonardo Moura's mother, Lenice Moura, didn't see her son collapse from shortness of breath on TV. But she was moved to tears when she saw her son's teammates struggling to breathe and play properly.

"Léo didn't feel anything. But, as a mother, I was very worried about the other players' health. When I saw the shortness of breath, it felt like it was happening to me. I don't have medical knowledge, but I think playing in Cuzco could be risky. I'm worried," commented Lenice.

First place in the group interests Joel

Coach praises Flamengo's good campaign in Carioca

LANCEPRESS!

For those who think Sunday's derby against Vasco will be a friendly for Flamengo, coach Joel Santana assures that it won't be. Although he has already announced that he will field his reserves, he doesn't hide his desire to finish the Taça Rio in first place in Group A, ahead of Fluminense.

"Being first is always good. We went through the entire championship without losing points to smaller teams and tied with Madureira. Even so, we became the leader after Flu's stumble. That's what matters. I like seeing my team in pole position, in first place, without choosing an opponent. It satisfies our ego and the fans' ego," he emphasized.

Flamengo is in first place in Group A with 16 points, the same number as Fluminense, which has a goal difference of one less (9 to 10). Flamengo will face Vasco da Gama and Fluminense, Madureira. Both games will be on Sunday at 16 p.m.

Flamengo players intensify physical training

Training seeking the best form lasted about two hours

LANCEPRESS!

After working on their fitness on Tuesday morning, Flamengo's players returned to training this afternoon. The session lasted about two hours. The goalkeepers worked separately.

Coach Joel Santana is taking advantage of the week without games to get some players back in shape. Flamengo returns to action on Sunday against Vasco in the final round of the Taça Rio qualifying round.

The team will return to the field next Wednesday, when they will face Cienciano, from Peru, initially at the altitude of Cuzco, in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores.

Flamengo beats Madureira with Paulo Sérgio's show

Rubro-Negro wins 3-2 and striker becomes top scorer for juniors

LANCEPRESS!

Altitude worries Flamengo players

LANCE! report impacts the red-black squad

Renato Augusto suffered at altitude in Potosí last year (Credit: Cleber Mendes)

LANCEPRESS!

After LANCE! published a report from two Bolivian doctors on the risks of playing at altitude, Flamengo players commented on the news during training on Tuesday. Midfielder Kleberson recalled a moment in his career, when he was still playing for Atlético-PR and had to play against Bolivar in La Paz, at 3.660 meters above sea level.

"We had an excellent first half and opened up a four-goal lead. But in the second half, we felt the ball was lighter, we couldn't keep up with the guys, we tired faster, and we let it end," the player said of the match that ended 5-5 in the 2002 Copa Libertadores.

The game against Cienciano will be in Cuzco, which is 3.860 meters above sea level, and will be important for Flamengo, as the Bolivian club is a direct rival in the fight for a place in the round of XNUMX of the competition.

"Either way, we have to go there. Our qualification depends on it. Playing there is always more difficult, so we have to prepare ourselves, including psychologically. Thinking too much gets in the way," admits goalkeeper Bruno.

Despite the obligation, the players regret having to face these conditions.

"Our health comes first. We know it's bad (playing at altitude), but we have to stay calm. We get paid and we have to go out there and play," Kleberson concluded.

Read an excerpt from the fax about altitude risks

Fla receives document from Bolivian doctors, who denounce even death

LANCEPRESS!

Flamengo received a fax last Friday from two Bolivian doctors outlining the risks of practicing physical activities at very high altitudes. The experts wrote about the results of their studies and expressed frustration at reporting the death of a player playing in these conditions.

Read the excerpt from the fax that Flamengo received:

"...the Bolivian football authorities hired an institution specializing in the subject, which includes doctors from Bolivia and Mexico. We were very frustrated when we performed the tests (electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, electroencephalograms, blood counts, etc.). The final results demonstrated the danger a human being faces when practicing sports at unacceptable heights. Even more so when the doctors learned that an athlete had died in Potosí while playing in an interprovincial championship."

Players return to Gávea

Flamengo prepares for next week, which will be decisive

LANCEPRESS!

After two days off, Flamengo's players returned to training in Gávea on Tuesday. They participated in a morning training session led by the club's fitness coach, Ronaldo Torres.

During this training session, players complete several circuits on the Gávea pitch, and their performance is monitored by computer. The training aims to prepare the team for the decisive week ahead for the Red-Blacks.

In addition to Sunday's derby against Vasco in the final round of the Rio Cup, the club will face Cienciano (PER) in Cusco next week, a match for the lead in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. Intensive physical training will be conducted to prepare the players for the Peruvian city's 3.380-meter altitude.

The following weekend, Flamengo will decide a spot in the Taça Rio final against Botafogo or Vasco. Depending on the team's final standing in Group A, the coaching staff may only have one day of training before the decisive State Championship match.

Adilio points out Fla's crucial game

idol of the Nation recounts his experiences at altitudes

LANCEPRESS!

Former Flamengo player and fan favorite Adílio was a guest on this week's LANCE! na Rede program. Among the topics discussed during the chat, the current coach of the Flamengo youth team highlighted the game he considers crucial for the club this semester.

"This game against Cienciano-PER, at altitude, will be very important for Flamengo. If the team wins, it will give everyone more credibility," he comments.

Check out the LANCE! program on Rede with the full interview and highlights from the weekend's round of state championships across Brazil.