The Globe
Fla tries to finish among the top three
The team faces Náutico in an important game for players like Maxi and Léo Medeiros.
RECIFE. Both teams have virtually nothing left to aspire to in this Brazilian Championship. With 61 points, Flamengo aims to remain in the top three to avoid having to compete in the Copa Libertadores qualifying round, a prominent position it hasn't achieved since 1995, when it finished fourth—better than the fourth-place finish it achieved in 1992, when it won the championship. Náutico, with 46 points, is out of the relegation zone, and this afternoon's game at 16 p.m. at Estádio dos Aflitos serves only as a fitting farewell for the Pernambuco fans.
One point behind Santos, Flamengo is ahead of Palmeiras, which has 58. If the São Paulo team beats Atlético-MG in São Paulo, the two teams would be tied on the number of wins. But Flamengo has a four-goal advantage in goal difference (7 to 3) and is also superior in the third tiebreaker, number of goals scored (55 to 47).
To drop to fourth place, Flamengo would have to squander its five-goal advantage. They would have to lose 2-0 to Náutico, and Palmeiras would have to defeat Atlético-MG 3-0. But the match isn't just important in terms of numbers. For some players, like Argentina's Maxi and midfielder Léo Medeiros, it's important to end the year making a good impression.
"When you play for Flamengo, you always have to win. Every game here is special. The fact that we're already qualified doesn't matter. Flamengo always has to win," said Maxi.
For Léo Medeiros, the situation is a bit more complex. His skillful left-footedness, his vision, and his tactical obedience weren't enough to make him a starter. Nothing against his virtues. He suffered the repercussions of the resentment surrounding his origins: he was one of the signings made from Ipatinga, still under Waldemar Lemos's management, and later suffered even more due to the fans' antipathy towards Ney Franco.
Despite this, he was one of the rare survivors. Under Joel, he proved his worth as a versatile player, according to the coach, "creative and rarely misplaces passes." A player who can play in a variety of positions and follows instructions to the letter, his effectiveness was demonstrated by the number of times he was called upon. In 2007, he played 34 games, winning 18, drawing seven, and losing nine, scoring five goals, two of them from free kicks. Of the 25 games under Joel, he appeared in 17, coming on as a substitute in 14.
- I want to end the year with a good performance and a victory to start 2008 with high morale - says Léo Medeiros, aware that the competition in midfield next year will be very strong.
Referee: Paulo César Oliveira (SP-FIFA).
TRANSMISSION: Rede Globo and Rádio Globo
Rio progresses but still seeks the path to the cup
Players point to progress, but ask for attention to the structure and are concerned about the swelling of the State Championship
CASSIO: CARIOCAS increasingly closer to a Brazilian title
LUIZ ALBERTO: changing mentality to have winning teams
JUAN: PLANNING as the key for Rio to continue evolving
TÚLIO: STRUCTURE still needs to be equalized to that of other states
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
A not-unlikely combination of results in today's round could see the four Rio de Janeiro clubs finish in the top half of the Brazilian Championship. This feat, unprecedented in the points-based era, is just one indicator that Rio de Janeiro football enjoyed its best season in recent years in 2007.
After 23 years, two Rio teams—Fluminense and Flamengo—will compete in a Copa Libertadores. Flamengo broke another record: for the first time since 2003, the year the points system was introduced, a Rio team finished in the top four. In 2007, besides achieving their best percentage performance, another unprecedented event is happening to Rio teams: relegation wasn't a specter in the final stretch. The last Rio team to win the Brazilian championship was Vasco, in 2000.
However, there's still a long way to go before the Brazilian title is won. O GLOBO spoke with the players. They believe that investment in infrastructure and attention to planning are restoring competitiveness to the Rio de Janeiro team. However, they warn that the structure still requires more attention and are wary of the 16-club State Championship.
WHAT HAS IMPROVED
CASSIO: "Rio de Janeiro's football industry has managed to increase its level of investment. Previously, only São Paulo clubs could invest in top players. This mentality is changing. People no longer join just to participate, but with the goal of trying to win titles."
LUIZ ALBERTO: "I was away from Rio for a long time (seven years). During that time, some clubs went through difficult times. I think the mentality changed. This year, I came back and saw a lot of changes. Clubs are investing in big-name players and competing in the market, even if these players are abroad. The result is the presence of two Rio de Janeiro players in the Copa Libertadores. And there's another factor: players from outside Rio de Janeiro come here with the culture that it takes a strong hand and commitment, and they pass this on to the Rio de Janeiro players."
JUAN: "The clubs understood the formula of the points-based championship and assembled larger squads. The managers stopped thinking only about trying to have eleven good players. That's not enough to compete in the Brazilian Championship."
TÚLIO: "The clubs are trying to organize themselves. A few years ago, their reputation was very bad. Even signing players was difficult. The clubs realized that without professionalism and credibility, tradition doesn't win games. In 2003, when I arrived at Botafogo, the situation was terrible. But there were never any broken promises. Then I started to believe in people."
STRUCTURE
CASSIO: "Some time ago, the difference compared to other states was huge. Today, it has narrowed. Vasco provides us with all the working conditions."
LUIZ ALBERTO: "At this point, there was also a change in the mindset of the management. The way of working changed, and I found Fluminense already building a Training Center. This will be an important step forward."
JUAN: "If we compare it to Europe or some other clubs in Brazil, there's a lack of a qualified training center. It's important to have a specific place for professionals to work. But it's not just a Rio issue. Brazilian soccer as a whole is behind in this regard. The Rio teams might be behind only Cruzeiro, São Paulo, and Atlético-PR. But there's room for improvement. It would be important."
TÚLIO: "The structure still needs improvement. And Botafogo has made a huge leap forward since 2003, but it still lacks a training center at the level of Botafogo's. Even speaking in terms of Brazil, we see clubs like Cruzeiro, Atlético-PR, São Paulo, and Goiás that are well-equipped. The board has this project, and Botafogo lacks something similar. At Caio Martins, we don't feel like we're at a training center. It's a stadium that isn't in the best condition, although it has a good pitch. Even for the club's status, Botafogo should have its own training center. With everything organized, the players feel obligated to perform."
IMAGE OF THE RIVER
CÁSSIO: "When we talked to some players, they said it was crazy to come to Rio. Over time, this image changes. Players from other states come here and see what the reality is like."
LUIZ ALBERTO: "The good results on the field are helping to end the reputation that Rio clubs only want to train on the beach. While I was away from Rio, I always heard that people don't work here, that people only like to train for a period of time and go to the beach."
JUAN: "When a player negotiates with a club in a state where he's never played, he always seeks information, especially about issues related to salary and fulfilling commitments. The Rio clubs, despite some difficulties, are organizing themselves and providing more security to their players. It's now more common to see well-known players here, some who played outside of Brazil and came to Rio. This is a good sign."
TÚLIO: "The image of Rio de Janeiro football has improved, but this is a process. It's common for some players to still ask a few questions before coming. In 2003, when I left Goiás, I came to Rio de Janeiro with trepidation. It had never crossed my mind to play here. I had offers from other places, but I believed in the long-term project that Botafogo's board offered me. And there's another factor: Rio de Janeiro football continues to be an important showcase, mainly because the brands of Rio de Janeiro clubs are so strong."
SALARY
CASSIO: "I can't talk about values, but I see the teams from Rio, São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Rio Grande do Sul forming a bloc as the main investors. I think Rio has managed to insert itself into this group."
LUIZ ALBERTO: "Those of us who know the market know that Rio is not far behind, if not among the top in terms of pay levels. I speak for Fluminense. The player comes to the club without any doubts. Consequently, we know he is committed to giving his all."
JUAN: "If we make a comparison with the average in Brazilian football, the clubs from Rio de Janeiro fit in perfectly."
TÚLIO: "Today, especially at this time when the market is more active, we see that Rio clubs can compete on equal terms. Taking an important player from a Rio club was once easy for clubs from other states. Today, it's much more difficult. When my FGTS (Severance Indemnity Fund) problem with Botafogo arose, offers came in, but I preferred to stay."
OTHER MARKETS
CASSIO: "What's been happening most is seeing players from other states come to Rio. We're not losing out in the competition for reinforcements from other centers in the country. When players leave Rio, it's to play abroad."
LUÍS ALBERTO: "Today I include Rio in the elite of Brazilian football. Many players want to come here."
JUAN: "If I were to leave Flamengo, it would be to leave Brazil. In Rio, we have important clubs, large fan bases, and working conditions and salaries that are in line with the national average. Unless there are special circumstances, the normal thing is to just swap Rio for Europe."
TÚLIO: "I feel like I'm in the elite of Brazilian football. I no longer see Rio as inferior to São Paulo. They both have the same number of clubs in Serie A and, occasionally, one or the other sees one of their clubs in a difficult situation. This year it's Corinthians."
STATE WITH 16 CLUBS
CASSIO: "I think Rio de Janeiro football can handle 16 clubs well from a technical standpoint. The problem is that with 12 clubs, the schedule was already tight, with no rest before the Brazilian Championship starts. It's going to be even tighter. This needs to be viewed with caution."
LUÍS ALBERTO: "I think the change is positive. With 16 clubs, other clubs from Rio will be able to develop. For some time now, we've seen clubs from the interior of São Paulo reaching important stages of competitions like the Copa do Brasil. Perhaps the clubs from Rio will have more space and reach a higher level."
JUAN: "The schedule is already tight and could get worse with the increase in the number of games. But it could have the positive side of giving opportunities to more players and more clubs, which could earn more."
TÚLIO: "I'm not talking about the quality, but about the calendar. It's already exhausting, and the number of games will increase. Clubs will have to build large squads and prioritize competitions at certain times."
PATH TO THE TITLE
CASSIO: "Before, we needed an avenue to see a Rio de Janeiro team become Brazilian champions. Today, we need a street. We need to invest in planning, and the clubs are on the right track."
LUÍS ALBERTO: "There are some details missing. The players need to believe that the Rio clubs are committed to winning titles and can achieve them."
JUAN: "The clubs are on the right track. We need to continue working and continue to pay attention to issues like structure."
TÚLIO: "Botafogo has a solid, consistent path like no other club. I have a contract for another three years and I'm sure that, during this period, Botafogo will win a national title."
Learning to play
For the first time since 2003, a Rio native is among the top four in the Brazilian Championship.
Gian Amato
After literally chasing after the odds, Rio's teams are beginning to learn how to compete in the Brazilian Championship. For the first time since the system was created in 2003, at least one Rio team will finish in the top four. Or even two. Flamengo is in third place and won't fall out of the top four, even if it loses to Náutico. Fluminense, in fifth, must beat Santos and hope for a Palmeiras loss or draw. For Rio's promotion to be complete, Botafogo and Vasco must beat Figueirense and Paraná, respectively, and hope for Atlético-MG to lose. This way, all four clubs will finish in the top ten, something that has never happened before.
"This demonstrates the rise of Rio de Janeiro football. The clubs are preparing better for the Brazilian Championship," said Renato Gaúcho, Fluminense coach.
It wasn't always this way. In the race for the top of the table, everyone started from scratch, but the Rio de Janeiro team was left in the middle of the pack in a system dominated by São Paulo teams, with the exception of Cruzeiro, champion in 2003. Santos won in 2004, Corinthians in 2005, and São Paulo in 2006 and 2007. In the year Cruzeiro won the title with 100 points, Fluminense scored almost half as many (52) and finished 19th, threatened with relegation. Vasco finished 17th with 54, and Flamengo finished 8th with 66. Together, they had 172 points. Botafogo was playing in Série B.
Vasco's dream hit the post
The following year, three Rio de Janeiro teams avoided relegation. Botafogo, recently promoted to Série A, finished 20th with 51 points, closely followed by Flamengo, 17th with 54. Vasco also had a poor campaign, finishing just one place ahead of the red-and-black team, with the same number of points. The highest-placed team was Fluminense, in 9th with 67.
In 2005, the year that 11 matches were annulled by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) and Corinthians' controversial title was lost, only Flamengo, threatened with relegation until the 37th round, failed to qualify for the Copa Sudamericana. Flamengo finished fifth and was the best team.
Vasco was the closest club to the Libertadores, which in 2008 will be contested by Flamengo and Fluminense. In 2006, the spot was just around the corner. With Inter already qualified for the tournament as champions in 2005, the team from São Januário needed to finish fifth. But in the last minute of the final match, against Figueirense, Leandro Amaral hit the post, losing the goal and the spot to Paraná.
The recipe for the title still lies with São Paulo, a two-time points champion, this year with four rounds to spare. At least the Rio de Janeiro team, somewhat belatedly, has learned the ropes.
Ancelmo Gois
Prayer to Saint Jude Thaddeus
Flamengo president Márcio Braga attributed the miracle of getting Flamengo to the Copa Libertadores to Saint Jude Thaddeus. Since the saint is all the rage, the columnists decided to make a few requests of the miracle worker:
May the tributes to Dom João VI, whose arrival 200 years ago was fundamental for territorial integration, make Lula see that the history of Brazil did not begin with him, let us pray.
For planes to take off and land on time, let us pray.
For a virus to destroy answering machines ("please wait, the operators are busy", "to speak to the concierge press 2") and leave the function to real people, let us pray.
For FH to stop being prejudiced when talking about Lula's lack of formal education, let us pray.
So that Antônio Fagundes and not Aguinaldo Silva is the main character in "Duas Caras", let us pray.
That Chávez and other offspring of dictators in Latin America may surrender to democratic practices, let us pray.
So that Juliana Paes doesn't lose so much weight and preserves her, let's say, assets, let's pray.
To avoid the vice of gerunds, such as "we will be providing", "I will be confirming the data", let us pray.
So that the so-called privileged forum of politicians is not a sign of impunity, let us pray.
So that Sérgio Cabral doesn't travel abroad so much, let us pray.
Let us pray that Bush's term ends soon.
Let us pray that Cesar Maia will take greater care in preserving the Portuguese stones of Rio.
So that Saint Jude Thaddeus does not abandon Flamengo (never!), let us pray.
Fernando Calazans
Upstream
Thus we arrive at the final round of the year, pleased to welcome a timely comeback from Rio de Janeiro soccer, as readers can see in today's detailed report here at GLOBO. A comeback that, at the beginning of the year, seemed to be in the hands of Botafogo, then the most attractive team, but ended up in the hands of Flamengo, the most successful team of the season.
Flamengo won the state championship and, confirming its title and superiority, finished as the best-placed Rio team in the Brazilian Championship. The first success was still in full swing during its Ipatinga era, and the latter under a new era, represented by Joel Santana, Fábio Luciano, Ibson, and other fine players more suited to Rio's cosmopolitanism.
Besides Botafogo's early brilliance and Flamengo's thrilling late comeback, Fluminense is already preparing to participate in the next Libertadores Cup, thanks to its Copa do Brasil victory. Another Rio feat.
Vasco... well... Vasco was the most absent from this sort of resurrection of Rio's football. (For example: this is the first time, since the introduction of the points system, that a Rio club has finished among the top four in the Brazilian Championship. In this case, Flamengo).
Vasco, as I was saying, Vasco needs an internal reaction that never comes, either because the club's influential members are completely satisfied with this second-rate role in Brazilian football, or because the irregularities really distort the election results, to the point that the last one is still sub judice, awaiting a court decision, which is still a long way off.
Even in a year somewhat favorable to the Rio de Janeiro team, Vasco demonstrated no power to react. Let's see if the Vasco fans can put the club back on track next year.
Coaches played a significant role in Rio's rise through the ranks. Despite all the setbacks, it was Cuca who gave Botafogo a style of football closer to its glorious black-and-white past. It was Renato Gaúcho who elevated Fluminense, especially in the Copa do Brasil.
Joel Santana, let alone the rest. In fact, there is talk, as everyone already has. And, I'd add, even another veteran, Valdir Espinosa, despite arriving late in the season, brought some fresh air to Vasco's stale system.
Joel Santana and Renato Gaúcho, whether they exchanged barbs or not, will remain at their clubs. But, strangely, Botafogo and Vasco have yet to reach an agreement with Cuca and Espinosa.
It would be good if they did. There's no reason in sight for Rio clubs to change coaches next season.
Shortly after agreeing to terms with Flamengo on Friday, a delighted Joel Santana appeared at the anniversary celebrations of ESPN Brasil's Rio de Janeiro branch, accompanied by vice president Kleber Leite and supervisor Isaías Tinoco. If that atmosphere continues, Flamengo will climb even higher next year.
For those who, like me, thought that, despite the success, Flamengo's midfield was a bit underpowered, Joel had some good ideas. He said three men have already been chosen: Ibson, Renato Augusto, and Kleberson, the latter being Flamengo's first (and welcome) addition for 2008. Everyone spoke enthusiastically about him. Another player the coach admires is Cristian. He would be the midfield of a truly promising Flamengo: Cristian, Kleberson, Ibson, and Renato Augusto. Is that really true, Joel?
Renato Mauricio Prado
Divorce in sight?
Flamengo may change one of its main sponsors next year. Although the current contract with Nike runs until the end of 2008, the club has received offers from other industry giants, and one of them (Italy's Lotto) is offering amounts double what the "Just Do It" group is currently paying—even offering to pay Flamengo's termination fee.
The red-black football department, however, does not want to rush, as it understands that other significant brands in the sports equipment sector may express interest in the exposure that the club will have next season, due to the Libertadores dispute - and also the promise of putting together a great team, to compete, with real chances, for the Brazilian title.
Running on the outside, in the fight for the most popular "sacred mantle" in Brazilian football there is even a large Brazilian company: Alpargatas.
By the way: how much are Nike and Flamengo losing out on with this unbelievable (and amateurish) lack of red-and-black shirts on the market - just when the team is achieving one of its greatest feats in recent years?
Maracanã isn't Fonte Nova, but Suderj better not play with fire. During last Sunday's game between Flamengo and Atlético Paranaense, in several sections of the stands (notably the green and yellow to the left of the radio booths), where there should have been only one person seated, there were three standing: one on the seat and two in the space in front of it. Not to mention the completely packed entrances and stairwells.
The scheme of gatecrashers and fraud at turnstiles (using the same ticket to admit several fans) continues to operate at full steam, causing overcrowding.
The only solution is to make it mandatory to sit in assigned seats (a FIFA World Cup sine qua non requirement). Will we have to wait for another tragedy to implement this?
Sports Journal
Romulo should return earlier than expected
Rômulo appears to be one of the players happy with coach Joel Santana's renewal. While on vacation, as he's still unable to play due to knee surgery, the player took the opportunity to analyze his season and warns that he should return to training sooner than expected.
"I hope to return to training in the preseason," said Rômulo, who took the opportunity to analyze his year at Fla.
"It was a good year for me, and it only wasn't better because of my injury. I'm no longer a promise, I'm a reality," he added. Rômulo will continue receiving treatment in Gávea during the holidays.
Adaílton\ Rumors linking Santos' Adaílton to Flamengo were refuted yesterday by the club's board. According to Rio de Janeiro officials, the player is very expensive. Earlier this year, Kléber Leite tried to sign the defender, but he preferred to stay with the São Paulo club.\
Now, all that's left is you!
After Cristian's renewal, only one of coach Joel Santana's starters has yet to have his contract.
Bruno has a chance to continue, but his case is a bit complicated
After Cristian's contract renewal, only one of coach Joel Santana's starting players has yet to renew with the country's most popular club. And to the dismay of the great red-and-black nation, goalkeeper Bruno's renewal appears to be much more complicated than expected. Just like six months ago, the group of investors who hold a portion of the player's rights are looking to take him to Europe.
Flamengo's executives are doing everything they can to keep him at Gávea, but investors' obsession is likely to complicate matters. With the goalkeeper's approval, the club plans to buy his economic rights and keep him for another four seasons.
Vice President of Football Kleber Leite confessed that Bruno's case will not be the easiest, but promised fans that he will do everything possible to keep the goalkeeper at Gávea.
"We'll do everything we can to renew Bruno's contract, but it's a very difficult situation. Of the renewals, I think this one is the most complicated, but we won't give up," he said.
Considered the best goalkeeper in Brazil by Flamengo fans, Bruno was upset not to be named the Brasileirão's star goalkeeper. But with the support of his teammates and the support of the fans, he has recovered and intends to show his critics that he has a chance to one day wear the Brazilian jersey. Bruno arrived at the club midway through the 2006 Brasileirão. During his summer break, he wants to avoid the topic of renewal, preferring to leave everything in the hands of his agent.
Win so as not to have distress
With Maxi, Fla needs to triumph to avoid the risk of losing the direct spot in the Libertadores
Nathan de Lima
Striker Maxi is one of the red-black weapons to triumph over Náutico today, in Aflitos
Flamengo takes the field today at 16 p.m. at Aflitos Stadium, already qualified for next year's Copa Libertadores. But to motivate his players against Náutico, another team with nothing to lose in this final round, coach Joel Santana urged his players to be serious.
To leave the Brazilian Championship in style, the Rio team needs to beat the northeastern team and hope for at least a draw from Santos, who face Fluminense, at Vila Belmiro.
If these results hold, Flamengo will confirm one of the greatest runs in Brazilian football history, having been second to last at one point and finishing second. Flamengo still has a chance of losing its direct Libertadores berth to Palmeiras and having to participate in the so-called "Pre-Libertadores." This would only happen if the São Paulo team thrashed Atlético-MG and Flamengo lost to Náutico.
"I want to stay in the Libertadores, no matter what position I'm in. But just because I'm qualified doesn't mean this game doesn't matter. It does. We're going there to close out the year with a good win," said Joel Santana.
In addition to a possible runner-up finish, Flamengo fans will see an interesting duel between Argentine Maxi Biancucchi and Uruguayan Acosta, who four months ago attracted Flamengo's interest, but as his agent was trying to hold an auction, the Flamengo board decided to forget about the athlete.
Maxi Biancucchi, who earned a starting spot in attack alongside Obina, said that this match with Acosta has everything to spark a lot of fire. "It's going to be a great duel, Acosta is a great player and matches between Uruguayans and Argentines always have a lot of fighting," said Argentine Maxi Biancucchi.
The other new addition to the match is the continued presence of defensive midfielder Léo Medeiros, who will replace the suspended Jaílton. The player said he'll make the Timbu fans tremble in Aflitos. "That's exactly what we're aiming for in Recife: to make their fans nervous. We're going to finish the Brasileirão with a bang," said Léo Medeiros.
Joel Santana assures that he has nothing against the gauchos
After making statements that provoked Fluminense coach Renato Gaúcho, whom he calls "baby," Joel Santana tried to calm the situation and didn't want to take the controversy any further. Joel simply insisted that he has nothing against the Gauchos, as a Rio de Janeiro newspaper published a statement in which he said that "you can't expect anything good from the Gauchos."
"I just want to make it clear that I've never had anything against the Gauchos. I used to work at Internacional and everyone was always very kind to me and treats me very well to this day. This has nothing to do with my problem with Renato Gaúcho," Joel told Rádio Bandeirantes.
Fla faces 25-year taboo in Recife
Last victory over Náutico away from home, in Brasileiros, was in 1982
Wallace Teixeira
Flamengo's next opponent in the Brazilian Championship is Náutico. The Rio de Janeiro team has already qualified for the Libertadores, while Timbu, in turn, has secured its place in the Brazilian football elite next year. The first match between the two teams in Brazilian Championship history was in 1972, and Flamengo won 1-0 in Recife.
However, Flamengo hasn't defeated Náutico in Pernambuco in a Brazilian Championship match for 25 years. Their last triumph was in 1982, when Flamengo won 4-3 at Arruda Stadium.
This Sunday's game will be at Aflitos, and the last two times Flamengo faced Náutico at this stadium they ended in a 0-0 draw, in 1990 and 92.
Dates set for the semifinals
The Rio de Janeiro State Basketball Federation has set the dates for the semifinals of the men's state basketball championship. Flamengo, Vasco, Fluminense, and Liga Macaense have qualified for this stage of the competition. The matches will be decided in a best-of-three format.
Macaense League x Flamengo – 06/12/2007\ Flamengo x Macaense League – 08/12/2007\ Flamengo x Macaense League – 09/12/2007 (if necessary)\
Fluminense x Vasco – 07/12/2007\ Vasco x Fluminense – 09/12/2007\ Vasco x Fluminense – 10/12/2007 (if necessary\
O Dia
The Secrets of Joel Santana
Coach reveals, for the first time, what he writes down on his inseparable clipboard
Marluci Martins
Rio - Father Zé Roberto, of the Resurrection Parish in Copacabana, knows all of Joel Santana's sins. It is before him that the Flamengo coach kneels weekly to confess his mistakes and, repentant, ask God for forgiveness.
Joel won't reveal these secrets under any circumstances. They remain between him, Father Zé Roberto, and the 'Man Up There.' But he's agreed to share the ones on his clipboard, written in scribbles and scrawls, with the readers of 'Attack.'
Joel Santana's eight secrets have propelled Flamengo to next year's Copa Libertadores. The team can secure the Brazilian championship runner-up spot if they beat Náutico at Aflitos Stadium and Santos loses to Fluminense.
The game, starting at 16 p.m., is a luxurious friendly. But Joel will still be with his clipboard in hand, bringing his secrets to the field. And then, he'll be thanking God.
>>> I treat the player like a son. I show affection. I don't hit him. I show the player that I need him and that if he doesn't help me, things won't happen. If I want to ask for something, I'm not the coach, but 'daddy.' I say something like: "Daddy wanted to ask you something..."
>>> I deliver my lecture as if I were performing a play. As I speak, I sense how I'm connecting with the player. And, of course, I have crucial help from psychologist Paulo Ribeiro, who provides us with stunning images.
>>> They wanted me to leave my defense completely exposed, but I knew that by playing confidently, I would win the game. They say I use four defensive midfielders, but on my team, I don't have a fixed defensive midfielder or a marker. Everyone knows how to get out into the game. So, in my system, I can move into different situations, depending on the need.
>>> I'm from Olaria, and I'm happy to say so. I have a corner. I like that suburban chatter. We've earned the fans' trust. Flamengo reflects the people's image. Me too. And it's not out of demagoguery that I stop at the taxi stand to chat with the driver. I'm from the North Zone, and I like it. I identify with the red-and-black 'nation.'
>>> I said to Fábio Luciano: "Don't you think you're getting too many yellow cards? You're a noble man. Learn to complain more nobly..." And he never got a yellow card again...
>>> Honesty is my greatest quality. And I have one flaw: I'm very annoying. I keep saying: "It's wrong, it's wrong, it's wrong..." I repeat this every day, until the guy gets it right. And the guy suffers...
>>> I am enlightened. God helps me a lot. I'm Catholic and go to church once a week. And I confess to Father Zé Roberto, who, if he's not a Flamengo fan, at least seems to be. If I miss a week at Resurrection Parish, he complains. I go to Mass on Sundays when I'm in Rio. If I'm away, I choose another day of the week. Before Christmas, I go to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus to give thanks.
>>> Toró needed some affection. I approached him and said, "I met you like a revelation. What happened? You need to take care of yourself." I managed to motivate him, and he lost weight. Sometimes I have to yell at him: "Stop running, Toró!!! Enough!!! Do you want to die?" At Fluminense, he used to play further forward. Today, he helps defend and gets there to finish. He's the escape valve for Juan, Cristian, and Íbson.
The affection for Flamengo has no limits
Martha Esteves
Rio - Love has no limits, no boundaries, and much less explanation. But it has two colors: red and black. Unconditional love for Flamengo is felt by those who are capable of anything to support the team, whether it's in the relegation zone or close to securing a spot in the Libertadores. In the Brasileirão that ends today, Flamengo fans wrote one of the most beautiful pages in the club's history.
Among 35 million members of the red-black 'nation', one character stood out: Carlos Alvarenga, creator of the Urubuzada fan club and author of the Victory Theme, the soundtrack to the team's beautiful and exciting campaign.
The 45-year-old civil servant is willing to put his family aside to follow Flamengo. This year, he traveled to Potosi, Bolivia, and Uruguay to watch the Libertadores Cup matches. In Rio, he watched every Brazilian Championship match and also traveled to support the team in São Paulo, Belo Horizonte, Porto Alegre, Curitiba, Natal... And today he's in Recife.
Luckily for him, his wife, Barcela Bicalho, 34, a Biology teacher, is also a passionate Flamengo fan, so much so that she has the club's crest tattooed on her stomach and rides a motorbike styled in the colors of her favorite club.
"Our love for Flamengo knows no bounds. I buy flags and pay for travel out of my own pocket. My wife understands and goes with me to every game. Flamengo brings joy to our lives. Our son, Alvarenguinha, is also a passionate Flamengo fan," says Alvarenga.
The small house in Nova Iguaçu is also red and black. In the living room, a huge shield is painted on one wall. On the other, a flag. The sofa and cabinet are also red and black. The kitchen is decorated with red tiles with black grout, eight of which bear the club's crest. In the couple's bedroom closet, more than 300 team jerseys and tracksuits are kept like trophies, a relic.
RACE, LOVE AND PASSION
But nothing prepared Alvarenga for the success of the Victory Theme. After seeing the fans of Botafogo, Fluminense, and Vasco sing love songs to their clubs, he decided to create a song to honor the team. He heard the Victory Theme sung by Internacional fans in a different key and with different lyrics. He was inspired by the drum beat of Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel, which carries the song to a samba rhythm. The lyrics were changed several times before the final version.
"We rehearsed with the Raça drummers, and the song caught on. A guy from Amapá tattooed the lyrics on his body and cried when he met me. It was crazy," he says.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo tries to win the championship against a carefree Náutico\ Gazeta Press\
Recife (PE) - Flamengo bids farewell to its best Brazilian Championship since winning the title in 1992 this Sunday, when it visits Náutico at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Aflitos stadium in Recife. The Rio de Janeiro-based Flamengo is in third place with 61 points and is already assured of a spot in the next Copa Libertadores. The Pernambuco-based team, with 46 points, avoided relegation despite losing 2-0 to Figueirense in the last round. Therefore, Pernambuco's only motivation is to help Uruguayan striker Acosta finish the competition as top scorer. He has 19 goals, one less than Paraná Clube's Josiel, who leads the scoring race.
Flamengo coach Joel Santana believes his team can play a great game this Sunday precisely because they are more relaxed on the field, with their place in the Copa Libertadores guaranteed.
"Flamengo achieved the goal they so desired by securing a spot in the Libertadores, which capped off this fantastic response. We deserved it all, especially the players and the fans, who supported us. Now we're at ease against Náutico and can, relaxed, put on a great performance," said the coach.
But if Joel talks about achieving his goal, the players have found extra motivation to pursue victory. A win against Náutico, combined with a Santos stumble against Fluminense at Vila Belmiro, will give the Rio de Janeiro club the runner-up spot.
"Flamengo always needs to improve its position in the table, and if we have that opportunity, we're already motivated. Furthermore, our motivation is due to the presence of our fans, who are huge anywhere in Brazil. We're going all out in search of a victory," said defender Fábio Luciano.
Joel Santana will be without defensive midfielder Jaílton and midfielder Renato Augusto for this match, as they received their third yellow cards in the 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR and will be suspended. Léo Medeiros will replace him, and Toró will return after being suspended against Furacão. Striker Souza will be rested due to right hamstring pain. Obina will replace him.
Even though they're just playing catch-up, Náutico is aiming for a win against Flamengo to end their run in the Brazilian Championship with dignity. Coach Roberto Fernandes's mandate is to give the fans a treat in their final home game of the year.
"The fans have been with us throughout the year and helped us through the toughest moments. Therefore, we desperately need this positive result to end the year with an even better image. The goal of remaining in the national football elite was achieved. But the fans, quite rightly, want something more, and we must strive to win," recalled Roberto Fernandes.
For this match, Náutico will be without right-back Sidny and defender Toninho, who received their third yellow cards in the 2-0 loss to Figueirense and will serve an automatic suspension. As a result, Vágner Silva will start at defense, and midfielder Radamés will be deployed at right-back.
Souza feels pain in his ankle and is out\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo has a problem for the match against Náutico, which could leave the team in second place in the Brasileirão. This is because striker Souza continues to feel pain in his right ankle and has been ruled out of the final round of the competition by the medical department.\ With Renato Augusto suspended, coach Joel Santana confirmed that the attacking duo for the match against Náutico at Aflitos Stadium will be Maxi Biancucchi and Obina. Furthermore, Toró has confirmed his return to midfield.\
With that, the Rio de Janeiro Red-Black faces Timbu, in Aflitos, with the following formation: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Léo Medeiros, Ibson and Toró; Maxi and Obina
Underutilized, Leonardo leaves Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Striker Leonardo, signed from Paraná to solve Flamengo's offensive problems, completed his final training session this Friday at Gávea and will return to his hometown club. Signed at the beginning of the year, the center forward has scored just six goals in 23 matches, has struggled with injuries, and has yet to gain the favor of coach Joel Santana, who has used him rarely. The player reported being approached by Botafogo, but Paraná has already announced that they will no longer loan him out. Midfielder Cristian, who had guaranteed his stay at Gávea until 2010, could cut short his time with Flamengo if an offer from a European club is confirmed. Flamengo paid US$500 for 50% of the player's federation rights, but is expected to release him if the US$2 million offer, which would be split between Atlético Paranaense and the Rio de Janeiro club, is confirmed.
Vice President of Football Kléber Leite took the opportunity to make it clear that he is no longer interested in signing defender Adailton. After attempting to negotiate with him earlier this season, the director said he no longer wants to count on the player, whose contract with Santos runs until the end of the month and whose rights are tied to agent Juan Figger.
PeléNet
Flamengo and Náutico face off in a "luxury friendly" in Aflitos
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
With their main goals in the Brazilian Championship already achieved, Flamengo and Náutico face off this Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) in Aflitos Stadium for the 38th and final round of the competition. In reality, the duel is a typical "luxury friendly" for both teams.
Confirmed at Fla in 2008, midfielder Roger should start the match on the bench
Weighing the expectations of Rio and Pernambuco, the Flamengo team has a slight advantage. Already qualified for the Copa Libertadores, the team is still fighting for second place in the Brazilian championship, something that doesn't exactly make the players' eyes light up. Flamengo is in third place with 61 points, one point behind second-place Santos.
Without three starters, coach Joel Santana, confirmed as Flamengo's coach for 2008, was forced to make changes. Jaílton and Renato Augusto, suspended for receiving their third yellow card, will be replaced by Léo Medeiros and Maxi Biancucchi, respectively. Souza, injured, will be replaced by Obina. Meanwhile, Toró returns after serving a suspension.
Despite the lack of concrete objectives, the watchword at Gávea is seriousness. And the one who sets the rules is defender Fábio Luciano, the club's captain. "We're not going to play around. Everyone will see a strong team on the field, looking for victory," the defender stated.
As for Timbu, the "sluggishness" is complete. Free from any possibility of relegation, the Alvirrubro can't even change position in the table. With 46 points, in 15th place, they have enough of a lead to avoid being overtaken by Corinthians, 16th, with 43 and three fewer wins. However, they won't catch Atlético-PR, 14th, with 51.
Despite a poor finish, coach Roberto Fernandes has no complaints. "Everyone here fought hard and managed to recover. We escaped an uncomfortable position and secured our place in Serie A. That's the most important thing," said the manager, who will field the same team that defeated Figueirense 2-0 on Wednesday at the Orlando Scarpelli stadium.
BalloonSport
Leonardo says goodbye to Fla
Striker suffered from injuries in the second half of the year and returns to Paraná
Eduardo Peixoto
Released by Flamengo, striker Leonardo will return to Paraná
November 30th marked striker Leonardo's farewell from Gávea. After training, the player left Flamengo knowing he wouldn't return.
Signed at the beginning of the year, he scored some important goals in the first half of the year, but a series of injuries hampered him in the second. Leonardo has been informed that he will have to report to Paraná in early January.
Botafogo intends to sign him, but the Paranistas won't loan him out, only sell him. In 23 games for Flamengo, he scored six goals.
Sanches explains agreement with Flamengo
Corinthians President explains how the partnership for marketing contracts will work
Marcel Rizzo
President Andrés Sanches at Congonhas Airport
Andrés Sanches was in Rio de Janeiro this Thursday at a Flamengo event. He began negotiating a marketing deal with the Rio de Janeiro club, directly with president Márcio Braga. The clubs with the country's two largest fan bases will now negotiate jointly...
"It'll be a great thing for both teams. We'll find someone interested in sponsoring and negotiate together. See what they can offer the two most popular clubs in the country. We'll have much more leverage to secure better contracts," explains Sanches.
This agreement, according to him, is still being drawn up, but the idea is to begin working as early as early 2008, with Corinthians remaining in Serie A or being relegated to Serie B. He gave an example: Corinthians needs to renew its shirt sponsorship with Samsung, for example, until the end of 2008. Flamengo would participate and could also receive funds for having the company as a partner. And Corinthians could do the same in Flamengo's negotiations with Petrobras.
"Will it work? I don't know. But it's something different that we're going to put into practice. A way to try to raise more money," says Sanches.
Initially, a player swap or exchange is ruled out. But, according to the Corinthians president, this is already happening. Take Roger. The midfielder is expected to stay with Flamengo until 2010. Sanches only questions the document in which the Rio de Janeiro club must pay Corinthians US$500 to keep Roger, signed before he took over in October.
"Roger can't play for Corinthians anymore, because of the climate. And the salary is high. He could even leave for free and it would be a good deal for Corinthians," says Sanches.
'Too expensive', Adaílton is discarded by Fla
A businessman is looking for a player, but the Rubro-Negro leadership thinks the player is out of touch with reality.
Eduardo Peixoto
Adaílton is considered expensive for Fla
A businessman approached defender Adaílton and informed him that Flamengo was once again interested in signing him. However, the intermediary's inquiry was made without the club's board's consent.
Although there is indeed interest in a fourth center-back, the club considers the Santos player excessively expensive. A club official said the signing would cost a "truckload of money" and ruled out Adaílton.
In early 2007, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, attempted to sign the player, even giving him a box of chocolates and a Flamengo jersey. However, Santos won the bid. His contract ends on December 31st, and his economic rights belong to businessman Juan Figger.
Fla prepares to lose Cristian
The red-black board knows that the European club is willing to take him out of Brazil
Eduardo Peixoto
Cristian could swap Flamengo for a European club
Cristian confirmed on Friday that he will stay at Flamengo until 2010. But the player's destination could be European football.
According to people close to the midfielder's agent, a European club will make an offer in the coming days to sign the player. The Rio de Janeiro club is aware of the foreign interest and has therefore moved forward to purchase 50% of the player's economic rights for $500.
According to reports, the interested team would pay Flamengo $1 million and Atlético-PR the same amount. Cristian arrived at Flamengo in July, and his contract renewal was a personal request from coach Joel Santana.
A starter in the team's rise in the Brazilian league, the player assured that he would only leave the Gávea team to play in European football.
Fla plays a 'semi-friendly' match against Náutico
Rubro-Negro tries to escape the Pre-Libertadores against a rival guaranteed in the First Division
Maxi starts this Sunday
Náutico and Flamengo achieved their goals in the penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship. This indicates that the match between the two teams, this Sunday at 16 p.m. in Aflitos, will be just a fixture. Right? Maybe so, but the red-and-blacks still have to fend off two possibilities that displease their fans: runner-up and the potential need to play in the Libertadores Cup.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be following the match in Real Time from 15:50 pm, and TV Globo will broadcast live only to Rio de Janeiro.
All week, Flamengo fans have been urging their players to avoid second place, as that position is associated with rival Vasco. But it's worth noting that if Flamengo moves up, its prize money will also increase.
"I want to stay in the Libertadores, in the best possible position. Whatever comes is a bonus," declares coach Joel Santana.
In third place with 61 points, the Rio de Janeiro team could lose its direct spot in the Copa Libertadores if it loses and Palmeiras thrashes Atlético-MG in São Paulo. If this combination of results occurs, Flamengo will have to advance to the Copa Libertadores.
Throw
Acosta is the star of the Recife team
This Sunday's opponent is always mentioned in Gávea because it was against Náutico that the Rubro-Negro, then in 19th place, began their push for the Libertadores. On that occasion, Leonardo Moura scored late to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
Game? What game?
However, the week at Gávea was a time of partying. It didn't even feel like there was a game left. There was much more talk about contract renewals—Joel, Bruno, Roger, Cristian—than about the possibility of the game harming the red-and-blacks in 2008.
"But we're not going to play games. Fans who go to the stadium will see a strong Flamengo team looking for victory," says defender and captain Fábio Luciano.
Flamengo will be without Jailton and Renato Augusto, who are suspended, and Souza, who is injured. Leo Medeiros, Maxi, and Obina will be the substitutes, respectively.
In 15th place, with 46 points, Náutico is free from the threat of Série B. Alvirrubro lost to Figueirense, 2-0, but managed to stay in the First Division thanks to the defeats of Corinthians (to Vasco, at Pacaembu) and Goiás (to Atlético-MG, at Mineirão).
Timbu can no longer even dream of a spot in the Copa Sudamericana. However, Náutico's farewell to its fans will be marked by celebration, as coach Roberto Fernandes' team managed to avoid relegation to the Segunda Division.
Timbu coach Roberto Fernandes praised the team for remaining in the Brazilian football elite after Wednesday's match:
"Worse than the sadness of defeat is the shame of not fighting. And this team fought hard. Congratulations to everyone," he celebrated.
Throw
Joel asks Uruguayan Acosta for attention
Coach guarantees that Flamengo still has aspirations in the Brasileirão
LANCEPRESS!
On the eve of Flamengo's last game in the Brasileirão, this Sunday, against Náutico, at Aflitos, coach Joel Santana has already defined the main target of his marking: Uruguayan Acosta, Timbu's striker.
"The game will be dangerous, fast-paced, and packed. My concern is with Acosta. He's aiming for the top scorer spot, and we can't allow that," the "Man with the Pancheta" preaches about the Uruguayan, who has scored 19 goals in the Brazilian Championship, one less than top scorer Josiel, from Paraná.
However, Joel says he is not worried about conceding goals from the second-highest scorer in the Brasileirão, if his team wins:
- If he becomes the top scorer, at least we will have to come away with the victory - he concludes.
Fla goes to Aflitos in search of second place
Rubro-Negro will not have Renato Augusto and Jaílton, both suspended
LANCEPRESS!
Relieved to remain in the Brazilian First Division next year, Náutico hosts Flamengo this Sunday afternoon at 16 p.m. in Aflitos for the final round of the Brazilian Championship. Náutico is in 15th place with 46 points, while Flamengo, seeking second place, is in third place with 61 and has already secured a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores.
For Náutico, who lost to Figueiredo last week, the Brazilian Championship is no longer worth anything, as they no longer have a shot at a spot in the Copa Sudamericana, nor are they at risk of relegation. Náutico benefited from Atlético-MG's midweek wins over Goiás and Vasco da Gama's win over Corinthians.
For this match, as usual, Alvirrubro coach Roberto Fernandes kept his lineup a secret, but it's expected to be the same one that faced Figueirense last round in Florianópolis. The only change could be the return of striker Felipe in place of Marcelinho, who didn't perform well against the Santa Catarina team.
Already qualified for the Libertadores, Flamengo will only lose third place—last among those guaranteed a spot in the group stage—if they lose the match and have their goal difference advantage (seven to three) over Palmeiras erased. A win, however, combined with a Santos loss to Fluminense at Vila Belmiro, would guarantee Flamengo second place.
In the first round, Flamengo won. With goals from Fábio Luciano and Léo Moura, Flamengo beat Naútico 2-1, with Felipe scoring the only goal. The match, valid for the 19th round of the Brazilian Championship, marked Flamengo's return to Maracanã after the Pan-American Games.
Flamengo will be without Renato Augusto and Jailton, suspended after receiving their third yellow card, as well as Souza, who has a problem with the Achilles tendon in his right ankle.
Joel Santana believes in the best coach award
Coach acknowledges the good work he did, but bets on Muricy
LANCEPRESS!
Praised by the press and fans for having led the biggest comeback of a club in the points-based era, coach Joel Santana admitted that he has a good chance of winning the award for best coach in the Brasileirão, next Monday, at the Theatro Municipal.
- Muricy is deservedly the favorite to receive the trophy, but I believe the work I did was very good and a surprise could arise - he explains.
For this Sunday's game against Náutico, in Aflitos, the coach awaits the support of the northeasterners and asks for peace.
- I hope you come in peace and that you support our team as always and that you watch a great show.
Juan guarantees: the priority is not to be a top scorer
With six goals, the left-back shares Mengo's top scorer list with Ibson
LANCEPRESS!
With six goals in the Brasileirão, left-back Juan, along with midfielder Ibson, is Flamengo's top scorer in the championship. Despite this, the number 6 isn't getting carried away with his scoring streak:
- If I finish as the team's top scorer, it would be really cool, but I'm putting that on the back burner.
Even with qualification for next year's Libertadores guaranteed, Jean guarantees that his team will be focused on this Sunday's duel against Náutico, in Aflitos.
"We have an obligation to win, but we're calm for Sunday's match. What we had to worry about is over, which was the game against Atlético Paranaense."
Ibson is not worried about Fla's artillery
Midfielder shares the lead in goals for the red-blacks with Juan
LANCEPRESS!
One of the main reasons Flamengo qualified for the Copa Libertadores, midfielder Ibson says he's not worried about being Flamengo's top scorer in the Brasileirão. In the competition, he and Juan have scored the most goals for Flamengo—both with six. Léo Moura and Souza—the latter of whom is out due to a right ankle problem—share second place in the scoring charts with five. Obina, with four, is a close second.
"I'm not even thinking about that. Our concern is to continually improve in the competition," he assures.
The player also guarantees that he is not worried about being the scorer of the goal in a possible red-black victory against Náutico, this Sunday, in the last round of the Brasileirão.
- The important thing is that Flamengo wins, regardless of who scores the goal - he concludes
Diego is out of the match against Náutico
Flamengo's reserve goalkeeper has an ankle injury
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo goalkeeper Diego is out of the match against Náutico at Aflitos, in the final round of the Brasileirão. He has a right ankle injury that will prevent him from playing.
The athlete, a reserve since Bruno's arrival, should be replaced on the bench by Marcelo Lomba who, like Diego, is also a product of Gávea.
Fábio Luciano demands victory over Náutico
Defender highlights the importance of closing the year with a flourish\ LANCEPRESS!\
Being runner-up in the Brazilian Championship is an idea that doesn't sit well with most Flamengo fans. In their opinion, Vasco holds the title. However, for defender Fábio Luciano, the important thing is for the team to win, and he demands a good result against Náutico this Sunday at Aflitos Stadium.
"It's a chance to climb the table. We'll play with a lot of focus and determination. The fans will be there, and we hope to get another win to finish the year strong," he emphasized.