Clipp March 30

Flamengo news in the media

By - in 30/03/2009 às 17:13

THE GLOBE

Cuca sees Fla rising at the right time in the State Championship

Cuca sees Fla rising at the right time in the State Championship \ Coach Cuca sees Flamengo's team evolving at the right time in the Rio Cup. He believes that with a victory over Americano tomorrow at 19:30 p.m. in Campos, the team will already qualify for the competition's semifinals. He considers this an essential effort. \ "We scored eight goals in two games. Little by little, and with everyone's effort, the team is growing at the right time to arrive in the Rio Cup semifinals with momentum," the coach warns. \ For Cuca, the team took a while to find its best form. But there was a process of renewal and commitment from the entire team in the last few matches. \ With 11 goals and sharing the competition's top scorer spot with Resende's Bruno Meneghel, striker Josiel says that confidence is everything. \ "Last year, nothing went right. This year I worked hard, I had support, my confidence returned, and things are going well in the fight for the top scorer spot." \

SPORTS JOURNAL

Emerson available against Fluminense\ Vinicius Castro\

Rio de Janeiro - Striker Emerson's debut was scheduled for tomorrow's match against Americano in Campos last week. However, the coaching staff opted to preserve and improve the conditioning of the new number 11 for the red-and-black team.

With that, the player is being prepared to be available for coach Cuca in next Sunday's derby against Fluminense at Maracanã. Initially, Emerson will be on the bench, and Josiel will continue as the starting striker.

Tense Wednesday at TJD/RJ

Legal Department fights to absolve five members of the red-black squad

Vinicius Castro

Rio de Janeiro - Besides needing to beat Americano tomorrow in Campos, Flamengo will face a real legal battle on Wednesday at 17 p.m. at the Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice (TJD/RJ). Due to the incidents that occurred during the classic against Vasco da Gama on March 22nd at Maracanã, the Club's Legal Department, through attorney Dr. Michel Assef Filho, will have the arduous task of defending five members of the Flamengo squad, preventing the club from entering the match against Fluminense in Sunday's classic at Maracanã without any players.

Midfielders Willians and Aírton, now midfielder Leonardo Moura, goalkeeper Bruno, and coach Cuca will sit in the dock to await the referees' decision. The most complicated case is that of the Flamengo coach, who was accused of "disrespectful behavior," punishable by a suspension of up to 180 days. All of this happened because Luiz Antônio Silva dos Santos reported in the match report what the coach said when he was sent off in the 41st minute of the second half. According to the referee, Cuca gestured in protest at the call for a foul against Flamengo and was sent off. Before heading to the locker room, the Flamengo coach addressed the referee and said, "Go f— you... You son of a b—h..."

Cuca denied swearing and accused the Rio de Janeiro referees of being excessively harsh. JS reporters attempted to contact Dr. Michel Assef Filho, but were unsuccessful.

Zé Roberto will not face the Americano

Player still feels injury suffered in his right thigh

Rio de Janeiro - Flamengo midfielder Zé Roberto even took part in recreational training this Monday, in Gávea, however, he is out of the game against Americano, this Tuesday. \ The player left training before his teammates and appeared not to be fully recovered from his right thigh injury. Therefore, the midfielder was ruled out of the Rubro-Negro match, which will be held in Campos. Zé Roberto felt the injury in the club's 4-0 victory against Resende last Saturday. \ On Monday, the player had not felt any pain in the area during training, until he kicked the ball up high, which caused him to feel the discomfort again and leave the field next to the club doctor. \

The red-black coach, Cuca, has not yet defined his replacement for the match against Americano.

Loterj sponsors Flamengo basketball

Rio de Janeiro - Flamengo basketball has another reason to celebrate: it has secured its first grant to cover its expenses. The club, which launched a jersey sales campaign, has reached an agreement with Loterj.

The Rio de Janeiro state agency will pay approximately R$80 (in four installments of R$20) for a sponsorship contract until the end of the NBB season. Each installment covers 10% of Flamengo's monthly payroll.

Flamengo fans cause damage to Engenhão

Flamengo fans were detained after an act of vandalism.

Rio de Janeiro - According to the Engenhão administration, Flamengo fans attending the match against Resende last Saturday destroyed approximately 20 seats in the south section of the stadium. Security cameras captured three fans from a Flamengo fan club vandalizing the seats.

The troublemakers were detained and taken to the 26th Precinct in Méier. According to Engenhão administrators, each broken chair costs approximately R$70 to repair, and Botafogo will seek compensation in court.

This isn't the first time something like this has happened. Last year, Flamengo fans broke 14 chairs at the Engenhão stadium during a match between Flamengo and América.

The savior gunner

Josiel celebrates his redemption at Fla and his leadership in the Carioca scoring charts, alongside Bruno Meneghel

Lucas Cascão

Rio de Janeiro - In the Guanabara Cup, Flamengo was suffering from a plague that was destroying all of its offensive "scoring" potential. Then-starter Obina failed to score a single goal in 12 games. Flamengo needed a savior. And no one better than Josiel, Flamengo's "Jesus," to bring back the scoring bonanza to Flamengo's attack. In the last two games, the striker scored no less than five goals, taking over the starting spot, and, as a bonus, became the top scorer, alongside Resende's Bruno Meneghel. Overjoyed with his good form, the top scorer took the nickname as a joke, but he doesn't want to hear that kind of comparison.\ "It's a joke from the fans. I think it's cool, but there are no comparisons in that sense. I can't compare myself to Jesus. Except for the fact that, after a lot of distrust here at Flamengo, I managed to get back on my feet."\ However, Josiel has also had a tough time at Gávea. Last year, the striker didn't show the same consistency and spent much of his time on the bench. His performances even led to criticism from the club's fans.\ Even in 2009, the striker wasn't a unanimous choice and was even benched for Obina in several matches. Despite all the problems, Josiel never stopped believing he could turn things around. \ "I've always been calm, since last year, when I had few opportunities and didn't score. I always knew I would score again, no one forgets," he concludes.\ Interest\ Josiel's good form has also changed the Flamengo board's view on his continued presence. Instead of releasing him at the end of his contract, the club is exploring ways to keep him longer. However, their interest is hampered by the high termination fee.\ The athlete's contract with the club ends in June and, to extend it, Flamengo will need to pay two million dollars. \

Josiel joins the artillery and explains his good form

Rio de Janeiro - Striker Josiel is a machine. With five goals in the last two games, the number 9 helped Flamengo secure victories and, in addition, became the top scorer in the Campeonato Carioca. This Saturday, the striker scored twice in the 4-0 rout of Resende at Engenhão.\ "Now we're equal and we're going to fight game by game. Today, he (Bruno Meneghel) didn't score, thanks also to our defense that collaborated a lot and I'm in the fight. It's important and I'm pursuing this particular objective. But helping Flamengo win," says Josiel, who shares the top scorer award with Bruno Meneghel.\ The striker also explains the Rubro-Negro's improved performance by adopting a different approach and recapturing the quality of his playing, which had been heavily criticized. For Josiel, the strong collective performance influenced his individual performance. \ "The team started playing well again, with a different approach. And with that, individual ability grew. The defense, for example, didn't concede a goal. Everyone is gradually improving, and this is the result: goals and victories. We were trying hard, but we didn't have that desire to win. That wasn't working. Today's victory was based on hustle and will," says Josiel.\

4-0 win brings revenge for Flamengo

Josiel scores twice and becomes the top scorer in the Carioca Championship

Raquel Lima - rlima@jsports.com.br

Rio de Janeiro - Purifying victory. Flamengo finally shook off its GB Cup semifinal defeat with a scoring spree at Resende. The 4-0 rout this Saturday at Engenhão secured revenge for the Rubro-Negro, who put in a more convincing performance than in recent games. Josiel scored twice and took over the championship's top scorer spot. Zé Roberto and Kleberson also scored to seal the victory. Young Erick Flores didn't score, but put in a talented performance and made the most of the second opportunity given to him by coach Cuca. With the result, the team from Gávea is top of Group B.\ Flamengo showed early determination and threatened just two minutes in. Juan crossed from the left, Ibson headed the ball, and on reflex, Cléber saved. Resende didn't give them any trouble, and possession was Rubro-Negro's. The game flowed at a sluggish pace, with few scoring chances. But in the 16th minute, Zé Roberto made a good run through the middle and passed to young Erick Flores on the right, who missed. It was no spectacle, and the show consisted of misplaced passes on both sides.\ In the 27th minute, Juan arrived quickly down the left flank and crossed into the box, but the defense cleared the danger. Two minutes later, Márcio Gomes received a direct red card for a tackle on Erick Flores. With an extra man, Flamengo woke up and pressed, but were thwarted by Cléber's excellent saves. \ Flamengo dominated, but their attack was hampered by Resende's marking, which also capitalized on some of Flamengo's lapses to launch a counterattack. In the 42nd minute, Juan reached the byline and sent a low cross that Léo Moura, who tapped into the corner and found the Resende goalkeeper's fingertips. A minute later, another great save: Ibson unleashed a rocket from outside the box, and Cléber sent it out for a corner. \ Josiel and the evil revenge of Mengão\ Flamengo came out refreshed for the second half and quickly found the goal they'd been searching for in the first half. Two minutes in, Zé Roberto crossed from the left to Josiel, who was unmarked, and he lived up to his reputation: he slid in and opened the scoring for Flamengo.\ In the seventh minute, Erick Flores showed his talent with a superb individual play, shooting and forcing Cléber to palm the ball away. Flamengo's signs of improvement were evident. The second goal wasn't long in coming: in the tenth minute, Everton Silva made a run down the right, the ball passed Josiel, and the goalkeeper rebounded, which Zé Roberto capitalized on to send into the back of the net for the second. Flamengo dominated the match, enough to score two more. Josiel received the ball from Juan and fired a powerful shot into the goalkeeper's right corner: 3-0. Late in the game, in the 44th minute, they scored the goal that sealed the rout. Everton Silva split the ball, and the ball fell to Kleberson, who slotted it home: 4-0. And revenge for the GB Cup elimination was well-deserved.\ FLAMENGO 4 X 0 RESENDE\ Flamengo: Bruno; Everton Silva, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Willians, Ibson (Kleberson), Erick Flores (Maxi Biancucchi) and Leonardo Moura; Ze Roberto (Jonatas) and Josiel\ Coach: Cuca\ Resende: Cléber; Bruno Leite, Breno, Naílton and Marquinhos; Márcio Gomes, Fred, Bruno Reis (Hiroshi) and Léo (Souza); Bruno Meneghel and Viola (Taércio)\ Coach: Carlos Roy\ Date: 28/03/2009 (Saturday)\ Location: Engenhão, in Rio de Janeiro (RJ)\ Referee: Willian de Souza Nery (RJ)\ Assistants: José Carlos de Arruda (RJ) and Ronaldo Kennup (RJ)\ Yellow cards: Zé Roberto and Ibson (FLA); Viola and Souza (RES)\ Red card: Márcio Gomes (RES)\ Goals: Josiel, at three and 20 minutes, Zé Roberto at ten and Kleberson at 43 minutes of the second half \

Mengão wants revenge

Fla hosts Limeira at Maracanãzinho thinking of getting revenge for the defeat suffered away from home

Pedro Ivo Almeida and Thiago Barros

Rio de Janeiro - Flamengo, the team with the best record in the 2009 New Basketball Brazil (NBB), has a tough game on Monday night at the Maracanãzinho Gymnasium. Flamengo faces Limeira (SP) starting at 19 p.m. in a match valid for the third round of the competition's second half. But much more than that, the game is considered a rematch at Gávea.\ Leading the tournament with 28 points (15-3), but still with a game in hand (Assis, in the sixth round of the first half), Flamengo meets again the team that ended its unbeaten streak in the competition: playing in the interior of São Paulo, the team from Gávea was defeated by Limeira 108-101, in the fifth round of the first half. A tough game, against a team of great quality.\ "It's a very difficult match. Limeira has been playing very well, they have a well-coordinated team, a strong defense, and an efficient attack. They're a very composed team that's growing in the competition," he analyzes.\ The star also mentioned a trio of players from the São Paulo team who give any opponent a hard time. Renato, Nezinho, and Shamell are the red-and-black team's biggest concern ahead of the match later today at Maracanãzinho.\ "They have a very strong trio, with Renato, Nezinho, and Shamell, who share the team's leadership well. We need to be attentive and work the ball intelligently, because they know how to capitalize on their opponent's mistakes. We're playing at home and we're going after this win. They're a tough team, so we have to stay focused from start to finish," says the captain, the league's top scorer with 395 points (an average of 26,3 per game).\ Marcelinho Machado is still close to achieving significant personal milestones while wearing the red-and-black jersey. In a year and a half with Flamengo, the winger has amassed 2.368 points (an average of 25,5 points per game), bringing him close to 2.500 points and also to the 100-game mark for the Gávea team: so far, he has played 93 matches wearing the "Sacred Mantle" number 4 on his back. \ Sponsor\ Flamengo secured its first funding to cover its basketball expenses. After launching a jersey sales campaign, the club reached an agreement with Loterj, which will pay approximately R$80 (in four installments of R$20) for a sponsorship contract until the end of the NBB season. Each installment covers 10% of Flamengo's monthly payroll.\

Fla reassumes leadership of the NBB

Brasília stumbles against Bauru, and the red-black team returns to first place in the table

Pedro Ivo Almeida and Thiago Barros

Rio de Janeiro - Universo/Brasília lost the lead in the New Basketball Brazil (NBB) to Flamengo. The team from the Federal Capital lost 100-97 to GRSA/Itabom/Bauru on Friday night. Consequently, they no longer have the best record in the League and, with one more loss than Flamengo, dropped to second place. More of a leader than ever, Flamengo is preparing for a rematch against Limeira.\ The reigning São Paulo champions defeated the Gávea team in the first round of this NBB qualifying round in the interior of São Paulo. Now, playing at Maracanãzinho, Flamengo hopes to get revenge and continue their good run. They've already won four consecutive matches at the stadium, and the goal is to maintain their strong record.\ "Our group is fully focused on winning the championship twice, working hard with the help of God, we will get there," says coach Paulo Chupeta.\ Ending a controversy sparked last year is also a goal for Chupeta's team, albeit indirectly. The club's title win last season without the presence of São Paulo clubs was widely questioned. Now, even with them, Mengão remains virtually unbeatable.\ "The top four teams in the standings are exactly the same as the last National Championship. As I said, I don't think any team from São Paulo would have taken our title from last year, contrary to what many think. Even so, we have to respect all the teams, because what's happening is a competition that shouldn't be talked about too much; the important thing is to work," adds the coach.\ Baby out?\ The "disappearance" of Rafael Araújo, known as Baby, after halftime of the Flamengo-Paulistano game last Friday night piqued the curiosity of Flamengo fans. More than one explanation has been offered for the situation. The first explanation suggests Baby felt unwell. However, everything indicates the matter may be more serious: an injury to his left foot.\ The center reportedly had a blister that became a constant nuisance, preventing him from returning to the court in that match. According to sources close to the Flamengo coaching staff, the player may even undergo surgery and be out for between a month and a month and a half, thus missing the team in the final stretch of the NBB qualifying round.\

Mengão massacres Paulistano

The red-and-black team crushes its opponent and continues to put on a show in the Basketball League

Eduardo Vieira, Thiago Barros and Pedro Ivo Almeida

Rio de Janeiro - "It's not easy not to beat my Mengão." The phrase from the new hit that the red-black Nation has been playing in the stands reflects well the campaign of the Gávea team in the New Basketball Brazil. Coach Paulo Chupeta's team has lost only two games in the championship and this Friday achieved another easy victory at Maracanãzinho: 105 to 71, over Paulistano, with 23 points from Jefferson, the game's top scorer. \ Neither Marcelinho nor Baby. The star of the night was Jefferson William. The number 18 was on fire and, perfect from the three-point line, scored 16 of the Flamengo's 27 points in the first quarter. Defending strongly, coming out quickly on the counterattack, and following the power forward's excellent performance, Flamengo quickly opened up a lead on the scoreboard, putting the lead over Paulistano at around ten points before closing the quarter at 29-19.\ In the second quarter, the lead only widened. Without their star player, Dedé, who injured his right foot in pre-match training, Paulistano couldn't compete against Flamengo. Aware of this, Paulo Chupeta began bringing on his reserves, and even then, it was all down to Mengão, who finished the second quarter five points ahead: 52 to 37.\ While Paulistano took the court without Dedé, Flamengo lost Baby for the second half. The center felt unwell and didn't return from the locker room at halftime. Even so, Flamengo had no trouble continuing their traditional game and opening up an even bigger lead. Duda, with his sharp aim on long-range shots, and Hélio on the drive increased the lead to 81-54.\ The match was already decided in the final quarter, but Marcelinho and company didn't slow down. The number four wasn't spared by coach Paulo Chupeta, remaining on the court, and leading the red-and-black team to a 105-71 victory. Marcelinho finished the game with 21 points.\ Baby don't worry\ The fact that Baby felt unwell during halftime isn't a concern for the Flamengo coaching staff. The player will undergo medical examinations to confirm the true cause of his illness. Despite this, Flamengo's number 55 is almost guaranteed to play in Monday's match against Limeira.\

THE DAY

Mengão massacres Paulistano

The red-and-black team crushes its opponent and continues to put on a show in the Basketball League

Eduardo Vieira, Thiago Barros and Pedro Ivo Almeida

Júlio César: 'Once a Flamengo, always a Flamengo'

Rio - Distance doesn't erase true love. Even after four years in Italy, Júlio César follows Flamengo news online, and whenever he runs into a former teammate, he tries to find out how things are going at the club. And it seems nothing has changed since he left: salaries are still late, players are unhappy, and crowd even more demanding and thirsty for national titles.

The goalkeeper, who grew up in the club's youth ranks, leaving in 2005, is "eternally grateful to Flamengo" and has grand plans for his return: even presiding over the "Most Beloved." But a lot of water would have to flow under the red-and-black bridge for the goalkeeper to take such a courageous step.

"I would love to work as president, because I really like Flamengo, but because of everything I experienced there and the things I've been hearing, I find it difficult to think about that now," he says evasively.

In a conversation with full-back Juan, when they were called up to face Chile, he was saddened to learn that the club was facing its usual financial and political problems. He spoke of his desire to help the club, even financially.

"But it was just lip service. Because I wouldn't help with money since there are a lot of people there who don't contribute anything and only hinder the club," Júlio César fumes.

On the positive side, he highlights the work of Bruno, “a goalkeeper with personality”, technically good and who has maintained consistency, and the affection of the fans, who have never forgotten him.

“I want to send a hug to all Brazilians, whether red-and-black or not, who enjoy good work,” he says. \ Júlio César is like that: he pleases all the fans.\

Zé Roberto regrets missing Fla's match against Americano

Rio - After training on Monday morning, the day before the match between Americano and Flamengo in Campos for the seventh round of the Rio Cup, the club's medical department ruled out midfielder Zé Roberto from participating in Tuesday's match. The player experienced muscle pain in his right thigh again, forcing him to leave the match against Resende last Saturday in the 16th minute of the second half, and was therefore left out of the group that traveled to the city of Rio de Janeiro.\ Since arriving at Flamengo, the midfielder had been used in attack, outside of his original position. However, in the last two matches, coach Cuca opted to play him in midfield, where he prefers to play, and according to him, his performance has improved significantly.\ "I was very upset about this injury just as I was figuring out how to play for the team. I didn't want to miss this match, but unfortunately, I can't play without the risk of aggravating the injury to the point where I'll miss the rest of the competition," he said.\ Even though he is disappointed with what happened, Zé remains optimistic and is already thinking about returning to team in style. \ "I'll be undergoing intensive treatment this week to be fit for the derby against Fluminense next Sunday. It's the kind of match no player would want to miss, and it's no different for me. Dispute a Fla-Flu with a packed Maracanã would be fantastic”, said the number 10 from Gávea\

Cameras capture red-and-black fans vandalizing the Engenhão stadium

Rio - The Engenhão administration informed that the crowd The red-and-black club destroyed approximately 20 seats in the south section of the stadium. The stadium's security cameras caught three fans from an organized fan group vandalizing the seats.

They were detained and taken to the 26th Police Precinct in Méier. According to Engenhão administrators, repairing each broken seat costs approximately R$70, and Botafogo will seek legal action for the damages. Last year, Flamengo fans broke 14 seats at Engenhão during a game of Rubro-Negro against América.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Josiel, the 'Jesus of Gávea', vents: "I haven't forgotten how to score goals"

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)

Five goals in two games and joint-top scorer in the Campeonato Carioca, alongside Bruno Meneghel, with 11 goals. This is Josiel's recent record, having almost left Gávea at the end of last year, established himself in Flamengo's attack.

"I knew I hadn't forgotten how to score goals and I knew I would score again. I've always been calm. Since last year, when I had few opportunities and didn't score," said Josiel after scoring twice in the 4-0 win over Resende on Saturday.

Because of his 'resurrection,' Josiel jokes about the nickname Jesus given to him by the fans. "It's a joke, I think it's cool, but there are no comparisons in that sense, except for the fact that, after a lot of distrust here at Flamengo, I managed to get back on my feet," commented the gunner.

Josiel was signed in August of last year as a solution for the club's attack, backed by his 20 goals against Paraná in 2007, finishing as the club's top scorer. However, he took a while to adapt, suffering a four-month goal drought, and nearly leaving the club at the end of the year.

With a redemptive season in 2009, Josiel turned the tables. Now, Flamengo's board, despite a severe financial crisis, dreams of extending the striker's loan, which ends in June. To keep him, however, they'll have to shell out US$2 million.

Cuca defines this Monday Flamengo who faces Americano

Gazeta Press \ Rio de Janeiro - RJ) \

Flamengo coach Cuca will only define the team's lineup for Tuesday's match against Americano at 19:30 pm (Brasília time) at the Godofredo Cruz Stadium in Campos, in the penultimate round of the Taça Rio, during training this Monday.

The tendency is for him to repeat the formation that beat Resende 4-0 on Saturday afternoon, however treinador still needs to wait for the medical department's decision. This is because midfielder Zé Roberto left the match complaining of a twinge in his right thigh and underwent an imaging test this Sunday. Only this Monday will Cuca be informed whether the former Botafogo player will be able to play.

"We'll wait and see what really happened with Zé Roberto and see if he can help us against Americano. I hope we can count on the player, as the match will be decisive for our team," said Cuca.

If Zé Roberto is ruled out, the Argentine Maxi is likely to get an opportunity. There's also a chance that Emerson, signed last week from Qatari football, will make his debut.

The game is important for Flamengo, as it could determine their qualification for the semifinals early. To achieve this, the Red-Black team needs win and hope for a combination of results, which involves other teams in Group B stumbling in clashes with teams from Group A.

"We know that it won't be easy to win in Campos and so we shouldn't worry about what might happen in the other matches in the group," said Cuca.

With two goals from Josiel, Flamengo thrashes and gets revenge on Resende

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)

In the Guanabara Cup semifinal, Resende surprisingly eliminated Flamengo with a 3-1 victory. This Saturday, in a match played at Engenhão and valid for the sixth round of the Rio Cup, Flamengo exacted revenge on their opponent, winning 4-0 and remaining in contention for a spot in the competition's semifinals.

Now the Gávea club has 13 points and leads Group B, while Resende remains with seven points in Group A, with almost no chance of repeating the feat of the first round.

Flamengo's victory was deserved and only missed out on a larger goal difference due to goalkeeper Cléber's outstanding performance and the attackers' lack of accuracy. Resende played a reinforced defensive system to try to contain the opponent and lost any ability to react after being reduced to ten men. Márcio Gomes was sent off midway through the first half.

With two goals in the rout, striker Josiel tied the scoring lead with Resende's Bruno Meneghel, both with 11 goals. In the next round, Flamengo will visit Americano, while Resende will face Friburguense.

The game: Flamengo started the match by pressing forward to prevent Resende from having space to play the ball. Just two minutes in, team The red-and-black team created its first opportunity when Leonardo Moura crossed into the box, Ibson completed, and goalkeeper Cléber palmed it away for a corner. The pressure mounted by Cuca's team prevented the ball from reaching forwards Viola and Bruno Meneghel, who were completely isolated up front.

With Leonardo Moura dropping down the right and Juan receiving a lot of pressure, Flamengo moved the ball quickly, trying to entangle the Resende defense. Despite dominating the match, Flamengo only created another scoring chance in the 18th minute. Zé Roberto cut through the Resende defense and passed to Erick Flores, who shot wide. In the 28th minute, the same Erick Flores tried from the edge of the box, but Cléber again saved confidently.

A minute later, Márcio Gomes brought down Erick Flores violently and received a red card. Viola complained a lot about the player's attitude. referee and was cautioned with a yellow card. With an extra man on the field, Flamengo completely dominated the match, but persisted in sending crosses into the box, which were consistently blocked by Resende's defense. The visiting team only appeared near the red-and-black penalty area again in the 40th minute, when Bruno Reis fired a shot that goalkeeper Bruno firmly saved.

In the final minutes, Flamengo unleashed a veritable blitz in Resende's box in search of the opening goal. In the 42nd minute, Juan crossed, Leonardo Moura caught it first time, and Cléber stretched to make a great save. On the corner kick, the ball fell to Ibson, who unleashed a shot from the edge of the box, and Cléber went to the box to send it out for a corner. In the final play of the first half, a cross from the right found Juan free, but the full-back fired over, wasting another great chance.

The second half began with the same scenario as the first. Flamengo was on the attack, and Resende was simply defending without any attacking ambition. And just three minutes in, Cuca's team opened the scoring. Zé Roberto crossed from the left, Resende's defense failed to clear, and Josiel appeared to slide in and tap the ball into the net.

With the advantage, the red-and-black team began to play more calmly, passing the ball around and waiting for Resende to open up before counterattacking. Even so, the team had a chance to extend their lead through Erick Flores, but inspired goalkeeper Cléber made another fine save.

In the tenth minute, Flamengo extended their lead with Zé Roberto, who headed in an Everton Silva cross. In the 15th minute, the same Zé Roberto forced goalkeeper Cléber to work again. Soon after, the midfielder suffered a muscle injury and had to be substituted.

In the 20th minute, Flamengo scored their third goal, again through Josiel, who received a precise pass from Juan. Soon after, Cuca's team had a chance to score a fourth, but Willians' shot hit the Resende post. With the match decided, coach Cuca decided to rest some players, but the team continued to dominate the action against a strong opponent who was only trying to prevent the score from getting too tight.

In the 35th minute, Argentine Maxi Biancucchi hit the left post of Resende after a good play by Leonardo Moura. In the 44th minute, after a confusing play in the box, the ball fell to Kléberson who struck with his right foot to seal the match and transform the Engenhão into the stage for a great celebration of crowd red-black.

PELENET

Zé Roberto will indeed be missing from Flamengo against Americano

Pedro Ponzoni\ In Rio de Janeiro\

What was expected was confirmed on Monday morning. Attacking midfielder Zé Roberto is out of Flamengo's match against Americano this Tuesday at Godofredo Cruz Stadium, in the seventh round of the Taça Rio, the second round of the State Championship.

The player injured his right thigh during Saturday's 4-0 rout of Resende. While attempting a shot, he fell to the ground in severe pain and was promptly substituted. On Monday, he tried to push through and participated in the start of training at Gávea.\ However, the red-and-black number 10 soon complained of discomfort in the area again and left the training session early. Shortly after, it was confirmed that he would not be able to face the Alvinegro de Campos team.\ "I was very upset about this injury because I was fitting into the team. I didn't want to miss this game, but unfortunately I'm not in a position to play and risk aggravating the injury. This could keep me out of the State Championship," said the attacking midfielder.\ With Zé Roberto out, coach Cuca could bring on Jônatas, as he did in Saturday's match. Another option would be to move Erick Flores forward and return Airton to protect the defense. \ Two other alternatives would be to play Kleberson in the midfield, also moving Erick Flores forward, or even a more daring option, with Maxi Biancucchi in the front line, alongside Josiel, and just one defensive midfielder: Willians.\ Traffic causes delay in training\ Traffic in Rio de Janeiro caused a delay in Flamengo's training session on Monday morning. Goalkeeper Bruno, defender Fábio Luciano, and forward Obina arrived forty minutes after the scheduled start time. Coach Cuca, however, preferred to downplay the incident. \ "I don't see any problem with that. I would even hold a tactical training session this Monday if I needed to make any changes to the team. They know what needs to be done," he said.\

"To tell you the truth, I found out through you (journalists). Anyway, I'd rather not joke about it. It would be interesting to think about it. In my opinion, it was a nickname people gave him because Josiel has long hair. Besides, Easter is coming up," said the coach.\ The striker himself reiterated this Monday that he prefers to leave such comparisons regarding his appearance to the fans. He also stated that he finds the nickname offensive. The striker has a habit of celebrating his goals by thanking the heavens. \ "It's a joke from the fans. I prefer to stay out of it. Besides, I think it would be blasphemy if I accepted that nickname," he said.\ Last weekend, the center forward stated that the only similarity between him and Jesus was the fact that both managed to turn things around. Josiel recalled that he arrived at the club surrounded by suspicion, but managed to start the season well, scoring many goals.\ "It's a joke from the fans. I think it's cool, but there are no comparisons in that sense. I can't compare myself to Jesus. Except for the fact that, after a lot of distrust here at Flamengo, I managed to get back on my feet," he said, referring to Jesus' resurrection.\ Josiel's good form has already led the board to reconsider the possibility of simply releasing him at the end of his loan contract, which expires in June. However, the club's financial crisis could get in the way. To keep the player at Gávea, Flamengo will have to shell out US$2 million (approximately R$4,6 million). When asked if he wants to stay at Rubronegro, the player dodged the question. He noted that he's in good form, but things could change.\ "It's even difficult for me to talk about it. Things are calmer for me today, but in three months things could change. In any case, I'd rather not worry about my contract right now so as not to get in my way," he concluded. \

Since becoming a starter, Erick Flores has given Flamengo a new look

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

After a 2-0 loss to Vasco, Flamengo bounced back in the Taça Rio, the second round of the Rio de Janeiro State Championship, with two routs: 4-2 over Madureira and 4-0 over Resende. Coincidence or not, it was from this moment that Erick Flores stepped into action.\ A starter for the team in the last two matches, Erick didn't score, but he was actively involved in plays that ended with the ball in the back of the net. Now, the 19-year-old point guard hopes to maintain his strong performance streak and lead the team from Gávea to the Rio de Janeiro title.\ "I had a very good match against Madureira. This boosted my confidence and I played more calmly against Resende. I'm happy with the opportunities coach Cuca has been giving me and I want to continue bringing joy to the fans," said the player, who turns 20 in April.\ Flamengo leads Group B with 13 points, three ahead of Botafogo, Macaé, and Bangu. Flamengo returns to action this Tuesday against Americano at 19:30 p.m. at the Godofredo Cruz stadium, and concludes its group stage campaign with a derby against Fluminense at the Maracanã stadium.\

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In Rio, Flamengo seeks revenge against Limeira, their first-round tormentor

The São Paulo team, which broke Rubro-Negro's unbeaten streak in the NBB, will face their rivals again this Monday, at 19 pm, now at Maracanãzinho

GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro

Point guard Hélio was one of Flamengo's standout players in the victory over Paulistano

In the first round of the Novo Basquete Brasil, Flamengo was on an unbeaten streak until visiting Limeira. The first loss of the championship didn't quite shake the Rio de Janeiro team's campaign, which currently leads the tournament, but it certainly stuck with the players. The chance for revenge didn't take long to arrive. This Monday, at 19 pm, the Flamengo team faces the Limeira team at Maracanãzinho in an early game of the fourth round of the second round. \ "Limeira has been playing very well, with a well-coordinated team that defends strongly and has an efficient attack. The team has a very good trio, with Renato, Nezinho, and Shamell. We need to be careful and work the ball intelligently, because they know how to capitalize on their opponent's mistakes," assessed top scorer Marcelinho Machado. \ In the second half of the season, Limeira won twice away from home, the first of which was in Joinville, where the Santa Catarina team had not yet lost. With the final-round victory over Bira Lajeado, coach Zanon's team moved up to fourth place in the standings with 27 points. \ Flamengo defeated the São Paulo duo – Pinheiros and Paulistano – in the first rounds of the second half and retook the lead in the championship, with 28 points and one game less than Brasília, which also has 28. The team is expected to be without center Baby for almost two months, due to a serious Achilles tendon injury.\

Cuca and Josiel are bothered by the nickname Jesus given to the striker

The striker says the comparison is 'blasphemy' and coach Cuca prefers not to elaborate on the matter.

Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro

Josiel talks to his teammates during Flamengo training

It's better to cheer for Flamengo change the nickname he chose for Josiel. Called Jesus during the match against Resende on Saturday, the striker won the support of coach Cuca on Monday to refute the comparison. \ - It would be blasphemy (an offensive attitude towards a religion) if I accepted that comparison – said the striker, top scorer in the Carioca alongside Bruno Meneghel, from Resende. \ On Saturday, the attacker had already been bothered with questions on the subject. Coach Cuca, quite religious, also thought it was a meaningless joke. \ "I don't like to joke about that. It would be good to think about it. It was a nickname people gave him because he has long hair and it's almost Easter," said the coach.\

Among his companions, Josiel is called Zé Bob, a character played by Carmo Dalla Vecchia in the soap opera A Favorita, or Pescador Parrudo, a character played by actor Marcos Pasquim in the soap opera Kubanacan.

In one week, Fla exchanges chaos for peace

The team bounced back from the derby defeat. Cuca says that defeats have a greater impact on the club.

Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro

Cuca wipes his face with a towel after Flamengo training

A week ago, Flamengo returned to Gávea after a resounding loss to Vasco. Meetings, embarrassed faces, a threatened coach. Well then. This Monday, at the same venue, the pressure had disappeared. Magic? Victories. \ The convincing victories over Madureira (4-2) and Resende (4-0) were enough for the state of crisis to disappear. \ "The atmosphere has changed, yes. It's much better, especially with Saturday's round, in which Botafogo and Bangu lost. We can work more calmly to win and qualify," said midfielder Willians, who joined Flamengo earlier this year. \ Coach Cuca was more discreet when analyzing the changes in the environment. \ "In football, when you're winning, everything is always good. Here at Flamengo, there's more press in defeat than in victory. Winning is normal, and setbacks bring the greatest consequences," the coach stated. \ To further improve the atmosphere, Flamengo faces Americano this Tuesday in Campos. Leading Group B with 13 points, the team could secure early qualification with a win. \ - This round is crucial. If everything goes well, qualification might not be 100% guaranteed, but it would depend on a difficult combination to eliminate us.\

Zé Roberto feels pain in his thigh and is out of the game against Americano

The player even took part in part of the kick-off, but felt the problem in his right thigh again.

Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro

Zé Roberto leaves the field accompanied by doctor Márcio Tannure. The pain in his thigh overcame him.

Midfielder Zé Roberto is out of the game against Americano on Tuesday in Campos. On Monday, the Flamengo He even participated in part of the kick-off match at Gávea, but felt pain in his right thigh again after a strong kick into the air and went to the locker room accompanied by doctor Marcio Tannure. Coach Cuca has not yet decided who will replace him. \ "I could put Aírton in and free up Ibson, or I could go with Kleberson, who'll do Zé's job directly. It could be Jônatas..." coach Cuca said evasively.\

Flamengo enters the field with the following formation: Bruno; Everton Silva, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Willians, Aírton (Kleberson), Ibson and Leo Moura; Erick Flores and Josiel.

PHOTO: Traffic delays Flamengo's training session

Activity starts 40 minutes later than scheduled because players had difficulty getting to Gávea

GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro

Flamengo players living in the Barra da Tijuca and Recreio dos Bandeirantes neighborhoods, including Obina and Fábio Luciano, suffered from Rio de Janeiro's chaotic traffic this Monday. Most of the squad arrived late, and the activity began at 9:40 a.m., forty minutes later than scheduled. Flamengo faces Americano this Tuesday.

Victory leaves Fla with a 90% chance of qualifying; Botafogo has a 45% chance

Vasco and Fluminense have qualified and are now fighting for first place in Group A.

GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro

Josiel celebrates scoring for Fla

The 4-0 win over Resende last Saturday left the Flamengo on the verge of qualifying for the semifinals of the Rio Cup. According to the website "Infobola," run by mathematician Tristão Garcia, the red-and-black team, leading Group B with 13 points, has a 90% chance of advancing to the next stage. \ The defeat to the Fluminense by 2 to 1 took the Botafogo from first place and left them threatened, with a 45% chance of finishing in the top two. Macaé (24%) and Bangu (18%) have the same number of points as Alvinegro (ten). Boavista (10%) and Friburguense (10%), with nine, are right behind. Of the eight participants in the group, only Mesquita is not dreaming of qualifying. Volta Redonda, on the other hand, is clinging to the 2% it has. \ In Group A, the two spots have been decided since Saturday. Vasco and Fluminense have won all six of their matches so far and are beyond their reach. The decision now is to determine who will top the group. \ In the fight against relegation, Mesquita (eight points) and Cabofriense (nine points) are in the last positions at the moment. But Caxias (12), Tigres (13), Friburguense (14) and Volta Redonda (14) are also at risk of playing in the Carioca Series B in 2010.\

Check out the Rio Cup standings!

Fla considers 'unfortunate' choice of referee for match against Americano

Felipe Gomes was heavily questioned about his performance in the GB Cup semi-final

Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro

var midiaEmbed = { theme: "darkgray", image: '/GMC/foto/0,,18288743-EX,00.jpg' , band: 'TIPO_TXT' , backgroundColor : "FFFFFF", fontColor : "000000", linkColor : "FF00FF", borderColor : "00FF00", autoStart: false, midiaId: 970328 }; var embed = new GMCEmbed(midiaEmbed); embed.print(); The refereeing lineup for the seventh round of the Rio Cup had an unpleasant surprise in store for Flamengo. Felipe Gomes da Silva was chosen for the match against Americano on Tuesday. He's the same referee who oversaw Flamengo's 3-1 loss to Resende in the first-round semifinal (watch highlights of the match in the video below). \ On that occasion, the referee sent off Aírton and Fábio Luciano in the first half and was called "mentally feeble" by Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite. Throughout Sunday, the official kept his cell phone turned off. It was then up to director Plínio Serpa to comment on the decision: \ "It was an opportunity for the Federation to appoint someone else. Not that he's not good, but after the mistakes in that match, the choice was unfortunate. But we're not going to dwell on it. We're pleased with our team's recovery." \ Flamengo leads Group B with 13 points and can secure a spot in the semifinals in the next round. To do so, they need to defeat the Campos team and hope Botafogo, Macaé, or Bangu slip up.\

PHOTO: Vasco fans are 'dry', but Flamengo's bus debuts with a victory

Uru-busão takes the team to a game for the first time in the 4-0 victory over Resende

GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro

Last Saturday, Flamengo's bus took to the track for the first time, taking the players to the match against Resende. A Vasco fan was on a rooftop near the Engenhão stadium and tried to "dry out" the new vehicle. But in the end, the Vulture got lucky. Flamengo won 4-0, and the superstitious fans were grateful.

Fla gets anti-vandalism insurance, and the bus goes to the track

The debut will be against Resende, the city where the vehicle was registered.

Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro

Flamengo's bus is ready for its debut this Saturday

Presented on March 18th, Flamengo's bus will make its debut transporting the team this Saturday against Resende. The club has secured vandalism insurance and also arranged to hire a driver for the vehicle. \ Interestingly, the debut will be against Resende. On the day of the presentation, one detail caught everyone's attention. The vehicle was registered in the city of Resende, a city in the southern part of Rio de Janeiro state, and the team from that region was responsible for the Red-Black team's elimination from the Rio Cup. \ "It's good to debut against Resende because it puts an end to this superstition. He'll bring us luck," said Flamengo's marketing director, Ricardo Heinrichsen. \ Painted in the club's colors, the bus, nicknamed "Uru-busão" has leather seats, two tables for playing games, LCD screens and plenty of comfort.\

THROW

Zé Roberto is out of the Flamengo game

Problem in his right thigh takes the player out of the match in Campos, against Americano, this Tuesday

LANCEPRESS!

Supporter Zé Roberto even participated in Monday's recreational training session in Gávea. However, he left before his teammates, and it was confirmed that he is not fully recovered from his right thigh injury. As a result, the midfielder was ruled out of the Rubro-Negro's match this Tuesday against Americano in Campos.

Zé Roberto felt the injury during Flamengo's 4-0 victory against Resende last Saturday. After a shot early in the second half, the midfielder put his hand on the back of his right thigh and was immediately substituted. During training on Monday, the player had not felt any pain in the area until he took a shot in the air. Afterward, he felt the discomfort again and left the field with the club doctor.

After a reassessment, it was determined that Zé Roberto is unfit to play on Tuesday and will not even travel with the delegation to Campos. Coach Cuca has not yet named his replacement for the match against Americano.

Fla plays to get going in Carioca

Rubro-Negro faces Americano and can guarantee a place in the semifinals

LANCEPRESS!

After a strong performance against Resende, coach Cuca has a problem with his starting lineup. Attacking midfielder Zé Roberto felt pain in his right thigh again and didn't travel with the delegation. His replacement has not yet been named. Kleberson, who scored a goal in the last round, is the heavy favorite to take the starting spot. Jônatas and Aírton are outsiders.

Regardless of who joins, the team will change its playstyle somewhat. Midfielder Erick Flores will move further forward and play as a second striker, the same role recently played by Zé Roberto. Kleberson will play as a second midfielder, freeing up Ibson and Leonardo Moura to create.

The one player guaranteed a place in the match is striker Josiel, the competition's top scorer with 11 goals, alongside Resende's Bruno Meneghel. The number 9 hopes to continue this trend and emphasizes that he has fulfilled his duty to the letter.

"I'm only doing what I have to do. I came to fill this need, and today I feel fulfilled for helping. I'm averaging a good goal average, but I haven't won anything. I always need to improve," he declared.

For Americano, already eliminated from the Taça Rio, goals have already been set for the remainder of the Carioca. First, coach Toninho Andrade's team aims to accumulate as many points as possible to qualify for the Brazilian Série D.

Another ambition is to secure a spot in the João Elis Filho tournament, which features the third- and fourth-place teams from each group. In the Guanabara Cup, formerly known as the Moisés Mathias de Andrade Cup, Cano won the title by defeating Mesquita in the final.

"The biggest motivation of all is facing Flamengo, as it's always a showcase. Série D is also on our minds, as it's a very important national competition," said Toninho, who still doesn't know if he'll be able to count on attacking midfielder Eberson.

Cuca doesn't know if he'll keep the scheme at Fla

The coach has not yet decided whether to keep the team playing forward, as was the case against Resende.

LANCEPRESS!

Flamengo wowed everyone who watched their 4-0 victory over Resende last Saturday. With only one regular defender (Williams), the attack sometimes featured as many as seven players. But their rival was fragile, and the question arises: can they maintain this attacking formation against a more structured opponent?

Cuca, a self-confessed admirer of teams that prioritize offense over defensive play, admits he's thinking fondly about the possibility. So much so that he didn't hesitate to field youngster Erick Flores in the last two games. However, he admits that fans won't have the pleasure of seeing Flamengo play nearly 90 minutes on their rival's field every game.

"There's no point in putting together an attacking team without tactical organization. Our lineup is based on the opponent. Every game is different. We'll study our opponents and see if the lineup will hold up. But I really liked the team," said Cuca, who analyzes the coaching staff's reports on the opponents to determine the team's lineup.

One of the main changes in the last two games was Zé Roberto's drop from attack to midfield. Erick Flores filled the role the number 10 had been playing. Zé improved his performance and even scored a goal against Resende.

The new positioning pleased striker Josiel. The tactical change was reflected in five goals in the last two games. For the number 9, the new lineup is ideal.

"For me, it's best to have a team that's as offensive as possible. Erick is more advanced, and that's helped Zé Roberto improve his performance. It makes it easier for him to get through the middle. I'm a box player, and I have to be ready to finish," he said.

With Zé's departure, Cuca does not define his team

Midfielder out with thigh problem. Coach offers three options

LANCEPRESS!

Coach Cuca appears to have been caught off guard by Zé Roberto's injury. The midfielder suffered a muscle problem in his right thigh during the 4-0 victory over Resende last Saturday. He even trained with the rest of the squad on Monday, but complained of pain in the area again and was ruled out by the medical department.

Cuca, who was hoping for the midfielder's recovery, revealed that he still doesn't know who will replace Zé Roberto in Tuesday's match against Americano in Campos. The coach gave three possible options for the starting lineup.

"Erick has been playing further forward, and Zé (Roberto) more in the middle. We have the option of bringing in Aírton and freeing up Ibson and Willians a bit more. Or maybe Kléberson to fill the same role as Zé. We have other options, like Jônatas himself, who already has different characteristics," he revealed.

Cuca also stated that he hopes to maintain the attacking formation for the game in Campos, regardless of who replaces Zé Roberto on the field.

Josiel's renewal is postponed

Striker not worried about contract ending in June

LANCEPRESS!

Josiel's loan contract with Flamengo will end mid-year. A month ago, the possibility of renewing his contract was out of the question at Gávea. But now the situation has changed. Josiel has already scored 11 goals this season, and there's a movement within the club advocating for him to stay.

Just like at the beginning of the year, Josiel avoids questions about the subject. For him, the current moment is to keep scoring goals to help Flamengo.

"I'd rather leave the renewal issue for later. There's still time. Right now, I want to finish the championship scoring as many goals as possible to help Flamengo win the championship. I want to further improve my average and become the top scorer. The support of my teammates is crucial," he explained.

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Juniors: Fla still looking for the Guanabara Cup

Rubro-Negro is in second place, three points behind Tigres

LANCEPRESS!

With two rounds remaining in the Guanabara Youth Cup, Flamengo still has a chance of winning the first round. Flamengo sits in second place with 27 points, three behind Tigres, the competition's leader. Vasco has 25 and is an outsider in the running for the trophy.\ Last Saturday, Flamengo faced Resende at Gávea and won 3-0. Diego Maurício (two) and Juninho scored the goals. But the team's top scorer is Bruno Paulo, with ten.\ This Tuesday, in Campos, the opponent will be Americano. To close out the first half of the season, Fla faces Flu on Sunday. Coach Rogério Lourenço (former defender for the club) aims to win both games and hope for a loss to Tigres against Bangu or Macaé.