Official Site\ Fla defeats Piedade in Futsal\ Futsal - - Posted on November 3, 5:51 pm\
Another important victory for the Flamengo team to reach the top of the State Futsal Championship.
The red-black team faced the Piedade team, on the opponent's court, on the night of this Friday (2/11), and won 9 to 4. The goals were scored by Élcio (3), Anthony, Sixel, Panásio, Gabriel, Otávio and Dudu.
With Cabo Frio's victory over Macaé, also on Friday night, Flamengo remains in 2nd place in the championship standings, with 20 points.
Flamengo thrashed Piedade 9-4 yesterday at the Piedade gymnasium in the State Futsal Championship. The red-black goals were scored by In Cabo Frio, also in yesterday's round, Cabo Frio beat Macaé 4-2. In Group B of the competition, Cabo Frio leads with 22 points, followed by Flamengo (20).
Photo: Wallace Teixeira
Massacre on the court\ Basketball - - Posted on November 3, 5:30 pm\
A true spectacle on the court. Without any major difficulties, Flamengo/Petrobras defeated, or rather, massacred the Recreio/Volta Redonda team by a score of 125 to 65 (64 to 35), in the first match valid for the return leg of the 2007 State Basketball Championship.
With this Saturday's result (3/11), the red-black team remains undefeated and with 100% success in the league table.
With 31 points, Marcelinho was the game's top scorer, followed by Amiel (15), Fernando Mineiro (12), Hélio and Duda (11). Fred, who made a small appearance in the last game against Iguaçu, entered the court this Saturday and made a great play. The point guard showed he is in top form and scored 10 points.
The match was peaceful, despite the opponent's determination to turn the score around. Flamengo, which once again had the support of its fans, played the game calmly and with style.
In the first clash between the two teams, in the State Championship debut, the Gávea team won 95 to 49.
Flamengo/Petrobras' next duel will be on Monday (5/11), at 19 pm, in Nova Iguaçu, against the home team.
The Globe
Flamengo's path is clearer
Grêmio loses and the red-black team, if it beats Cruzeiro this afternoon, will open up a four-point lead over its rivals.
Photo caption: STRIKER OBINA, grabbed by Helder in training at Gávea, replaces Souza against Cruzeiro today
BELO HORIZONTE. Grêmio's 2-1 loss to Figueirense yesterday at the Olympic Stadium opened up exceptional prospects for Flamengo in its fight to secure a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. A draw with Cruzeiro today at 16 p.m. at the Mineirão would already be a good result, but if it wins, the red-and-black team will reach 58 points, opening up a four-point lead over the Gauchos and Minas Gerais teams, its direct rivals, with three rounds remaining in the Brazilian Championship.
The Rio de Janeiro team has another advantage: Cruzeiro's physical and emotional exhaustion, caused by the midweek thrashing by Botafogo and the reception they received from the fans, who showered them with popcorn upon their return to Belo Horizonte. While Flamengo is missing two players—defender Ronaldo Angelim and forward Souza—Cruzeiro is without forward Alecsandro, who is suspended due to a yellow card.
Joel says Cruzeiro won't be the same as Thursday's
For Joel Santana, Flamengo's situation is quite simple. The red-and-black team needs to win three of its last four games to secure a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores. Today, Flamengo is aiming for its sixth consecutive victory under Joel Santana, who is confirmed as the team's manager for next season. Despite the team's rise, he doesn't expect an easy match because he knows that, playing at home, Cruzeiro will be a different opponent than the one they thrashed at the Engenhão.
"Cruzeiro played poorly in their last match. But regardless of their opponents' results, Flamengo needs to win three of their remaining four games. That's six points at home and six away. We have to do our homework well and win one of our two away games," explained Joel Santana, who has options like Roger and Renato Augusto on the bench.
After Cruzeiro, Flamengo will face three rivals on its path to the dream of returning to the Libertadores: on the 11th, it faces Santos at Maracanã, who are also fighting to reach the continental tournament; Atlético-PR, on the 25th, also at Maracanã, and Náutico, on December 2nd, in Recife.
Thiago Sales replaces Ronaldo Angelim
With his feet on the ground, Flamengo's coach doesn't want to depend on other results to reach the group's new objective:
- The important thing is not to lose focus. If we don't win, nothing will help.
Having replaced Ronaldo Angelim, who felt unwell during the match against Corinthians and is undergoing a complete examination, coordinated by doctor Seraphim Borges, defender Thiago Sales has a new chance in Joel's team.
- I'm very calm, with a good headspace to try to play a good game and help Flamengo - said Thiago.
Cruzeiro: Fabio, Jonathan, Leo Fortunato, Thiago Heleno and Angelo; Ramires, Charles, Leandro Domingues and Wagner; Guilherme and Roni. Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Thiago Sales and Juan; Jailton, Cristian, Ibson and Toro; Maxi and Obina. Referee: Heber Roberto Lopes (FIFA-PR).
TRANSMISSION: Rede Globo and Rádios Globo and CBN
For Aidar, Fla is the 1987 champion
Former director presided over São Paulo and the Club of 13 in the Copa União
President of Clube dos 13 and São Paulo in 1987, the year in which Flamengo won the Copa União, Carlos Miguei Aidar said, four months ago, on the program "Juca Kfouri Entrevista", on ESPN Brasil, that he considers the red-black team the Brazilian champion of that year.
The title is not recognized by the CBF, which considers Sport the 1987 champion. The organization decided to award São Paulo the trophy, which would have been awarded to the first club to win five editions of the competition. Including the 1987 title, Flamengo reached five titles by 1992.
Aidar says that, in 1987, an agreement between the founders of Clube dos 13, including São Paulo, stipulated that whoever won the Green Module would not play against the winners of the Yellow Module, equivalent to the Second Division:
"We were betrayed by Eurico (Miranda, current president of Vasco), who accepted the crossover on our behalf. Among ourselves, we discussed the following: whoever wins the Green Module will not play these crossover matches. So much so that the CBF considers Sport as the 1987 champion, and for us, the champion was Flamengo."
Aidar explains what he called Eurico Miranda's betrayal:
Eurico represented us at the CBF to adjust the regulations. We had drafted the Green Module, but the CBF would copy them to draft the Yellow Module. We delegated authority to Eurico, and the next day we learned that there would be a crossover and that he had signed on our behalf. It was horrific, a disappointment.
Ancelmo Gois
Barbosa's redemption
Chico Anysio, the great Brazilian comedian, said in the newspaper "Lance" on Wednesday, one day after Brazil was confirmed as the host country for the 2014 World Cup, that he has some reservations about black goalkeepers. "My thoughts have nothing to do with discrimination," he said, "because I love black forwards, black defenders..." It was a reference to Barbosa, Brazil's number 1 in 1950.
But look how the world turns. Bruno, 22, Flamengo's super goalkeeper, and Felipe, 23, of Corinthians, standouts in the Brazilian Championship, have a good chance of playing for the national team in 2014.
Black people will be able to redeem Barbosa, who carried until his death the guilt for the defeat to Uruguay, at Maracanã, in the 1950 World Cup. May history repeat itself, now with a happy ending.
Fernando Calazans
To whom it may concern. I'd like to share the views expressed by my colleague Renato Maurício Prado in his Friday column on the issue of Flamengo, the first five-time Brazilian champion. Thank you.
Good People
Player of the year
The Brazilian Football Confederation's Craque do Brasileirão Award, which the CBF is hosting on December 13th at the Municipal Theater, will be presented by Tony Ramos and Marcos Palmeira. The number of judges, journalists, and former players has increased from 350 to 776. The former player honored will be Nilton Santos, known as the Encyclopedia. For today's star player, Gente Boa, in a championship of strong teams and few individual talents, is betting on Flamengo's Ibson.
Renato Mauricio Prado
The miracle worker
That Flamengo has made a spectacular comeback in this final stretch of the Brasileirão, fueled primarily by its results at Maracanã, is undeniable—and commendable. Today, however, the moment of truth has arrived. Against a Cruzeiro team that is plummeting in the standings, the red-and-black team plays a decisive game for its ambitions of competing in the Libertadores in 2008.
If they defeat the Minas Gerais team in Belo Horizonte, Flamengo will not only firmly establish themselves in the top four but will also practically seal their opponent's fate, almost definitively removing them from the fight for one of the spots in the South American competition.
A draw isn't entirely bad for the Rio de Janeiro team - as it keeps them ahead of the Minas Gerais team - but it could leave both teams outside the qualifying zone, depending on Grêmio and Palmeiras' results in the round.
For all these reasons, a hair-raising classic will soon be played at Mineirão Stadium. Either the fox rises from the dead, or the incredible Urubu-Boitatá will once and for all consecrate Joel Santana as the coach of the red-and-black miracles.
From Turkey, the greatest Flamengo player of all time sends a categorical email about Flamengo's fifth championship:
"Renato, after reading your column about this controversy surrounding the fifth World Cup - and I completely agree with everything you wrote - I couldn't help but speak out about it, especially because I have, in my trophy room, the real Copa União, which was given to me by Juca Kfouri on the day I retired from football.
An off-field dispute between managers led to this farce. But we players, not the bosses, won the '87 title on the field, with much sweat, defeating several opponents and Inter in the final, and that's what matters.
The fans know it, the press knows it. Titles are won on the field, not by the stroke of a pen by people who made history in football, changing regulations and adopting attitudes that almost never benefit the sport. A big hug, Zico."
Did you know that the CND (National Sports Council), at the time chaired by Vasco fan Manoel Tubino, recognized Fla's Brazilian title in 1987?
Did you know that the Caixa Econômica Federal Cup (the controversial "dot trophy") was only awarded to Brazilian champions until 1992 - the year in which Fla won the fifth title?
Symptomatic, isn't it? Just check the archives and see if anyone received it after that, when they were Brazilian champions. Well...
In fact, since 1992, the Brazilian Championship regulations have not even mentioned any trophy to be awarded to those who win the title five times. Why is that?
Philosophical quote from Bagá, scratching his belly, amidst the subway construction, in Praça General Osório:
- Isn't it true that, after the midweek round, Fla-Raikkonen already appeared in third, thanks to the antics of a bunch of "Hamiltons" on the track?
Sports Journal
It's time to hunt Fox
At Mineirão, Fla faces Cruzeiro, a direct competitor for a place in the Libertadores
Nathan de Lima
Obina will replace Souza, who is suspended, and will have the mission of helping Argentine Maxi Biancucci to torment Cruzeiro's defense at Mineirão
"Let's go Mengão, go Mengão, our team is strong!" One of the songs that rocked Flamengo at Maracanã will also be heard today, at 16 pm, at Mineirão, where the most popular team in the country faces Cruzeiro, fifth in the Brazilian league, with 54 points, one less than the team from Gávea.
Cruzeiro fans have already sold out two reserved sections at the stadium, and demand for tickets continues to grow. Flamengo fans who secure tickets for the match will be able to see Obina up close, who, with Souza's suspension, secured a starting spot alongside the diminutive Argentine Maxi Biancucci in attack – the darling promises to find the back of the net at least once for Cruzeiro. Joel Santana's other change to the team is the introduction of young defender Thiago Sales in place of Ronaldo Angelim, who was ruled out by the medical department.
With a win, Flamengo could take over second place in the competition and further fuel its fans' dream of competing in next year's Copa Libertadores. Coach Joel Santana, who has been doing a fantastic job with the club, warned that in today's match, only a victory will do.
"If we don't win, none of the results from the last round will help us. We have to win," said the coach, who expects a different Cruzeiro from the one that lost 4-1 to Botafogo.
"I watched the game against Botafogo from the box seats, Cruzeiro is one of the best teams in the competition, but they played poorly that day," said Joel.
Decisions
In addition to the match against Raposa, Flamengo still has three more decisive matches in this Brasileirão: Santos and Atlético-PR, at home, and Náutico, at Aflitos. Joel explained that in the points-based championship, it's essential to always play on the attack.
"We have to win three of the next four games to qualify. It's better to risk the three points than to draw, because whoever wins has an advantage over the others," said Joel.
Regarding Cruzeiro's attack, the coach didn't seem to be too worried and said that the secret is to mark the opponent in their own half.
"The block has to come from the front, I can't keep thinking about what might happen, we need to stop the attack at the source," added Joel, who beat Raposa 3-1 in the first round.
Joel Santana is happy with life and is in a good phase
Coach Joel Santana has always been considered a cheerful person, and Flamengo's recent results in the Brazilian Championship have made him even happier. In a conversation with some journalists, the coach was asked who the best coach in this Brazilian Championship was. Joel immediately answered: Muricy Ramalho, from São Paulo. But he added one caveat.
"The best coach is always the champion, but there is a coach here at Flamengo who is also doing a great job," said the coach, who when asked who would be Flamengo's best player, said.
"If I answer that, I won't make it to the locker room, there will be about thirty people wanting to beat me up," joked Joel.
OPG: Flamengo wins and qualifies
Flamengo's youth team traveled to Curicica yesterday, defeated Estácio de Sá University 1-0, and qualified with two rounds to spare for the second phase of the Octavio Pinto Guimarães Tournament (OPG). The match's goal was scored by striker Kayke, who, despite already being part of the professional squad, is old enough to play in the tournament. With first place secured, coach Adílio used the second half of the match to experiment with the team.
Flamengo played in the traditional 4-4-2, with Paulo Victor, Jaílson (Tamba), Anderson, Wellinton and Diogo; Márcio Lisboa (Wellington), Vinicius Colombiano, Erick Flores and Willian Amendoim (Pedro); Kayke and Bruno Mezenga.
Bruno thanks luck for its help
As the saying goes, "those with no luck jump in headfirst and scratch their back." Technique, planning, and willpower aren't the only things that can lead a team to a strong run in a long competition like the Brazilian Championship. Just ask goalkeeper Bruno (pictured), who at the beginning of the year lamented some balls that unluckily ended up free for opposing attackers. Today, he celebrates clear-cut chances that end up being poorly finished, like the last one of the match against Corinthians, when in stoppage time, a São Paulo striker kicked the ball wide.
"In the past, the ball would hit everyone and end up going in, but nowadays it hits all the players on defense and offense, but it ends up not going in. It's not just luck; I'm working hard, and thank God everything is going well," said Bruno.
Right-back Leonardo Moura also thanked God for the club's bright moment. "It's great that luck has returned, now we need to do our part," said Léo Moura.
A duel that will draw attention in today's match at 16 p.m. against Cruzeiro at Mineirão Stadium is between Léo Moura and the Minas Gerais team's left-back, Ângelo. Unknown to the general public, Ângelo has been performing well for Raposa and, in addition to possessing excellent marking ability, knows how to attack powerfully. The Flamengo full-back admitted he doesn't know the player well, but warned he will do everything he can to stop him and promised to study him until game time.
"Honestly, I don't know him, I just know he has quality, he's played for Paraná, but I really don't know his characteristics," confided Léo Moura, who was very excited yesterday during the team's training session at the Independência stadium in Belo Horizonte.
FIFA website recognizes Flamengo's fifth championship
The saga of the final possession of the trophy for the fifth Brazilian Championship title continues. While on Friday, the club's greatest idol and current Fernebahce coach, Zico, said the trophy belonged in Gávea, yesterday it was FIFA's turn to join the chorus of the "Nação Rubro-Regra" (Rubro-Regra Nation), which is calling for justice and asking the CBF to hand over the trophy to its rightful holders. The organization's official website (www.fifa.com) published a tribute to São Paulo's fifth Brazilian title, won last Wednesday by defeating América-RN 3-0 at Morumbi Stadium. But with one caveat: the São Paulo club now equals Flamengo in the number of titles.
"São Paulo fans have shown that they have been the best since the 17th round of this year's Brazilian Championship and with this victory they have equalled the most popular club in Brazil, Flamengo, with five national titles - one of which is not recognised by the local confederation," says an excerpt from the published text.
Flamengo fans want to use the power of the great nation to try to convince the CBF to hand over the trophy to Flamengo and to do so they promise to hold a demonstration in front of the Municipal Theater, where the awards ceremony for this year's Brazilian Championship will be held, on December 3rd.
In addition to Zico, the fans and FIFA itself, other stars from the 1987 triumph have also expressed their support for the trophy going to Gávea.
Red and black machine in Gávea
Flamengo detonates Volta Redonda, 125 to 65, and remains the only undefeated team in the State Championship
Lydia Azevedo
Point guard Fred was one of Flamengo's highlights, with 10 points
Devastating. There's no better word to describe the performance of the Flamengo basketball team, which defeated Recreio/Volta Redonda 125-65 in the first game of the second leg of the State Basketball Championship. The match took place yesterday in Gávea and was well-attended, with a strong crowd that sang and cheered the players throughout the 40-minute game.
At home, Flamengo took the court focused on victory and maintaining its unbeaten run in the competition. Led by captain Marcelinho, the red-and-black team needed only the first 20 minutes to secure the victory, as the first half ended 64-35 in favor of Flamengo.
The remaining two quarters allowed Flamengo to increase their lead and coach Paulo Chupeta to bring on other players to gain some rhythm. The third quarter ended 92-48 for the home team, and the fourth 125-65, with a beautiful dunk by Eduardo.
With this result, Rubro-negro reaches its seventh victory in the State, being the only undefeated team in the competition.
"The thing is that I have a strong group, where if one of them sleeps, rests a little, there's another player to take his place. I asked the board to put together a homogeneous group precisely for this reason, to not let anyone relax and maintain consistency," explained Paulo Chupeta, who emphasized that Flamengo didn't put together a team just for the state championship.
"Flamengo is a team with a foundation, not just concerned with the state championship, but also with the national championship. This is a three-year project to enhance the value of our players."
Good supporting actor
Volta Redonda coach Marcelo Goroba acknowledged that his team was a supporting player in the match, and that the match actually served to prepare the players for the game against Campos today.
"Flamengo's team is well-structured; we're just supporting players. This game served more to prepare us for the game against Campos, where we have a real chance of winning."
Flamengo: Marcelinho (31), Helio (11), Wagner (5), Fernando (12), Frederico (10), Eduardo (11), Maicon (6), Colin (2), Marcelus (9), Amiel (15), Coloneze (8), Alírio (6)\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\
Recreation/Volta Redonda:\ Thiago Muller (16), Daniel Muller (15), Fabrício (15), Hygor (7), Welington, Frederico (2), Wilcler (10), Gilberto\ Coach: Marcelo Goroba\
Marcos de Castro
Bath-in-Cuia
Fans, Flamengo
Marcos de Castro castro@jsports.com.br
Newspapers have now, in early October, published another survey on soccer fans in Brazil. Conducted by a reputable institute, Sensus, the survey's most intriguing feature is that it was commissioned by the National Transportation Confederation (CNT). It's up to me, and up to you, to understand the CNT's interest in soccer...
Well, with that initial surprise behind us, the survey's results are nothing new. The most popular club in the country remains Flamengo, which now leads Corinthians by nearly 4 percentage points (3,9%, in exact numbers, as Flamengo has 14,4% of the national fan base, compared to Corinthians' 10,5%).
In the last serious survey of this kind I saw—about three years ago—Flamengo's advantage didn't exceed much more than three percentage points. What appears to be a negligible increase actually places the difference between the two clubs at a few million additional fans, based on the new red-and-black advantage. Not to mention the highly significant fact that increasing the advantage in a survey of this type is a huge goal. Even if the difference in growth between the two clubs were smaller, the mere fact that there was an increase is of enormous significance.
What's the mystery behind Flamengo's ever-growing popularity? There isn't, dear reader, there isn't. I must say, to explain everything with the seriousness the subject requires, that Flamengo, despite its name coming from that somewhat Dutch, somewhat Belgian European region, has a certain softness that no other Brazilian club possesses. Of all the clubs in the country, it best represents the spirit of Brazil; it embodies the Brazilian way of being like no other, in its strengths and weaknesses. People identify with this. Flamengo isn't a "proper" club, like São Paulo, for example. One could say Flamengo has samba in its bones, a national identity that São Paulo will never have.
Not to mention that it became popular thanks to a mischievous little guy in the 30s named Leônidas, and it's never stopped having stars and top-tier teams. That's the key fact, but Brazil's face also works. And how it works!!!
O Dia
Joel: 'They gave Dunga a Ferrari'
With the authority of someone who has gone from relegation to paradise, the Flamengo coach regrets not having had the chance to lead the national team in his 25-year career, and questions the profile chosen by the CBF.
Marluci Martins
Rio - Joel Santana took Flamengo from the relegation zone to heaven. And, even with a chance of qualifying the team for next year's Copa Libertadores, he still shudders when, looking back, he realizes he was a victim of prejudice. In an interview with 'Ataque,' the coach laments not being considered to coach the Brazilian national team in the 90s. Whose fault? His own, for allowing his reputation as a good footballer to derail his career. Or for still preferring jeans to Versace. Joel wouldn't give his Ferrari to Dunga to drive. Who would coach the national team? Himself, because he's more "hard-working." But Joel's Ferrari isn't yellow. It's red and black. And it's flying low.
—The board guarantees that they will renew your contract in the next few days. What's the trend?\ —Let's wait, because football is hot. My entry was a lifeline. The Titanic was about to sink.\
"If Flamengo secures a spot in the Libertadores, will the coach's transfer fee become more expensive?" "We have to keep our feet on the ground, but I think there are coaches ranging from one to five stars. I'm a four-star coach. I only consider five-star coaches to be those who have already won a World Cup. Abel is on his way to that, as he's a world champion."
"Is Dunga a four-star?" "Wait a minute!!! The guy started a year ago. If you think he's a four-star, you'd better call him a meteor! But he'll get there. He's in good company, as Jorginho has already proven himself as a coach. I wouldn't give Dunga one star or four. He's at an average to good level."
"If you're a four-star, why haven't you ever been considered for the national team?" "The idea has been created that we need to renew our contract. But whoever owns a jumbo jet is going to let just anyone be the pilot? Where is the guy going to put the plane? I prefer an experienced pilot."
"Do you accept Dunga as the national team's coach?" "I worked with him at Vasco da Gama and I think he's competent. As a player, I was an observer. But I thought what the CBF did was audacious. They gave Dunga a Ferrari, not a Honda. With that squad and the CBF's experience, of course it will work out. I'm not saying this out of envy. That doesn't cross my mind."
— Would you be successful driving this Ferrari, which is the National Team?\ — At least I'm struggling. I have more experience.\
—Do you consider yourself a victim of prejudice?\ —Many didn't get the chance. Paulo Autuori, Abel, and Muricy didn't either. Maybe I don't have the CBF's profile.\
—Do you have a dream?\ —I used to. In the 90s, I was conquering everything. But the CBF might like a more polished coach, someone who's calm and accepting. I'm more of a jeans and sneakers guy.\
— Your daughter is not a fashion designer...\ — (Laughs) And the CBF seems to like Versace suits and shirts. But I want to make it clear that Dunga and Jorginho are my friends.\
"You still wear jeans and sneakers, but you've changed a bit. Was your image associated with drinking?" I hate beer, but they said I'd stop at the bar and drum. I even wish I could play the tambourine, but I'm not good at it. I do drink, but socially, and only with people I really like. In the past, I listened to lies and absorbed them. Today, if someone tells me a joke, I tell it back. Maybe that was missing in the past. They transformed my image into that of a football player, playful and smiling. But that's not it. I smile because I'm a happy guy."
— You're a four-star. And this Flamengo team? Is it a Ferrari?\ — It's a Ferrari, yes. The team agreed with the coach. The fans and the board did too. Let's see how far we can take this Ferrari.\
Flamengo: Thiago Sales and Obina against Cruzeiro
Rio - Flamengo will have two absences against a direct opponent in the fight for a place in the Libertadores, Cruzeiro: Ronaldo Angelim, ruled out by the medical department, and Souza, suspended, are out of the game.
Defender Thiago Salles and forward Obina will be in the starting lineup. And on the bench, in addition to Roger, who is expected to come on in the second half, Renato Augusto will also have a reserved spot.
Palmeiras' defeats (to Juventude) and Cruzeiro's defeats (to Botafogo) in the 34th round of the Brasileirão left Gávea in celebration. But Joel Santana doesn't like to talk about luck.
"It's true that no one would have imagined that Palmeiras would lose to Juventude at Parque Antártica, but that's football," said Joel Santana.
For Flamengo's coach, Cruzeiro will enter the field feeling a bit hurt because of the defeat (4-1) suffered by Botafogo:
"We need three wins in our remaining four games to achieve our goal. Cruzeiro, for example, will be a tougher opponent in Belo Horizonte than we saw here in Rio against Botafogo."
Sports Gazette
Libertadores moves the duel between Cruzeiro and Flamengo
Belo Horizonte (MG) - The Brazilian Championship title has already been mathematically secured by São Paulo, but other disputes are animating the final stretch of the competition, one of them the fight for a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores. And it is in pursuit of this dream that Cruzeiro and Flamengo face off this Sunday, at 16 p.m. (Brasília time), at Mineirão.\ Buoyed by five consecutive victories, the Rio de Janeiro-based Rubro-negro has 55 points, one more than the Minas Gerais team, who have gone seven games without a win. On Friday, the fans protested by throwing popcorn at the players.\
When he took over Flamengo midway through the year, coach Joel Santana repeatedly stated in his speech that the goal was to save the team from relegation, the coach now knows that this specter is no longer there. And aware of the pressure now on a Libertadores spot, the coach advocates calmness so that the Rubro-Negro can maintain its good form.
"We know we're in good form, the team has been playing good football, but we also need to be calm and patient, as nothing is set in stone yet. If we can get a good result in Minas Gerais, it will be welcome, as we'll have two consecutive home games after that. There's no point in putting others down if we don't do our part. Putting Flamengo in an international competition would be wonderful. This team would be where it deserves to be," commented the coach.
In search of a good result away from home, Flamengo will be without striker Souza, who received his third yellow card and will serve an automatic suspension. This way, Flamengo's favorite Obina will get another chance to start. In defense, Thiago Salles replaces Ronaldo Angelim, who was sidelined after feeling unwell in the last match.
Besides being excited about their good form, Flamengo's players will also take to the field motivated. During the week, the Flamengo board paid off part of the debts they owed the squad regarding bonuses.
At Cruzeiro, the winless streak is troubling everyone. To overcome the crisis, however, everyone is adopting the message that anxiety must be overcome. Goalkeeper Fábio urges calm so that Raposa doesn't fall out of contention for a Libertadores spot.
"We have to take it game by game. We have to start with this match on Sunday. There's no point in thinking we have to win all four matches and rely on other results. Palmeiras, for example, lost at home, and if we had done our part and gotten the win, we would have needed just a few points to qualify," said the Cruzeiro goalkeeper.
Cruzeiro's absence will once again be left-back Fernandinho, who suffered a serious injury and won't return until next year. He had already sat out the match against Botafogo. Even without any suspended players, coach Dorival Júnior is expected to make two changes to the team, as he wasn't satisfied with the team's performance last Thursday. Right-back Ângelo and midfielder Leandro Domingues are coming off, making way for defender Emerson and midfielder Maicosuel.
Concerned about direct confrontations, Fla wants to stay in the G-4\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The Flamengo delegation traveled to Belo Horizonte (MG), where they will face Cruzeiro this Sunday in the 35th round of the Brazilian Championship, focused on staying in the qualifying zone for the next Copa Libertadores. After midweek results, the Rio de Janeiro team moved up to third place with 55 points, but the next two games are considered decisive by everyone at Gávea. In addition to facing the Celeste team this Sunday, the Flamengo team has another direct clash in the following round, this time against Santos at Maracanã. "We'll face two direct competitors. The first will be away from home and the other at Maracanã. We have to work hard to stay in the qualifying zone after these two rounds, as then we'll take a decisive step towards qualification," said coach Joel Santana. "Every game is important, and these days in football there are no easy games anywhere in the world. But these two matches in particular could be revealing regarding our condition in this final stretch of the Brazilian Championship."
The starting lineup has been decided. After falling ill during the match against Corinthians, defender Ronaldo Angelim was ruled out and joins suspended forward Souza on the sidelines. Joel Santana has already decided that young Thiago Salles will be paired with captain Fábio Luciano. The young defender won the battle with Rodrigo Arroz by playing on the same wing as Angelim.
Obina's entry will be the only other change to the lineup for the match against Raposa. The Rio de Janeiro team will now field Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Thiago Salles, and Juan; Cristian, Jailton, Toró, and Ibson; and Maxi and Obina.
PeléNet
Cruzeiro and Flamengo face off in a decisive clash in the Copa Libertadores
From UOL Esporte\ In Belo Horizonte\
At different stages, Cruzeiro and Flamengo face off in a decisive derby in the capital of Minas Gerais this Sunday at 16 p.m. at Mineirão Stadium, in the 35th round of the Brazilian Championship. The winner will take an important step toward securing a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores.
Separated by just one point, the two teams are direct competitors for a spot in the continental competition. With 55 points, Flamengo leads Cruzeiro, which has 54. Given the difference between the two, the match gains importance as it involves a battle for position, crucial in the fight for the Copa Libertadores.
While Cruzeiro has a six-year unbeaten streak against Flamengo at Mineirão in its favor, it's also experiencing a difficult time in the competition, falling from second to fifth in the standings. The drop stems from a seven-game winless streak—four losses and three draws. Cruzeiro has only three points in 21 matches.
Angered by the team's poor form, a group of fans welcomed the Cruzeiro delegation at Confins International Airport with a protest and a "shower of popcorn." "These are difficult times, but we must unite. I respect the fans a lot, and I think the protest can happen as long as it's peaceful. But I think that, much more important than any kind of pressure right now, is that we all unite," observed club president Alvimar de Oliveira Costa.
In a different situation, Flamengo, after fluctuating in the competition, has won five straight games—over Paraná Clube, Vasco, Grêmio, América-RN, and Corinthians—and is firmly in contention for a Libertadores spot. "Our mindset is different. We hope to take off once and for all," said coach Joel Santana.
The red-and-black team will be without two players: striker Souza, who is suspended, and defender Ronaldo Angelim, who is injured. The former will be replaced by Obina, while Thiago Sales will be in the defense.
At Cruzeiro, coach Dorival Júnior will make two or three changes from the team that was thrashed 4-1 by Botafogo last Thursday at Maracanã. The lineup will only be announced at Mineirão Stadium. There is a possibility, however, that the team will play with three defenders. Jonathan will be a makeshift left-back. On the right, Ângelo, Mariano, and Maicosuel are the candidates.
FIFA recognizes Flamengo as the first five-time Brazilian champion
In an official statement, FIFA recognizes Flamengo as the first five-time Brazilian champion. The statement also congratulates São Paulo for equaling the Rio de Janeiro club in terms of titles won.
Leonardo Moura warns Flamengo teammates about Cruzeiro fans
From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Leonardo Moura respects, but doesn't fear, Cruzeiro, Flamengo's next opponent, on Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at Mineirão Stadium, for the 35th round of the Brazilian Championship. According to the right-back, the red-and-black squad needs to forget they're playing away from home.
"The fans will cheer their team on, just like ours does for us. But we have to forget about that and just focus on the game. We know they're a strong team and we respect them. But we're going there to win," said the player.
"Bitten or not, Cruzeiro is very dangerous. Therefore, we will have to dedicate ourselves a lot to win", concluded the full-back, referring to Raposa's 4-1 defeat to Botafogo, on Thursday, at Engenhão.
Folha de São Paulo
JUCA KFOURI
The five-time Brazilian champions
\ São Paulo is as much a five-time champion as Flamengo. The only difference is that the Cariocas won first\ \
I AM NOT, as readers of this Folha well know, the newspaper's ombudsman. I'm also not a Flamengo fan or a Rio fan. And I have such affection for São Paulo that the less tolerant Corinthians fans swear that, if not my heart, then my head is Tricolor. It isn't. My heart is deeply Corinthian, and my head is that of a journalist. That's why I feel comfortable recounting what I witnessed in 1987, when I covered the creation of the Club of 13 and the Copa União step by step. All to disagree with this same Folha, always so rightly unwilling to accept the official versions, but which, when it comes to the subject, tends to consider São Paulo the first five-time champion. Because it isn't. It's Flamengo, ever since they won their fifth title in 1992, under Júnior's baton. Before that, it had been their fourth in 1987, the bone of contention, because a title that the CBF, which was already the House of Bandits of Football, insists on not recognizing, despite the National Sports Council (CND), then presided over by Vasco da Gama fan Manoel Tubino, having unanimously recognized the red-and-black title. No one who followed the 1987 season, except for the Sport fans, denies that the real Brazilian Championship was the one called the Copa União. The CBF, by then, had given up on organizing the championship because it was broke. The Copa União was organized, in partnership with Varig, Coca-Cola, and Globo. When the rules and schedule were ready, the CBF backtracked, decided to hold its own tournament, and wanted to force the Copa União champion and runner-up (which it called the Green Module) to face their Yellow counterparts, who would later be Sport and Guarani. This module was so bizarre that it ended in an 11-11 penalty shootout between the teams from Pernambuco and Campinas, who decided to stop the shootout and declare themselves champions. Even so, the CBF wanted to force Fla and Inter to compete in the final of their championship in 1988, something that at no point, except one, which will be explained below, did the Club of 13 accept. (It turned out that the CBF asked the Club of 13 to send a representative to one of its meetings, and they made the mistake of sending the still-unknown Eurico Miranda. He said he would accept the transfer. As soon as the Club of 13 found out, they disavowed him.) Life went on, Sport and Guarani decided the title and went on to represent Brazil in the Libertadores. Flamengo and Inter maintained the Club of 13's position and didn't betray what was agreed. Since there's the story of the Caixa Econômica Federal trophy for whoever won the third consecutive championship or the fifth consecutive one, the story, full of distortions, has just been resurrected. São Paulo, also a legitimate five-time champion (which is different from legal, although it is also that), would do well to take the trophy and send it to Gávea. It would be a demonstration not only of coherence but of ethics and, above all, of greatness. But I know what you'll ask me: what country do you think you live in?
blogdojuca@uol.com.br
FITNESS
HYPÓLITO BROTHERS COMPETE IN FRIENDLY MATCH
Diego and Daniele Hypólito compete today in the 29th edition of the Swiss Cup, a friendly tournament featuring doubles (one man and one woman). In total, the event in Zurich will feature pairs from 11 countries. Participation in the cup, which is by invitation, is notable for its prizes—over US$20 will be awarded. In 2006, Oksana Chusovitina (GER) and Jordan Jovtchev (BUL) won the title.
BalloonSport
Maxi: 'Playing in the Libertadores is a dream'
Argentine says he misses scoring goals and wants to fly high in Gávea
Marcio Iannacca
Argentine Maxi Biancucchi has been at Flamengo for just over four months and has big dreams when he envisions his future with the red-and-black jersey. In an interview with GLOBOESPORTE.COM, shortly after training this Saturday at the Independência Stadium in Belo Horizonte, the cousin of Barcelona's Lionel Messi revealed his dream of playing in the Copa Libertadores and leading the team to Tokyo for the Club World Cup. He also spoke about the boos he received in his last match and how much he misses finding the net.
Supporter Maxi Biancucchi smiling during Flamengo training
GLOBOESPORTE.COM: How do you assess your time at Flamengo so far? MAXI: I prefer to talk about the collective aspect. I don't really like to talk only about the individual aspect. When the team wins, everyone wins. I think the journalists are the ones who need to analyze that.
You received some boos in the last match. How did you react to that situation?\ It's normal. It happens everywhere. Fans expect the players to score goals. I think the boos were due to the team's situation in the match.\
How is the fans' relationship with you?\ The fans are having a good relationship with me. Now, we always see the fans dreaming. Everyone talks about the Libertadores, that they want to go to Tokyo.\
And your plans for Flamengo in 2008? I want to play in the Libertadores. I'd already played for Sportivo Luqueño, who were Paraguayan champions. Now, I have the chance to play for Flamengo. It's more than a dream to play in the Libertadores; it's a goal. One day I also want to play in the Champions League. But I have to take it slow because things are happening little by little.
Do you miss scoring goals? A lot. I've always scored goals at every club I've played for. Not scoring is a drag. I really enjoy scoring goals.
Joel: 'This tranquility is scary'
Coach is concerned about the lack of harassment of the team in Belo Horizonte
Marcio Iannacca
Joel misses the Christmas rush
Coach Joel Santana has said little since arriving in Belo Horizonte. With no media following Flamengo and few fans seeking photos and autographs from the Flamengo players, he expressed concern about the delegation's lack of support in Minas Gerais.
- This tranquility is scary. Everything is very calm, very peaceful - says the red-black coach
For the coach, Cruzeiro's situation in the Brazilian Championship is complicated and Flamengo cannot afford to make any mistakes in Belo Horizonte.
"In football, it's hard to predict what's going to happen before the game. Sometimes you visualize the opponent and forget about yourself. That can't happen," the coach analyzes.
Joel watches Paraná x Goiás on TV
Coach and members of the delegation watch the match in the hotel lobby
Marcio Iannacca
Joel Santana and the coaching staff watch the game on TV in the hotel lobby in Belo Horizonte
Coach Joel Santana and some members of the Flamengo delegation watched the match between Paraná and Goiás in the lobby of the Caesar Business Hotel in Belvedere, an upscale area of Belo Horizonte. Without pay-per-view in his room, the coach watched the match, as he enjoys staying up-to-date with the results of the Brazilian Championship.
In addition to Joel Santana, assistant coach Andrade, physical trainer Ronaldo Torres, goalkeeper coach Roberto Barbosa, supervisor Isaías Tinoco and football director Marcos Braz did not take their eyes off the hotel television.
On Friday, Joel Santana stated that the Brazilian Championship is full of surprises and that no result surprises him. Flamengo takes the field this Sunday to face Cruzeiro, at Mineirão, in the 35th round of the Brazilian Championship.
Joel: 'Cruzeiro was deified'
Coach says that miners cannot be ignored and that Fla needs to be careful
Marcio Iannacca
Coach Joel Santana ate lunch around noon, watched sports programs on television, and read the day's main newspapers this Saturday, after Flamengo's morning training session at Independência Stadium. The Flamengo coach, very attentive, spoke to GLOBOESPORTE.COM about the team's precautions when facing Cruzeiro this Sunday at Mineirão Stadium and the group's high spirits due to their strong campaign.
For Joel Santana, the game between Flamengo and Cruzeiro is decisive
GLOBOESPORTE.COM: Can Cruzeiro's situation in the Brazilian Championship help or hinder Flamengo?
JOEL SANTANA: You start looking at the other team and end up forgetting your own. Only when the game starts do we see if it's going to help or hinder us. Cruzeiro was second in the championship and considered the team that played the best football, even better than São Paulo. The team was idolized. Analysts may deny it, but 15 days ago, Cruzeiro was considered the best team in the competition. After the game against Flamengo, they went into crisis.
Is Flamengo the favorite?
There's no favorite in this game. They have to play their game the way they're supposed to. If they concede an early goal, the fans might get on their case and panic. This game could be crucial for Flamengo's championship hopes.
Did the game get more complicated because of Cruzeiro's situation?
The game has become more difficult because they're being pressured by the fans. It would have been easier if they'd been pressured earlier, when other teams came to play here.
Flamengo's atmosphere is excellent. Does that help?
The team is winning and gaining more confidence. It has developed its own style of play. The team is overcoming adversity and winning games. Furthermore, the team has more personality.
Besides competence, is luck on Flamengo's side?
Playing poorly, luck doesn't show. Santos is the lucky one, having earned 15 points by scoring goals in the final minutes. They have luck combined with skill. Consider our case: we lost points to Botafogo after missing a penalty, to Sport, and to Juventude - the referee disallowed a legitimate Flamengo goal. Had we earned those points, our Libertadores spot would already have been guaranteed.
Flamengo fans promise a party at Mineirão
Rubro-Negros sell out two sectors of the stadium for this Sunday's game
Marcio Iannacca
Even away from home, Flamengo fans promise to throw another party
Flamengo fans promise to throw another party in Brazilian stadiums. This time, the venue is Mineirão, home of Cruzeiro, this Sunday's opponent in the 35th round of the Brazilian Championship. According to information from Raposa security, sectors 10 and 11 are already sold out at the Barro Preto stadium. Fans can also purchase tickets at the stadium ticket office.
Demand for tickets increased this Saturday, and Flamengo fans in Belo Horizonte are complaining about the position in which fans will be seated in the stadium.
"I always travel to Rio to go to games, and the visitors are always treated well. But Flamengo fans will be in the worst seats at Mineirão, behind the scoreboard. In Rio, all their rivals are well-positioned, in the stands. This is disrespectful to the visiting fans," says Henrique Pena, from Fla-BH.
Flamengo fans can buy tickets in sectors 10, 11 and 13. In total, around five thousand tickets will be available for the red-blacks.
Tickets are being sold at Cruzeiro headquarters and at the Mineirão box office. Prices are as follows: special seating, R$15 (half-price, R$7,50); central seating gate 7A, R$10 (half-price, R$5); upper ring gates 3, 6, 9 and 12, R$10 (half-price, R$5); lower seating gate 13, R$5 (half-price, R$2,50); and seating gates 4 and 5, R$2 (half-price, R$1).
Fans will protest for the fifth cup
Demonstration scheduled for the closing ceremony of the Brazilian Championship, in Rio de Janeiro
The controversy surrounding São Paulo's decision to receive the five-time Brazilian Championship trophy from the Brazilian Football Confederation is far from over. According to the newspaper "Lance!", Flamengo fans have decided to organize a demonstration in front of the Municipal Theater in Rio de Janeiro, where the closing ceremony of the Brazilian Championship will be held on December 3rd. The idea is to demand that the CBF recognize Flamengo's five-time championship – a title won in 1987 in the Copa União.
The protest is scheduled for the day of the Brasileirão's Best Player of the Year award ceremony. Other protests are promised later this month. Flamengo fans are constantly discussing the issue in the red-and-black team's community on the social networking site Orkut.
The fans of the Gávea club argue that Fla is the first five-time Brazilian football champion and, if it depends on them, São Paulo will not boast of being the only club with such an achievement on its resume.
Throw
Flamengo can equal its record of victories\ The club's record in the Brasileirão is six consecutive victories\
Fred Gomes
Flamengo, led by Joel Santana, who has already ended several Brazilian Championship droughts, could equal the club's record for consecutive wins (six) in the Brazilian Championship. To do so, the Red-Blacks will have to beat Cruzeiro this Sunday at Maracanã. Flamengo achieved a six-game winning streak in 1978 and 1982 – the year they lifted their second trophy in the country's most important competition.
In 1978, Flamengo got off to a blistering start, winning four of its first four games – beating Fluminense, Fast (AM), Remo, and Goytacaz. However, América (RJ) ended Flamengo's streak with a 3-2 victory.
Was the stumble a sign of the Gávea club's downfall? Not at all. After the loss to the Devil, Flamengo set its record for most wins in the Brasileirão, beating, in a row, Americano (1-0), Bangu (4-1), Nacional-AM (2-1), Portuguesa (2-1), Paysandu (2-0) and XV de Novembro (2-1).
However, after achieving ten wins in their 11 Group F matches, the red-and-black team's momentum ran out, and in the remaining 15 matches, they recorded just three wins, five draws, and seven losses. The Gávea club finished in a modest 13th place. The 1978 Brasileirão champion was Guarani, who won the final 1-0 against Palmeiras, with a goal from Careca.
Flamengo's 1982 start was also spectacular, but unlike in 1978, the reigning world champions didn't disappoint, winning their second Brazilian title. Flamengo's winning streak began with a spectacular comeback against São Paulo (3-2). Following that, they followed by victories over Nautico (PE), Treze-PB (5-0), Ferroviário-CE (3-0), Treze (3-1), and Ferroviário-CE (2-1). A 1-1 draw with Timbu at Maracanã ended the winning streak.
It's worth noting that the 1982 Brazilian champions had Zico, who scored eight goals in a six-game winning streak. In 1978, the Galinho de Quintino was preparing for that year's World Cup and was unable to participate in the Brasileirão.
In the decisive match of the 1982 Brasileirão, a goal by Nunes, who beat Leão after receiving a masterful pass from Zico, guaranteed a 1-0 victory over Grêmio at the Olímpico and Brazil's second championship title.
Winning streaks:
1978:\ Flamengo 1 x 0 Americano - 20/04/1978\ Flamengo 4 x 1 Bangu - 23/04/1978\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Nacional - 27/04/1978\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Portuguesa (SP) - 30/04/1978\ Flamengo 2 x 0 Paysandu - 04/05/1978\ Flamengo 2 x 1 XV de Novembro (SP) - 07/05/1978\
1982:\ Flamengo 3 x 2 Sao Paulo - 20/01/1982\ Flamengo 4 x 3 Nautico - 24/01/1982\ Flamengo 5 x 0 Treze (PB) - 28/01/1982\ Flamengo 3 x 0 Ferroviário (CE) - 31/01/1982\ Flamengo 3 x 1 Treze (PB) - 07/02/1982\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Ferroviário (CE) - 10/02/1982\
A battered Cruzeiro hosts a fired-up Flamengo
Raposa hasn't won in seven games, while Urubu is on a winning streak
With a dazzling record of five consecutive victories, Flamengo faces a struggling Cruzeiro team this Sunday, having gone seven games without a win. The match, which will be played at Mineirão Stadium at 16 p.m., is part of the 35th round of the Brazilian Championship.
Upon arrival of the Cruzeiro delegation that traveled to Rio de Janeiro, where Raposa was beaten 4-1 by Botafogo, around 50 fans welcomed the players with popcorn, protesting against the team's poor form.
The issue at left-back remains for the match. Fernandinho, who suffered a ligament injury in his left ankle, will remain until the end of the Brazilian Championship. Immediate backup João Victor was released to Cabofriense, a Rio de Janeiro club partnering with the Minas Gerais runner-up. Second-choice Fábio Santos is recovering from a muscle strain. As a result, right-back Ângelo is expected to return to the left.
Wágner, who regained his starting midfield status and even played as a full-back in the rout against Botafogo, seems to have pleased coach Dorival Júnior and is expected to remain in the team.
The players and coach hope to count on the fans' support for this game, which, according to Dorival Júnior, should determine the team's future in the competition.
"I hope the fans can now believe and help us in this match against Flamengo, which will decide our future in the competition. The fans have to believe, and if they were fundamental to our campaign, now they need to believe," he declared.
The Rubro-Negro, meanwhile, continues to break records, and with each game, they face a new challenge. This Sunday, the club will have the opportunity to end a six-year winless streak at the Mineirão stadium.
Joel Santana will be without Souza, who is suspended for receiving his third yellow card in the 2-1 victory over Corinthians. Defender Ronaldo Angelim, who was unwell in the match against Corinthians, is also out, and Thiago Sales will replace him.
On the other hand, Renato Augusto recovered from a problem in the gluteal region, and is related to the confrontation.
In the first-round match, the Gávea club won 3-1, with goals from Leonardo Moura, Souza, and Obina. Guilherme scored a goal.
Rio brothers can help each other in the Brazilian Championship
Botafogo helped Flamengo. Flamengo can also help Botafogo. Flamengo can help both.
Rio clubs can help each other in the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship. Except Vasco.
Erich Onida
Botafogo fans were joined by millions of Flamengo fans in their last match against Cruzeiro. It was hard to know which fan base was happier after the 4-1 rout: the black and white or the red and black.
At times like these, the word "co-brother" immediately comes to mind. Rivals become best friends instantly. And this excitement between the Rio clubs, with each "wearing" the other's jersey, could still spark much discussion in the final stretch of the Brasileirão.
Botafogo's victory over Cruzeiro helped Flamengo maintain third place in the championship – in fact, the club appears for the first time in the G-4, a group that qualifies for the 2008 Copa Libertadores. Glorioso still hopes to reach this position. To achieve this, they can be helped by... Fla.
That's right. From now on, the fans will be switching from Botafogo to "brother" Flamengo. Victories for the red-and-black team in the next two rounds, against Cruzeiro (this Sunday) and Santos (on the 11th), their direct rivals, would be of fundamental importance for the club from General Severiano as well. But the black-and-white support for Flamengo would end there.
And the distinguished guest of Flamengo and Botafogo at this celebration of their Rio de Janeiro brethren is Fluminense, who will also face Palmeiras and Santos. A guest who would not only arrive to hand out the best gifts in the event of victories, but would also bring Flamengo and/or Botafogo closer to dancing to the main song at the Libertadores ball with Fluminense itself, which already has its ticket.
The only one of the Rio quartet that will continue to have its fans against all the others is Vasco. After all, their games—against Inter-RS, Figueirense, Corinthians, and Paraná—are of no interest or significance to Flamengo and Botafogo. "Coirmão," in this case, doesn't really apply.
Already qualified, Fla wins another one in the OPG
Kayke scored the only goal in the 1-0 victory over Estácio de Sá
Already qualified for the fourth round of the Octávio Pinto Guimarães Junior Tournament, Flamengo returned to victory this Saturday, winning 1-0 at Estácio de Sá Stadium. Kayke, who has already played a few games for the senior team, scored the only goal. The match, a ninth round match of Group A of the OPG, was held in Curicica.
With the victory, Rubro-Negro remains at the top of the group, with 24 points.
It's worth noting that Kayke only participated in the game because he wasn't traveling with the professional squad that will face Cruzeiro in the Brasileirão. Therefore, the striker asked the coach to play.
In the goal play, Vinícius Colombiano exchanged passes with Bruno Mezenga and passed to Kayke, who secured the victory.
Flamengo should have more funding for the team next year
Contract with Petrobrás should increase by one million reais for 2008
Flamengo's marketing department will send Petrobras next week the contract proposals for 2007, which has not yet been signed, and 2008.
The verbal agreement made in January is for 15 million reais per year, but for 2008 LANCE! found out that it could rise to around 16 million reais, as it includes corrections and an increase for the return of visibility in 2007.
Juan says that Fla's fans are the difference in decisions\ Lateral and Toró already experienced fiasco when they played for Fluminense in 2005\
Juan doesn't want to repeat the disappointment he had with Flu
Juan and Toró have experienced a similar situation to what they're currently experiencing at Flamengo. Both players came very close to securing a Copa Libertadores spot with Fluminense in 2005, but failed to do so alongside the Tricolor squad.
To avoid further frustrating experiences, the Flamengo defender asks Flamengo to remain calm and highlights what sets the two teams apart.
"At Flamengo, the fans' support was stronger. Plus, we had the peace of mind to take one step at a time. Here, things happen naturally. We can't think we've done enough."
Thiago Sales eyes Cruzeiro
Defender wants to take advantage of Raposa's bad phase
Flamengo's young defender Thiago Sales, who will replace Ronaldo Angelim in this Sunday's match against Cruzeiro at Mineirão Stadium, is keeping a close eye on his rival from Minas Gerais. Despite being unaware of the crisis facing Flamengo, whose team was greeted with popcorn by fans in Belo Horizonte, the defender watched Cruzeiro's loss to Botafogo.
radio l! - I watched their game against Glorioso, but I don't know anything about the landing. If we can impose our game, we'll have an advantage. The fans will put pressure on them, and with that, we'll be able to take advantage of Cruzeiro's mistakes - he says. (Click and listen to Thiago Sales)
Thiago doesn't want to be easy and wants to win the remaining matches, regardless of the opponent's strength:
radio l! Thiago Sales: 'We can't choose opponents'
Léo Moura supports Thiago Sales
The full-back says the group has complete confidence in the young defender
With Flamengo's medical team ruling out starting defender Ronaldo Angelim, reserve Thiago Sales will get his chance and is confirmed to face Cruzeiro this Sunday at Mineirão Stadium. Leonardo Moura, one of the team's leaders, made a point of expressing his confidence in the young defender.
radio l! - It's no surprise because he's already played. We trust our teammate. He scored a goal and everything when he came on, so I hope he can have a good performance and help us - said the right-back. (click and listen)
With their direct rivals' stumbles in the final round, the Rubro-Negro remained in the Copa Libertadores qualifying zone. The player happily celebrated the good fortune that has been helping the Gávea team.
radio l! - I'm glad luck returned. It was important that Botafogo won and Palmeiras lost. Now we have to do our part this weekend - he recalled. (click and listen)