THE GLOBE
In Uruguay, Fla relives glory and traumas
In Montevideo the team won the 1981 Libertadores and was eliminated last year
Photo caption: SOUZA IN training at the Defensor stadium, in Montevideo: duo with Tardelli
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
MONTEVIDEO. The Uruguayan capital was the stage for the most important moment in Flamengo's history in the Copa Libertadores. In 1981, the Flamengo team, led by Zico, defeated Cobreloa in the final at the Centenario Stadium. But Montevideo, where Flamengo landed yesterday, was the scene of the club's most recent trauma in the competition. The 3-0 defeat to Defensor, decisive in the 2007 elimination, is vivid in the memory of many of the players. Tomorrow's match against Nacional is a chance to show that the team has learned to deal with the pitfalls of playing outside of Rio in the competition.
"We learned that sometimes losing by a small margin is better than going for it. The team couldn't hold on, and we suffered a very difficult result to overcome at the Maracanã," said Juan. "The memories aren't good at all."
Joel could repeat the team that faced Cienciano
Flamengo has lost its last four games in Brazil. In its last match, it returned with a three-goal deficit and a squad in crisis. At halftime, replaced by Ney Franco, Juninho Paulista argued with the then-coach.
"I was shocked. They were two calm people. That also destabilized me," recalled Leonardo Moura.
"We were already being dominated. But there was a shock. We learned not to underestimate an opponent that many said was weak," said Ronaldo Angelim.
Juninho Paulista, back in Brazil after a stint in Australia, denied responsibility for the disaster.
"Some players had a lot of opportunities. Others, from whom much was expected, if they didn't perform, were taken off. It was important to give a vote of confidence, not take them off at halftime. I have nothing against Ney, but he had different attitudes toward some players. I got worked up, and so did he. But that had nothing to do with the result," he said.
Midfielder Toró also has bad memories. He played in the last match against Nacional, a friendly at the same Parque Central that will host tomorrow's match. At the end of the game, he was the center of another crisis originating in Uruguay: he fought with Renato in the locker room.
"I only played a few games as a professional, and I was living a new reality. Today, I'm in a different place, but the memories are bad," he said.
Andrade, Joel Santana's assistant coach, arrived in Montevideo without any problems. He played in the 1981 Copa Libertadores final, although he was sent off.
"A movie plays in my head when I arrive in Uruguay. It seems like it was yesterday," he said.
To make the bad memories even more vivid, the players went straight from the airport to training, held at Defensor's field. Coach Joel Santana avoided announcing the team's lineup. He could repeat the formation that faced Cienciano, with Kleberson in the starting lineup and Diego Tardelli in the attacking duo with Souza. Another option is to take Tardelli off and reinforce the midfield with Jaílton.
Just as in their run in Uruguay, Flamengo could be teetering on the brink of comfort and drama. A win would leave the team in a good position in Group 4. A loss would force them to beat the Uruguayans at the Maracanã and then fight for points in the altitude of Cuzco.
Back from Europe, president Márcio Braga stated that FIFA was notified by the CAS (Court of Arbitration for Sport) about the club's move to extend the organization's ban on high-altitude matches to South American competitions. The director met with FIFA president Sepp Blatter and UEFA president Michel Platini and said he received their support, despite noting that politically, the organizations avoid direct involvement.
Márcio Braga would hire Romário only for FlaTV
Regarding Romário, Márcio Braga said that, at the moment, he doesn't plan on seeing him wearing the red and black shirt:
The proposal he'll receive, drafted by the marketing department, is for Romário to have a show on FlaTV and receive a percentage of the show's sponsorship. He'll be very well received for this. He won't be welcome for playing.
When asked about the possibility of Romário playing just one farewell game, the director didn't seem excited:
"What they're saying about Nike bringing Barcelona is just a hypothesis. So, I can't even begin to talk to a player about it. Today, we can only discuss the FlaTV issue."
The issue has sparked divergent views within the club. Márcio Braga fears that having Romário could create turmoil:
- Everything is going so well in football.
Fernando Calazans
The person who traveled to Montevideo boasting an equally offensive stance was Flamengo's Joel Santana.
As for the lineup, I actually believe it. Joel seems convinced that some changes are needed, the main one being the addition of Kleberson.
But when it comes to the team's distribution on the field, I have my doubts, because Joel's cautious spirit tends to prevail, especially in away games, like tomorrow's against Nacional.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Flamengo trains at Defensor Stadium
Flamengo has already arrived in Montevideo and is training at the Defensor stadium, the club that eliminated Flamengo from last year's Libertadores. The group did a quick physical workout and then trained with the ball. On Wednesday, Flamengo will train again at 18 p.m., and coach Joel Santana must decide which team he will field for the match against Nacional.
Flamengo has already faced Nacional in two Libertadores matches since 1991, winning both. Vice President of Football Kleber Leite is confident the team will achieve a good result in this Thursday's match.
"We're highly motivated; there are a lot of people arriving for the game. We're having ticket problems; they sold out the last game. We'll go into the game confident; we'll see what happens the day after tomorrow," said the director.
Souza wants to learn from mistakes
Considered by many to be a troublemaker, Souza has long been criticized for his fights on and off the field, such as the one he got into in the Guanabara Cup final against Botafogo, which will lead to his trial by the Sports Justice Court (TJD) today. Despite everything, one thing is undeniable: he's not afraid of opposing defenders.
A feisty, Flamengo fanatic and a bully, Souza not only enjoys physical confrontation, but also thrives in decisive matches, like tomorrow's against Nacional in Montevideo, when he aims to score goals not only to help the team, but also to celebrate a special date.
"I hope to score a goal to celebrate my birthday. I'm very happy and motivated," said the striker, who turned 26 yesterday.
Souza was present for the team's last match in Uruguay and will take with him the lessons of the 3-0 loss to Defensor. He believes Flamengo must learn from the match.
"It will be a game with a lot of catimba, but it's the kind I like, a decisive one. We have a sad memory of Uruguay, because we lost there last year. This experience can help us now."
Before a very difficult match tomorrow, Souza will face another opponent today, not on the field, but in court. Charged, along with Obina, under Article 255, an act of hostility, Souza could face a three-game penalty for his expulsion in the Guanabara Cup final. Obina, meanwhile, was charged for the expulsion against Fluminense. The club's lawyer, Michel Assef, is confident of his acquittal.
"That's what I'll try, I just won't give you the defense so as not to lose the impact."
The team arrives in the afternoon and trains at Defensor's field
Despite wanting to forget the recent past in Uruguay, especially the 3-0 defeat to Defensor in the last Libertadores, Flamengo was forced to remember this team, as soon as they arrived in Montevideo.
Landing in Porto Alegre around noon and staying in the city for three and a half hours, the delegation traveled another hour and a half to Montevideo and touched down in Uruguay at 17 p.m. (18 p.m. local time). Under rain and cloudy weather, they immediately headed to the Defensor field, where they did physical and ball training.
Even though he is confident of victory, coach Joel Santana guarantees that a draw will not be regretted.
"Depending on how the game goes, it could be good. But we came to win," he assured.
Nacional coach Gerardo Pelusso told the Uruguayan press that he already knows one of the secrets to beating Flamengo tomorrow at Parque Central. According to the coach, Joel Santana's team always deploys two full-backs and uses a defensive midfielder to protect the defense.
"Flamengo is a typical Brazilian team. They almost always bring both full-backs up at the same time and one of the defensive midfielders, usually Jônatas, stays between the defenders to maintain balance," the coach explained to Uruguayan newspaper El País.
Travel and forget the past
In Uruguay, Flamengo is willing to overcome a sad and uncomfortable situation
Bernardo Peirão and Nathan de Lima
Photo from the Jornal dos Sports Archive
Toró embarked with the hope that on his return he could celebrate the victory
If in the past going to Uruguay was synonymous with good memories, thanks to the Copa Libertadores title won in 1981 at the Centenario Stadium, nowadays when Flamengo travels to the neighboring country they carry in their luggage the weight of recent failures there.
Having not won a match in Montevideo for almost 13 years, he took the plane yesterday, confident that tomorrow's match will serve to make every Flamengo fan forget the recent results, especially the 3-0 defeat to Defensor in the last Libertadores.
Supporter Toró, who was one of those responsible for a huge commotion in the Flamengo locker room during half-time of that match, said that his fight with Renato, which for many was one of the main reasons for Flamengo's early elimination in that competition, is now a thing of the past.
"It's over. I hope I can go back there, win, and convince. I didn't play for long. My memories of that time are mostly about the fight," said Toró, who warned he's ready to face the difficulties the team will face in Montevideo.
"Their stadium is small, and the fans put on pressure. We know the problems we'll face, but I hope I can help overcome them. We're focused on the match and can't lose focus. We'll go all out against them," warned the supporter.
Loss
Since joining Flamengo in 2006, Ronaldo Angelim has played two matches in Uruguay. These games were during a trip to Montevideo to introduce Uruguayan Peralta. The matches against Peñarol and Nacional ended in defeats for Flamengo, 2-1 and 4-3, respectively. The defender made it clear that despite the negative record, Flamengo is going to Uruguay to win.
"We've had three negative results, against Nacional, Peñarol, and Defensor. We have to erase that and go to Montevideo looking for a good result," he said.
Regarding the match, Angelim commented that he already knows the formula for leaving Uruguay with three points. For him, the key to beating Uruguay is to pay attention to the balls thrown into the box.
"The pitch is small, and we have to play defensively. They'll exploit set pieces, and we can't be surprised again," the defender added.
Tardelli fights to stay in the starting lineup
Striker Diego Tardelli scored Flamengo's most important goal of 2008. His was the accurate shot that gave Mengão the Guanabara Cup title in the final against Botafogo.
However, even this feat hasn't guaranteed the Flamengo striker a starting spot. Tardelli is aware that he's still fighting for coach Joel Santana's trust and, consequently, for a starting spot alongside Marcinho.
"I'm looking to seize opportunities and my goal is to compete in the Olympics for the national team. I have to run, always fight because I have to maintain my level to avoid being benched," said Diego Tardelli.
Joel: 'The important thing is to add points'
Roberto Murad rloureiro@jsports.com.br
Ursula Nery/JS
Joel Santana says a draw could be a good thing, but he wants Fla to play to win
Flamengo departed for Montevideo this Tuesday with the intention of bringing home some good points from Uruguay. The atmosphere at Antonio Carlos Jobim Airport was excellent, even considering the good form of their opponents, who are coming off heavy victories playing on their home turf.
Coach Joel Santana believes that a draw with Nacional could be a good alternative, but if possible the team will seek victory.
"It will all depend on how the game goes, getting points is always important," said the coach who has never won the Libertadores.
Playing in the Libertadores is the dream of many players, and for Flamengo, the victory was hard-fought, as the team was in second-to-last place and managed to finish third in the Brazilian Championship, thus securing a spot in the South American competition.
"It's important to be playing in the Libertadores, we're in 1st place and we want to stay there," the manager stressed.
Joel highlighted the opponent's qualities:
"This team is very dangerous. They have a very good play, which is the high balls," he concluded.
A night of goals and gala
Leader of Group 3 of the 1991 Copa Libertadores, Flamengo hosted Nacional of Uruguay on April 3 of that year. Despite strong performances in the South American competition and the Brazilian Championship, the club was experiencing difficulties, especially with its coaching staff, led by Vanderlei Luxemburgo, who, despite the team's successive victories, was booed by most fans.
Therefore, in that match, a strong victory was the least Flamengo needed. The team heeded the crowd and immediately went on the attack. In the 18th minute, Alcindo made a beautiful run down the left and crossed. Defender Saraiva tangled with goalkeeper Seré, and the ball fell to Marcelinho to score.
Flamengo was devastating and found the best options on the left side of their attack. In the 25th minute, maestro Júnior took advantage of the space and, with a beautiful touch, left Gaúcho face-to-face with the goal to increase the score. The fans were captivated by the team's excellent football, chanting the names of Gaúcho, Júnior, and Marcelinho, the best players on the pitch.
In the second half, Flamengo continued to dominate, and in the sixth minute, Gaúcho, with a solo play, scored another. Despite the entire team's performance, one player couldn't convince the 26 fans in attendance: Aílton. However, that night was magical, and no one deserved to be left out of the celebration. Aílton advanced down the right and flicked the ball onto Djalminha's head; the young prospect brushed the ball aside, and it fell to Alcindo to complete the rout and finally drive the Flamengo fans wild.
Flamengo: Gilmar, Ailton, Adilson, Rogério and Piá. Charles, Marquinhos (Paulo Nunes) and Junior (Djalminha); Marcelinho, Gaucho and Alcindo.\ Coach: V. Luxemburgo.\
National: Seré, Gomez, Saraiva, Revelez and Saldanha; Cardaccio, Borges (Nuñez), Peña and Ramos; Moran and Valdez.\ Coach: Juan Carlos Blanco.\
John Areosa
Free Kick
Of Zico and other animals
João Areosa areosa@jsports.com.br
Here's the columnist suffering through sweltering days and waiting in vain for those March rains that used to bring summer to a close. A sunny, hot Tuesday. Damn!
Tuesday, thank God, I might add, is packed with news and topics. I don't know where to begin. "Start from the beginning," I just received advice from a reader.
Well, I'm going to contradict my friend, throwing everything into the blender and waiting for the final blow. Vasco will have new elections, the courts decide. On one side, Eurico Miranda; on the other, Roberto Dinamite. It's a guaranteed explosion, with everything in store, including found and stray bullets.
Then Adriano, in a fit of narcissism, declares himself emperor and makes faces at the press, as if the journalists were responsible for the ills of this boy, who also goes by the name Centipede. Grow up, kid!
Oh, how beautiful! Tricolor fans have regained the right to use traditional powdered rice in their celebrations. How? At home? No, it doesn't look good at home. But at Maracanã, it does. And how!
My allergy? Tough luck for her!
I'd like to take a moment to recap Valdívia's performance against Corinthians, somewhat belatedly. Some people turn up their noses, harping on the tired old saying, "soccer is serious business." That's no lie! Soccer is pure fun, a party, complete with some crying and cheering.
I like Valdívia more and more every day. With him, football takes on new colors, beyond the traditional green. Kaká and Pato are coming soon, but I need to deliver this column quickly so as not to delay the newspaper's closing.
Zico, 55 years old... my God, how time flies. A kind of inevitable steamroller over our short existence. It was just the other day, in the late Manchete, that I wrote a column, edited by the excellent Leila Almeida (now at Sportv), commenting on the tragedy of the Galinho's injury before the '86 World Cup.
I'm convinced that idols like Zico shouldn't grow old, much less stop playing football. A round ball, a golden ball, a ball from a star who honored football and the jerseys he wore—especially the red-and-black. Happy birthday, my friend. It's a shame time can't go back.
THE DAY
Fla will not explore plays with Léo Moura and Juan
Nacional will block the full-backs' advances, Joel says he has options
Janir Junior
Montevideo - The road to the Copa Libertadores title is long. To achieve victories, Flamengo often uses the full-backs, with Leonardo Moura and Juan, as a shortcut. But since yesterday, when the team landed in Montevideo early evening and went straight from the airport to training, Joel Santana knows that to avoid turbulence tomorrow against Nacional, he will have to create options for blocking the full-backs in this decisive stage of the tournament.
That's because coach Gerardo Pelusso has openly stated that these are Flamengo's strengths, and he also announced that he will use special marking to contain the advances of Leonardo Moura and Juan. "Even so, we won't stop being offensive. We have variations we can use in the match," stated Joel Santana.
Yesterday, the team trained at Luís Franzini Stadium, home to Defensor Sport, the club that eliminated Rubro-Negro from last year's Copa Libertadores. Today, the team will tour the field at Gran Parque Central, the stadium where the match will be played. According to supervisor Isaías Tinoco, the pitch is in good condition.
For Joel, the draw is a good result: "We need to get a feel for how the game will play out. Any point we can take home will be important." The coach also notes that Nacional's set-pieces deserve attention. "We must be very careful not to be surprised," he warned.
Kleberson and Tardelli participate in tactical training among the starters
Janir Junior
Rio - At least in the attack-versus-defense tactical training session held yesterday in Montevideo, Joel lined up the starting lineup with Cristian, Kléberson, Toró, and Íbson, with Diego Tardelli and Souza up front. The coach assures he won't be tied to the defensive line and hopes to have a creative midfield to create new options if Leonardo Moura and Juan are unsuccessful in their attacks.
"I have good self-esteem, and I feel very confident," said Diego Tardelli, who scored two goals against Resende and is expected to be confirmed by Joel as a starter for tomorrow's decisive game.
Flamengo is already in Montevideo
The Flamengo delegation is already in Montevideo, where they will face Nacional on Thursday in the Copa Libertadores. Upon arrival, the players and coaching staff went straight to Defensor Stadium, the club's nemesis in last year's competition, for their first training session on Uruguayan soil.
Midfielder Ibson asked the team to be careful not to get caught up in the Nacional players' mess.
"We already know the Uruguayans' dirty tricks; this year we even had a problem during training at Granja Comary. We can't get easily irritated so we don't get booked for fooling around," he summarized.
Flamengo and Nacional face each other next Thursday at the Gran Parque Central stadium for the lead in Group 4 of the Libertadores.
Souza wants to celebrate with goals
Souza turned 26 yesterday, but he wants to celebrate tomorrow against Nacional. The striker, who approaches the match as if it were a final, said he expects to shine. "It's the kind of match I like, a final, with a lot of trickery. We have sad memories of Uruguay, as we lost 3-0 to Defensor Sporting last year, after three set-piece goals. We can't make too many mistakes," the player determined, adding: "I hope to score more than the 15 goals I scored last year."
For him, the best way to celebrate is by scoring goals. "I hope to score at least one against Nacional to celebrate my birthday. I'm motivated," said Souza, who has already found the net four times this season.
For him, Flamengo has proven its strength in recent games: "We're the comeback team, but I hope to come out on top against Nacional. The disadvantage makes things difficult."
Tardelli and Joel prepared for trapdoor and Uruguayan catimba
Rio - In a quick and uninterrupted departure, the Flamengo delegation took off for Uruguay for this Thursday's Copa Libertadores match against Nacional, the team that thrashed Defensor - the team responsible for the Flamengo's elimination from last year's Copa Libertadores - 4-0, in a match valid for the Uruguayan Apertura Tournament. Beforehand, striker Diego Tardelli and coach Joel Santana spoke, in an interview with Rádio Brasil, about the famous Uruguayan catimba and the trapdoor in which Flamengo will play.
For Diego Tardelli, being accustomed to playing at Maracanã, whose field is larger than Parque Central, the venue for the Flamengo vs. Nacional match, is an advantage:
"It's the first time I'm going to play there, it's a different stadium and the fence is very close, but we're used to playing at the Maracanã, which has a bigger field, so it's good for us," he analyzed.
Uruguayan catimba, however, is something Diego Tardelli is already familiar with:
"Yes, I know him well, I was able to spend time with Lugano at São Paulo. But we can't fall for that, we Brazilians know that," he said.
The striker also took the opportunity to comment on Flamengo's new "mania" of overturning negative results late in matches. As Marcinho has pointed out elsewhere, willpower has made the difference:
"The team is constantly searching, Flamengo is a warrior and never gives up. It's a warrior team that fights until the last minute," he said.
Coach Joel Santana also showed confidence when talking about Nacional's trapdoor:
"We're going two days early, we'll check out the pitch and the atmosphere. It's a very tight pitch and the fans are on fire, but we have to be prepared for that. Any point we get there will be very important," said the coach, implying that the draw, once again, won't be considered a bad result.
However, the Uruguayan catimba doesn't seem to be a problem for the coach:
"Uruguayan football is like that and Brazilians get very irritated, but the team is experienced, it's doing well and we're prepared for this challenge," he concluded.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Renato Augusto is working to return to Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Sidelined for over a month after surgery to correct a sunken cheekbone, midfielder Renato Augusto remains without a break for Flamengo. While the Flamengo main squad traveled to Uruguay this Tuesday to face Nacional the following day in the Copa Libertadores, the player remained in Rio de Janeiro, where he trained intensely under the sun at Gávea Stadium. Renato Augusto is expected to be available to coach Joel Santana later this month. He was a starter in Flamengo's attack when he was injured in a Guanabara Cup match. In addition to him, Flamengo's reserves, not included in the squad for the trip to Uruguay, also trained at the Flamengo headquarters this Tuesday.
Flamengo will take to the field this Wednesday, at the Central stadium, in the Uruguayan capital Montevideo, to face Nacional seeking the first of two consecutive victories that would free them from the responsibility of beating Cienciano at the feared altitude of Cusco, in Peru.
Flamengo's goal is to qualify before the game at altitude\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo left for Uruguay this Tuesday morning, where next Thursday the Rubro-negro will face Nacional in the third round of the first phase and the directors are already doing their math to avoid having to fight for qualification for the round of 9 with Peruvian Cienciano, on April 19, in the feared altitude of Cusco.\ With two consecutive victories over the Uruguayan team, also counting on the match on the XNUMXth, in Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo fans will be able to secure qualification in advance and, therefore, the game against Cienciano would not be of vital importance for Flamengo.\
"It would be great, because then we would close out our campaign against Coronel Bolognesi at home and in a more comfortable situation," commented coach Joel Santana, who explained the reason for traveling in advance. "We're traveling two days in advance to get a feel for the atmosphere and get to know the field. But I think my team is prepared, and we'll see if we can put in a good performance," he added.
At Flamengo, everyone is aware that the legal department is working to obtain an injunction from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to prevent the team from playing in the Peruvian highlands. But knowing that this is only a possibility, given that the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) is adamant and insists on moving the game to Cusco, everyone at Gávea promises to give their all in the upcoming matches to secure their spot in advance.
"A win would put us in a very good position in the group. We have to play with a lot of determination to get a win in Uruguay," commented midfielder Cristian, who was kept in the starting lineup by coach Joel Santana.
Facing a Uruguayan team accustomed to international competitions doesn't worry the midfielder, who guarantees that Flamengo is ready to overcome any provocations from their opponents.
"In a competition like the Libertadores, catimba is very common. We have to be careful not to fall into their trap. We'll talk to avoid any problems in Thursday's game," said the Flamengo midfielder.
Meanwhile, Joel Santana claims to have watched some Nacional matches and shows respect for Thursday's opponents. "Nacional had a poor performance against Cienciano, but after the last three matches, I started to worry," the coach warned.
Souza, who turned 26 this Tuesday, was happy to leave. After being involved in a controversy with Botafogo players last week, the player says he is focused solely on seeking another victory for Flamengo in the Libertadores.
"I like decisive matches and I usually excel at those moments. I know it won't be an easy game, but we'll give it our all to get a win there," said Souza, who will partner Diego Tardelli, who, after scoring the winning goal in the Taça Guanabara, scored twice again against Resende.
"I'm in a good phase, very happy here at Flamengo and I hope to continue this with another good performance," said Tardelli, who, however, knows that he will have to overcome some adversities when playing in Montevideo.
"It'll be my first time playing there. We know that playing in our country is always difficult. The referees let things slide, they don't call as many fouls, and the game is different," said the Flamengo player.
This Wednesday night, Flamengo will conclude its preparations with a training session at Parque Central, the same stadium as the next day's match. Barring any surprises, coach Joel Santana will confirm the red-and-black team with the following lineup: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, Fábio Luciano, and Juan; Cristian, Kléberson, Ibson, and Toró; Diego Tardelli and Souza.
Flamengo has four points, one more than Nacional and Cienciano-PER. Coronel Bolognesi is bottom of the group and has only one point in the competition.
Fábio Luciano preaches calm in Montevideo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Chosen by coach Joel Santana to be Flamengo's captain this season, defender Fábio Luciano is trying to use his experience to advise the Flamengo squad ahead of Thursday's Copa Libertadores clash against Nacional of Uruguay. The player is urging his teammates to remain calm in Montevideo. "Everyone here has had some experience with Uruguayan and Argentine teams. In the preseason at Granja Comary, we faced a Uruguayan team, and we saw how difficult it is. We have to remain calm so as not to be provoked," Fábio said in an interview with Flamengo's official website.
With four points, Flamengo leads its group in the Libertadores, but Fábio assures that the Red-Blacks won't go to Uruguay looking for a draw. "We're going for the three points. In Tacna, we tried, but we couldn't get a positive result. We're treating it like another final, and we have to play with great determination and determination to win. We're ready for the battle," he concluded.
PELENET
Ibson asks Flamengo to remain calm as they try to defeat Nacional-URU
From UOL Esporte\ Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo is already in Montevideo, Uruguay, for this Thursday's match against Nacional in the third round of Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores da América. Upon arrival, the players went straight to the Defensor stadium, which eliminated Flamengo from last year's competition, and conducted a light training session.
Midfielder Ibson, a remaining member of the 2007 squad, warned of the dangers of playing in Uruguay, recalling the team's last game in the country. On that occasion, the team from Gávea lost 3-0 and failed to turn the score around at Maracanã (they won 2-0).
"We need to stay calm so we can leave here with a good result. We have experienced players who will know how to behave on the field," he said, recalling the training match against Huracán during the preseason in Teresópolis, when a Uruguayan player harassed midfielder Toró.
Coach Joel Santana has already studied Nacional and is expected to analyze more videos of the opponent later this Tuesday. Vice President of Football Kleber Leite highlighted the high demand for tickets to the game.
"We met a lot of red-and-black fans on the plane, who were very supportive. When we arrived, I learned that tickets were sold out, but tomorrow (Wednesday), more tickets should be available for sale," he said.
With four points, Flamengo leads its group. Nacional and Cienciano-PER have three, while Coronel Bolognesi of Peru is last with just one.
Joel Santana considers a draw a good result for Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Before Flamengo's departure for the team's third challenge in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores da América, coach Joel Santana said that the squad is prepared for the difficulties in this Thursday's game, against Nacional-URU, in Montevideo
"Brazilians get very irritated by Uruguayan catimba. We have to be prepared for this," said the red-black commander, who also spoke about the team's formation.
"We need to get a feel for how the game will go. Any point we can take home will be important," added Joel Santana, hinting that he will play in Uruguay for a draw.
Flamengo's experienced coach praised his opponent's qualities. In the last round of the Uruguayan Championship, Nacional defeated Defensor, who had eliminated Flamengo in the 2007 Copa Libertadores, 4-0.
"They're a dangerous team, they have a good set piece, and we have to be careful. It was difficult to get this far, and now we want to stay in first place in the group," he concluded.
With four points, Flamengo leads its group. Nacional and Cienciano-PER have three, while Coronel Bolognesi of Peru is last with just one.
Flu and Fla players will be tried this Wednesday by the TJD-RJ
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The Rio de Janeiro Sports Court (TJD-RJ) will be busy this Wednesday. Four players will sit in the dock: Fluminense defenders Thiago Silva and Luiz Alberto, and Flamengo forwards Obina and Souza.
Luiz Alberto was charged under Article 255 (committing an act of hostility against an opponent or teammate). The defender allegedly attempted to punch Botafogo goalkeeper Castillo in the Guanabara Cup semifinal (a 2-0 victory for Botafogo). If convicted, he could miss one to three Rio Cup matches.
Thiago Silva, who was sent off in the same derby, was charged under Article 250 (committing an unfair or inappropriate act during the match). The penalty ranges from one to three matches.
On Flamengo's side, Obina is also in 255. The striker is accused of running and pulling the arm of midfielder Arouca, from Fluminense, still in the Guanabara Cup, when Tricolor won the classic 4-1.
The club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, will take the video to court to try to prove that there was no hostility involved. "I hope the Disciplinary Committee acquits Obina, given that the athlete's actions did not reveal a violation of Article 255," he said in an interview with the website Justiça Desportiva.
Souza, in turn, must answer for his red card in the Guanabara Cup final, when Flamengo defeated Botafogo. The striker is also included in the 255th.
Diego Tardelli sees a tough game for Flamengo in Uruguay
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's delegation headed to Montevideo this Tuesday. On Thursday, the Rubro-Negro team faces Nacional-URU in the third round of Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores da América. Coach Joel Santana is expected to field a more defensive midfield, as he considers the away draw a positive result.
The team's top scorer in the State Championship, with four goals (tied with midfielder Ibson and striker Obina), Diego Tardelli expects a difficult match.
"We know the field is smaller than the Maracanã, where we're used to playing. This should favor the opponent, but we'll go in with a lot of desire," he said.
Despite being 22 years old, the player has already won a Copa Libertadores da América with São Paulo, in 2005. Tardelli is one of Flamengo's assets to reach seven points in the group and be in a comfortable position to qualify for the next phase.
"I'm happy with the two goals on Sunday and I'll play with confidence," concluded the "killer" from Gávea, referring to the game against Resende, when Flamengo won 4-2.
GLOBO ESPORTE
Joel tests two formations
Coach keeps midfielder, but then puts Jaílton in Cristian's place
Eduardo Peixoto Special correspondent for GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Montevideo
Obina, Thiago Salles and Leo Moura on the trip to Montevideo, Uruguay
In his first training session in Uruguay on Tuesday night, coach Joel Santana tested two formations. He began his tactical training with the lineup that defeated Cienciano last Wednesday at Maracanã in the Copa Libertadores.
In this format, the midfield consisted of Cristian, Kleberson, Ibson, and Toró. Up front, Diego Tardelli should play alongside Souza. In the final half, Jaílton came on to replace Cristian. The tactical session at the Luis Franzini stadium, home of Defensor Sport, began under a light rain. However, the early evening Montevideo sun appeared and created a rainbow.
During nearly an hour of practice, Joel emphasized defense. Goalkeeper Bruno was primarily responsible for guiding his teammates.
- Slow down, slow down - he shouted tiredly.
Despite the number 1's efforts, the standout was reserve Obina, who scored two goals.
Flamengo will hold its final training session on Wednesday night before the match against Nacional on Thursday at the Parque Central stadium.
Cauldron awaits Fla on Thursday
Expectations in Montevideo are that Parque Central will be packed for the Libertadores clash.
Eduardo Peixoto Special correspondent for GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Montevideo
Parque Central stadium locker room
Flamengo is aware of the challenges it will face at Parque Central next Thursday. The stadium is cramped, the pitch is small, and the pressure from Nacional fans is intense. In Montevideo, local press estimates that almost all of the 18 tickets made available will be sold. Prices range from R$4 to R$30.
Parque Central is one of Nacional's greatest prides. The stadium, alongside the demolished Pocitos Stadium, hosted the first World Cup match in 1930. On that occasion, the United States defeated Belgium 3-0. It was also there that Brazil debuted against Yugoslavia, losing 2-1.
In 2005, the stadium underwent the last of its renovations, and Nacional began using it again for international matches.
"The small field doesn't impress us. It's a big challenge, but we can't fall into their trap, which is the power of the fans. They'll probably sing for the entire 90 minutes of the match," says fan Toró, who was at the stadium in 2006.
The match between Nacional and Flamengo will be played this Thursday at 18 p.m. (Brasília time) and will be broadcast live on GLOBOESPORTE.COM. SporTV will also broadcast the match. The Rio de Janeiro team leads the group with four points, and the Uruguayans are close behind with three.
Shower after training? Only at the hotel
The red-and-black team can't find water and Tardelli jokes: 'I'm a beauty'
Eduardo Peixoto Special correspondent for GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Montevideo
Diego Tardelli goes to Flamengo's hotel without taking a shower
Flamengo's Tuesday was at speed five of the dance of the sky. After traveling six hours from Rio de Janeiro to Montevideo, the Flamengo players didn't set foot in the hotel and went to training. After sweating, they didn't even get hot water.
As the facilities at the Luis Franzini stadium are far from impressive, the red-and-black delegation did not shower before finally heading to their hotel in the Uruguayan capital.
One by one, the players made their way to the bus in long pants and sneakers. And sweaty, of course.
- I look great. Dirty, full of bags - jokes Diego Tardelli.
However, physical trainer Ronaldo Torres explained the need for the team to carry out training immediately after arriving from their trip.
- It's good for eliminating toxins from the whole day of traveling - he declares.
Flamengo will train this Wednesday night at Parque Central Stadium. This will be their final training session before their match against Nacional on Thursday at 18 p.m. (Brasília time). This will be the team's third match in the 2008 Copa Libertadores.
Obina's trial will be this Wednesday
Striker accused of hostile conduct could face three-match suspension
While Flamengo's squad is already in Montevideo with all eyes on the match against Nacional in the third round of the Copa Libertadores da América, the club's legal department will have a busy Wednesday. According to the website Justiça Desportiva, in addition to Souza, who is indicted for incidents in the Taça Guanabara final, Obina will also be tried by the Rio de Janeiro Sports Court of Justice for chasing and grabbing defender Anderson's arm in the last Fla-Flu match (watch the video below to relive the incident). If convicted, he could face a suspension of up to three games.
The Black Angel, who will be judged by Disciplinary Committee B, was charged under article 255 (committing an act of hostility against an opponent or teammate) by prosecutor André Luis Valentim, the same one who indicted Souza and six other Botafogo players, plus coach Cuca, for the Guanabara Cup controversy.
"I hope the Disciplinary Committee acquits Obina, given that the athlete's actions did not reveal a violation of Article 255, under which he was charged. I will present video evidence to demonstrate that there was no hostile conduct," Michel Assef Filho, Fla's lawyer, told the website Justiça Desportiva.
THROW
Flamengo fans are entitled to few seats
As of this Tuesday, only 100 seats have been given to the red-blacks
Cassius Leitão IN MONTEVIDEO (URU)
Flamengo fans attending Thursday's match against Nacional at Parque Central Stadium in Montevideo may face accommodation issues. The Uruguayan Federation has reserved only 100 seats for visitors, and this could cause some discomfort.
This Wednesday, there will be a meeting at the Uruguayan Federation, and Flamengo will seek to secure 560 additional seats for the club's fans. Vice President of Football Kléber Leite assures that the club will secure these seats in the stadium.
The section reserved for the red-and-black fans is the upper stand (next to the Grandstand). Tickets for this section cost 300 pesos (about R$30).
Joel does attack vs. defense training
Coach selected the same team that faced Cienciano
Guilherme de Paula IN MONTEVIDEO (URU)
As soon as Flamengo arrived in Montevideo, they headed to Defensor's field for training. Coach Joel Santana led the training session, which featured a confrontation between attack and defense, as they typically do during training sessions at Gávea.
The coach fielded the same team that started last Wednesday's match against Cienciano, which Flamengo won 2-1. The defense consisted of Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan. In midfield, Joel fielded Cristian, Ibson, Kleberson, and Toró. Diego Tardelli and Souza made up the attack.
The only change during the activity was the rotation between Jaílton and Cristian, but everything indicates that the second will start playing on Thursday against Nacional.
Flamengo arrives to train with all their bags and belongings
Rubro-Negro barely lands in Montevideo and goes to the field
Guilherme de Paula IN MONTEVIDEO (URU)
Flamengo landed in Montevideo late Tuesday afternoon and went straight to Defensor's Luís Franzini Stadium for its first training session on Uruguayan soil. Interestingly, the players and coaching staff arrived with suitcases still in their suitcases.
The rush to training has a special reason. This Thursday, the Rubro-Negro will face Nacional in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores. The training pitch was rated as excellent by supervisor Isaías Tinoco.
The downside for the more superstitious Flamengo fans is training on the field of their tormentor in last year's Libertadores, Defensor. The room next to the locker room where Flamengo players changed had countless photos of Uruguayan players who helped defeat Flamengo in 2007. Even though most of them have since left the club, they are treated as heroes at the club.
Toró wants to erase the past in Montevideo
In addition to the defeat, the midfielder had a heated argument with Renato, now at Al-Nasr\ -\
Toró played little part in Flamengo's disastrous recent past in Montevideo—the club has lost all of its last five games. He only appeared in the friendly loss to Nacional in 2006. On that occasion, the midfielder clashed with Renato, a fan favorite who currently plays for Al-Nasr in Qatar.
"I had that argument, but it's over. I hope to play well and bring back good memories of Montevideo. I had the bad memory of a fight, and I want to erase it," he said, speaking to Rádio Manchete.
Regarding Parque Central, the venue for Thursday's game and where Fla faced Nacional in 2006, Toró expressed concern about the pressure exerted by the local fans.
- The fans put pressure on, but in 2006 they didn't sell out as much, even though it was Peralta's return to the stadium - recalled the player, referring to Peralta, the Uruguayan who had a very poor stint at Gávea in 2006.
Joel hopes that Fla doesn't fall into the trap
Commander keeps it a secret and doesn't reveal the team he will send onto the field\ LANCEPRESS!\
Flamengo coach Joel Santana hopes his players don't fall prey to the trickery of Uruguay's Nacional players, who are Thursday's opponents in the Copa Libertadores.
"We can't get irritated easily. In the Libertadores, it's normal for there to be some catimba. Let's go for it. That's how we should play," the coach told Rádio Tupi.
Joel, as usual, didn't reveal the team's starting lineup. The Red-Blacks are holding a training session this Tuesday at the Defensor Training Center in Montevideo. During this session, the coach will have to decide which team he'll field.
Nacional will monitor Flamengo's full-backs
The Uruguayan club's coach warned about the strength that Léo Moura and Juan have\ LANCEPRESS!\
Besides the inherent difficulty of facing Nacional in Montevideo, two Flamengo players are likely to face even greater challenges in playing well. Leonardo Moura and Juan are considered key players for Flamengo and will receive special attention from Nacional.
Coach Gerardo Pelusso expressed this concern and dedication to Flamengo's fullbacks. He believes that good marking of these players could negate Flamengo's best qualities.
Nacional should keep the team that last Saturday thrashed Defensor Sporting, in the Uruguayan Championship, 4-0. Scorer of one of the goals in that match, striker Richard Morales is the most dangerous player on the Uruguayan team.
Tardelli didn't expect such a positive start
He is one of Flamengo's top scorers this season, with four goals\ Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO\
Expecting to start against Nacional on Thursday, Diego Tardelli revealed that he didn't expect to be Flamengo's top scorer so soon - the player is one of the team's top scorers this season, with four goals, alongside Ibson, Obina and Souza.
"I didn't expect it so soon, but of course I was aiming for a good start to the season, but I wasn't thinking about scoring goals. This boosts my self-esteem and gives me more confidence," he acknowledged.
Check out the goals scored by Tardelli for Fla:
Game Number of goals\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Volta Redonda 1\ Flamengo 2 x 1 Botafogo 1\ Flamengo 4 x 2 Resende 2\