THE GLOBE

A chance worth two in Fla's rotation

If the team beats Volta Redonda, the reserves will play the classic

After securing a spot in the Guanabara Cup semifinals, Flamengo's players are fighting for their place in coach Joel Santana's pecking order. For Rodrigo and Kléberson, who will get their first chance as starters tomorrow against Volta Redonda, the match is a promotion, a win-one-get-one-free kind of match. If the team wins and secures first place in Group A, Sunday's Fla-Flu match will serve only to rest the starters for next Wednesday's Copa Libertadores debut against Coronel Bolognesi in Peru, and to refresh the reinforcements, who haven't started yet. Diego Tardelli's debut is still subject to confirmation from the Rio de Janeiro Federation.

"My goal in these two games," said defender Rodrigo, before correcting himself. "I mean, against Volta Redonda, I'll show my best so I don't leave the team."

Before the match, Joel and supervisor Isaías Tinoco spoke at length with the group. The content of the conversation was not revealed, but it's no secret that the Fla-Flu match is seen as a chance to give the group a boost. Kléberson agrees:

- Diego, Rodrigo and I need rhythm and we're going to do our best to justify our signing.

Suspended, Fábio Luciano and Toró trained separately, as did Rômulo, who is returning from injury. In the training session, in which the starters won 2-0, with goals from Souza and Diego Tardelli, the intensity of the match and the number of options available from the reserves, which included Obina, Máxi, Cristian, Marcinho, and Gavillán, among others, stood out. Joel's drawing board says a spot is never guaranteed.

SPORTS JOURNAL

Obina: 'If I were Joel, I would cast myself'

The striker prefers not to create controversy and awaits new opportunities.

Striker Obina stole the show in Flamengo's match against América last Saturday. The "good Bahian" came on in the second half and scored three goals in Flamengo's 4-0 rout. Even so, Obina doesn't feel he has the right to demand a starting spot. The striker is expected to remain on the bench for Thursday's match against Volta Redonda, and Diego Tardelli is expected to get a chance in attack.

Coach Joel Santana showed sympathy for Obina but justified his choice of Diego Tardelli by saying that the former São Paulo player needs to gain game rhythm.

"Obina is our wild card. Sometimes he plays more than a starter. He needed these goals. He deserved them. But I'm thinking of giving some players some playing time, and Tardelli is one of them," said the Flamengo coach.

Always calm, Obina once again adopted the policy of good coexistence and accepted Joel's decision without rebuttal.

"I'm calm. It's not a time for controversy. Scoring three goals doesn't mean I deserve to be a starter. The other players deserved their place. But if I were the coach, I might pick me. My desire to play would count for a lot," joked the striker, who scored his first goals in the 2008 Carioca against the Devil.

Joel gets angry during the bus ride

Souza tries to dribble past Gavilán during training. The striker scored a goal during the training session.

Coach Joel Santana took advantage of Carnival Tuesday to prepare the team for the match against Volta Redonda tomorrow at 19:30 p.m. at Maracanã. But yesterday's training session at Gávea was filled with a hangover. Training started slowly, almost stopping, but after a few scoldings from the coach, the players woke up, apparently bringing a happy feeling to reveler Joel's heart.

The starting lineup, with its four changes, was somewhat sluggish and gradually began to be overwhelmed by the reserves. The coach stopped training several times to correct defensive positioning errors. The coach's shouts were often heard, urging players to be wary of counterattacks.

With the issues resolved, Jônatas and Souza began to shine, and the starting lineup won training 2-0. The goals were scored by the new attacking duo: the first by Souza and the second, after a beautiful move down the right, by Diego Tardelli. Midfielder Kleberson explained that it's easier to gel with teammates when the team is going through a good run.

"Our group is very close-knit, Joel is a guy who knows how to deal with the players. When the team is doing well, it's easy to join in," said Kleberson, who, along with Tardelli, Rodrigo and Luizinho, is Joel's new addition for tomorrow's match.

Joel Santana is expected to field Flamengo with Bruno, Luizinho, Rodrigo, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Jônatas, Ibson and Kleberson; Diego Tardelli and Souza.

Kleberson will be the starter

After a long wait, Flamengo fans will finally get to see midfielder Kléberson as a starter. The player arrived at Flamengo last year, but was unable to play due to a FIFA suspension, meaning he was forced to watch the team's brilliant comeback from the stands in the final stretch of last year's Brazilian Championship.

"Last year, I couldn't play and ended up just being a fan. But it was good in one way, because I felt what the fans are like. Now I know what they like," said the player.

Kleberson commented on the importance of playing from the start of a match. He explained that for players who have been out of action for a long time—like himself, who hasn't started a match since April—it's best to start from the beginning so he can warm up with the team.

"I'm very happy to be starting the game. I've already come on a few times in the second half, but it's different. When I come on at the start, I can already get going with the group, in the second half, the game is already on fire," he explained.

Diego Tardelli confirmed

Joel Santana announces that Tardelli is Souza's attacking partner against Volta Redonda

Nathan Lima

Photos by Nina Lima

Striker Diego Tardelli trained with the starters yesterday in Gávea and appears to be recovering.

Coach Joel Santana had a pleasant surprise in store for striker Diego Tardelli. After not allowing the athlete to showcase his true talent last Saturday, when Flamengo thrashed América 4-0 at Engenhão Stadium, the coach announced that Tardelli will start in the match against Volta Redonda tomorrow at 19:30 p.m. at Maracanã Stadium.

In the training session held yesterday afternoon in Gávea, as well as in Monday's tactical training, Joel once again fielded the striker in Marcinho's place and with that, practically guaranteed that the player will finally debut in the red-black shirt.

In addition to the striker, Flamengo is expected to field three more changes. Fábio Luciano and Toró are suspended, and Léo Moura, called up to the Brazilian national team, are confirmed absentees. In their place, Joel Santana is expected to field Rodrigo, Kleberson, and Luizinho, respectively.

Like Diego Tardelli, Rodrigo was one of the happiest players at yesterday's training session. The defender will be starting a match for the club for the first time. The player said this opportunity could be the one he and his teammates have been waiting for to establish themselves in the starting lineup.

"We know how difficult it is to be on the sidelines and watch our teammates play. We trained hard to get a chance, and I'm sure Tardelli and Kleberson will do everything they can to seize this opportunity. We want to prove we can start playing when the other players are free," said the defender, who took the opportunity to recall the effort he made during the preseason to improve his physical condition.

"I arrived here out of shape and was practically the worst physically, but with a lot of determination and hard work I managed to recover and get very close to the ideal form required by the club," he recalled.

Having qualified for the second phase of the Guanabara Cup with two games to spare, it would be normal for the red-and-black players to relax, but if it's up to defender Rodrigo, tomorrow's game will be like a final.

"Just because we've already qualified doesn't mean we're not interested in this game. We're going to go all out," he warned.

Summons of distrust

Leo Moura is all smiles

Full-back Leonardo Moura has been called up to Dunga's national team after a long wait. He's eager to play for the yellow jersey. Leonardo may be opening doors to Europe, or even a smaller football market. While viewed favorably by some, the player's call-up worries fans who fear he could be dropped if he performs well for the national team.

Jônatas is one example that can be cited; the player had already received offers before his call-up, but the final one was when his name was on Dunga's list, right after winning the Copa do Brasil in 2006; the athlete was negotiated with Espanyol, a team from Barcelona.

Santos full-back Kléber remains in Brazil despite being called up frequently; São Paulo defenders Alex Silva and Miranda also remain at their clubs after playing for the national team.

While Leonardo Moura is training with the national team, coach Joel Santana has Luizinho at his disposal, who has played only a few games in the red-and-black shirt.

Calm, Gavilán awaits his debut at Fla

Midfielder Gavilán continues preparing for action. He's waiting for his 120-day suspension to end before being available to coach Joel Santana. The Paraguayan player stated he's not anxious about his debut, but admitted that his lack of match fitness is a concern.

"I'm calm. Of course I feel and will feel the lack of rhythm. It's a negative factor for me to be out of action for 120 days. But I try to think positively and work hard. I'm in good physical shape. The training sessions help, they're not the same as an official match, but they help a lot. At least I have contact with the ball," the midfielder told Rádio Bandeirantes.

Gavilán knows the battle for a spot in the Flamengo midfield will be tough, but he's confident. Gavilán noted that Flamengo will be competing in more than one competition simultaneously, so they'll need a large squad, and every player will have a chance.

"I'm going to do my job the same way I have since day one. We still have a lot of games ahead. Someone will surely have to rest or leave the team. I'll be ready to play when needed," said the defensive midfielder.

Mengão without fear of Uberlândia

Undefeated in the National Basketball Championship, the red-black team prepares to face the Minas Gerais team

Pedro Ivo Almeida

Photo by Wallace Teixeira

Flamengo's point guard Hélio has been standing out in the National

After a short break to enjoy the Carnival festivities, the Flamengo men's basketball team returns to training this morning, with a light activity led by physical trainer André Guimarães.

Coach Paulo Chupeta's team turns its attention to the next National Championship match, against the Uberlândia team, on Sunday, at 14 pm, at the Gávea gymnasium.

With six wins in six games in the competition, the red-and-black team is the overwhelming favorite for this weekend's match, but as has been the case since the beginning of the competition, the players prefer to be humble when discussing their next opponent in the championship. This is the case with winger Hélio, a former player for the Minas Gerais team and one of the team's standouts, who speaks cautiously about the team's next match.

News

"It's a completely different team from the time I played there. We know it won't be an easy game, we have to go out there strong once again and build on the result early on. Every game now will be extremely important for us, we need to maintain this winning streak, because a loss now could jeopardize our main objective at the moment, which is to finish this qualifying phase in first place."

The red-black winger also spoke about the special care the team must take with some players on the opposing team.

"We have to be alert all the time. Especially with Jazwyn and Olivinha, both of whom have been playing very well," he added.

After a strong run in the Women's National Championship, where they reached the quarterfinals with a team made up primarily of youth players, Botafogo has another reason to celebrate. Brazil's U-18 coach, Luiz Claudio Tarallo, has called up athletes Andressa Arantes and Josiane Basílio to compete in the Copa América - Pre-World Cup in Venezuela in June. Center Andressa will be wearing the national team uniform for the second time, having finished runner-up in the South American Championship last year.

John Areosa

Full of Mengão

João Areosa areosa@jsports.com.br

And the State Championship is rolling—I prefer to call it the Carioca, because it sounds better. So, the ball is rolling in our beloved championship here, which, independent of the importance of the Brasileirão, can bring us all sorts of excitement.

Once, in a discussion with a São Paulo native (I think it was José Maria de Aquino, from São Paulo, but from Miracema, RJ, where he came from as a boy), I won a friendly argument about which was better at football, Rio or São Paulo, I won with an argument that had no answer, even because it was kind of absurd: "Look, Zé, you have the money, the power, you've been buying stars – that's been going on for a while – and stuff like that, but you'll never experience the excitement of a Fla-Flu.

And, between us and let no one hear us, without Fluminense and Flamengo, the São Paulo fans end up orphaned by themselves. And may my friend Gilberto Maluf (nothing to do with Paulo Salim), a São Paulo fan, forgive me.

Is there anything more charming and fantastic than a Fla-Flu match on the Maracanã pitch?

I feel like my lines are running out, and I'm writing novels without presenting any worthwhile news. I'm just like that, an idiot drowning in words.

I'd do better writing about Flamengo, which seems to be the favorite that's been happening right under my nose with many colds. I leaf through today's newspapers and see praise for Thiago Neves – calm down, Areosa! -, I notice that Botafogo scores goals every five minutes, with the precision of a Swiss watch, that Vasco parades in a new uniform and that they return to talk about old topics, bringing together the characters Baixinho and Animal, and, what a shame (!), our Ameriquinha, with Zé Trajano and Victor Garcia, is slipping downhill.

I see Flamengo not only reinforced with new values, but above all still having in its veins the blood it displayed in the last Brasileirão, where it came from the bottom and ended up as a candidate for the Libertadores.\ Fla of the clever Joel Santana, who sets up a strong defense to come out in a block (look at Carnival there), using the flanks as an argument to open holes in the enemy's trench.\ And on top of that, that crowd. Oh, I don't know....\

THE DAY

Joel: the most beloved

Much sought after at the samba school parade, he was the 'muse' of Sapucaí

Mauro Leão

Rio - Neither Luiza Brunet nor Miss Natália Guimarães... and certainly not Juliana Paes. This year's "musician" at Marques de Sapucaí was coach Joel Santana, elevated to the status of legend by Flamengo's fanatical fans at the Sambadrome. The red-and-black coach paraded through Mocidade Independente on Monday night, dressed as an imperial guard, and wowed the crowd. "I'm very happy with the many displays of affection from these people. Flamengo fans adore me," he celebrated.

There's no greater proof of adoration. After finishing the parade for Padre Miguel's school, Joel Santana took almost an hour to complete a route of just over 400 meters, between the Apoteose and the front row from where he was watching the samba school parades. There were dozens of autographs and stops to take photos with fans. Joel managed to receive a standing ovation from the crowd that filled the stands.

Considered a hero for having lifted Flamengo out of the Brasileirão relegation zone and led the team to the Copa Libertadores, he is not deluded by such idolatry. "Football has these things. One day you're an idol, but all it takes is losing two or three games for the castle to come tumbling down. That's why I demand more and more of my players," the coach recalled.

With Flamengo already guaranteed a spot in the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, Joel issued a warning: "Now is the toughest stage of the competition, the knockout stage, and whoever loses will be out of the final. One small detail, one mistake, and all the hard work can be lost. I want the team's full attention against Volta Redonda."

Yesterday, Joel led an afternoon training session for the players and announced some changes: Luisinho will replace Léo Moura, Rodrigo will replace Fábio Luciano, Kléberson will replace Toró and Diego Tardelli will replace Marcinho.

Flamengo: With the team already qualified, Joel Santana will use the last rounds to test players

Rio - Having qualified for the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, Flamengo will have some new players in its match against Volta Redonda on Thursday at the Maracanã. Therefore, coach Joel Santana began experimenting with tactical drills yesterday afternoon at Gávea. The coach replaced Marcinho in the starting attack.

The player didn't sit on the bench last Saturday because his situation hadn't yet been resolved. According to officials, he would already be cleared to face the team from the Steel City. Tardelli is expected to debut on Thursday.

With Leonardo Moura in the national team, and Fábio Luciano and Toró suspended, the coach named Luisinho, Rodrigo, and Kléberson among the starters. "This is the first time I've been able to field players who were improving physically. It's important to be able to give everyone rhythm. I liked their defensive posture and also their approach to the game. I'll see how the team performs in training tomorrow (today) and then confirm the starting lineup," said Joel.

Despite scoring three goals against América, Obina started the game as a substitute, but didn't make any demands. "I have no reason to demand anything. I'll keep working to one day be a starter and then stay," he mused.

Flamengo's youth team, three-time state champions, drew 1-1 with Boavista yesterday at Gávea. This was the third draw in five games for the Flamengo team, which sits in third place with nine points.

SPORTS GAZETTE

Suspended, Souza and Angelim could force a booking with an eye on the semi-finals\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - For the match against Volta Redonda, this Thursday at Marcanã, Flamengo has two players suspended with two yellow cards: striker Souza and defender Ronaldo Angelim.\ To avoid being without players in the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, the solution found was to force the card this Thursday and stay out of Sunday's classic against Fluminense, in the last round of the Guanabara Cup.\

Already qualified to decide a place in the final of the first round of the State Championship, the technical committee is also considering resting some athletes due to the debut in the Libertadores Cup, on February 13, against Coronel Bolognesi, in Tacna, Peru.

Joel tests Rodrigo, Kléberson and Tardelli in a collective\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Although Flamengo's lineup for Thursday's match against Volta Redonda at Maracanã is not yet confirmed, the training session held on Tuesday afternoon at Gávea gave a good idea of ​​who the starting eleven will be. The big news for the match should be the debut of striker Diego Tardelli, forming a partnership with Souza. Obina, a standout in last Saturday's victory over América, when he scored three goals, will be on the bench.

With Fábio Luciano and Toró suspended, Rodrigo and Kléberson will start in defense and midfield, respectively. Léo Moura, who plays in the Brazilian national team's friendly against Ireland this Wednesday, will be replaced by Luizinho.

The team chosen by coach Joel Santana for this Tuesday's activity was: Bruno; Luizinho, Rodrigo, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Jônatas, Ibson and Kleberson; Diego Tardelli and Souza.

Flamengo should use reserves in the classic\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Although coach Joel Santana is refusing to confirm, Flamengo is expected to rest a large portion of its starting lineup for the weekend derby against Fluminense at the Maracanã stadium, in the final round of Group A of the Taça Guanabara, the first round of the Campeonato Carioca. This is because, three days after this match, Flamengo will make its Copa Libertadores debut, facing Coronel Bolognesi in Peru. Joel is refusing to confirm the information because before the derby, Flamengo will face Volta Redonda on Thursday and needs another win to secure first place in the group. Flamengo leads with a 100% record and 15 points, four more than Fluminense.

"It's still too early to confirm Flamengo's lineup for this derby against Fluminense simply because we're all focused on the match against Volta Redonda, who thrashed Cardoso Moreira (5-1) on Sunday and are on a roll. That's why I don't want to talk about Fluminense, nor can I tell you anything, because I don't make decisions alone. I discuss everything with the rest of the coaching staff. Fluminense here in Gávea will only be a topic of discussion starting Friday," Joel warned.

While the lineup for the derby is still unknown, the same cannot be said for the lineup that will face Volta Redonda, which is practically set. Good for striker Diego Tardelli, who has been tested by Joel in Marcinho's place up front. Right-back Luizinho will replace Leonardo Moura, who is with the Brazilian national team for a friendly in Ireland. Defender Fábio Luciano and midfielder Toró, both suspended, will be replaced by Rodrigo and Kléberson, respectively.

Thus, the likely lineup for Thursday is as follows: Bruno, Luizinho, Rodrigo, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Jaílton, Jônatas, Kléberson, and Ibson; Diego Tardelli and Souza. The squad returns to training this Wednesday at Gávea, and then Joel Santana will be able to announce the starting lineup. After this training session, the training camp for the match against Volta Redonda begins.

Volta Redonda: The match will mark the debut of coach Alexandre Gama, formerly of Fluminense, as coach of Volta Redonda. He replaces Válter Ferreira, who was dismissed after the 5-1 defeat to Fluminense a week ago. In the 5-1 victory over Cardoso Moreira, Voltaço was managed by assistant coach Luiz Cláudio.

PELENET

Tardelli is retained and Joel confirms Flamengo's team for Thursday

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

At Tuesday's training session, coach Joel Santana confirmed the Flamengo team lineup that will face Volta Redonda, Thursday, at 19:30 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, in the sixth round of Group A of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the State Championship.

Striker Diego Tardelli will start against Volta Redonda next Thursday

Just like on Monday, Tardelli was retained in the starting lineup. The same happened with defender Rodrigo, midfielder Kléberson, and right-back Luizinho, who replaced Leonardo Moura and is with the Brazilian national team for the friendly against Ireland this Wednesday in Dublin.

Therefore, Flamengo will have four changes in relation to the 4-0 victory over América, Saturday, at Engenhão, in the fifth round of the competition.

The red-and-black coach will be without defender Fábio Luciano and midfielder Toró for this match, both of whom are suspended. Both trained separately on Tuesday.

Therefore, Flamengo faces Voltaço with the following formation: Bruno; Luizinho, Rodrigo, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Jonatas, Ibson and Kléberson; Diego Tardelli and Souza.

With 15 points, Rubro-Negro has already qualified for the semifinals. Now, the team awaits the second-place team in Group B, which will likely be Vasco, Madureira, or Cabofriense, all with nine points.

Realistic, Kléberson knows he won't be a starter at this time

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

With Toró's suspension, after receiving his third yellow card in the match against América, Kléberson earned a spot in the team. This Thursday, Flamengo faces Volta Redonda at 19:30 pm (Brasília time) at Maracanã, in the sixth and penultimate round of Group A of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the State Championship.

However, the player is aware that he has to work hard to earn his starting spot for the red-and-black team. Kléberson hasn't started a match since April 2007.

"I need to take it slow. I always knew my opportunity would come. The important thing is to get on the field, perform, and show my worth to coach Joel Santana," he emphasized.

Signed from Besikitas of Turkey, Kléberson joined Flamengo during last year's Brazilian Championship. This season, after serving a FIFA suspension, the midfielder played just 15 minutes against Macaé (a 1-0 victory for Flamengo).

"It's always good to start with a victory. The goal is to continue like this. We know that Volta Redonda has a good team and is excited, as they won 5-1 in the last round at Cardoso Moreira," he highlighted.

In addition to Kléberson, Flamengo has other new additions for Thursday: right-back Luizinho, defender Rodrigo and striker Diego Tardelli, who replace Leonardo Moura (with the Brazilian national team), Fábio Luciano (suspended) and Marcinho (barred).

With 15 points and already qualified for the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, Flamengo now fights to finish in first place in Group A. If this happens, Rubro-Negro will face the second team in Group B, which could be Vasco, Cabofriense or Madureira.

Unknown striker Éder is still looking for his place at Flamengo

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Éder joined Flamengo at the beginning of the year, signed from Guarani. Completely unknown to Flamengo fans, the striker can't wait to make his debut. So far, he's only participated in preseason training matches at Granja Comary in Teresópolis.

"I've been working hard and now I'm waiting for the opportunity to make my debut with the Flamengo shirt. I'm a fast striker with a good finish, who drops down the flanks," he said.

And, by chance, Éder's first game could be in Sunday's Fla-Flu match. Since Flamengo has already qualified for the semifinals of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the State Championship, coach Joel Santana is considering fielding a mixed team.

"It's a high-profile game and it wouldn't be friendly at all. I'm going to treat it like a World Cup final," the 21-year-old striker exaggerated in an interview with Rádio Brasil.

Éder's contract with Flamengo runs until the end of the State Championship. However, the player already has plans for the future. "I intend to stay at the club for a long time. The goal is to renew my contract," he concluded.

In addition to Éder, Joel Santana has the following forwards at his disposal: Souza, Obina, Maxi Biancucchi, Diego Tardelli, and Paulo Sérgio. Midfielders Marcinho and Renato Augusto, when needed, play improvised roles in the midfield.

GLOBOESPORTE

Rodrigo debuts as a starter

The defender will start in this Thursday's match against Volta Redonda

Rodrigo at Flamengo training

Flamengo's match this Thursday against Volta Redonda at Maracanã will be special for defender Rodrigo, as it will be his first start. He will replace Fabio Luciano, who was sent off against América in the previous round and is serving a suspension. And the player makes no secret of his excitement.

"I've been on for a few minutes and now I'm going to start playing. I can't wait to get in and show my skills. I'm excited, because the worst thing about not playing is seeing the guys on TV," says Rodrigo.

The defender, who arrived at the club with a high body fat percentage and was overweight, highlighted that he had worked very hard over the last month to achieve his ideal shape.

"It was a month of maximum dedication. I arrived overweight and out of shape. I've already lost weight, completed all the physical preparation steps, and now I'm fine. I need to show my best and fight for a starting spot, get in and stay in shape."

Yellow card becomes solution in Gávea

Angelim and Souza will be instructed to receive the third card and stay out of the Fla-Flu\ Eduardo Peixoto\

Souza is unlikely to face Fluminense

Flamengo's strategy of resting starters for the derby against Fluminense on Sunday includes scheduled suspensions. Defender Ronaldo Angelim and forward Souza will be instructed to receive their third yellow cards against Volta Redonda on Thursday, in the sixth round of the Carioca Championship.

The two of them, along with Fábio Luciano, are the only ones suspended. However, the captain is out of the match against Voltaço because he was sent off against América. He's also likely to miss the match against Tricolor.

Flamengo is qualified for the Guanabara Cup semifinals with two rounds to go and if they can win on Thursday they will secure first place regardless of the result in the classic.

Therefore, other players, such as Ibson and Juan, are also unlikely to take to the field on Sunday, the 10th. The coaching staff is concerned with the debut in the Copa Libertadores, on February 13th, against Coronel Bolognesi-PER, in Tacna.

Tardelli returns to the starting lineup

The striker should form the front duo with Souza in the match against Volta Redonda

Flamengo trained Tuesday afternoon in Gávea, looking ahead to Thursday's match against Volta Redonda at 19:30 p.m. at Maracanã. Coach Joel Santana led a training session with some changes compared to the team that had been playing in the Campeonato Carioca.

Fábio Luciano and Toró, who were suspended, trained separately and were replaced in the starting lineup by Rodrigo and Kléberson, respectively. Luizinho replaces Léo Moura, who is with the Brazilian national team.

Diego Tardelli returned to the starting lineup in place of Marcinho. The former São Paulo player is expected to make his debut for the club in the match, forming a strike partnership with Souza.

The likely lineup for the Rubro-Negro for the game against Voltaço is: Bruno; Luizinho, Rodrigo, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Jônatas, Ibson and Kleberson; Diego Tardelli and Souza.

Leo Moura starts collectively as a starter

Collective match at Croke Park stadium in Dublin ends 1-1. Luis Fabiano and Anderson score

Rafael Maranhão Special for GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Dublin\ \

Brazil's coach, four-time world champion Dunga, led a training session at Croke Park Stadium, the site of the friendly against Ireland, this Wednesday. The temperature was around 4°C.

The starting team, wearing green vests, trained with Julio Cesar, Leonardo Moura, Alex Costa, Luisão and Richarlyson; Gilberto Silva, Josué, Julio Baptista and Diego; Robinho and Luís Fabiano.

The reserves, in blue, started with Renan, Rafinha, Breno, Naldo and Marcelo; Lucas, Hernanes, Anderson and Thiago Neves; Rafael Sobis and Bobô.

During training, Dunga stopped the movement several times, and the team's goals, which ended 1-1, came from set pieces. Luis Fabiano scored for the starters, while Anderson scored from a free kick for the reserves.

The friendly between Ireland and Brazil takes place next Wednesday at 17:45 p.m. (Brasília time) at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin. TV Globo will broadcast the game live, and GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be covering it all in real time with videos.

Obina accepts reservations with ease

Joel Santana praises the player and says he is Flamengo's wild card

Eduardo Peixoto

Three goals and an open spot in attack (watch Anjo Negro's performance in the video below). Everything seemed to be conspiring for Obina to return to Flamengo's starting lineup against Volta Redonda on Thursday. But Joel Santana has other plans.

The coach intends to give Diego Tardelli, who has yet to make his debut, a chance. He would replace Marcinho and form a strike partnership with Souza. The lineup will be confirmed at Tuesday's training session.

"Obina is our wild card. Sometimes he plays more than a starter. He needed those goals. He deserved them. But I'm thinking of giving some players some playing time, and Tardelli is one of them. I'll decide everything after the training session," says the coach.

Continuing to sit on the bench is certainly not what Obina wanted. But he understands the coach.

"I'm calm. This isn't the time for controversy. Scoring three goals doesn't mean I deserve to be a starter. The other players earned their spot," says the Bahia native, before joking:

- But if I were the coach, maybe I would pick me. My desire to play would count for a lot.

THROW

Kleberson excited about the chance to be a starter

Kleberson makes no secret of his desire to debut for Flamengo. Find out how Tuesday's training session went.

The player has no lack of confidence and should take Toró's place (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)

LANCEPRESS!\ Midfielder Kleberson is expected to get his first start for Flamengo in Thursday's match against Volta Redonda at the Maracanã stadium in the sixth round of the Campeonato Carioca. Joel Santana named him in Tuesday's training session at Gávea to replace Toró, who is suspended with three yellow cards.\

"I have to make the most of this opportunity and get a good result. I need to perform to justify the opportunity and show the coach that he can count on me. The important thing is that I'm prepared," he said.

Kleberson, who previously played for Manchester United in England and represented the Brazilian national team in their victorious 2002 World Cup campaign, arrived at Flamengo last year after a lackluster stint with Besiktas in Turkey. And the defender believes this is his chance to regain his professional standing.

"I came to Flamengo to reclaim my football. I have a reputation in football, but I need to regain prestige, and for that, there's nothing better than being at Flamengo. The club's project for this year will help me regain my place," he explained.

If Joel confirms his role in the match against Volta Redonda, it won't be the first time Kleberson has played as a fourth midfielder. He previously played in this position for Atlético Paranaense and Manchester.

Tailor-made reinforcements for Botafogo and Flamengo

Pieces that arrived for this season fit right in.

Jônatas and Zé Carlos are examples of signings that succeeded at Fla and Botafogo.

Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO

Botafogo and Flamengo's perfect start to the Campeonato Carioca shows that both teams' preseasons were well-planned and that reinforcements were surgically signed to meet each squad's needs. For the Red-Blacks, Jônatas slotted into midfield with ease, and Marcinho has excelled, forming an attacking partnership with Souza. The Black-and-Whites, meanwhile, benefited from the arrival of Zé Carlos, who both locks down the midfield and knows how to attack. It's no surprise that he's the team's top scorer with five goals. In defense, playing practically as a third defender, Triguinho has proven to be a solid marker, in addition to his well-known ability to support the attack.

All these factors combined have given the black and whites and red and blacks the title of favorites for the state title, even before the competition's halfway point. The teams' balance proves to be the key to success.

Botafogo has the best attack in the competition with 18 goals, two more than Flamengo, who is just behind. Regarding defense, the red-and-blacks have the most efficient, having conceded only twice. The black-and-whites have conceded five goals and are second only to Macaé and Flamengo.

Keeping coaches Cuca and Joel Santana was also crucial to this spectacular start to the 2008 season. Both have their teams under their belt and know how to capitalize on the versatility of each player. Botafogo and Flamengo thus prove that the recipe for success isn't made up of grand mysteries; it just requires serious, professional work.

Rodrigo will be a starter for Fla for the first time

Defender faces Volta Redonda in place of the suspended Fabio Luciano\ LANCEPRESS!\

Flamengo's match this Thursday against Volta Redonda at Maracanã will be special for defender Rodrigo, as it will be his first start. Rodrigo will replace Fabio Luciano, who was sent off against América in the previous round and is serving a suspension. And the player makes no secret of his excitement.

"I've been on for a few minutes and now I'm going to start playing. I can't wait to get in and show my skills. I'm excited, because the worst thing about not playing is seeing the guys on TV," he said.

Rodrigo, who arrived at the club with a high body fat percentage and was overweight, highlighted that he had worked very hard over the last month to achieve his ideal shape.

"It was a month of maximum dedication. I arrived overweight and out of shape. I've already lost weight, completed all the physical preparation steps, and now I'm fine. I need to show my best and fight for a starting spot, get in and stay in shape," he stated.

Despite making it clear that he wants to keep a place in the team, Rodrigo explained that there are no problems with the other defenders in the group, the fight for the position is healthy.

- Joel makes it clear that no one here steps over anyone, everyone has to wait their moment, that's why you don't see any fighting in the squad, just a healthy competition for position - he concluded.

Tardelli returns to the starting lineup

The striker is expected to make his debut for Rubro-Negro this Thursday against Volta Redonda\ LANCEPRESS!\

Flamengo trained this afternoon at Gávea, aiming for Thursday's match against Volta Redonda at 19:30 p.m. at Maracanã. Coach Joel Santana led a training session with some changes compared to the team that had been playing in the State Championship.

Fábio Luciano and Toró, suspended, trained separately and were replaced in the starting lineup by Rodrigo and Kléberson, respectively. Luizinho replaces Léo Moura, who is with the Brazilian national team.

Diego Tardelli returned to the starting lineup in place of Marcinho. The former São Paulo player is expected to make his debut for the club in the match, forming a strike partnership with Souza.

The likely lineup for the Rubro-Negro for the game against Voltaço is: Bruno; Luizinho, Rodrigo, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Jonatas, Ibson and Kléberson; Diego Tardelli and Souza.

Flamengo fights against accommodation

Team faces Volta Redonda already qualified\ LANCEPRESS!\

Despite already qualifying for the Guanabara Cup semifinals against Volta Redonda this Thursday at Maracanã, Flamengo's players are determined not to let up. According to defender Rodrigo, the situation provides a sense of calm, but it shouldn't be turned into complacency.

"It gives you peace of mind, but whoever's coming in needs to get into the swing of things and show what they can do. The team has a great connection, and we already know Joel's philosophy," he said.

The defender's opinion is shared by Kleberson, who highlights the importance of continuing Fla's good streak in the Campeonato Carioca - leading Group A with 15 points in five games.

"Just because we're qualified doesn't mean we're going to start differently. We have to maintain the level of our previous performances and go for the win," he explained.

2007 base explains Flamengo's good start

The right reinforcements and fan support are also factors for success.

Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO\ Guilherme de Paula\

What are the reasons that led Flamengo to start the Campeonato Carioca so well? Theoretically, there are many reasons. But in practice, at least for the players, the key was maintaining the base and bringing in players whose sole purpose is to win, especially at a club as big as the Rubro-Negro.

And this isn't just lip service. Anyone who follows the club's day-to-day operations quickly notices a general commitment and unity surrounding the work led by coach Joel Santana. Perhaps because of these factors, the team has managed to achieve five consecutive victories in the State Championship.

One of Flamengo's main highlights since last season, when he participated in the campaign that qualified the Rubro-Negro for the Copa Libertadores, midfielder Ibson made a point of highlighting the team's strength at the start of the year.

"The willpower everyone is demonstrating is making a difference. Quality reinforcements have arrived for the season, and even those who haven't played are rooting for this to be a winning group in 2008," the midfielder argued.

Of the players who arrived this season, only Jônatas and Marcinho have already earned a place in the team. Kleberson, Rodrigo, Diego Tardelli, and Gavilán (who hasn't even made his debut yet) will have to work hard to make the starting lineup.

The hero of the last victory, striker Obina also gives his spotlight to the Flamengo fans.

– The team is doing well, largely because of the strength of the fans – he said