The Globe
Double Fla-Flu Sunday
Tricolor and rubro-negro fans will be cheering for baskets in Tijuca and goals in Maracanã today
Photo caption: JOÃO ISAÍAS Curti (right) with his son Júnior and grandson João Gabriel, who is going to a game for the first time
Photo caption: HÉLIO FILHO, between brothers Ronaldo and Ricardo Baranda, will be cheering on the basketball and football matches today
William Helal Jr.
Of course, there's a love for the sport. But, above all, there's a love for the club. It's this feeling that will draw hordes of Flamengo and Tricolor fans to the doubleheader of a major Rio classic today. At 11:18 AM, there's Fla-Flu in the State Basketball Championship, at Tijuca Tênis Clube. At 10:80 PM, the colors return to action, this time at Maracanã, for the Brazilian Championship. Many people will be rooting for baskets and goals on the same day. The morning match serves as a good appetizer for the evening duel, which could break the Brazilian Championship attendance record - nearly XNUMX tickets have been sold.
The Curti family's Sunday will be unforgettable, a time of initiation for the youngest of the clan. Two-year-old João Gabriel will be going with his father, João Isaías Curti Júnior, and his grandfather, João Isaías Curti, to cheer for the "lolô" (that's what he calls the Tricolor). Gabriel's father was five when the Curti patriarch took him to his first Fla-Flu match in 2 (a 5-1979 victory for the Laranjeiras team). All three have tickets for the basketball and soccer matches.
"We support each other with the same enthusiasm. In basketball, Flamengo will have Marcelinho, but Fluminense is arriving with strong reinforcements. In soccer, Flamengo is on a roll. But that's precisely how my team surprises," comments IT analyst Júnior.
Examples of red-black passion
The same match that will unite the Curti family in Tijuca will divide the Machado family. This is because Marcelinho debuts for the Gávea team, facing the very club whose Olympic sports director is his father, Renê Machado. And, while Flamengo takes to the court overwhelmingly with a national team player, Flu brings Minas Gerais players to the paint, inaugurating a partnership with the team.
On the pitch, the good news for the Tricolor is the end of the Thiago Neves saga. Courted by other teams, the midfielder ended up signing a contract to stay at Laranjeiras and will face the red-and-black team at Maracanã.
But nothing can dampen the red-and-blacks' good mood this Sunday, when the Flamengo-Flu clash will be a double. Brothers Ricardo and Ronaldo Baranda, 22 and 25, and their friend Hélio Hancio Filho, 31, will spend the day cheering. After Thursday's 1-0 victory over São Paulo, Flamengo maintained its rise in the standings, giving fans confidence. In basketball, they have faith in star Marcelinho.
"I'm always behind Flamengo. In any sport, anywhere. It'll be fun to beat Fluminense twice in one day. If they lose, it'll be just sadness. I even fight with my girlfriend," says Ricardo Baranda.
The three are members of the Urubuzada fan club and are used to traveling, both for soccer and basketball. They once spent 12 hours in a van to Franca, São Paulo. When Ronaldo's son was born last year, his father was returning from a match against Santos. It's the red-and-black passion.
Great classic of the great family
A Tricolor leader and three red-black sons face off in basketball at the Tijuca gymnasium.
Photo caption: BROTHERS Duda, Ricardo and Marcelinho, from Flamengo, play with their father, Renê Machado, on the edge of the lake, in the Fla-Flu match with the family
Claudio Nogueira
Nelson Rodrigues said that the Fla-Flu match started 40 minutes before the start of the match, so intense is the rivalry between the clubs that the columnist and playwright considered them half-brothers. Today, they will be protagonists in another chapter of this 95-year-old clash, in Tijuca, at 11 am, for the State Basketball Championship.
If the classic started 40 minutes before nothing, today there will be 40 timed minutes to find out which part of the Machado family will come out on top: if it's the father, Renê, former power forward and now director of Olympic sports at Fluminense; or if it's the red-and-black sons Marcelinho, a shooting guard making his debut today; Duda, a point guard, and Ricardo, a former player and now a physiotherapist.
The father is the first to speak.
"Many people ask me what it's going to be like, because I have three sons at Flamengo. I'll be rooting for Fluminense. Our team may not be as strong as Flamengo's. But Fluminense, which has partnered with Minas Gerais, is well-trained. In any case, it's great to see the family at these centuries-old clubs," said Renê, 61, who played for 19 years at Botafogo, Vasco, Fluminense, Tijuca, and Municipal.
He took the opportunity to ask for peace in the stands and made revelations.
- Up until about ten years ago, I was Flamengo, but working at Fluminense for 30 years, I fell in love - said Renê, whose wife, Cristina, is black and white and neutral today.
At Flamengo, Duda and Marcelinho, on the court, and Ricardo, off, will do everything to win.
"This family love of basketball comes from my uncle (Sérgio Macarrão, Olympic medalist for Brazil in Tokyo 1964) and my father. Ricardo and I even saw our father play. The game has everything it needs to be excellent, and Flamengo has everything it needs to win," said Marcelinho.
Ricardo is 34 years old, Marcelinho is 32, and Duda is 25.
"My brothers saw my father and uncle play, and I saw Ricardo and Marcelo. As a kid, I just wanted to kick the ball around at halftime. In the derby, we'll be marking Sucatzky, their point guard, well," said Duda.
Ricardo commented:
- The State Championship is important, but the objective is the Brazilian title, which Flamengo doesn't have yet.
Renê and his sons go to Maracanã. His father guarantees that the Tricolor will remain the best in Rio in the Brazilian Championship. And his sons are already dreaming of qualifying for the Libertadores. As they say goodbye, everyone sings victory. Fla-Flu is a thing of the past.
Also today, at 12pm, at Caio Martins, in Niterói: Vasco x Recreio/Volta Redonda.
MARACANÃ CLASSIC: As of yesterday, more than 40 tickets have been sold
Fla-Flu, a tiebreaker with the potential for record attendance and revenue
Tricolor has the return of Thiago Neves and red-black regrets Maxi's departure
Photo caption: The BIG SOUZA, gesturing with Roger, is one of the goalscoring hopes for Flamengo fans
Photo caption: Striker Somalia prepares for the classic: "I hope to score a goal and help Flu beat Fla"
Marcio Tavares and Marcos Penido
Today's Fla-Flu match, at 18:10 p.m., at Maracanã, marks much more than the return of Thiago Neves to the Tricolor midfield or the possibility of another record-breaking performance and attendance in this Brazilian Championship - as of yesterday, 40.165 tickets had been sold out of nearly 80 available. The traditional classic, packed with stories, serves as a true tiebreaker for the season. In the State Championship, Fluminense won 2-1. In the first round of the Brazilian Championship, the red-and-black team won 1-0. Fun fact: Joel Santana won both matches, as he was the Tricolor's coach in the Carioca.
With 44 points, Fluminense has the return of Thiago Neves after the ongoing drama surrounding his contract renewal. Flamengo, with 40 points, is riding high after a 1-0 victory over leaders São Paulo last Thursday. In his duel with teammate Renato Gaúcho, Joel Santana played it safe, avoiding provocations, and demonstrating that he won't be drawn into the Flamengo fans' euphoria.
Somalia dreams of scoring in the classic
Already qualified to compete in the Copa Libertadores da América in 2008 and with no chance of taking first place in the Brazilian Championship, coach Renato Gaúcho motivated his players with a parallel dispute over which is the best team in Rio de Janeiro.
"Our goal is to achieve the best possible position in the Brazilian Championship. Now, it's always a particular pleasure to finish ahead of the other clubs in the state," said Renato.
With the return of Thiago Neves, the coach is confident in a great performance from the team, to erase the result of the first round when with 11 players the tricolor team managed to be defeated, with nine players on the field.
"That was a lesson. Quantity doesn't equal quality. We made mistakes, and I hope things will be very different today," Renato said.
Without Maxi, Joel just hopes the attack remains efficient.
For striker Somália, it's an opportunity to earn a point with the Tricolor fans.
"With all the history surrounding this classic, I know how important it is to leave a good impression. I've always dreamed of this moment. I hope to score a goal and help Fluminense win," said the player, who has only scored once at Maracanã for Fluminense so far.
At Flamengo, Joel's main concern is the attack. Argentine Maxi, who scored the winning goal in the first leg's derby, is suspended, and the coach knows his replacement will have trouble adapting.
"Maxi and Souza fit in well. Let's see if with a different formation the team doesn't lose too much and maintains a good standard of performance," said Joel.
With restrained excitement, the coach says that Flamengo has everything it needs to repeat the performance it had in the 1-0 victory over São Paulo.
- Every game is different and has its own story. Flamengo knows how to play, and if they play that way, they can always win.
Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Romulo, Jailton, Cristian and Ibson; Toró (Leonardo) and Souza. Fluminense: Fernando Henrique, Gabriel, Thiago Silva, Luiz Alberto and Junior Cesar; Fabinho, Arouca, Romeu (Cicero) and Thiago Neves; Alex Dias and Somalia. Referee: Gutemberg de Paula (RJ).
BROADCAST: Premiere and Rádios Globo and CBN
Sports Journal
The theme of a passion
Rubro-negros promise to push the team in the Fla-Flu to the sound of the new 'hit' from the stands
NATHAN DE LIMA AND THIAGO BOKEL
Ursula Nery
Rubro-negros line up to buy tickets in Gávea: the goal is to repeat the celebration of the game against São Paulo in the Fla-Flu
The Flamengo mystique is the result of a well-known combination: the players' grit and dedication on the field and the power that emanates from the stands. And once again, Flamengo fans have demonstrated their unwavering support at every game at Maracanã. The fans' version of Ayrton Senna's "Victory Theme," known as "Where I Am, I Will Be There," despite only being sung for two matches, represents the nation's sentiment.
The author of the version, who prefers to be known only as Alvarenga, described the feeling of seeing his composition sung by more than 68 thousand fans last Thursday, when Flamengo beat São Paulo.
'I only have Flamengo'\ "I don't go to the theater, the movies, the bar, I only have Flamengo. Just like me, millions of Brazilians only have Flamengo in their hearts. In the stands, I saw only offensive chants against other teams and nothing to praise the institution we support. After the loss to Inter, in Porto Alegre, I returned to Rio with this idea in my head. I spent days thinking about it, showing it to friends, and when I showed it to members of one of Flamengo's organized factions, I saw their eyes light up. Against Atlético-MG, the chant was still catching on, but in that last match, it was so beautiful, I saw about ten people crying in the stands," said the euphoric author of the new 'hit'.\
Supporter Ibson was also very happy, and delighted with the strength coming from the fans, he declared:
"Flamengo is just that, encouraging and showing an extraordinary affection. But you can be sure I feel the same way about them, because having 68 people at a midweek game isn't something every club can handle. Especially since we're no longer fighting for the title."
The response was so great that even conductor Eduardo Souto Neto, a self-confessed Botafogo fan who composed the "Victory Theme," the song that inspired the new chant, went to the stadium and was moved. And for tomorrow's derby, the excitement is expected to continue. The line at Gávea yesterday afternoon was enormous, and the first partial results indicate that 18.534 tickets have already been sold.
Today, sales continue at the headquarters of Fla, Flu and Botafogo, at Caio Martins (Niterói), Loja da Kappa (Barra) and Rox Sports (Duque de Caxias). Green, yellow and white stands cost R$25 - R$12 half-price -, regular chairs R$20 (R$10) and special chairs R$100 (R$50).
A mega show at Maracanã
A packed stadium, motivated rivals, and a centuries-old rivalry: there's no shortage of spice in Fla-Flu
Nathan de Lima and Sérgio Mello
Ibson is the red-black weapon for Fla-Flu
It promises to be a great game. Flamengo and Fluminense face off today at 18:10 p.m. at the Maracanã for the 2007 "black" title. This year, a victory for each side. Furthermore, a symbolic title is at stake: that of best Rio de Janeiro club in the Brazilian Championship. While Flu is in sixth place with 44 points, Flamengo is in tenth place with 40 points (and a game in hand).
Regarding Fluminense, Thiago Neves, who has renewed his contract for another three years, is confirmed. The player missed the last two matches, against Paraná Clube and Corinthians, while his situation was uncertain. Coach Renato Gaúcho believes that, with the return of the number 10, the team will improve its performance: "My team grows significantly with Thiago's presence."
Tricolor reinforcement\ The pivot of a dispute between his agents and Fluminense, Thiago Neves is ready to shine again.\
"I want to show the fans that this contract renewal mess is over. I'm confident, and nothing that happened will affect my performance. The best thing is to play well in this important match and show that everything is okay," he said.
Flamengo, which has only lost its opening match to Palmeiras (14-4) in 2 games at Maracanã, hopes to continue its momentum. Coach Joel Santana praised Renato Gaúcho, but noted that the last time their teams faced each other, he came out on top, winning 1-0.
"Renato (Gaúcho) is a promising professional. He realized my value in the last game, when they tried to create some intrigue between us, but there's nothing like that. Football is a game, like chess, where there's a pawn, a king, and a majesty. On this board, he knows who I am," said Joel.
Special Attention\ Joel Santana, who previously worked with Thiago Neves in Japan and at Fluminense, said he was pleased with the happy ending to the soap opera, but added that his former protégé will be closely monitored during today's big game. "I've worked with Thiago (Neves) before, and I know he's a great player. I was very happy he renewed, because he's a good kid. He won't be specially marked, but he will receive special attention," philosophized the coach, who is banking on the talent of Ibson, scorer of the winning goal against São Paulo, to bring a touch of talent and grit to the red-and-black midfield.\
With the promise of a drop in revenue and public, this Fla-Flu promises.
Mystery and trust in Gávea
Joel doesn't reveal Maxi's replacement: Toró and Leonardo are competing for a spot on the team
Nathan de Lima and Sérgio Mello
Jair Motta
Goalkeeper Bruno, who played as a striker in the recreational training session, shoots with his left foot
The atmosphere at Flamengo's training session is euphoric and mysterious. Coach Joel Santana has yet to decide who will partner Souza in the Flamengo attack, which faces Fluminense today at Maracanã. With Maxi suspended for receiving three yellow cards, the coach remains uncertain between midfielder Toró and forward Leonardo, who has recovered from a left shin injury.
At yesterday's training session in Gávea, the coach led a recreational session, attended by many fans who took photos and cheered the team. Joel Santana, after greeting and signing some shirts, explained the reason for all the mystery.
"We'll only decide our team when the game begins. We have three options: Toró, Leonardo, and Kayke. Toró is a player I brought back when I arrived here. He's a skilled and very fast athlete. Leonardo, on the other hand, stays more in the box. Regardless of who plays, the game plan won't change, only the players will," said Joel Santana, who then added: "Renato Gaúcho hasn't decided on the team yet, and I'm not going to say anything either. The wind that blows there also blows here," said Joel, who is unlikely to field the young Kayke.
Anxious downpour
Supporter Toró, who played for Fluminense at the beginning of his career, said he would be delighted if he could face his former club.
"I really want to play this game. Joel hasn't told me anything yet, but if he chooses me, I'll be very happy. It's a very important game for us," said Toró.
Leonardo, however, warned that if he hadn't suffered so many injuries, he could be a starter.
"I'm having problems with my injuries and that's been really hindering me. I even believe that if I had played more games I would be a starter. I like to play closer to the box, but I can help by opening up, especially because Souza is more stationary," said Leonardo.
Juan scares Fla during training
One of Flamengo's standout players this season, left-back Juan, caused a scare during a recreational training session held this Saturday afternoon in Gávea. The player, who participated in the activity as a goalkeeper, challenged defender Fábio Luciano for a ball and lost out. After being treated by club doctors, the number 6 stood up and assured that he is 100% ready for the derby against Fluminense this Sunday at Maracanã.
"It was just a play with Fábio Luciano. I felt it a little, but it was just a scare. Everything's fine, and I'm ready for the Fla-Flu match," Juan said in an interview with JORNAL DOS SPORTS.
Fla loses to Nova Iguaçu by OPG
Flamengo's youth team lost 2-1 to Nova Iguaçu this Saturday in the second round of the Octavio Pinto Guimarães Tournament. Despite the result, Flamengo remains in second place in Group A with three points from two games. Flamengo leads the group with two wins from two matches. The goal for the team from Gávea was scored by Vinícius Colombiano, from the penalty spot.
Saturday was a tough one for Flamengo's youth teams. In the Campeonato Carioca Juvenil, the red-and-black team drew 1-1 with Boavista and now needs to beat Vasco next weekend in Gávea to qualify for the next round. The youth team lost 2-0 to Artisul. Despite the poor result, Flamengo's boys advanced to the next round.
Renato Augusto could reappear against Paraná
Sidelined since suffering a right thigh injury in the derby against Vasco, midfielder Renato Augusto has been cleared by the medical department and is now focused on physical preparation. The player has a chance of returning for next Saturday's match against Paraná in Curitiba. He still complains of pain, especially when he has to start.
The Machado family's Fla-Flu
Winger Marcelinho debuts with the red and black shirt and faces Fluminense, of his father René
Rafael Oliveira
Jair Motta
Marcelinho (L), Duda, René Machado and Ricardo met at Lagoa before the big Fla-Flu
When young Sérgio Toledo Machado, known as Sérgio Macarrão, stepped onto a basketball court for the first time, he could never have imagined that he was sealing his family's fate. Today, four decades later, when Flamengo and Fluminense face off at 11 a.m. in Tijuca for the State Championship, another chapter in the Machado family's history will be written.
Years of dedication to the orange ball. Sérgio was followed by his younger brother René, who inspired his sons Ricardo and Marcelo, who eventually brought their youngest son Duda to the courts. The family pioneer is no longer involved in basketball, but all the others will be characters in today's Fla-Flu.
While their father is the basketball director of the Laranjeiras club, his three sons work for the Rubro-Negro club. Duda and Marcelinho are players, while Ricardo is a physiotherapist. The family patriarch says he's not bothered by the three-to-one disadvantage.
"Of course, three on the other side is cowardly. But the joy a father feels when he sees his children on the right path makes up for it. I just won't be rooting for them. Fluminense will play well. I'm confident in the team's strength," said the director, who previously played for Botafogo, Vasco, Municipal, Tijuca, and Fluminense itself, where he helped them win their fifth state championship in 1979.
Duda knows exactly what his father is talking about. He's had the opportunity to face Minas Gerais (who play in the state championship wearing the Tricolor uniform) when he was playing for Brasília.
"They're very dangerous. They have excellent players. Their point guard (Sucatzky) is very good. He deserves extra attention."
Family also rivals the football classic\ In addition to all the rivalry, the debut of the national team captain, Marcelinho Machado, for Flamengo, is another attraction of the match. And the winger is excited.\
"It has everything to be a great game. Of course, both teams are just starting their season, but they will grow throughout the competition."
Marcelinho played in the last Pre-Olympic tournament with the Brazilian National Team and won the Pan-American Championship three times, being the only player present in Brazil's last three victories in Winnipeg-99, Santo Domingo-2003 and Rio de Janeiro-2007.
Duda also has a title with the green and yellow shirt: the 2006 South American Championship. And, alongside his brother, he intends to make history in this second stint at the Gávea club.
Since today is also the day of the Flamengo-Flu match on the field, the provocations will continue after the basketball classic ends. The three sons, avowed Flamengo fans, have placed their bets. All, of course, believe in their club's victory. Duda, the most optimistic, expects a 3-0 win, Marcelinho, a 3-1, and Ricardo, more cautious, has bet on a 2-1 win.
Tricolor René couldn't contain himself and was ironic.
"They can't win two games in a row without talking about the Libertadores. Flu is the best in Rio. To take that spot from us, they'll have to play really well."
FLAMENGO: Helio, Duda, Marcelinho, Alírio and Colonese (Fernando Mineiro).\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta.\
FLUMINENSE: Sucatzky, Soró, Márcio, Wanderson and Romário.\ Coach: Flávio Davis.\
Marcos de Castro
Bath-in-Cuia
The great liturgy
Marcos de Castro castro@jsports.com.br
Michel Quoist, the great French Catholic poet, had one of his books in a Brazilian edition that sold like hotcakes in the mornings. The title was "Poems to Pray"—and one of the poems compared nighttime football to a true liturgy. That's exactly what Flamengo fans put on on Thursday's already historic night at Maracanã (the reader well knows that from now on, spectacles bringing together nearly 70 people in a football stadium in one night will be increasingly rare): a grand liturgy.
A liturgy of songs, colors, and lights, all gathered together in the form of a prayer, to use the beautiful expression that served as the title for one of Noël Rosa's most heartfelt sambas (who, in the French style, used that umlaut on the "e" in Noël, as we know). It was a collective prayer, moving in its joy, for just as there are funeral liturgical ceremonies, there are also festive ones. A boy who participated in Thursday's liturgical celebration at Maracanã Stadium, even if he lives to be 100, will never forget it.
Just as water is the center of the baptismal liturgy, the water in São Paulo's draft beer was the center of Thursday's spectacle. Considering that São Paulo is already a champion (and of course it is), the water in São Paulo's draft beer was a delightful moment for Flamengo fans, who poured it into the São Paulo team's sparkling pitcher with the happiness and good humor that should always accompany celebrations.
Now, there was a moment of bad humor that will also be unforgettable. It was the São Paulo coach, a certain Mr. Ramalho, who was so lowly that he pronounced "futê-bol" (foot-ball), as if "foot" in English were "football." Approached by a TV reporter on his way down to the locker room, this gentleman tried to be ironic when talking about the referee (he denies it, but it's hard to believe for those who witnessed the scene). But the referee's performance was impeccable, without the slightest influence on the outcome of the game, and as a result, Mr. Ramalho was made a fool of himself in front of millions of people. Irony isn't this grumpy man's strong point. Needless to say, he doesn't know how to lose: he himself made a grotesque display of it.
O Dia
Lessons from someone who knows what Fla-Flu is
Basketball and soccer stars share their experiences on the field and court
Danielle Rocha
Rio - A little over a week ago, when Minas Gerais moved to Rio to play against Fluminense in the State Basketball Championship, Facundo Sucatzky was warned about what a Fla-Flu match would be like. The Argentine point guard, who debuts today at 11 a.m. at the Tijuca gymnasium against the red-and-blacks, understood perfectly and compares it to the rivalry between Boca Juniors and River Plate, his favorite team.
But those familiar with the importance of the Rio derby are quick to offer their tips. Goalkeeper Fernando Henrique emphasizes that the most important thing is to remain calm: "It's always a very exciting game, one that really moves the city and the fans. You need to have grit and calm."
Sucatzky has both. He also has confidence and commitment to spare. "We went to Marcanã to watch Fluminense play Corinthians. I was impressed. I know that against Flamengo, previous results don't matter and that it's a separate game. I'm completely confident we'll win," he says.
The boy who once dreamed of playing soccer doesn't regret trading the grass for the court. For him, soccer today means cheering for River, admiring the plays of Ronaldinho and Messi, and knowing that the greatest of all time speaks the same language as him: "Of course it's Maradona! I never saw Pelé play. I only know what people tell me about him."
Being in Fernando Henrique's shoes is something the 35-year-old Argentine, who represented his national team at the Rio Pan American Games, didn't want for himself. He finds the life of a goalkeeper very difficult. And on the court, goalkeepers get tangled up in dribbling and get laughs.
"At school, when I was trying to choose a sport, they thought I'd be good at it because of my size. But I can't do that! It always seemed easy for Pipoka and Oscar. I liked watching them in action on the court," laughs Fernando Henrique.
I also enjoyed watching the rivalry between Bauru and Franca when I lived in the interior of São Paulo, back when Leandrinho was still there. "It was a craze! What I really wanted was to have that momentum and stop in mid-air like Michael Jordan, whose jersey I have."
O'NEAL, WADE AND CO., THE PROFESSORS
Shaquille O'Neal, Dwaine Wade, and Co. are more than just NBA superstars to defender Fábio Luciano. They're like teachers, capable of getting the red-and-black fan to set his alarm clock to wake up at dawn and watch the American professional league's games.
"I play defense and learn a lot from basketball because of the marking system, which is incredibly important. Besides that, I really enjoy the sport. When I was playing in Turkey, the United States went to play there, and I took pictures with LeBron James, Allen Iverson, and almost everyone on the team. I went out to lunch with the guys and took them on a tour of the city," says the Flamengo captain.
Standing at 1,91'XNUMX", he not only knows his stuff but also shoots baskets on the mini-court he built at his home in Vinhedo, São Paulo. There, he's the king of the paint: "I only play with smaller teammates, and it's good because basketball allows for a lot of contact," he smiles.
He recounts the day he watched a Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons match from the front row with pride. He was impressed by the strength of the crowd, but asserts that nothing compares to the support given by the red-and-black fans. "I've seen what a Fla-Flu game is like. I played and won. In Turkey, they're fanatical, chanting the whole game. In Germany, it's like a theater. But here, it's teamwork. Imagine the pressure in a basketball court?"
Great admiration for Zico
Running off the basketball court and securing his spot on the grid just to watch Zico practice free kicks was a routine for Marcelinho, back in his pre-junior years at Flamengo.\ He didn't get the photo he wanted with Galinho, but it was with him that he learned to love the club even more.\
A passion that, after nearly 20 years, he'll no longer need to hide when he comes to support the Maracanã. Back in Gávea, he makes his debut today wearing the red-and-black jersey. He dreams of two triumphs.
Skilled with the ball in his hands, some say he's no slouch with it at his feet. Coach Joel Santana believed in him even before seeing him juggle the ball and invited him to play for the team. "I'm a goalscorer, but I have no chance after what I saw this team play against São Paulo, sir," he joked. "If I could be a player, I'd want to be Zico. A Zico-like player would be good enough. We're going to win 3-1, with the strength of that spine-chilling crowd."
At Maracanã, a spicy Fla-Flu, with the ingredients that make the history of a classic
Marluci Martins and Mauro Leão
Rio - If the game is Fla-Flu, the recipe for a classic doesn't need any sauce or spice. Fla-Flu is already delicious by nature, but today's match, starting at 18:10 PM at Maracanã, is spiced up by the red-and-black Íbson, who devoured the leader São Paulo, and the flavor of Tricolor Thiago Neves, who stewed in his contract renewal while he could. Who, after all, will laugh with a full stomach any time soon?
Under Joel Santana, Flamengo has yet to lose at Maracanã. But even so, he doesn't reserve a slight favoritism for his team. Without Maxi, suspended for his third yellow card, Joel also regrets not being able to count on Renato Augusto, Paulo Sérgio, and Obina, the options who would best fit into the Flamengo attack.
Facing a Fluminense team with a guaranteed spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores, Flamengo is still searching for its goal. It's already out of the relegation zone, but it's unsure what its next goal will be. The Libertadores? "I don't live on dreams. I live on reality," said Joel, who, in his speech, seems less enthusiastic than the fans, who have been putting on one show after another at the Maracanã.
Renato Gaúcho, meanwhile, has a trump card to lead Fluminense back to victory: the return of Thiago Neves to the team. Without the midfielder, who was barred from signing for refusing to renew his contract early, the Tricolor lost 3-1 to Paraná and drew 1-1 with Corinthians.
ROMEO PLAYS
Renato Gaúcho admits that Thiago Neves was missed. "He's a unique player, has vision, and commands respect, despite being only 22 years old. He'll bring a touch of creativity to the area," the coach praised.
In addition to Thiago Neves, Fluminense will have another new addition to its midfield. With David suspended, after receiving his third yellow card against Corinthians, Romeu will get another chance in the starting lineup.
Striker Alex Dias expects a packed Maracanã and urges the Tricolor fans to also show up en masse. "With our fans supporting us, everything becomes easier," he urged.
Fans have already purchased 40 tickets
As of 18:20 p.m. yesterday, 40.165 tickets had been sold for the game. The box office was scheduled to close at 17 p.m., but had to be extended due to the large number of fans in line. Tickets have been distributed.
The main ticketing locations in Gávea, Laranjeiras, and Maracanã were bustling with activity from the morning onward. When the ticket offices opened at 11 a.m., lines were already long. At Maracanã, the lines began at the ticket office in front of the train station and stretched all the way to Eurico Rabelo Street.
Tickets that weren't sold yesterday will only be on sale today at Maracanã. The expectation is that the Brazilian Championship attendance record, set on Thursday, when 59.098 paid to see Flamengo and São Paulo, will be broken.
Each one in their corner
Barbs before the first round game shook the friendship between Renato and Joel
Marluci Martins
Rio - With a goal from Maxi, Flamengo defeated Fluminense in the first round. But Joel Santana lost a friend, and the same can be said of Renato Gaúcho. While before that match, both men remembered winning the 95 State Championship, today that photo is deeply faded.
They don't get along anymore. "I don't have to say anything about Renato. Leave him over there, and I'll stay here. Otherwise, they'll start creating a conversation that's not cool," Joel said evasively. He was hurt when, in the first round, Renato said he'd never seen him in a photograph lifting a trophy as a player.
That time, Joel reacted with some mockery. "But, as a coach, Renato will have to polish my clipboard," he commented.
Joel won the derby on August 16th, but his clipboard was left without the expected polish. Just as today's edition of 'Attack' is missing a photo of the two coaches, together like in the old days.
The atmosphere between Joel Santana and Renato Gaúcho became so strange that no argument could convince them to pose together for an interview to promote the classic.
"No answer and no comment," said Joel Santana, quickly responding to an insistent reporter who, with irony, asked him about the art of polishing clipboards. And that's how, without spicy provocations or barbs, without hugs or kisses, Joel and Renato will be, in today's Fla-Flu, once again at Maracanã, each at the limit of their technical area.
Their friendship also had its limits, although neither spoke ill of the other or publicly revealed any signs of resentment from the recent past. "Renato is a good coach, just starting out in the profession and with a great future ahead of him," the red-and-black coach simply said.
"Well, when I see Joel, I do talk to him," said Renato Gaúcho, who was once affectionately called 'Baby' by Joel Santana. The old days of belly goals, which, apparently, are gone.
Sports Gazette
Excited, Flamengo faces classic against Fluminense\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Buoyed by snapping leader São Paulo's long unbeaten streak, Flamengo returns to Maracanã this Sunday at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time) to face Fluminense in the traditional derby in the 30th round of the Brazilian Championship. Unbeaten at the stadium since the first round, Flamengo has 40 points, four behind Fluminense, who have gone two games without a win in the competition. In the first round, Flamengo prevailed, winning 1-0. Hired to replace Ney Franco after Flamengo's inconsistent start to the Brazilian Championship, coach Joel Santana is celebrating the calmer times he's had at the club, having managed to keep the team away from the relegation zone. Despite the Rio de Janeiro club's good form, the coach is avoiding predictions about their qualification for next year's Copa Sudamericana or Copa Libertadores.
"When I arrived at Flamengo, we only had 12 points. Now, after these victories, especially at Maracanã, we've lifted our heads above water and are breathing easier. With a few more points, we'll get back on track to see what our future holds," the Flamengo coach emphasized.
Despite the more comfortable situation in the Brazilian Championship, Joel Santana doesn't want to hear about complacency at Flamengo. Therefore, the coach has been persistent in talks to keep his players focused on always playing with the same determination they showed against São Paulo. "At Flamengo, it always has to be like this. If it's not like this, it's not worth it. I talked to the players a while ago and I always emphasize the same thing: to play for Flamengo, you have to work hard."
Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, who scored the winning goal in the first-round Fla-Flu clash, will be out this Sunday after receiving his third yellow card against São Paulo and will be suspended. Other absences include midfielder Renato Augusto, still recovering from a muscle problem, and forward Obina, whose appeal hearing was postponed by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD).
Fluminense, meanwhile, enters the field determined to confirm its status as Rio de Janeiro's best team in the Brasileirão. Coach Renato Gaúcho acknowledged that the derby was made a bit more difficult by Flamengo's crucial result against São Paulo last Thursday.
"Flamengo's victory will give our opponents a much more motivated approach, with the full support of their fans. Furthermore, they're now competing for qualification in international competitions, and this will make Flamengo even stronger. But Fluminense knows how to handle these types of situations, and that's why we're confident of a positive result," the manager stated.
The Tricolor coach expects a fair and open game this Sunday, with the possibility of many goals at Maracanã. "Flamengo needs to win at all costs to completely avoid the risk of relegation and move even closer to the continental competition spots. Fluminense wants to finish the competition as the best team in Rio de Janeiro. Furthermore, both teams usually seek victory when they play at Maracanã. I'm sure that whoever goes to Maracanã will witness a very good, well-contested match with both teams pushing for the goal."
Fluminense's lineup for this match has already been decided, despite Renato Gaúcho's usual secrecy and only confirming the lineup minutes before the derby. Right-back Rafael and midfielder David, who received their third yellow cards in the 1-1 draw with Corinthians, are serving suspensions and are out. As a result, Gabriel will start at full-back, and Thiago Neves, who renewed his contract, will regain his place in midfield.
Three people are competing for Maxi's place at Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Without striker Maxi, suspended after receiving a third yellow card, coach Joel Santana has three options to choose from when selecting Flamengo's lineup for this Sunday's derby against Fluminense at the Maracanã. Striker Leonardo and midfielders Kayke and Toró are vying for the spot that would have been Roger's had the former Corinthians player not experienced muscle pain during the few minutes he played against São Paulo. Since the MRI scan didn't reveal any injury, the midfielder will undergo a blood test. This is the doctors' way of trying to determine what's causing the midfielder's pain.
Starting Monday, coach Joel will be able to count on Renato Augusto, who has been cleared to train by the medical department. Having recovered from a muscle problem, the player will be available for the match on the 14th against Paraná in Curitiba.
PeléNet
With different motivations, Fla and Flu face each other hoping for a record
From the Editorial Team\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo and Fluminense arrive at this Sunday's derby at 18:10 PM at Maracanã with high energy. As a result, the stadium is expected to be packed and even set a new attendance record.
The reasons for each team's excitement are quite different. Flamengo is coming off two wins, the last one against leaders São Paulo, and the team hasn't lost at Maracanã since May 13th. This has moved the team from Gávea up to tenth place with 40 points, moving away from relegation, into the qualifying zone for the Copa Sudamericana, and even dreaming of the Copa Libertadores, as it sits eight points behind the top four.
"Who knows, if we do our part, get positive results, and the other teams stumble, we can get there. But we have to think about one thing at a time," said midfielder Jailton, maintaining the caution that set the tone in interviews at the club.
For the Tricolor, the Brazilian Championship is the least of their reasons for excitement. The team sits sixth with 44 points and, as they already have a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores, is practically competing in the competition to fulfill their schedule and finish in the best possible position.
Fluminense's motivation, beyond the derby itself, is wearing the number 10 jersey. After two games away from the team, midfielder Thiago Neves renewed his contract with the Laranjeiras club and is confirmed for this Sunday's match. The team's biggest standout in the Brazilian Championship, the player is also the Tricolor's top scorer with nine goals.
"The team is Thiago and 10 others. But I'll just say this in advance. We're very happy that this saga is over. He's another reinforcement for Sunday's game," celebrated coach Renato Gaúcho.
As of this Saturday, more than 40 tickets for the game had been sold in advance. For this reason, fans are expected to break the record set in Flamengo's 1-0 victory over São Paulo last Thursday: 59.098 paying spectators.
BalloonSport
Fla-Flu: more than 40 thousand tickets sold
Maracanã will be packed this Sunday for Brazil's most charming classic
According to information from Flamengo's official website, as of 18:20 p.m., 40.165 tickets have already been sold for the classic against Fluminense, which takes place this Sunday, at 18:10 p.m., at Maracanã, for the 30th round of the Brazilian Championship (watch the video of the red-blacks and tricolors preparing for the game).
This Sunday, the remaining tickets for the Fla-Flu match will only be sold at the match venue. Ticket office 8 at the Maracanã Stadium opens at 12 p.m., and ticket offices 2, 5, and 9 open at 13 p.m.
The Fla and Flu fans who put on a show
Legião Tricolor and Fla-Manguaça gain supporters and the trust of even the Military Police
Caio Barbosa
Marcio Iannacca
Legião celebrates at Maracanã: without brawls and with love for the Tricolor. "Don't people usually say they're going to play Carnival? We play Maracanã, as if every game were Carnival." This quote comes from Leonardo Bagno, 29, one of the biggest activists of Legião Tricolor - a movement created by Mário Vitor, a legitimate descendant of the Rodrigues clan, the illustrious Mário Filho (the journalist who lends his name to Maracanã and created the name Fla-Flu) and Nelson Rodrigues, a genius of Brazilian drama - and which has been changing the way Cariocas support their fans.
“Don’t people usually say they’re going to play Carnival? We played Maracanã, as if every game were Carnival.” (Leonardo Bagno, Tricolor)
The Legião is contemporary with other fan groups (or fan groups, as they prefer to be called) of Rio's other major clubs, such as the "Guerreiros do Almirante," the "Loucos pelo Botafogo," and the "Fla-Manguaça," who don't spray paint walls, vandalize their clubhouses, and don't view opposing fans as enemies. The Legião Tricolor also doesn't have a president, director, or uniform, unlike other organized fan groups, most of which emerged in the early 70s and have now strayed from their true purpose—simply cheering for their beloved club.
"We go to Maracanã to party and cheer on our team. We have absolutely nothing against other fans; we just want everyone to sing along and support the team. Our motto is to sing for ninety minutes, nonstop, and our jersey is the Fluminense jersey," explains Leonardo.
Parties at Fla-Flu and against São Paulo
The Legion grows with each game, and with it comes a profusion of new songs, most free of insults and swearing, which attracts—and retains—more and more Tricolor fans who just want to cheer, and women, many beautiful women, who, with the wave of violence, were no longer attending stadiums. Horto Mágico ("Let's go, Fluzão, let's win, I'm on the team that's been champions so many times..."), the Tricolor version of "Yellow Submarine" by the Beatles ("Flu-mi-nense, olê olê olê..."), and Fluminense Eterno Amor ("...that's why I sing, that I wear this shirt, proud to be Tricolor, oh oh...") are some of the many songs already taking over the stands and that should compete with the red-and-black songs in this great Fla-Flu match on Sunday.
"Against Botafogo, we threw a massive party, with 1.600 rolls of paper, just like in the 80s, plus 1.000 from Young Flu. In the Fla-Flu match, we alone will bring 1.800, not including Young. But the biggest party will still be against São Paulo. We already have 1.600 Tricolor flags made to distribute in the stands. But we won't do it like we do now, when we collect them after the games. It will be a gift given to the most beautiful fans in the world. To achieve this, we will count on financial support from Sampa Flu, a group of Tricolor fans who live in São Paulo and were happy to collaborate with us," reveals Leonardo.
No fights, just Fla and Manguaça in the lead
Flamanguaça Fan Club - Flamengo
In last Thursday's match against São Paulo, the red-and-blacks put on a show in the Maracanã stands. Unlike some organized groups that only want to fight and cause trouble, others are heading in the opposite direction of riots and brawls. This is the case with Fla-Manguaça.
Fla-Manguaça was founded in 1995 in a condominium in São Conrado, an upscale neighborhood in Rio's South Zone. Friends would meet for a get-together before heading to games at Maracanã. Besides their passion for Flamengo, they also enjoyed a beer, hence the name Manguaça.
"There's no such thing as fighting. We're going to support Flamengo. The idea is to encourage our team." (Henrique Almeida, Flamengo fan)
From then on, the idea of Fla-Manguaça gained momentum and today has 200 employees and over 600 fans. In the stands, there's no fighting, just lots of partying and songs satirizing rivals and playing with a variety of drinks. Fla-Manguaça's executive director, Henrique Almeida, known as Snoopy, explained the fans' goals.
"There's no point in fighting. We're going to support Flamengo. The idea is to encourage our team," says Henrique.
Fla-Manguaça occupies the yellow sector of the Maracanã, and one of the fans' songs, the most emblematic and humorous, is the following:
"Vasco only knows how to vomit, Fluminense couldn't handle a beer...\ Botachope, all tiny, has a beer and can't handle a caipirinha." (Fla-Manguaça)\
Military Police congratulate new fans
Unlike the old ones, the new Rio de Janeiro fan groups have the full and unconditional support of the Military Police, as well as the sympathy of the authorities. For Major Marcelo Pessoa, commander of the Special Stadium Policing Group (GEPE), these groups' new way of supporting will return Rio de Janeiro's football scene to what it was many years ago.
"These fan groups are beautiful and have our full support. It's beautiful to see them doing what everyone should do: go to the stadiums and enjoy football as a leisure activity. Unfortunately, traditional organized fan groups have criminals infiltrated among their members, who go to the stadiums to steal, fight, and even kill. In these new groups, which are growing and I think will grow even more, these types of people have little place, due to their very organizational structure. On behalf of the Military Police, I congratulate them all and wish them a long life," the major praised.
Renato Augusto returns against Paraná
Player starts training with the rest of the group next Monday
Marcio Iannacca
Joel has been without Renato Augusto since September 16th. Midfielder Renato Augusto will return to training with the rest of the group next Monday. Having recovered from a muscle problem, the player will be available for coach Joel Santana to use in the match on the 14th against Paraná, in Curitiba.
Renato Augusto's last match for Flamengo was the derby against Vasco on September 16th. Since then, the athlete has been recovering.
"Renato Augusto will be available to Joel starting next week. He's currently with Ronaldo Torres (the fitness coach). He'll be available for the match against Paraná," says doctor Marcelo Soares.
Fla-Flu to revive Rio basketball
The first classic of the State Championship this Sunday promises a full house at Tijuca TC
Matias Zibecchi
Marcelinho debuts for Fla against Flu
Flamengo and Fluminense face off at 11 a.m. this Sunday at the Tijuca Tennis Club Gymnasium for the Campeonato Carioca. Flamengo is aiming for a second consecutive victory in the competition, in which the Tricolor has already won its first four matches. Flamengo made a significant investment in its squad with the signing of three-time Pan-American champion Marcelinho Machado, who will debut in the derby. Flu welcomed players from Minas Gerais for the competition, and boasts Argentine point guard Sucatzky and winger Soró as its main standouts.
The basketball derby precedes the same soccer matchup at 18:10 p.m. at Maracanã. And it's also expected to be a full house, recapturing the city's basketball glory days, as the red-and-black fans are buoyed by their victory over São Paulo in the Brasileirão, and the Tricolor fans are already strongly supporting the team from Laranjeiras.
Argentine Sucatzky appears alongside Fluminense fans after the State Championship match. "In Fluminense's debut in the championship, the opponent scored a basket, and the fans roared louder and louder. The athletes finished the match flying on the court. The team will later watch the Fla-Flu match at Maracanã. They were impressed by the support of the Fluminense fans at the basketball games," says Renê Machado, Fluminense director and father of the red-and-blacks Marcelinho and Duda, who responds in kind.
- The red-and-black fans will fill Tijuca, and we will leave with the victory - guarantees the point guard.
On one side, Flamengo is seeking its third consecutive championship. On the other, Fluminense is trying to end an 18-year drought in the State Championship.
Throw
Fla-Flu full of attractions at Maracanã
A classic could definitely boost Flamengo's momentum. Flu seeks to halt its rival's rise.
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo and Fluminense face off this Sunday at Maracanã at 18:10 p.m. in a match valid for the 30th round of the Brazilian Championship. Buoyed by two consecutive victories, including one against leaders São Paulo, Flamengo is beginning to believe it can secure a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Meanwhile, Fluminense, already guaranteed a spot in the South American competition, will try to prevent its biggest rival from advancing.
The fans' support last Thursday rekindled the flame of the red-black team, which, having effectively moved away from the relegation zone, is now planning to reach greater heights within the championship.
However, the Rubro-Negro will be without the hero of the first-round Fla-Flu clash in this match. Striker Maxi received his third yellow card while being substituted against São Paulo and is suspended.
Coach Joel Santana hasn't yet decided who will replace the Argentine. Toró and Roger, both from Laranjeiras, are the most likely candidates. With 40 points and a game in hand, Flamengo is counting on the strength of its fans to fill Maracanã once again and intimidate its rival.
For Fluminense, even after two poor results in the Brasileirão, the atmosphere at Laranjeiras couldn't be better for the derby against Flamengo. After more than a month, Thiago Neves' controversial contract renewal has finally come to fruition.
Fluminense's number 10 - and one of the main highlights of the Brazilian Championship - made sure to give the saga a happy ending by signing, without the presence of his agents, a new three-year contract with Tricolor.
The player, when explaining the reasons for his stay, severely criticized his agents, who were blocking the renewal, by revealing that everyone close to him asked him to stay at Fluminense and only the two of them disagreed.
"I thought about my family and made the decision I wanted. At the meeting, there wasn't any attorney on my side. I didn't say anything to Luiz Alberto. They (the attorneys) need to know that I'm the one who takes the field. He's not the one being booed by the fans, and he's not the one who, if he takes a hit on the field, will be sidelined for a long time. I know our relationship may be a little tarnished, but my career was at stake, and I followed the people who want the best for me. They're all happy for me," said Thiago Neves.
Coach Renato Gaúcho was also pleased, recalling his time at Vasco da Gama, he reiterated that his team has only one starter for Brazil's most captivating derby. In the case of São Januário, the starter was Romário. At Fluminense, it's Thiago Neves.
As is customary, the tricolor coach kept the mystery and did not reveal the replacements for Rafael and David, who are suspended.
"For the game against Flamengo, it will be Thiago Neves and ten others. He'll play, that's a fact, as he's continued to stay in shape and train well here at Laranjeiras. You (journalists) won't know the rest. I'm not going to give the opponent any weapons," the coach revealed.
The expectation is that right-back Gabriel will make his debut as a starter and that Cícero will remain in the team.
Toró enjoys playing for Fla
Midfielder Toró wants to leave Flamengo in a comfortable position once and for all. He expects everyone who wears the Rubro-Negro jersey to give their all for the team's success and guarantees he'll play any position, because for Toró, the most important thing is the pleasure of representing the club.
radio l! - Regardless of who comes in, they must give their all to get Flamengo out of this situation. I'm happy to wear this shirt and be able to show my work and my value. I'm available to play anywhere on the field - he says. (Click and listen to Toró)
In classics, Juan only didn't score against Flu
Left-back scored important goals against Botafogo and Vasco
In nearly two years at Flamengo, Juan has often been decisive in important matches. In Rio derbies, the left-back has yet to score except against Fluminense. If it had been for him, this goal would have come quickly:
"I hope it happens in this Fla-Flu match. I already had a few chances against Fluminense. I hope I don't waste them now."
Of Juan's goals, the most important came against Vasco da Gama in the second leg of the 2006 Copa do Brasil final. It was the title-winning goal for Flamengo. The full-back scored against Botafogo in the 2006 Carioca Championship, when Flamengo won the derby 3-2.
Joel Santana forgives Renato's provocation
Flamengo coach doesn't want to get into controversy before Fla-Flu
When asked about the provocations made by Fluminense coach Renato Gaúcho during the week, Flamengo coach Joel Santana preferred to tone down the story and stick to the good part said by his opponent.
"I'm not mad at him (Renato Gaúcho). He's intelligent and knows how to recognize who's who. He was a great player, but as a coach, he has nothing to say about me. I've gained a lot," said the coach.
This year, Joel participated in both Fla-Flus matches and emerged victorious in both. In the Campeonato Carioca, still with Fluminense, he won 2-1, with a goal from Cícero in stoppage time.
In the first round of this Brazilian Championship, for Flamengo, Joel got the better of it (1-0), with a goal from Maxi, in a game in which Rubro-Negro finished the match with two men less.
Joel reveals tranquility for another Fla-Flu
Flamengo coach says he's used to a packed Maracanã
Joel Santana's 26-year coaching career has made him an expert in big matches. On the eve of a Fla-Flu match, the Flamengo coach assures he no longer gets upset when he sees a packed Maracanã.
"We're adapting to Maracanã. Every time I go back, it's another story. I'm even thinking about writing a book," the coach joked.
Regarding yet another Fla-Flu, Joel was succinct when talking about this classic that is so traditional in Brazilian football.
- It's a great classic, with a lot of history and rivalry - he defined