the Globe
Record-breaker Fla sells 15.500 tickets in one day
Advance ticket sales for Santos match set historic record
Photo caption: FANS LINE UP in Gávea to buy tickets for the match against Santos and break the record for sales in a single day: 15.500
Márcio Tavares
Pushing their team toward the Copa Libertadores, Flamengo's fans gave further proof of their strength yesterday. Advance ticket sales at traditional outlets and online for the match against Santos, Sunday, at Maracanã, reached an unprecedented 15.500 in a single day, a club record. To regain the lead in attendance, surpassing São Paulo's controversial numbers, the Flamengo board ordered a 79.894-ticket shipment, of which only 39.740 remain, as 40.154 were sold yesterday. Tickets may sell out before Saturday.
The expectation is that the entire ticket will be sold out, representing the largest attendance of this Brazilian Championship, surpassing the match between São Paulo and América-RN, which had 69.874 attendees. Starting Tuesday, tickets can be purchased online, including in the early hours of the morning, at www.ingressofacil.com.br. Tickets are available at various points of sale from 11 a.m. to 17 p.m.
Joel compares Renato Augusto to Edmundo
With the fans' support, coach Joel Santana has no doubt that the team's responsibility has increased significantly. But he trusts his star player to perform as well as the fans.
"I'm an enlightened man. Who would have thought that team, which was second to last when I arrived at Flamengo, would reach the top of the table and compete for a spot in the Copa Libertadores?" the coach boasted.
Joel led a tense and competitive match yesterday afternoon at Gávea, full of arguments and worrying moments. Souza, who argued with Juan, left the field with pain in his right Achilles tendon, and Ibson, who turned 24, suffered a severe blow to his right foot. But neither of these are immediate concerns.
"I hope it's nothing serious between those two," Joel said. "I talked to Juan. They're arguing a lot over nonsense."
Joel noted the most beneficial aspect of the team, the physical evolution of Renato Augusto, confirmed in Maxi's place and compared to Edmundo:
- He has the strength, the determination, the way of playing on the flanks like Edmundo - compared Joel.
Renato Augusto was flattered, but diplomatically sidestepped the comparison.
"If I earn half of what Edmundo earned, I'll be happy. But I don't really like these comparisons," he said.
Today and tomorrow Flamengo has new battles in the Superior Court of Sports Justice, because of objects thrown onto the field, in the games against Vasco and Grêmio.
Sports Journal
Joel Santana compares Renato Augusto to Edmundo
Renato Augusto training in Gávea
Flamengo coach Joel Santana declared himself a fan of Renato Augusto's football on Wednesday. The Flamengo coach compared the young midfielder's style of play and strength to that of Edmundo, stating that the player will be the new "Animal."
"They're very similar. Edmundo also played on the wing when he was younger. They both have the same desire. Renato, like Edmundo, is always looking for the game; he's a bull. He works with his heart at 180°. If he doesn't become an Animal, he'll get close," said Joel Santana.
After praising the red-and-black player several times, Joel made some observations about Renato Augusto's football.
"He needs very little to explode. We have to work more on his passing. Not just the quality, but also getting him to release the ball a little quicker. But we'll resolve that in a short time," explained the coach.
Flamengo's current coach trained player Edmundo in 1992, at Vasco.
It's up to you, Nation!
Fans are eager to break another attendance record in the Brazilian Championship
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Fans form monstrous lines in Gávea
Besides the saga surrounding the fifth championship trophy, Flamengo and São Paulo face another particular duel at the end of this Brazilian Championship. It's about which club will end the year with the Brasileirão's record attendance.
Despite having nine of the ten largest attendances in the competition, the club doesn't have the most important thing, which is first place in this dispute, since, on October 31st, São Paulo brought 69.874 thousand fans to Morumbi in the match against América-RN.\ The great red-and-black nation seems to have bought this fight and promises to fill Maracanã, on Sunday, and end the chances of the São Paulo team to also take this title.\
As of 17:20 p.m. yesterday, 40.145 tickets had already been sold. Yesterday alone, 15.500 tickets were sold, a new record for tickets sold in a single day.
Coach Joel Santana, one of those responsible for Flamengo's brilliant recovery in the Brazilian Championship, was surprised and very excited when he heard about the fans' mobilization.
"They sold forty thousand on a Wednesday? Imagine when Friday comes around. This is sensational, I have no doubt this record will be broken. This crowd is beautiful, and Maracanã is ours!" said Joel Santana.
The club's board is also hoping that fans will buy all 79.894 tickets available and break the record again.
Starting Tuesday, tickets for Sunday's big game at 18:10 p.m. between Flamengo and Santos can also be purchased online or by phone. For the first option, fans should visit www.ingressofacil.com.br. For the second, just call 4003-2245.
Tickets continue to be sold from 11am to 17pm at the following points of sale: Gávea Ticket Office, RioSampa (Nova Iguaçu), General Severiano (Botafogo Headquarters), Caio Martins Stadium (Niterói), Fluminense FC, at the Kappa Store: Av. das Américas, 4200 – Block 11 - Barra da Tijuca and at ticket office 8 at Maracanã.
Tickets are R$20 for green and yellow stands, R$25 for white stands, R$15 for regular seats, and R$100 for special seats. Flamengo's board of directors has made half-price tickets available to students with student ID.
Ibson celebrates his greatest gift
Nina Lima
Ibson is one of Flamengo's standout performers during this sensational run in the Brazilian Championship, rising from second-to-last to third. Yesterday, the player, who has been putting in fantastic performances, turned 24 and celebrated his birthday with his teammates on a cloudy morning in Gávea.
The player said that the greatest gift he could receive has already arrived, his son Júnior, who was born seven days ago, but he said that beating Santos would also be wonderful.
"Actually, my greatest gift came last week. Nothing compares to having a child, and I feel very happy about that. I hope the victory over Santos is another gift, because it will leave Flamengo in a very good position to reach the Libertadores," said the midfielder.
Regarding Flamengo's current form in the Brazilian Championship, Íbson said that despite last Sunday's setback, the Gávea club is in good form.
"We're still in a very good moment. We've won five matches and had one setback. We need to stay calm and keep working hard so we can get a positive result against Santos," said Ibson, who confessed that he used to be embarrassed to look at Flamengo's standings.
"I didn't even look. But now, after everything that happened, I make a point of checking. It's even nice to see where we stand," he added.
Souza is injured, but should play
On alert, striker Obina tries to avoid marking from full-back Egídio
Everything was going well at yesterday's training session until a problem hampered coach Joel Santana's mind. Striker Souza, who had complained of pain in the heel of his right leg last week, took a blow to the same spot and had to leave the training session immediately. Despite the coaching staff's concerns, he won't be a problem for the match against Santos. In any case, Obina (pictured) is already on standby.
"Souza felt some discomfort, but it shouldn't be a problem, as the medical department didn't tell me anything serious. He should be on the field normally on Sunday; otherwise, Obina will play," the coach decided.
Cristian alert
Flamengo has always been considered a team that thrives in decisive moments. And this time, fighting directly for a spot in the Copa Libertadores, things shouldn't be any different. That's the opinion of midfielder Cristian, who, despite his short time at the club, is already familiar with this reputation.
"If they let us advance, it will be tough. We have in our favor that our direct rivals in the fight for the spot will have tough games ahead. We need to win at home to continue our good form," Cristian assessed.
The possibility of staying at Gávea for the next three years is already messing with the player's head.
"When I was feeling down, Flamengo opened its doors to me, offering me all the support and affection. I learned to love the club, and my family loves Rio. If it were up to me, I would have renewed my contract a long time ago. These fans are wonderful," the player was full of praise.
Joel summons his soldiers
Coach names team in advance to face Santos in Maracanã battle
Thiago Bokel and Nathan de Lima
Renato Augusto shares the ball with goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba. The 19-year-old will start.
With the end of the Brazilian Championship drawing ever closer, the atmosphere at the club is inevitably tense. Even yesterday's training session, which ended in a 1-1 draw, demonstrated this sentiment well. The session featured some tough plays, but it also served as a chance for coach Joel to virtually determine the team that will face Santos on Sunday.
The main change is up front, with Renato Augusto replacing Maxi. Otherwise, the team will be the same as the one that lost to Cruzeiro last Sunday. Despite playing in a makeshift position, the midfielder performed excellently and scored a beautiful goal from outside the box, earning praise from the coach, who compared him to the "Animal" Edmundo.
"I see Renato Augusto as a unique player, with the potential to be one of the best in Brazilian football. I see similarities with Edmundo when he was young. I can't say if he'll achieve the same glory, but they're similar," Joel Santana compared.
Flattered by the coach's comment, Renato Augusto expressed satisfaction with the comparison, but doesn't want it to become a reference point in his career.
"Of course I'm happy, especially for everything Edmundo has done in football, but I don't like these kinds of comparisons, because the pressure just increases even more. He is him and I am me," the supporter said.
Demanding fans\ Despite returning to the starting lineup after a long time — the last match he started was against Vasco, on September 16th —, Renato Augusto knows that a poor performance will not be forgiven by the fans.\
"If you ask the fans if they're happy that we avoided relegation, they'll say no. If we don't qualify for the Copa Libertadores, the pressure will be intense. That's the downside, because when you're doing badly, the crisis is worse than at other clubs," vented Renato Augusto, expressing dissatisfaction with the criticism he's been receiving since returning from the U-20 World Cup in Canada.
Flamengo beat Botafogo: 3 sets to 0
On Tuesday night, Flamengo defeated Botafogo in the Men's State Volleyball Championship at the Togo Renan Soares gymnasium in Gávea. The score was 3 sets to 0 with partial scores of 26-24, 25-25 and 25-23.
Tijuca, the competition's sole leader, defeated Compania Atlética, from Barra da Tijuca, 3 sets to 1. The scores were 23-25, 25-20, 34-32, and 25-21.
Today, Tijuca returns to the court to face Plínio Leite University, from Niterói, at the Tijuca gym.
In the interior classic, Macaé obtained a great result, defeating Campos 3 sets to 2, with partial scores of 21/25, 17/25, 25/13, 25/23 and 12/15.
The competition is a home-and-away format, with eight teams facing off. The top four teams qualify for the semifinals.
Next, the Women's State Volleyball Championship will begin, with the main attraction being the Rexona team, the current four-time Brazilian champion.
Basket classic will be at Caio Martins
The match between Flamengo and Vasco, part of the second round of the State Basketball Championship, which will be held on the 16th, will no longer be held at Maracanãzinho. The board of the Vasco club, the host club, has opted for the Caio Martins gymnasium.
The Niteroi gymnasium had already been used by Vasco fans in the championship.
The match on the 21st, still in the first round and postponed due to a lack of a gymnasium, will be played at Maracanãzinho. Both matches will be played at 20 p.m. Flamengo is the only undefeated team with eight wins.
Last Tuesday, Volta Redonda and Municipal faced off in the second leg of the State Championship. The club from the interior of Rio de Janeiro defeated the team from Rio de Janeiro 83-80 (40-41) in a tight match from start to finish. This was the team's second victory in the competition. The leading scorer of the match was Tijuca winger Júlio, with 21 points. Daniel was the standout for Voltaço, with 19.
Vasco and Flamengo mark the return of basketball to Maracanãzinho
President Alvaro Lionides is very happy to see basketball back at Maracanãzinho
The Rio de Janeiro State Basketball Federation (FBERJ) confirmed this Wednesday afternoon the locations for the classics between Vasco and Flamengo on Friday, the 16th, and Wednesday, the 21st. The first match, a second-round match of the men's state championship, will be held on the 2th at the Caio Martins gymnasium at 16 p.m. The second match, on Wednesday the 20st, will be at Maracanãzinho.
The Federation's president, Álvaro Lionides, spoke about the return of basketball to one of the sport's biggest stages in Brazil.
"It is a pleasure for FBERJ to be returning to the temple of basketball, with a classic with the magnitude of Vasco and Flamengo."
Lionides also spoke about this year's championship:
"To our delight and that of all basketball fans, the championship has been a complete success both technically and in terms of attendance. And contrary to what many thought at the beginning of the season, that it would be an uneven championship, a high level of quality has been demonstrated. It's a great satisfaction that, after so many years, Rio's basketball has had such a balanced championship," concluded the president.
O Dia
Renato Augusto, the red-black Animal
Coach compares supporter to Edmundo at the beginning of his career
Marluci Martins
Rio - He's still a youngster. He's 19 years old. But, according to coach Joel Santana, he'll soon be a beast. When justifying his decision to start Renato Augusto in place of Maxi, the coach compared him to a renowned "animal": Edmundo.
"He's a young player with a lot of strength and determination. He reminds me of a player who started his career playing on the wing and became a top scorer. If he doesn't become a 'beast,' Renato Augusto will be very close to that," Joel praised.
Due to two muscle injuries, Renato Augusto hasn't started since September 16th (a 1-1 draw with Vasco). Against Santos on Sunday at Maracanã, he'll be back in the starting eleven, even though playing up front isn't his preference. "I prefer coming from behind, but it doesn't hurt to get a little further forward. In soccer, you have to be prepared to play in more than one position," said the midfielder, eager to seize the opportunity that came his way.
The comparison with Edmundo is something that makes him uncomfortable: "I haven't achieved half of what Edmundo has. I don't like comparisons because of the expectations they create, but I'm happy with the coach's comment, as he trusts me."
Another player who's enjoying Joel's success is Roger. The midfielder trained with the starting lineup in the second half of the training camp, impressed, and continues to be evaluated. "He's talented. A leader. He's improving every day," Joel stated.
In defense, Flamengo will continue to be without Ronaldo Angelim. The player, who suffered from shortness of breath and palpitations in the match against Corinthians, is awaiting test results. Doctors fear he may have a heart problem.
While assembling the team for Sunday's crucial match, Flamengo's coach also served as a psychologist. Before training, he called Souza and Juan for a chat. The two players, who tend to get irritated easily, were reprimanded by the coach.
"Nerves are on edge. That's normal in football. But they're getting really upset over small things, even in two-touch games. We can't waste energy like that," Joel said.
JOEL SANTANA: 'I AM AN ENLIGHTENED ONE'
"I'm enlightened." Joel Santana's statement, commenting on the team's progress under his leadership, felt like a slip-up. Soon after, there he was, once again assuming his simplicity, comparing himself to his next opponent, the elegant Vanderlei Luxemburgo. "He sold an image that worked. And I'm still wearing my jeans and sneakers," he said.
Flamengo's enlightened man, who has the clipboard as his confidant, respects Vanderlei's notebook.
"He's very competent. He's one of the best coaches in Brazilian football," Joel remarked. "We met in the United Arab Emirates. I don't remember when. Let's not start talking about the weather, shall we?" he said evasively, laughing.
But talking about Vanderlei has its difficult side. It reminds Joel of one of his saddest moments, when he was caught on camera ordering his players to beat Santos in August. "Let's think about lighter things... How about a sundae?" he quipped. "Let's not spend three months chewing the same thing," he observed, trying to change the subject.
That episode is behind us. Today is a day to ask for forgiveness and, most importantly, to give thanks. The entire Flamengo team will be at the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus in Cosme Velho this afternoon, before training, to give thanks for the good run.
"Let's be thankful. It's a normal thing. We've come out of a difficult situation and now have the chance to reach Christmas with a gift: the Libertadores," Joel said.
Flamengo sells more than 40 advance tickets for the match against Santos
Rio - According to Radio Tupi, Flamengo fans have already secured over 40 fans at the Maracanã stadium on Sunday against Santos. This Wednesday alone, Flamengo's director of revenue, Flávio Pereira, reported that over 15 tickets were sold in advance, a record for the club this season.
This increases Flamengo's chances of breaking the Brazilian Championship attendance record, currently held by São Paulo. The Brazilian champions brought 69.989 paying spectators to Morumbi Stadium for their match against América de Natal, where São Paulo secured their fifth championship title in advance.
This week, Flamengo will be judged twice by the STJD
Rio - This week, Flamengo will be targeted twice by auditors from the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). Next Thursday and Friday, the club risks losing home-field privileges due to issues in matches against Vasco and Grêmio in the Brazilian Championship. In the derby against Vasco, the club was reported for a fan who threw a plastic cup onto the field. Since the club was acquitted in the first instance, this ruling is not a cause for concern.
However, the most serious case occurred against Grêmio. Flamengo will be tried for throwing a beer can and a mortar at the refereeing team. In both trials, Flamengo is charged under Article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing and suppressing disorder in its sports arena) of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice.
"This case against Grêmio is more complicated because two foreign objects were thrown at the show. On our side, we have the fact that Suderj took a stand in our favor and we also have the police report. We prevented the incident and suppressed it. I will try to bring someone from Suderj to testify on our behalf," said the club's lawyer, Michel Assef.
Sports Gazette
Souza feels the problem again, but he shouldn't miss Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo coach Joel Santana already has in mind the team he intends to field against Santos on Sunday at the Maracanã. But the coach got a shock on Wednesday afternoon when forward Souza again complained of pain in the Achilles tendon of his right foot. Souza will be under observation, but it shouldn't be a problem for the match against Santos. In any case, Obina is on standby and could get another chance in the starting lineup.
Even without knowing whether Souza will be on the field, Flamengo fans continue to show confidence in the team. The club closed Wednesday with more than 40 tickets sold for Sunday's match. Sales continue Thursday morning.
Flamengo prepares for week of trials\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's legal department will have a busy week ahead. The club faces the first of two trials this week at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). Flamengo was acquitted in the first instance of a cup thrown during the September 16 derby against Vasco da Gama, but prosecutors have appealed, and the appeal will be heard this Thursday. "I think Thursday's trial is more relaxed, as a plastic cup isn't a foreign object at a soccer game. We can't prevent a fan from throwing a plastic cup during a goal celebration," said Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho.
The lawyer also admitted that the club may have to face Atlético-PR behind closed doors if punished, even though tickets have already started being sold for the game on the 25th.
"The Superior Court of Justice (STJD) will not fail to punish Flamengo just because tickets are already being sold. If punished, Flamengo will have to take steps to compensate fans or have the STJD apply the penalty to another, unaffected game," Assef said.
On Friday, Flamengo will face auditors due to incidents in the game against Grêmio, held on October 21st. On the same day, reserve Hugo Colace will be judged for having been sent off against Vasco, on October 18th.
Thanking Saint Jude – Flamengo's players, coaching staff, and president Márcio Braga will have another commitment. They will attend the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, where they intend to thank the team's patron saint for the team's strong campaign. Saint Jude's feast day is celebrated on October 28th, but at the time, Flamengo was in Natal, where they faced América-RN.
The players, by the way, will have another reason to be thankful, as the board paid their September salaries this week, which were due on October 20th. Old bonuses, on the other hand, will be paid starting next week.
For the return of good football, Joel tests Renato Augusto in attack\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Midfielder Renato Augusto could get another chance in the Flamengo starting lineup. On Wednesday morning, as expected, the player was tested in attack alongside Souza, a pairing that should be confirmed for next Sunday's game against Santos at Maracanã. Renato took the place of Maximiliano Biancucchi, who, after a promising start for the Rio de Janeiro club, has seen a significant drop in performance in recent matches. Last Sunday against Cruzeiro, the Argentine was very poor in the first half and was replaced at halftime by Renato Augusto himself.
With Renato Augusto joining the attack, coach Joel Santana hopes that Flamengo can rediscover its good form, as in the victories over América-RN and Corinthians and in the defeat to Cruzeiro, the team presented many difficulties.
"Perhaps due to fatigue, the team didn't play well against Cruzeiro. But that's in the past. We have three more games, and we'll take them one at a time. The first step is Santos. If we really want a place in the Copa Libertadores, we can't think about anything other than a win," midfielder Cristian told the club's official website.
Midfielder Ibson, who turned 24 this Wednesday, agrees with Cristian. "We've had a long string of decisive matches, and we don't always play well. But we're in very good form, and we need to stay calm so we can win on Sunday," said the midfielder.
Flamengo should have the following formation against Peixe: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Thiago Salles and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
Ibson leaving? Leave it for later... - Loaned by Porto until June of next year, Ibson's future has been the subject of speculation in recent days. In great form at Flamengo, the midfielder prefers not to comment on reports that the Portuguese club is unlikely to renew his loan with the Rio de Janeiro club.
"It's November, and there are still seven months to go. Now is the time to focus solely on Flamengo and the remaining games we have, and when it's closer, we'll think about this matter," he said evasively.
PeléNet
Joel takes Maxi out and puts Renato Augusto in Flamengo's training session
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Maxi Biancucchi is likely to lose his starting spot in Flamengo's squad to Renato Augusto. In training this Wednesday morning at Gávea, the Argentine played among the reserves, while the young prospect formed the front line with Souza. This formation is expected to be maintained for the match against Santos, on Sunday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, in the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship.
A fixture on the team for practically the entire season, the midfielder only lost his place after suffering repeated muscle injuries and ending up out of action for about a month. Taking advantage of the "gap," Maxi, signed in July, took his place.
The last match in which Renato Augusto started was on September 16, when Flamengo drew 1-1 with Vasco, at Maracanã, in the 26th round of the national competition.
Ibson celebrates his birthday and wants a place in the Libertadores as a gift
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
One Flamengo player has a special reason to celebrate this Wednesday: midfielder Ibson, who turns 24. However, the player assures that, for now, there will be no celebrations. This will only happen starting December 3rd and if the Rubro-Negro secures a spot in the Copa Libertadores.
"We have to celebrate only after. Now the objective is to secure this place in the Libertadores. We will try to win on Sunday," he said, referring to the duel with Santos, at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, for the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship.
With a contract until June 2008, Ibson preferred not to comment yet on a possible renewal of his loan. However, he does not rule out the possibility of extending the contract until the end of next season.
"It's still very early. There are seven months left. When the time comes, we'll sit down and talk about it. Right now, we have other focuses," concluded the midfielder, whose federation rights are tied to Porto, in Portugal.
Flamengo fans' confidence in the team is evident. Proof of this is that 40.145 tickets have already been sold for the match against Santos, Sunday at 18:10 PM (Brasília time), at Maracanã, for the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship. This Wednesday alone, 15.500 tickets were sold.
The sale of the remaining tickets continues on Thursday, from 11 am to 17 pm, at the following locations: Flamengo headquarters (Gávea), Botafogo headquarters (General Severiano), Fluminense headquarters (Laranjeiras), Caio Martins (Niterói), RioSampa concert hall (Nova Iguaçu), Estácio de Sá University (Barra da Tijuca) and ticket office 8 at Maracanã.
The red-black directors do not hide their expectation of winning this particular battle with the champion São Paulo for the competition's attendance record, achieved in the match between the São Paulo Tricolor and América-RN (69.874 paying spectators), at Morumbi.
Flamengo has in its favor the fact that it has seven of the ten largest audiences in the Brazilian Championship: Flamengo 2 x 0 Grêmio (63.189), Flamengo 2 x 1 Corinthians (62.026), Flamengo 0 x 2 Fluminense (61.042), Flamengo 1 x 0 São Paulo (59.098), Flamengo 1 x 1 Sport (51.552), Flamengo 1 x 0 Fluminense (49.828) and Flamengo 1 x 1 Vasco (49.495).
Check ticket prices
Green/yellow grandstand: R$20,00 (R$10,00 half-price)\ White grandstand: R$25,00 (R$12,00 half-price)\ Special seat: R$100,00 (R$50,00 half-price)\ Blue seat: R$15,00 (R$7,00 half-price)\
Note: Flamengo's press office informs that tickets can also be purchased through the website www.ingressofacil.com.br or by phone 4003-2245.
Cristian says Fla "supported" him and declares his love for the club
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Cristian, part of a loan deal with Claiton, was signed by Flamengo from Atlético-PR just four months ago. However, that short time was enough to awaken in the player a special feeling for the Rio de Janeiro club. Fulfilled in his "new home," the midfielder declares his unconditional love for the country's most popular club.
"Flamengo supported me. I received a lot of affection here and I'm very happy, as is my family. I already consider myself a Flamengo fan and one of the most fanatical. I learned to love this club," he revealed.
Cristian had no trouble adapting to Gávea. Upon his arrival, then-coach Ney Franco named him a starter, a position he maintained under Joel Santana. So much so that today the defensive midfielder has a guaranteed spot on the team and forms the midfield with Jaílton, Toró, and Ibson.
The player's contract with Atlético-PR expires on December 31st. However, due to his own wishes and the wishes of the Rio de Janeiro club, the contract is likely to be extended for another three seasons.
For blessing in the Brazilian Championship, Fla will visit the church of Saint Jude Thaddeus
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
As has become routine at Flamengo, the players, coaching staff, and club president Márcio Braga will visit the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus in Cosme Velho, a neighborhood in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro, this Thursday at 15 p.m. (Brasília time). The goal is to thank the club's patron saint and also receive blessings. An extra boost for the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship.
The visit was originally scheduled for the 28th, when the saint is celebrated. However, the delegation was in Natal, where they faced and defeated América-RN 1-0 in the 33rd round of the National Championship. Before the match, the players displayed a banner in honor of Saint Jude Thaddeus.
A visit to their patron saint's church is traditional. In recent seasons, however, the players attended mass in honor of the saint, praying for "salvation" in the Brazilian league, as they were in a fierce battle against relegation. This is a very different situation from the current one.
Today, Flamengo, with 55 points, is fourth in the competition and a strong contender to secure a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Flamengo's next match will be against Santos on Sunday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time) at Maracanã Stadium, in the 36th round. On the 25th, the team hosts Atlético-PR and, finally, faces Náutico on December 2nd at Aflitos Stadium, in their 2007 farewell.
Leonardo does not rule out leaving Flamengo for Botafogo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
A longtime favorite of Botafogo coach Cuca, Flamengo striker Leonardo has emerged as a potential addition to the club for next season. While remaining cautious, the player admitted that it would be a pleasure to play for the Glorioso in 2008. However, he preferred to postpone the decision on his future until December, when the club concludes its participation in the Brazilian Championship.
"I'm very happy about this interest. And it would be great to work with a coach who likes me, who will give me confidence. But I prefer to discuss that later," said the striker, in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
"It's good to know that people recognize my work, even though I've suffered from a lot of injuries this year. I think that was the main reason I didn't establish myself at Flamengo," added the forward, who suffered most of the year with a problem in his right ankle.
Leonardo's contract expires on December 31st, and Flamengo has the right to renew. However, due to his underperformance, he's unlikely to be part of coach Joel Santana's plans.
BalloonSport
Fla x Santos: more than 40 thousand sold
Flamengo fans continue their quest to break the Brazilian Championship attendance record
This Wednesday, Flamengo fans formed a long line at Caio Martins, in Niterói
Having been outclassed by São Paulo's fans, the red-and-blacks are doing everything they can to break the Brasileirão attendance record again. As of Wednesday afternoon, 40.145 tickets had already been sold for the match between Flamengo and Santos on Sunday at Maracanã.
On Wednesday alone, 15.500 tickets were sold, a club record. To regain its lead in attendance, the board released a total of 79.894 tickets.
"Forty thousand on a Wednesday? I have no doubt it will be broken. Maracanã is ours!" coach Joel Santana enthused upon hearing the news.
Officials expect all tickets to be sold. The largest attendance of the Brasileirão was for the match between São Paulo and América-RN: 69.874 people paid for tickets to see Tricolor secure the title at Morumbi Stadium.
Starting Tuesday, tickets for Flamengo vs. Santos can also be purchased online or by phone. For the first option, fans should visit www.ingressofacil.com.br. For the second, just call 4003-2245. Tickets remain on sale from 11 a.m. to 17 p.m. at various points of sale throughout Rio de Janeiro.
Fla forgets the fifth title and thinks about the STJD
This week, the team will have two trials and could lose home field advantage.
Eduardo Peixoto
Notifications to São Paulo and Clube dos 13 regarding the trophy, referring to the club's fifth Brazilian championship, will be delayed until next week. During these days, Flamengo's legal department is focused solely on the two trials in which it will be a defendant before the Superior Court of Justice (STJD).
- The fifth case will only happen next week - says lawyer Michel Assef Filho.
On Thursday and Friday, starting at 14 p.m., the club risks losing home-field advantage due to incidents in matches against Vasco and Grêmio. The defense manager outlines strategies for the doubleheader.
"In the case against Vasco, I think it will be a calm one. We were acquitted in the first instance. The fan threw a plastic cup, which is part of the spectacle. If that's banned, fans would be better off staying home," says Assef Filho.
However, regarding the game against Grêmio, the concern is greater. Flamengo will be judged for throwing a beer can and a mortar shell at the refereeing team.
"The case is more complicated because two foreign objects were thrown at the shows. On our side, we have the fact that Suderj (Rio Grande do Norte State University) took a stand in our favor, and we also have the police report. We prevented the incident and suppressed it. I will try to bring someone from Suderj to testify on our behalf," says the lawyer.
The match against Santos is guaranteed to take place at Maracanã even if it's suspended. However, the match against Atlético-PR is in jeopardy, even though ticket sales have already begun.
"This won't affect the trial. If we're punished, we'll have to return the ticket money. But we can also try to serve our sentence next year."
In both trials, Flamengo is accused under article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing and repressing disorders in its sports arena) of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice.
Ricardo Teixeira gives advice to Fla
CBF President compares fight for Libertadores with campaign for 2014 World Cup
Ricardo Teixeira says the final stretch of the Brasileirão remains exciting
Flamengo's recovery in the Brazilian Championship—the team has escaped the relegation zone and is fighting for a spot in the Libertadores—has caught the attention of CBF president Ricardo Teixeira. A self-proclaimed Flamengo fan, he says Joel Santana's team must do as he does: maintain focus on its ultimate goal.
- Just as I fought to bring the 2014 World Cup to Brazil, Flamengo has to focus on the Libertadores to qualify - he commented in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Ricardo Teixeira was concerned with highlighting the disputes taking place in this year's Brazilian Championship.
- Even with the Brazilian champion decided, interest in the competition remains. Teams are fighting for spots in the Copa Libertadores, the Copa Sudamericana, and to avoid relegation.
Team will thank the patron saint
This Thursday, the cast will go to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus to give thanks for their recovery
Eduardo Peixoto
It's not just in times of trouble that Flamengo remembers its patron saint. After turning to Saint Jude Thaddeus for years to seek help against relegation, the club's delegation will make another visit to the church this Thursday.
Coach Joel Santana and the players will arrive at the venue, in Cosme Velho, at 15 p.m. There will be a brief mass. Afterward, the delegation will return to Gávea.
"In 2005, things got tight and we went. Now, it's time to give thanks for our recovery," explains coach Joel Santana.
Joel compares Renato Augusto to Edmundo
Coach says player can perform better playing in attack, just like Animal
Eduardo Peixoto
Renato Augusto is expected to play up front again against Santos on Sunday. Renato Augusto has never fought with teammates or opponents. His statements generally steer clear of controversy. Quite the opposite of Edmundo. However, on the field, the two have similarities. At least in the eyes of Flamengo coach Joel Santana.
This Tuesday, while confirming the player's starting lineup against Santos, the coach guaranteed that Renato should play in attack.
"Renato Augusto reminds me of Edmundo at the beginning of his career. When he was at Vasco, he started in midfield, and then I decided to move him further forward, dropping down the wings. It could be the same with Renato. He has quality, and with this freedom he can improve his performance," Joel analyzes.
Upon hearing the comparison, Renato Augusto's face was a mix of smile and astonishment. As soon as he joined the professional ranks, the athlete was compared to Kaká.
"I'm happy because he's a great player. It's always nice to be praised, even though I don't like comparisons. He's him, and I'm me," declares Renato Augusto.
Out of the starting lineup since the match against Vasco on September 16th, the Flamengo striker suffered two injuries: one in his thigh and one in his gluteal region. He says he's feeling fine again.
"My physical condition has improved a lot. I hope I can play the full 90 minutes," he says.
Souza
Renato Augusto's attacking partner, Souza, felt a sore Achilles tendon in his right leg again and left Wednesday's training session before the end. However, he shouldn't be a problem for the game.
Fla wants to repeat its reputation as the 'arrival team'
Cristian remembers that the red-and-black club has a history of good starts
Eduardo Peixoto
Cristian bets on the team's power to sprint in the Brasileirão
"If you let Flamengo get there, it'll get complicated." The saying may not be an absolute truth, but it still holds true at Gávea. At least that's what midfielder Cristian says. He's banking on Flamengo's sprinting ability to believe they can secure a spot in the Copa Libertadores.
"Letting Flamengo get there is tough. We'll have to be determined to achieve our goal," the player declared.
According to coach Joel Santana, the club needs two more wins in its remaining three games. Midfielder Ibson agrees with the manager's position.
"I think we can do it, yes. Especially because our opponents have tough away games. The loss to Cruzeiro was normal. Now we have to win at home to continue our good form," says the boy celebrating his birthday this Wednesday.
Flamengo faces Santos next Sunday at Maracanã. Then, also at home, they host Atlético-PR. Finally, they'll face Naútico in Recife. Currently, the team from Gávea is in fourth place with 55 points.
Throw
Fla x Santos: 40 thousand tickets sold
This Wednesday alone, fans bought around 15 tickets for this Sunday's game
Flamengo fans are aiming to break the attendance record for this Brazilian championship. As of Wednesday afternoon, 40.154 tickets had been sold. Today alone, around 15.500 tickets were sold, a single-day record, according to fundraising director Flávio Pereira.
The competition's attendance record belongs to São Paulo, which brought 69.989 paying spectators to the match against América-RN, which gave the Brazilian title to the São Paulo team.
Michel Asseff Filho differentiates judgments
Director believes that the court regarding the game against Grêmio will be difficult
Fred Gomes
While Flamengo faces another final-like match on Sunday against Santos at the Maracanã, before that, the Red-Blacks will face two off-field decisions. On Thursday, an appeal filed by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) Prosecutor's Office will be heard regarding the Gávea club's acquittal after a fan threw a glass of water during the 1-1 draw with Vasco da Gama on September 16th of this year. On Friday, Flamengo will return to the dock, as two incidents were reported in their 2-0 victory over Grêmio on September 21st. Both incidents violate Article 213 (Failure to take measures capable of preventing and suppressing disorder in their sports arena).
"Thursday's trial is very calm, because the fan threw a plastic cup. During a goal, there's no way to stop a fan from throwing a cup in the air in the euphoria of a match, and it lands on the field. The plastic cup is part of the game, and I don't believe it will disrupt the spectacle. If plastic cups are banned in stadiums, the fan will stay home and do whatever he wants," said Michel Asseff Filho, legal director of the club's football department.
Regarding the trial regarding the game against Tricolor Gaúcho, the director classifies it as difficult, but exposes his weapons to keep Rubro-Negro at Maracanã, at least for this year.
"In the game against Grêmio, the situation is more complicated, as a big head was thrown onto the field, as well as a can being thrown at the assistant. On our side, we have the fact that Suderj (Rio Grande do Norte State Football Association) took a stance in our favor. In fact, I'll try to bring someone from Suderj to testify on our behalf. We also have the police reports for both incidents," he explained.
It is worth noting that the accusation of the game against Grêmio violates article 213, but is still combined with article 184 (When the agent, through more than one action or omission, commits two or more infractions, the penalties are applied cumulatively).
Regarding a possible punishment from the STJD to the club, Michel Asseff Filho does not expect mercy from the court.
"They won't stop punishing us just because we're already selling tickets. If we're sanctioned, it's up to Flamengo to reimburse the fans or postpone the punishment until next year," he concluded.
Joel highlights differences in games against Santos
Coach debuted with defeat to São Paulo team
Two months ago, Joel Santana made his debut as manager of the team against Santos. Besides losing 3-0 at Vila Belmiro, the coach was embroiled in controversy when he was caught on TV telling his players to beat him up if their opponents messed around.
If back then Flamengo was far behind Santos and fighting relegation, the situation is completely different now. If Joel Santana's team wins, they'll be just one point behind their opponents.
"In that game, we were way down. Now we're on equal terms. The situation is much better now. Now we're talking about the Libertadores, which is much better," said Joel, emphasizing that the controversy of the first round has been forgotten.
Renato Augusto: 'I enjoy playing with Souza'
The last time the two played together was in September
For the match against Santos on Sunday at Maracanã, Flamengo will have a completely different attacking duo from the one that lost to Cruzeiro 3-1. Souza returns to the team after serving a suspension for his third yellow card in place of Obina and Renato Augusto should take Maxi's place.
The last time the two formed a starting duo was on September 12th, in a 3-1 victory over Cruzeiro. But Renato Augusto isn't worried about his teammate's chemistry:
"I enjoy playing with Souza. I don't see any problem, especially since we've played together many times," said the supporter.
Teixeira wants Fla focused on the Libertadores
The CBF president hopes the red-and-black team will mirror the 2014 World Cup
Flamengo's recovery in the Brazilian Championship—the team has escaped the relegation zone and is fighting for a spot in the Copa Libertadores—has caught the attention of CBF president Ricardo Teixeira. According to him, Joel Santana's team must follow his example and maintain focus on its ultimate goal.
- Just as I fought to bring the 2014 World Cup to Brazil, Flamengo has to focus on the Libertadores to qualify - he commented in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Ricardo Teixeira was concerned with highlighting the disputes taking place in this year's Brazilian Championship.
- Even with the Brazilian champion decided, interest in the competition remains. Teams are fighting for spots in the Copa Libertadores, the Copa Sudamericana, and to avoid relegation.
Maracanã is the perfect stage for Ibson and Souza
Fla has 83,3% success with number 9 at the Biggest in the World
Ibson is Flamengo's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship, with six goals (Credit: Júlio César Guimarães)
Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
The loss to Cruzeiro may have set off alarm bells at Gávea. But for the match against Santos on Sunday, Flamengo will play at Maracanã, where, when Souza—who is returning from suspension—is in action, they have an 83,3% success rate in the Brasileirão. Furthermore, the red-and-black stadium has also been the site of all Ibson's goals since his return to the club.
With the Rubro-Negro's top scorer this season—Souza, with 14 goals—at Maracanã, Flamengo managed eight wins, one draw, and one loss. In these matches, the number 9 scored three times—against Juventude, Cruzeiro, and Grêmio, one goal each.
No less impressive are Ibson's numbers, who, in 12 games at the Biggest in the World since his return, helped Fla win nine times, in addition to participating in two draws and only one defeat, which represents an 80,55% success rate at the stadium.
Ibson, with six goals, is Flamengo's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship. Souza, alongside Léo Moura and Juan, is close behind with five.
The similarities extend to deciding matches. Souza scored twice in the 4-1 rout of Madureira to win the 2007 Guanabara Cup, and also scored once in both 2-2 draws with Botafogo in the State Championship final.
The midfielder, in turn, found the net against São Paulo, Vasco, Grêmio, and Corinthians in games considered decisive. Against Corinthians, the number 7 scored after receiving a backheel pass from Souza.
Suspended from last Sunday's game against Cruzeiro, striker Souza is full of optimism for the match against Peixe.
"I haven't scored many goals, but when they do, they're decisive. And Sunday will be no different. I'm very motivated," said the top scorer, who also spoke about the importance of Maracanã for Flamengo:
- It's the ideal stage for all of us.
We went from rock bottom to heaven, says Joel
Red-black recovery is no surprise to coach
Flamengo spent many rounds in the relegation zone and was even considered a likely contender for Serie B in 2008. However, the club now has a strong chance of securing a spot in the Copa Libertadores. For coach Joel Santana, Flamengo, united, has escaped the nightmare and is living a dream in the Brazilian Championship.
"When I arrived, I sat on the boat to look at the horizon, but all I saw was a black horizon. We reached the bottom of the sea, but managed to come up for air. We began to see a blue sky with a Libertadores spot very close," he commented in an interview with SporTV.
- Everyone was focused on the same goal. The players trusted what we were doing.