The Globe
Maracanã is really red and black
Brazilian Championship record already holds for Fla vs Santos and demand increases to 81 tickets
Photo caption: JOEL SANTANA (right) prays with Father Lindolfo, in the short red-black ceremony, at the church of São Judas Tadeu
Márcio Tavares
Flamengo has more to thank Saint Jude Thaddeus for than just avoiding relegation and fighting for a spot in the Copa Libertadores. On the day the team visited the church of its patron saint in Cosme Velho, it seemed as if Saint Jude Thaddeus further demonstrated his unwavering support for Flamengo. After selling a record 15.500 tickets the day before yesterday, Flamengo set a new record for advance ticket sales for its match against Santos on Sunday.
Despite complaints about slow ticket sales at the Gávea stadium, Flamengo sold more than 30 tickets yesterday, reaching 70.905 and shattering the record attendance for this Brazilian Championship, 69.874, held by the São Paulo 3-0 América-RN match. Having surpassed the São Paulo record, Flamengo increased its ticket sales from 79.894 to 81.844, with tickets expected to end today (only blue-seat tickets are available).
Priest is left without a club shirt
During a quick visit to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus for a lightning-fast sermon by Father Lindolfo Lisboa, who dedicated much of the service to extolling gratitude for the blessings received by the group, what struck most was coach Joel Santana's emotion. After the ceremony, Joel couldn't hide his concern for the health of his old friend and collaborator Alcir Portella, with whom he worked at Vasco and Internacional.
From the church, Joel Santana and the players went to Gávea, leaving Father Lindolfo with a long look at the parish door.
"I'm a Flamengo fan, but I'm not a fanatic. In fact, I'm a bit of a fan because I get excited when Rio teams do well. I just want a Flamengo jersey, and I hope they send me one. But give it to me, because otherwise..."
At the church, in addition to the ceremony, fans held a mini-demonstration against the CBF. About a dozen people wearing red and black shirts and carrying percussion instruments held three identical banners that read: "Ricardo Teixeira, don't make this up. Maracanã is ours and Mengão is five times the champion." The demonstration, according to one of its organizers, cost around R$800.
At Gávea, a competitive training session wasn't enough to make the final adjustments to the team that will face Santos. According to Joel, the training session went so well that it ended up raising doubts about the best lineup. But one conclusion became clear after the training session: Flamengo will try to suffocate Santos on its own half by pressing up.
"The training session was very good. Better than yesterday (the day before yesterday) and it left me with a doubt in my head. In my mind, the team was already decided, but I had a tinge of doubt," said Joel, who once again avoided comparisons with Santos coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, avoiding controversy.
Bruno: 'Vanderlei is the best in Brazil'
Despite Joel's plans and his willingness to avoid controversy, players like goalkeeper Bruno believe there will be many problems because Santos' greatest strength comes from the bench. The greater reserve of energy, he says, would be a consequence of the opposing coach's competence.
"The opponent is very tough, and the difficulties begin on the bench, with their coach. In my opinion, Vanderlei is the best coach in Brazil, and Flamengo will have the chance to show what they really want in this Brazilian Championship."
Yesterday, Flamengo won its first battle in the Superior Court of Sports Justice. Tried for throwing glasses of water onto the field during the match against Vasco, the club was unanimously acquitted of liability. Today, the red-and-black team faces trial again because, during the match against Grêmio, referee Sálvio Spinola was the target of a firework and a beer can thrown from the stands. Indicted under Article 213, the penalty is a fine of R$10 to R$200, in addition to the loss of home-field privileges for one to ten games.
Sports Journal
A doubt that hangs in the air
Joel isn't happy with the team's performance and is testing again. Roger could be the new addition on Sunday.
Nina Lima
Roger came on well against Cruzeiro and even scored a free kick. He's one of Joel's doubts.
Two days before the derby against Santos, a direct rival in the fight for a Libertadores spot, coach Joel Santana used an old tactic to try to surprise Vanderlei Luxemburgo. After saying on Wednesday that the team should be the one that finished the training session, the coach changed the starting lineup. And the one who could benefit from this is midfielder Roger.
Given the poor performance during training, Joel made some changes but didn't confirm who would start. Even with the starters leading 1-0, with a goal from Obina, who trained in place of the rested striker Souza, the lack of production visibly shook Joel's confidence in the formation he had adopted. Therefore, the manager tested a few options, such as bringing Roger into midfield in place of Jaílton and defender Rodrigo Arroz in place of Thiago Sales. After the training session, he was cautious and declined to reveal who would start against Santos on Sunday.
"The training was very good, but I have some doubts. I'll take them home and tomorrow (today) I'll make a better decision about what to do. I'm counting on the best I have, including those no one else is counting on," he tried to mislead the coach, even hinting that the already ruled out Ronaldo Angelim might have a chance to play, though that's unlikely.
With Roger's entry into the middle, Joel opted to leave only one striker on the team, as he moved Renato Augusto back to the sector, making him take turns with Roger and Toró in assisting the goalscorer.
Thiago Sales
Rodrigo Arroz's inclusion in the defense, however, will be difficult to implement. This is because, initially, the defender will play in the same space on the field as Fábio Luciano. Although it has not yet been confirmed, Thiago Sales did not seem concerned about having to face a Maracanã stadium with over 80 Flamengo fans.
"When I moved up to the professional team, I made my debut against Sport, which had a record attendance for the championship at the time. I scored a goal and did well. The formation with three or two defenders doesn't affect me at all. I just want to play," said Thiago Sales enthusiastically.
Bruno sees the match as a final
Nina Lima
Bruno said that the atmosphere is one of the best and that the defeat to Cruzeiro was due to physical exhaustion.
The atmosphere in Gávea for the big match between Flamengo and Santos is like a final. Besides the strong demand for tickets from fans, the Gávea players are working hard to beat the competition's runner-up and get closer to their dream of securing a spot in next year's Copa Libertadores. Goalkeeper Bruno promises to do his part and score in what could be the most important match of the year. And for him, the atmosphere couldn't be better.
"The atmosphere for this game is very good, especially with the proximity of securing a spot after having been close to relegation throughout the first half of the season," said the goalkeeper, who sees the match as a championship final.
"We're in a decisive match. Now there are three finals. And everyone knows that when you let Flamengo get there, it's hard to hold them back. They let us get there. We've already shown we can hold on to this spot, and if we can secure it, I'll celebrate like it's a title," he confirmed.
Physical wear
Regarding the defeat to Cruzeiro, the goalkeeper blamed physical exhaustion.
“There was some wear and tear, as we were playing twice a week, but now we've recovered and I'm sure we'll have a great game against them,” he added.
Flamengo is acquitted by the STJD
Off the field, Flamengo's week at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) started well. In yesterday's trial for the cup thrown onto the pitch during the derby against Vasco da Gama on September 16th, the club was acquitted. But the club could face bigger problems today. Flamengo returns to court this afternoon to answer for the beer can and mortar thrown at the refereeing team against Grêmio.
While the acquittal was predictable in this first trial, today's situation is a bit more delicate. Coach Joel Santana, in a tone of defiance, decided to speak out on the matter.
“A club that sells more than 70 tickets before a game, which has nine of the ten largest attendances in the championship, deserves to be punished because of a plastic can (sic),” he asked.
If punished, Fla could lose home field advantage for one to ten matches and pay a fine ranging from R$10 to R$200, meaning they will not be able to play at Maracanã against Atlético-PR.
Captain heaps praise on the red-black fans
Flamengo fans showed up and made a point of protesting the controversy surrounding the fifth Brazilian championship title.
Although it's already a tradition at Flamengo to go to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus every year-end, for some players it feels like the first time. After seeing two fans handing out passports to Japan next year, defender and team captain Fábio Luciano was certain that playing for Flamengo is truly different from playing for any other club.
"Our fans are fantastic. Distributing passports to Japan when we haven't even qualified for the Copa Libertadores is a sign that they'll always be by our side. Now it's up to us to work hard to ensure this passport is valid at the end of next year," said Fábio Luciano.
In recent years, the church attendance was intended to pray to the patron saint to prevent the team from being relegated to Serie B. This time, the story is quite different. Even so, striker Obina didn't refrain from comparing the two moments.
"Every time we come here, luck always turns our way. I hope this time it won't be any different," the striker hoped.
With the blessing of Saint Jude Thaddeus
Team asks for protection of patron saint and fans break record in advance: 70 thousand tickets sold
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Wallace Teixeira
Religious, Joel Santana, alongside wardrobe assistant Babão, asks Flamengo's patron saint for protection
The fans did their part, and it didn't even take until Sunday for Flamengo to break this year's Brazilian Championship attendance record again. Yesterday, the day the players visited the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, the team's patron saint, in Cosme Velho, the great red-and-black nation bought 30.710 tickets for the match against Santos at Maracanã. And with the other 40.145 already sold, they secured first place in this private match against São Paulo.
The São Paulo club held the previous record with a 3-0 victory over América-RN on October 31st. A total of 70.905 tickets have already been sold, but due to high demand from fans, the club's board decided to increase the number of tickets sold from 79.894 to 81.844.
Coach Joel Santana celebrated breaking the record and said his players are ready to live up to the trust shown by the great red-black nation on the field.
"The team is happy. We've been expecting this since Monday, when we sold 15 tickets. The fans have shown us what they intend to do, and now we have the responsibility to fulfill this mission," said the coach.
While the red-and-blacks packed ticket booths across the state, aiming to prove that the club has the largest fan base in the country, the squad received the blessing of Father Lindolfo Lisboa at the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus. Defender Fábio Luciano said upon leaving the church that Flamengo now has to work hard to receive the help that comes from heaven.
"There's no point in just coming here asking for help. We have to work hard. It's a key game in the Brazilian Championship. We have faith, and you know how it is, right? God helps those who rise early," said Fábio Luciano.
Striker Obina, one of the most involved with the mass, recalled the luck that the church brings to him and the club.
"Every time we come here, we get along well. I hope it happens again against Santos on Sunday," the striker added.
In Cabo Frio, the leadership of Group B is worth it
With all remaining spots filled, the remaining five matches will only establish the quarterfinals. In Cabo Frio, the Group B leadership will be decided. At the city's Poliesportivo Stadium, the reigning Rio de Janeiro champions host Piedade. A win will secure them first place.
Those who will be rooting for a Cabo Frio stumble are the red-blacks.
Flamengo needs to beat Drogaria do Povo, at the Cabofriense gym, and still counts on at least a draw between its direct rivals in the fight for first place.
Another position at stake is second place in Group A. Vasco, which faces leaders Petrópolis, and Teresópolis, which faces bottom-placed Montanha, are tied with 19 points, six behind the leaders. Teresópolis has the advantage in average goal difference.
Macaé and América, at the Macaé Sports Center, complete the round.
For the Macaé team, a good result means morale boosting for the next stage of the competition, while América is looking to confirm its good form.
O Dia
Flamengo: With the help of the masses and the heavens
In addition to 70 at Maraca, the team goes to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus to ask for 'support'
Marluci Martins
Rio - The 70.905 fans who bought tickets by 17 p.m. yesterday aren't enough. Flamengo wants not only the support of the stands, but also the support of the heavens. That's why the entire team went to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus in Cosme Velho to ask for "help" for Sunday's game against Santos at Maracanã.
The idea was also to give thanks for escaping the relegation zone. Now, the team hopes for the miracle of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores. A path that will be shortened with a victory on Sunday.
The jerseys the players will wear against Santos were blessed by Father Lindolpho Lisboa in a quick 15-minute ceremony. The players were blessed with holy water and then proceeded to Gávea.
"Let's get to work. There's no point in asking. We have to reach our goal," said Joel Santana, who took the opportunity to pray for Alcir Portella, his former assistant at Vasco, who is ill.
The presence of the red-and-black team at the church changed the routine at Cosme Velho. Three banners were displayed by fans, recalling the controversy surrounding the five-time championship: "Ricardo Teixeira, don't make things up. Maracanã is ours, and Mengão is the five-time champion."
JUDGMENT
Saint Jude Thaddeus already gave Flamengo a helping hand yesterday: the club was acquitted, for the second time, in the case regarding the throwing of cups by its fans, at Maracanã during the game against Vasco, in September.
Today, there will be a new trial, this time regarding the match against Grêmio, when a mortar and a beer can were thrown at the refereeing team. If convicted, Flamengo will not be able to face Atlético-PR at Maracanã on the 25th.
FANS SHOW THEIR STRENGTH AND BREAK RECORD
São Paulo is ahead in the fight for the controversial fifth title, but indirectly suffered a defeat to Flamengo yesterday: advance sales for the game against Santos, on Sunday, at Maracanã, reached 70.905 tickets, a new attendance record for the Brasileirão.
The previous record, of 69.874 paying spectators, was held by São Paulo, in the 3-0 victory over América-RN, which earned them the early title of the competition.
Flamengo fans will still improve on the record set yesterday, as, due to high demand, the number of tickets sold was increased to 81.844.
There are no more bleachers for sale. Only blue seats remain, which will surely sell out before the end of the day.
In Gávea, some people waited more than two hours yesterday to get their dream ticket. "People left it to the last minute to buy. And 90% of them want half-price tickets. I can't help but check their documents," explained Flávio Pereira, fundraising coordinator.
Sales restart today at 11 am at the following points of sale: Gávea, RioSampa, General Severiano, Caio Martins, Laranjeiras and Maracanã (sector 8).
Santos coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo isn't fazed by the record attendance: "When the game starts, I just want to nail them. Anyone who's scared of playing at Maracanã doesn't even need to continue their career," he said.
Roger trains well and creates a doubt
Renato Augusto isn't the only player who's on good terms with coach Joel Santana. Yesterday, Roger managed to leave the coach with a question mark: he came into the starting lineup in the second half of training and impressed.
"I think it would be tough for Roger to play 90 minutes. But I'll talk to Ronaldo Torres (fitness coach)," said Joel.
Roger came in for Jaílton, but further forward, as a second striker. This allowed Renato Augusto to play in his original position: midfield.
"It was the best training session Renato Augusto has done under my command. I even have an idea in my head... He was the star of the team," said Joel Santana, keeping the lineup a secret, as he's also unsure about the starting lineup Vanderlei Luxemburgo will take to Maracanã.
While Renato Augusto is enjoying high morale at Gávea, the same cannot be said for Juan. The left-back, whose performance has been declining, appears to be Joel's main concern. So much so that the coach set aside a few minutes this afternoon to chat with Juan.
"He's done so well this season... Sometimes a player's performance drops off after a game or two. But he'll get back to playing well. I have to give confidence to a player like Juan. He deserves it," Joel said.
Souza was rested from yesterday's training session, but Joel assured that he won't miss Sunday's game. Obina, his replacement in training, scored the winning goal for the starters against the reserves.
The classic will have heavy policing
The match between Flamengo and Santos, which is already setting a new Brazilian Championship attendance record, will be treated like a local derby, one of those fierce rivalries. Therefore, fans heading to Maracanã on Sunday will encounter reinforced police presence, prepared to ensure peace inside and outside the stadium at any cost.
Even Santos fans will receive special treatment. It's already been decided that six police vehicles will wait in Itatiaia, on Via Dutra, for the five buses coming from Santos to escort Santos fans to the stadium.
Major Marcelo Pessoa, commander of the Special Stadium Policing Group (GEPE), guarantees this. Inside the Maracanã stadium, there will be 450 police officers, the same number assigned to the outside area, which will also be reinforced by a helicopter and 30 members of the battalion's riot squad. Additionally, 16 dogs and 24 horses will be used to ensure spectator safety.
"Fans can rest assured, because everyone's safety will be guaranteed on Sunday, before, during, and after the match. Santos fans will also receive special treatment from the moment they enter the city until the trip home. But anyone who comes to the game to try to cause trouble will be treated like a common criminal," he warned.
Major Marcelo took the opportunity to issue another warning: Flamengo has only made available eight thousand free tickets (regular seats) for seniors, children under 12, and people with disabilities. Therefore, you'll need to arrive at the stadium early to secure your ticket.
'PASSPORT' TO THE WORLD CUP IS READY
Two advertising students went to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus to bring a gift to the players. They made replicas of passports, complete with visas and everything for Japan. "We've already done our part. Now, we're going to look for a sponsor to guarantee our trip," said Pedro Lima, 21, from Niterói. "We're saving up," added Pedro Marques, 23.
Jônatas does not rule out returning to Flamengo
Spain - In an interview with the Spanish newspaper "Sport," defensive midfielder Jônatas said Thursday that he doesn't rule out returning to Flamengo in the 2008 season. A reserve player with no place at Espanyol, the player is considered a priority for the Flamengo board to build a competitive team. The Spanish club's directors may want to complicate the negotiations, as they want to permanently sell Jônatas.
"At this point, I'm not closing any possibilities. Everything can be discussed," said Jônatas, not wanting to talk too much about a possible transfer. A poll conducted by the newspaper "Sport" shows that most Espanyol fans won't miss Jônatas if he's traded: 55% of internet users want the club to negotiate the player in January.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo increases its sales and breaks the record for tickets sold\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo fans continue to show their strength in this final stretch of the Brazilian Championship. This Thursday, the club closed the day with 70.905 tickets sold for the match against Santos, on Sunday, at Maracanã stadium. The original allotment of 79.894 tickets was increased to 81.844, and the remaining tickets will be sold this Friday. This record surpasses the 69.874 paying spectators that São Paulo registered for the match against América-RN, at Morumbi Stadium, the match that decided the national title for the São Paulo club. For the match against América-RN, São Paulo's board ran a promotion for fans. Anyone who had two tickets for the previous match at the stadium, against Cruzeiro, could exchange them for one for the decisive duel against the team from Rio Grande do Norte.
Flamengo escapes punishment in first trial. Souza is spared.\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In the first of two battles Flamengo had against the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), the Rubro-Negro prevailed this Thursday, and was acquitted in the appeal in which the club was accused of a plastic cup thrown onto the Maracanã field, during the derby against Vasco, on September 16th. This Friday, however, Flamengo's legal department faces a new challenge. The Rubro-Negro will be tried for incidents that occurred in the match against Grêmio, on October 21st. If punished, the club will not be able to play Atlético-PR in front of its fans.
Souza out - After visiting the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, Flamengo's players held a training session in Gávea. The one who sat out the activity, as had happened the day before, was striker Souza, still recovering from an Achilles tendon problem in his right foot. Trusting the advice of Flamengo's doctors, coach Joel Santana hopes the striker can train normally this Friday and confirm his starting lineup against Santos on Sunday at Maracanã.
Without promotions, Flamengo promises to break attendance records
Vinicius Saponara and Marcelo Belpiede
São Paulo (SP) - With six of the ten largest paying crowds in this Brazilian Championship – but, until this afternoon, not the largest, which belonged to five-time champion São Paulo – Flamengo was certain it would break the attendance record for its match against Santos this Sunday at Maracanã. And it will do so, according to its board, without any effort through promotions of any kind.\ To surpass the 69.874 paying fans that São Paulo had for the match against América-RN at Morumbi, which decided the national title, Flamengo's management decided to put the maximum amount of tickets at Maracanã: 79.894. As of Thursday afternoon, more than 70 tickets had already been sold in advance, with more than 30 sold in one day alone – a record in Rio de Janeiro.\
Even before Thursday's halftime showdown, the Rio de Janeiro club's marketing director, Ricardo Jorge, was certain São Paulo's record would be easily beaten by Sunday. "I don't want to be pretentious. On the field, it's really hard to beat São Paulo. But competing with Flamengo's fans is impossible. They don't just go to the championship final," he said.
For the match against América-RN, São Paulo's board ran a promotion for fans. Anyone who had two tickets for the previous match at Morumbi, against Cruzeiro, could exchange them for one for the decisive match against the team from Rio Grande do Norte.
"Here at Flamengo, I don't need promotions. The team just needs to play well, show passion and desire on the field, and the fans will come to Maracanã. They just need to believe in the team," added Ricardo, who can't even imagine the crowd the team would have if it were competing for the Brazilian title.
And what about the non-paying fans?: Among Flamengo's five largest crowds in this Brasileirão, the total number of fans at Maracanã exceeds São Paulo's record. This is explained by the non-paying attendance figures, which average 10.
Marco Aurélio Cunha, São Paulo's soccer superintendent, demanded an explanation for the excessive number of fans attending games in Rio de Janeiro without paying for tickets. "I want to understand why this happens. You can fill any seat for free," the director remarked in response to Flamengo's provocation.
Ricardo Jorge explains, however, that there's no way to prevent this from happening. "At Maracanã, there are boxes and perpetual seats (captive seats), which total about three thousand people. And a state law allows free admission for people over 65 and under 12, accompanied by a parent or guardian. This means there are so many people going without paying," he explained.
With the presence of non-paying spectators and the expectation of full ticket sales, Flamengo's marketing director estimates that Maracanã will welcome 85 to 88 people on Sunday. "And there's still the game against Atlético Paranaense (on the 25th), which is being promoted by Nestlé. Even so, we're expecting a larger crowd."
Rio de Janeiro police prepare special plan for Flamengo vs. Santos\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - On Thursday morning, Flamengo fans once again formed lines at ticket booths for Sunday's game against Santos at the Maracanã. With the expectation of another record-breaking attendance in the Brazilian Championship, Major Marcelo Pessoa, commander of the Gepe (Special Stadium Policing Group), promised a police force prepared to ensure peace inside and outside the stadium. "We're expecting a crowd of between 60 and 70 people, and we'll have a special effort, with a larger force. The police will be there to ensure the safety of loyal fans. Anyone who comes to cause trouble will be treated like a common criminal," the major told Rádio Brasil.
Marcelo Pessoa also stated that Santos fans attending Maracanã will have special protection upon arrival and departure from Rio de Janeiro. "Santos fans will be escorted from Itatiaia. We're expecting a large crowd of Santos fans, as they're doing well in the Brasileirão, but they can come with peace of mind, as they will be escorted on their way to and from the stadium."
Flamengo is working to close out the Brasileirão with a record attendance. The match between São Paulo and América/RN, which determined the tournament champion, had 69.874 paying spectators at Morumbi Stadium. In the same round, Flamengo had the highest attendance of 62.026 paying spectators at Maracanã Stadium against Corinthians.
Renato Augusto avoids comparisons. Flamengo modified.\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Back in Flamengo's starting lineup after a series of injuries, midfielder Renato Augusto is in high spirits at the Rio de Janeiro club. Coach Joel Santana compared the young Flamengo player's performance to that of Edmundo, with whom he worked early in his career at Vasco. Despite claiming to be a fan of Edmundo's, Renato Augusto tries to avoid comparisons. "I can't help but be happy, especially considering everything Edmundo has done and achieved in football, but I don't like these kinds of comparisons, especially because I haven't achieved half of what he has. The pressure on us only increases. Every player has their own story, and I'm trying to create mine here at Flamengo," he stated.
On Sunday, in the match against Santos at Maracanã, Renato Augusto will play in attack, having blocked Argentine Maximiliano Biancucchi. The change shouldn't significantly change the rest of the team's play. "Renato is a stronger player and comes after the ball more. This gives us a bit more leverage in midfield, but nothing has changed. Whoever comes in will do the job," emphasized midfielder Cristian.
Defender Ronaldo Angelim is out of Sunday's game. After feeling ill against Corinthians, the player has been undergoing a series of tests, the last of which will be performed this Friday. Dr. Serafim Borges, who is overseeing the case, hasn't ruled out a heart problem, but said he's more likely to have a viral infection. "It could be a virus, a bacterial infection. But in this case, a viral infection is more common."
Without Ronaldo Angelim, coach Joel Santana has already confirmed that young Thiago Salles will be retained alongside Fábio Luciano. Souza is expected to play as a full-time attacker, despite complaining of some pain in the Achilles tendon of his right foot. The Red-Black team is expected to play with the following lineup: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Thiago Salles, and Juan; Cristian, Jaílton, Toró, and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
Faith – This Thursday, the red-and-blacks attended the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus to thank the club's patron saint for the good results achieved in this Brazilian Championship. "We have much to be thankful for, as we have emerged from a difficult situation and now have the possibility of arriving at Christmas with a gift: a spot in the Copa Libertadores," commented coach Joel Santana.
PeléNet
New record: 70.905 tickets sold for Fla x Santos
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo fans have already set a new attendance record for the Brazilian Championship. By the end of Thursday afternoon, 70.905 tickets had already been sold for the match against Santos, next Sunday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), in the 36th round of the competition.
The previous record belonged to the match between São Paulo and América-RN (3-0), last Wednesday, October 31, when 69.874 people paid for tickets at Morumbi and saw Tricolor win its fifth national championship.
As demand remains high, the club's board has increased the number of tickets available to fans to 81.844. When sales began last Thursday, there were 79.894.
The sale of the remaining 10.939 tickets, all for blue seats, continues this Friday, between 11 am and 17 pm, for R$ 15 (half-price at R$ 7) at seven locations: club headquarters, in Gávea; Botafogo headquarters, in General Severiano; Fluminense headquarters, in Laranjeiras; Caio Martins stadium, in Niterói; RioSampa concert hall, in Nova Iguaçu; Estácio de Sá University, in Barra da Tijuca, and ticket office 8 at Maracanã.
Flamengo has the best average attendance of fans as home team in the Brazilian Championship (34.195) and seven of the ten best attendances in the competition. In addition to the next game against Santos, Flamengo 2-0 Grêmio (63.189), Flamengo 2-1 Corinthians (62.026), Flamengo 0-2 Fluminense (61.042), Flamengo 1-0 São Paulo (59.098), Flamengo 1-1 Sport (51.552) and Flamengo 1-0 Fluminense (49.828).
Businessman says Fla will have to invest to keep Bruno
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Goalkeeper Bruno is one of the main players in Flamengo's squad, but it is not yet certain that he will remain for the 2008 season. His commitment to the Rubro-Negro was extended so that he could play in the current Brazilian Championship, but it ends on December 31st.
According to the goalkeeper's agent, Eduardo Uram, there is interest from both parties in keeping him at Gávea, but financial compensation will have to be put on the negotiating table.
"Bruno's federation rights still belong to Atlético-MG and his economic rights to an investment fund (MSI). Flamengo wants to keep him and he wants to stay, but the club will have to demonstrate some investment capacity. He's been at Flamengo for almost a year and a half without any cost. There comes a time when the fund expects to get a return on its investment," he explained.
Flamengo is in fourth place in the Brazilian league table, with 55 points, and would currently qualify for next year's Copa Libertadores.
Joel is keeping it a secret and doesn't reveal Flamengo's team for Sunday
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo is not yet ready to face Santos on Sunday at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time) at Maracanã stadium for the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship. After training on Thursday at Gávea, coach Joel Santana announced that the starting players will only be rested on Friday.
During Thursday's training session, striker Souza, still complaining of pain in his right foot, was left out. However, the red-and-black coach guaranteed the player's presence against Santos.
"Souza is playing normally. But the collective left me with some doubts. Tomorrow (Friday) I will define everything," warned the red-black commander.
Joel Santana's doubt lies with Roger. The midfielder began training with the reserves, but later moved into the starting lineup, replacing Jaílton.
Therefore, Flamengo should face Santos with the following formation: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Thiago Sales and Juan; Jaílton (Roger), Cristian, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
Joel once again highlights the strength of Flamengo's fans
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The true spectacle that Flamengo's fans have been putting on in the Brazilian Championship deserves constant acclaim from everyone at the Gávea club. Just three days before the match against Santos at Maracanã in the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship, 70.905 tickets had already been sold, setting a new attendance record for the national competition.
Always emphasizing the importance of the red-black crowd in the team's reaction in the Brazilian Championship, coach Joel Santana highlights the confidence that the fans place in the team.
"On Monday, we already knew what the fans were proposing. They trust us. And we achieved that just through hard work, training daily," emphasizes the Flamengo coach.
In addition to the record already announced for Sunday's clash, at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), with Peixe, Rubro-Negro has the best average attendance as home team in the Brasileirão (34.195) and six of the ten best records in the competition: 2-0 Grêmio (63.189), 2-1 Corinthians (62.026), 0-2 Fluminense (61.042), 1-0 São Paulo (59.098), 1-1 Sport (51.552) and 1-0 Fluminense (49.828).
Let the man with the clipboard work...
For many fans, Joel Santana's famous clipboard adds nothing to the work done on the sidelines, being synonymous with an outdated training method, among many other pejorative meanings.
The clipboard carried by Joel has not yet had its effectiveness scientifically proven, but the noble object is defended tooth and nail by Vanderlei Luxemburgo, Joel's friend and the Flamengo coach's opponent on Sunday.
"Joel is criticized by some in the press because of his clipboard, but many newspaper columnists also work with clipboards and aren't criticized. The clipboard is a work tool for Joel. And he was unfairly criticized for it. Sometimes labels are created with older people in order to denigrate them," argued Luxemburgo, who tried to bring Joel onto the Brazilian national team's coaching staff when he managed the national team.
The Santos coach compares the relationship between Joel and the clipboard to that of journalists who create habits that are difficult to change.
"There are people who can only write with a certain typewriter. If you put another one in front of them, they can't type. Just because Joel takes notes doesn't mean he's outdated. He has more titles than most people out there," adds his friend.
Joel is keeping it a secret and doesn't reveal Flamengo's team for Sunday
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo is not yet ready to face Santos on Sunday at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time) at Maracanã stadium for the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship. After training on Thursday at Gávea, coach Joel Santana announced that the starting players will only be rested on Friday.
During Thursday's training session, striker Souza, still complaining of pain in his right foot, was left out. However, the red-and-black coach guaranteed the player's presence against Santos.
"Souza is playing normally. But the collective left me with some doubts. Tomorrow (Friday) I will define everything," warned the red-black commander.
Joel Santana's doubt lies with Roger. The midfielder began training with the reserves, but later moved into the starting lineup, replacing Jaílton.
Therefore, Flamengo should face Santos with the following formation: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Thiago Sales and Juan; Jaílton (Roger), Cristian, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
Flamengo is acquitted in its first trial of the week
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
In a trial held late Thursday afternoon, Flamengo was acquitted in the Superior Court of Sports Justice Plenary during a session regarding the match against Vasco da Gama on September 16 (1-1). At the time, plastic cups were thrown onto the pitch. The auditors unanimously absolved the Gávea club of any responsibility for the incident.
On Friday, Rubro-Negro will be judged again, this time for incidents that occurred during the duel with Grêmio (2-0), on October 21, also at Maracanã. During halftime, as São Paulo referee Sálvio Spinola Fagundes Filho was leaving the field, a rocket and a full can of beer were thrown from the stands in his direction.
Satisfied with the outcome of the first trial, Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, made clear his optimism regarding Friday's session.
"We started by winning the first battle. But these are separate trials, but even so, the defense is confident of an acquittal. We will present evidence showing that the club took all necessary measures to prevent any disorder on its home field," Assef emphasized to Rádio Tupi.
In both cases, Flamengo was found guilty of Article 213 (failure to take measures to prevent and suppress disorder in its sports arena) of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD). If convicted on Friday, Flamengo will have to pay a fine ranging from R$10 to R$200, in addition to losing home-field privileges for one to ten matches.
Flamengo is already "blessed" to face Santos
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Seeking a blessing for the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo players, accompanied by coach Joel Santana, visited the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus in Cosme Velho, a neighborhood in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro, this Thursday. The ceremony lasted about 15 minutes, and all the Flamengo fans had one request: the team's qualification for the 2008 Copa Libertadores.
At the end of the celebration, Father Lindolfo Lisboa blessed the shirts that will be used in the game against Santos, on Sunday, at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, for the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship.
Visiting the church of their patron saint is a tradition at Flamengo. In recent seasons, however, the players attended mass in honor of the saint, praying for "salvation" in the Brazilian league, as they battled relegation.
The current situation, however, is quite different. With 55 points, the Rubro-Negro is fourth in the national competition and a strong contender for a spot in the Copa Libertadores.
Cristian doesn't even consider the possibility of Flamengo drawing with Santos
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Winning is all that matters to Cristian. According to the midfielder, a draw or loss are unacceptable results for Flamengo, who will face Santos on Sunday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time) at the Maracanã Stadium, in the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship. Not even the fact that the São Paulo team is second in the competition (59 points) scares the player.
"If we really want to win the Libertadores, we can't consider dropping points in this game. It's a crucial match for our ambitions. We know they're a great team and that they're doing well, but we have to win. That's necessary," the player stated.
With 55 points and in fourth place, Flamengo is one of the main contenders to secure a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Their main opponents, besides Santos, are Cruzeiro (third, with 57), Palmeiras (fifth, with 55), and Grêmio (seventh, with 54).
Fluminense is sixth in the National Championship with 55 points. However, Fluminense is not in the running for the "America" title, having won the Copa do Brasil and thus already guaranteed its place in the international competition.
BalloonSport
Ronaldo sings Flamengo's 'Victory Theme'
In an interview with "Esporte Espetacular", Fenômeno sings a hit from the red-black stands
In an interview that will air on Sunday, on 'Esporte Espetacular', starting at 10:25 a.m., Ronaldo shows once again that he is a Flamengo fan: he sings the version of the 'Victory Theme' that marked Flamengo's start in the Brasileirão. Don't miss it!
Fla secures new attendance record
This Thursday, the board counts more than 70 thousand tickets and increases the available capacity
Eduardo Peixoto
Fans line up at Maracanã to buy tickets for Fla x Santos
São Paulo's record attendance in this Brazilian Championship was shattered on Thursday. Flamengo's board announced that advance sales for the match against Santos on Sunday at Maracanã reached 70.905 tickets.
Due to overwhelming demand, the Rubro-Negro club increased its available capacity by just over two thousand tickets. Now, the paying public can reach up to 81.844 people. All available blue seats (the other sections are sold out) are expected to be sold out before the end of the day. The previous record was set by the São Paulo 3-0 América-RN match, with 69.874 paying spectators, last Wednesday.
The day of the sale saw some chaos. The long, slow-moving lines angered fans. In Gávea, the wait reached an hour and a half.
"People left it to the last minute to buy tickets. And 90% of them want half-price tickets. I can't help but check the documents," explains Flavio Pereira, Fla's fundraising coordinator.
Faith in Saint Jude Thaddeus and in work
Flamengo players receive Father Lindolfo's blessing before facing Santos
Fred Huber
Priest blesses Flamengo's shirts
Flamengo players visited the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, the team's patron saint, on Thursday afternoon in Cosme Velho, in Rio de Janeiro's South Zone. The ceremony lasted no more than 20 minutes, but the players were able to pray and ask for protection during the final rounds of the Brasileirão. The saint's most frequent request, of course, was for a helping hand for the team to secure its coveted spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. The jerseys that will be worn in the match against Santos on Sunday were blessed by Father Lindolfo Lisboa.
Striker Obina, who was one of the most harassed by Flamengo fans, remembers that the players' trips to the Church of São Judas Tadeu usually bring good luck to the team.
"Every time we come to this church, it works out. I hope history repeats itself this time," he says.
Players and Joel Santana attend mass at the patron saint's church
Ibson, who has been one of the most "blessed" players on the team on the field, remembers that prayer helps, but considers that work is essential to achieve positive results.
"We've prayed enough. Now it's time to work hard to get a victory against Santos," he says.
Captain Fabio Luciano shares the same view. He believes that hard work will be the key to Flamengo achieving its goals.
- There's no point in asking if you don't work. God helps those who wake up early - he reminds.
President Márcio Braga had a commitment during the ceremony, but he still went to the venue. He arrived after the players had already left for Gávea to train. He said he couldn't miss visiting the club's "great benefactor," Saint Jude Thaddeus.
Flamengo fans protest for fifth title and Maracanã
Rubro-negros take a banner to the church complaining about the CBF's stance on both issues.
Flamengo fans displayed a protest banner in front of the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus in Cosme Velho, Rio de Janeiro's South Zone, on Thursday. The group's demand was for the legitimization of the club's fifth Brazilian championship and for the Maracanã stadium to be managed by the Red-Blacks.
Ibson doesn't want to think about the future
In great form at Flamengo, the midfielder avoids talking about returning to Porto in June
Eduardo Peixoto
Midfielder Ibson thinks about Fla and doesn't worry about off-field issues
Ibson's contract with Flamengo ends on June 30th. Even so, there's already been a stir over the player's likely departure. One of the team's standout performers in their rise in the Brazilian league and the team's top scorer with six goals, he avoids commenting on the matter.
"It's still a long way off, right? It's November. Let me enjoy the moment and we'll think about it later," he declares.
He was loaned to the Rubro-Negro from Porto due to issues with coach Jesualdo Ferreira. Ibson's agent, Eduardo Uram, recently said he considers it virtually impossible for the player to remain at Gávea after the contract expires.
In Portugal, media outlets reported that Flamengo approached Porto to begin talks about a possible loan extension. This information has not been confirmed by Flamengo's executives or by Uram.
Father Joel wants to make Christmas for the fans happy\ Flamengo coach hopes to give fans a place in the 2008 Libertadores\
Fred Huber
Flamengo's match against Santos this Sunday at the Maracanã Stadium is being viewed by the red-and-blacks as the "deciding game" for a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Coach Joel Santana hopes to be a sort of Santa Claus and give the immense red-and-black nation a very merry Christmas.
- We're trying to close the year well, making the fans happy close to Christmas - he says.
Joel, however, knows that Peixe will be a very tough opponent for Fla, but remains optimistic.
"Santos is a strong team, they have a good coach, a great team. They're in second place, we know they have merits, but we also have ours," he says.
On Thursday, the coach, accompanied by the players, went to the parish of São Judas Tadeu to express gratitude for the achievements achieved thus far. And, of course, to ask for support in the final matches of the Brasileirão.
- We were grateful for what we have already achieved, as well as asking for protection and strength in this final stretch - he concludes.
Fla x Santos: Evandro Roman referees the match
Referee from Paraná will be assisted by Roberto Braatz and Erich Bandeira, both from FIFA
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) released its refereeing schedule for the 36th round of the Brasileirão on Thursday. Considered the most important match of the weekend, the "final" for a spot in the Copa Libertadores, between Flamengo and Santos, on Sunday at 18:10 p.m. at the Maracanã, will be officiated by Evandro Rogério Roman from Paraná, who will be assisted by a duo wearing the FIFA badge on their chests: Roberto Braatz, from Paraná, and Ercih Bandeira, from Pernambuco.
With 59 points, Peixe is second in the Brasileirão, while Flamengo is fourth with 55.
'I'm going to celebrate as if it were a title,' says Bruno
Goalkeeper remembers that everyone was 'picking on' Fla before the reaction in the Brazilian Championship
Eduardo Peixoto
Bruno says that when they let Fla get there, things get complicated for their rivals
The Brazilian champion has been decided since last week. But Flamengo is in danger of throwing a similar celebration to São Paulo's victory in the last round. That is, of course, if their spot in the Copa Libertadores is secured.
Goalkeeper Bruno is the group's spokesperson when it comes to celebrations. He recalls the harsh criticism the team received when it was bottom of the table.
"I'm going to celebrate like it's a title! A lot has happened this year. Everyone was picking on us. It hurt a lot to see the team in the relegation zone, but we turned it around," he declares.
Flamengo sits fourth in the standings with 55 points. With three rounds remaining, the team needs seven more points to secure a spot in the South American tournament. A situation that surprises Bruno:
"We didn't expect to reach the final stretch in such good shape. But if it happens, we'll definitely fight hard. When they let Flamengo get there, it gets tough."
Joel extols the strength of the red-black nation
Flamengo coach relies on the strength of the stands to win the 'decision' against Santos
Fred Huber
Joel Santana takes a photo with children at Flamengo training in Gávea
The news that, as of Thursday, nearly 71 tickets have already been sold for Flamengo's match against Santos, Sunday, at Maracanã, filled coach Joel Santana with pride. After the training session at Gávea, the coach was full of praise for the fans. He believes the strength of the stands will be crucial for Flamengo to win the "decisive" match against Santos.
"Flamengo's fans are showing what they intend to do: cheer the team on until the end. We have our mission, and we intend to fulfill it. It will be a decisive one; a victory would make us feel very good, with the possibility of deciding the spot at home against Atlético-PR," he says.
Not even the poor performance against Cruzeiro in the last match can dampen the club's optimism. He believes the competition's fluctuations are normal and hopes the team will return to its best form against Vanderlei Luxemburgo's Santos.
"It's very difficult to maintain the same performance in every match in such a balanced championship. Against Cruzeiro, we performed poorly, but we'll play well again. If we play like we did against São Paulo and Atlético-MG, for example, we have a good chance of winning. The team has been proving for a long time that it has what it takes," he says.
A packed Maraca doesn't scare Luxa
Coach admits passion for Flamengo, but guarantees that the feeling passes at the opening whistle
Adilson Barros From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Santos, get in touch
Luxemburgo is not afraid of Flamengo fans
Flamengo fans have already sold out their stands for the match against Santos, next Sunday at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time) at Vila Belmiro. The Maracanã is expected to be packed. But that doesn't intimidate Santos coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo. Quite the opposite. A self-confessed Flamengo fan, the club's manager says he expects to get goosebumps when he steps onto the pitch and sees the Flamengo fans in the stands. However, he says this feeling will pass as soon as the referee blows the whistle to kick off the match.
"When the game starts, I want to nail them!" says the Santos coach.
Luxemburgo says that playing in front of a packed Maracanã is a highlight in any player's career and his players have nothing to fear.
"Anyone who's afraid of playing in a packed Maracanã doesn't need to continue their career. It's football's greatest stage."
Fla wins first round: he is acquitted
The club escapes punishment this Thursday. But there's more trial on Friday.
Flamengo fared well in the first decisive trial this week: this Thursday, the club was acquitted, for the second time, in the case regarding the throwing of cups by its fans onto the Maracanã pitch during the match against Vasco, on September 16. On Friday, there will be a new session at the STJD regarding another similar case, against Grêmio, which could force the team out of the Maracanã against Atlético-PR.
The Rubro-Negro had already been acquitted of the charge, but prosecutors appealed. This Thursday, the club won again by unanimous vote. The charge was for violating Article 213 ("Failure to take measures capable of preventing and suppressing disorder in its sports arena"), combined with Article 157, Section I ("Consummated, when all the elements of its definition are present"), of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice. The penalty could be a fine of R$10.000,00 to R$200.000,00 (two hundred thousand reais) and the loss of home-field rights for one to ten matches.
On Friday, Flamengo will face another important trial: it will be judged for throwing a beer can and a mortar at the refereeing team against Grêmio. The punishment is the same: a fine and up to ten home-field games.
If found guilty, Rubro-Negro will not be able to face Atlético-PR on the 25th, at home with fans.
Artists will perform on Flamengo's birthday
The world champion team will face the stars who support the Red-Black team in Gávea
Heitor Martinez, Kadu Moliterno and Nelson Freitas embrace President Márcio Braga
The Brazilian national team of artists, the world soccer champions, will participate in Flamengo's 112th anniversary celebration. The team will face a combined team of Flamengo artists on November 15th in Gávea.
The match will start at 9 a.m. on the club's field. The festivities begin at 7 a.m., with a wake-up call at the rowing clubhouse, and end at 16 p.m.
The guest list for the game includes Thiago Lacerda, Heitor Martinez, Nicola Siri, Toni Garrido, Gabriel O Pensador, Ivo Meirelles, Patrick de Oliveira, Jorge de Sá, Sylvinho Blau-Blau, Max Viana, Dado Dolabella, Kadu Moliterno, Nelson Freitas, André Mattos, Nuno Leal Maia and Bruno Coimbra, Zico's son and the main name in the Brazilian team's campaign to win the World Cup.
In July, a team of actors represented Brazil in the first World Cup of its kind, in Russia, with the support of FIFA.
Jônatas does not rule out returning to Fla
Midfielder is not happy with his situation at Espanyol and could leave in January
Jônatas lived good times in Gávea
Flamengo is preparing to repatriate Jônatas. And the player has given his consent to the attempt. Currently on the bench at Espanyol, the midfielder stated this Thursday, in an interview with the Catalan newspaper "Sport," that he does not rule out a return to Brazil:
- At this point, I'm not closing off any possibilities. Everything can be discussed.
When the Spanish reporter talks specifically about Flamengo, Jônatas breaks into a broad smile, but contains his excitement with a gesture that suggests it's time to remain silent on the matter.
In August, he was very close to returning to Gávea. However, when it came time to finalize the deal, Espanyol backed out of the deal. Now, it seems that even the fans think it's best to let him go. In a poll published by "Sport," 55% of respondents want the club to negotiate Jônatas' transfer in January.
And Flamengo is keeping a close eye on the developments. On Monday, GLOBOESPORTE.COM reported that executives have already initiated contacts to facilitate the signing next year. In the coming weeks, his agent, Eduardo Uram, will travel to Barcelona to discuss the matter.
Mengão wins the ninth in the juniors
Team defeats Villa Rio 3-0 and advances comfortably to the quarterfinals
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo remains steadfast in its pursuit of its second title in the Otávio Pinto Guimarães Junior Tournament. On Wednesday, the team defeated Villa Rio 3-0 at Ninho do Urubu, finishing the first stage with nine wins in ten matches. The only setback was a loss to Nova Iguaçu.
The goals were scored by Willian Amendoim, Diego Oliveira, and Vânder. The latter scored with a beautiful volley.
Flamengo, who finished first in Group A, now faces Sendas in the quarterfinals. The first game takes place Saturday in São João de Meriti.
Throw
Flamengo breaks attendance record in the Brasileirão
Club announces that more than 70 thousand tickets have already been sold
The club also announced partial schedules for games against Atlético-PR (Credit: Paulo Wrencher)
Flamengo fans are proving their strength once again. With three days to go before the decisive match against Santos, Sunday at Maracanã, they've already broken the Brasileirão attendance record. As of 17:50 p.m. this Thursday, 70.905 tickets had been sold, more than 30 on Thursday alone.
The board announced an increase in the ticket supply for the game. Starting this Friday, 1.950 more tickets for the blue seats will be available to the red-and-black fans. With this new supply, the total number of tickets available for this match will be 81.144.
According to Flamengo's director of revenue, Flavio Pereira, the club still has a second reserve load, which may or may not be put up for sale. Flavio Pereira states that this second load is still within Maracanã's official capacity.
Ticket sales continue online and by phone. A new partial price list is expected to be announced this Friday morning, and tickets for the game are expected to sell out by the end of the day. Ticket sales will resume at the box office and other points of sale starting at 11 a.m. Tickets for the grandstands are sold out.
For the match against Atlético Paranaense, which will not be played until the 25th, 36.730 tickets have already been sold. This is part of the Nestlé promotion.
Renato Augusto is not indebted to Edmundo
Joel Santana compared the two players he coached
Joel compared Renato Augusto with Edmundo
Diego Rodrigues RIO DE JANEIRO
Although there's still a significant difference between Edmundo and Renato Augusto's performances, as compared by Joel Santana last Wednesday, at least in the 2007 Brasileirão the players are on par. Based on Footstats data, LANCENET! confirmed that the difference between the two in some areas is small.
In terms of shots, for example, the number is exactly the same: 43 for each, with seven on target and 36 on misses for both. In total, Renato Augusto played 21 matches, and Animal, 17.
The objective of the two teams they defend is also the same: Fla and Palmeiras fight for a place in the 2008 Libertadores. With 55 points, the two teams are tied - Flamengo is in fourth place and Palmeiras in fifth - in the Brasileirão table, however, Verdão loses on goal difference - four to three.
The biggest difference is age. Edmundo is 36 and no longer needs to prove anything to anyone. Renato Augusto, at 19, is still considered a promising prospect at Gávea.
For the Red-Blacks, Renato Augusto is expected to start in the match against Santos on Sunday at Maracanã. "Animal" could also return to action. He has a chance to play in the match against Fluminense next Wednesday at Parque Antartica.
Luxemburgo warns: 'I just want to put the nail in them'
Santos coach says Flamengo fans won't inhibit his players
It's no secret how powerful Flamengo fans are when they go to Maracanã to support the team. But, at least for Santos fans, the pressure from the opposing fans won't inhibit a strong performance in next Sunday's match.
Coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, a self-proclaimed Flamengo fan and aware of the strength of the red-and-black fans, shows no concern about the record attendance figures in the Brasileirão that the club has been achieving in recent rounds.
"When the game starts, I want to nail them. Anyone who's afraid of playing at Maracanã doesn't even need to continue their career," the coach stated.
Santos and Flamengo face off for a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. Mengo's situation is more complicated. A loss could leave the red-and-black team in a difficult position in the race for a spot.
Joel considers natural income decline
But the coach guarantees that the team will play well again.
Like Flamengo's fans, coach Joel Santana wasn't pleased with Flamengo's last performance against Cruzeiro at Mineirão Stadium, but he considered the team's drop in performance to be natural. However, Joel assured that the team will once again delight the fans.
"It's difficult to maintain good performance in every game, but we were on a very good run. The moment we played poorly surprised everyone. But we'll get back to putting in great performances," the coach told Rádio Tupi.
Joel: 'Fla and fans have an indestructible pact'
Coach celebrates record attendance and counts on the nation's support
Coach Joel Santana celebrated Flamengo's record-breaking attendance record for the Brazilian Championship on Thursday. As of 17:50 p.m., more than 70 tickets had already been sold for the decisive match against Santos next Sunday.
The red-and-black coach adds that a packed Maracanã motivates the players to give their all in the match. Joel and the entire squad view the game as a decisive one, and the fans will be crucial in their quest for victory.
"I'm happy. The players and I are as motivated as the fans for this game, which will undoubtedly be a decisive one. The fans have been supporting us game after game. This is a promise of unbreakable loyalty," he stated.
Joel took advantage of the end of training this Thursday to comment on the team's trip to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus to receive the blessing for the next game. The coach emphasized that the main objective was to give thanks for all the grace received so far.
"We went to the church to give thanks for what we've achieved so far. It was already planned," he added.
Léo Moura hopes Juan gets better
Right-back teaches teammate how to overcome crises
Flamengo is going through a curious moment. While the results are coming in, Juan, who was considered one of the team's key players, is falling off the mark. Boos and harsh criticism have erupted, and the full-back's confidence has been shaken. His teammate Leonardo Moura has gone through difficult times throughout his career, accumulating enough experience to offer advice to his friend.
"He should be calm. I don't think this is a bad phase, but rather a difficult time he's going through. I'm sure that, with his quality and personality, he'll bounce back," he says.
Flamengo's pressure on full-backs is above average. The reason? Léo speaks:
- When every player arrives at a club and shows his quality, the fans will always want the best from him, that's why Juan and I are held in such high regard - he explains.
Police ready for Fla x Santos
Rio fans' behavior praised by PM Major
Major Marcelo Pessoa, head of the GEPE, assured that the special police presence deployed at all Flamengo games at Maracanã will be present at next Sunday's match against Santos. The major emphasized that only fans who go to the stadium to cheer will be protected by the Military Police.
"Policing will be special, as at all Flamengo games. We will have a joint effort from the authorities responsible for fan safety. We will protect law-abiding fans, but anyone who goes to the stadium to commit crimes will be treated as a criminal. Those who behave like citizens will be treated with the respect and affection they deserve," he said in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
The behavior of the Rio fans was praised by the commander, who did not fail to comment on the beautiful celebration that the red-black fans are having at each game.
"Flamengo fans didn't give us much trouble throughout the year; it was normal. The Flamengo fans moved me in the stands. The other fan bases (Vasco, Botafogo, and Fluminense) also have the same behavior. We had some issues during the year, but they've been resolved, and management has taken care of things.
Marcelo Pessoa also reminded that Santos fans will be able to go to Maracanã with peace of mind.
- Santos will be escorted from Itatiaia. We expect a large Santos crowd due to the team's good campaign and fans can come with peace of mind, as there will be