THE GLOBE
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Control your nerves
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\ Ready for the final act, Flamengo now fights against anxiety
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\ ZÉ ROBERTO passes the ball between Everton and Denis Marques during Flamengo training at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis
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\ Marcos Penido
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Olamengo is literally at his wit's end with just one day to go before the match against Grêmio, which could give the red-and-black club its sixth Brazilian title. Coach Andrade has already decided on the team, with David replacing the suspended Álvaro in defense, and everyone is fully prepared. The big problem is the hours remaining until the ball starts to roll. Everyone, in one way or another, can't hide their intense desire to decide quickly.
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\ David is confirmed in the defense
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Even the experienced Andrade, winner of five Brazilian titles as a player and about to win his first as a coach, acknowledged that it would be great if the game started right away. True to his style, he thinks it's normal that everyone wants to decide at this point. But he appeals to common sense.
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"We've already been through this against Goiás. I hope everyone has learned their lesson. We have a chance to win a Brazilian title after 17 years, and we need balance, patience, and calm to win the match and crown our work with a flourish. I've been talking to the players, as well as our psychologist, Paulo Ribeiro. Anxiety, yes, but knowing how to manage it at the decisive moment," says Andrade.
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Despite trying to project a firm and confident stance, the coach himself seemed a bit nervous in his press conference yesterday. At one point, he asked referee Héber Roberto Lopes to pay close attention, reminding him that he had refereed two Flamengo games in the Brazilian Championship. And he did poorly.
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"He refereed our game against Goiás and did very poorly. Against Barueri, he failed to call a foul on Willians that ended in their goal. These are mistakes that cannot be made in the game against Grêmio. I just ask that you referee carefully," said the coach.
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\ \ The one who doesn't hide his desire to get on the field right away is midfielder Toró. He said\ that the time spent at Granja Comary was good for bringing the group together,\ but he thinks there comes a time when the best thing to do is get on the field.
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"I can't wait for the game. Every day we wake up at 11 a.m., play cards, talk a lot, train, and eat well. We go to bed around 3 a.m. And every day it's the same. I feel the team is prepared and ready to take the field. We'll try to win a title that will forever leave our names in Flamengo's history. Now, there's nothing else to do. We'll just have to put our hearts into our boots," says Toró.
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\ With yesterday's heavy rain and the week's work well done, today's schedule has been changed. The players will train in the morning and return to Rio after lunch, to stay at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca.
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\ Even under heavy rain, the players held a collective training session yesterday afternoon. Andrade practically defined the starting lineup with Bruno, Leonardo Moura, David, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Aírton, Toró, Willians and Petkovic; Zé Roberto and Adriano.
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Petkovic and Zé Roberto, who were rested for most of the week, participated in the entire training session and are confirmed. As for options for changing the team during the game against Grêmio, Andrade also trained the team with Fierro in midfield and Everton as a striker.
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"The work was very well done, and I consider the team ready to decide the title. Every precaution has been taken. The current Flamengo is a mix of emotion and reason. Nothing more natural for someone who has won state titles, but hasn't won the Brazilian Championship in 17 years. The time has come," said Andrade.
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Grêmio has new losses: there are already seven absences
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\ Gaucho director says that defenders Réver and Rafael Marques will not play against\ Flamengo
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PORTO ALEGRE. Ever since the controversy began over whether Grêmio might ease the game for Flamengo and prevent Internacional from becoming champions, the mystery has become part of the daily lives of the Gauchos. Even so, it's already safe to say that Grêmio will be without seven players tomorrow. Yesterday, vice president of football Luiz Onofre Meira announced two new absences: defenders Réver and Rafael Marques. Later, it emerged that forward Maxi Lopez had sprained his ankle.
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\ - Réver and Rafael Marques will not play, they are in the medical department -\ said the director, although doctor Felipe do Canto said that the\ players will still be re-evaluated.
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Four players were already out: Jonas and Magrão, injured; Tcheco, who left the club; and Fábio Rochemback, suspended. Nothing else is known about the team that coach Marcelo Rospide will field. Onofre also stated that one player had sprained his ankle, without revealing his name. Later in the day, it was learned that this player was Maxi. Among the players, everyone wants to play, including Souza, whose starting lineup was vetoed by the board for saying he would fulfill the fans' wishes of giving the game away. But Souza hasn't been ruled out.
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The team's lineup will only be confirmed in Rio, but today's training session will give an idea of the team's lineup. Unlike yesterday, when management barred journalists from entering, today's recreational training session will be open to the press. The atmosphere surrounding the match against Flamengo was the justification for barring journalists from entering the Olímpico.
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\ The possible lineup: Marcelo Grohe; Mario Fernandes, Léo and Thiego; Tulio,\ Adilson, Julio Cesar, Maylson and Fabio Santos; Ricardo and Roberson.
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PM sets up\ special scheme
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\ For the two games in Rio, there will be 1.220 police officers
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\ Simone Candida
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To ensure fan safety at tomorrow's games, the Military Police have deployed 1.220 officers in 75 patrol cars to work both inside and around Maracanã and Engenhão stadiums. The largest contingent will be at Maracanã for Flamengo vs. Grêmio: 680 officers, 442 inside and 238 outside, guarding access to the game venue. At Engenhão, the venue for the Botafogo vs. Palmeiras game, 540 officers will be responsible for security and maintaining order (170 inside the stadium).
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In addition to the 3rd Military Police Battalion (Méier), the 6th Military Police Battalion (Tijuca), and the Shock Battalion, the police force will also include officers from other battalions and groups in the capital. Police work in the Maracanã and Engenhão stadium areas will begin at 10 a.m. During the games, a helicopter will fly over both stadiums.
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"A plan has been set up that includes officers from all battalions in the areas where the games are taking place. The Dog and Horse Companies, Air and Sea Groups, and Motorcycle Groups will be engaged in support. The Highway Police Battalion (BPRv) will reinforce patrols on the main roads," explains Colonel Marcus Jardim, commander of the 1st Area Police Command.
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The commander asked fans with tickets to arrive early and go to their seats, avoiding circling the stadiums. He also asked that people avoid drinking alcohol and buying tickets from scalpers. Another piece of advice from the police: drivers should avoid parking in prohibited areas, as there will be enforcement action.
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Regarding parking attendants around Maracanã Stadium, the Military Police have guaranteed that they will combat them. A minibus, where attendants caught in the act will be taken, will be parked at Maracanã Stadium.
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\ - We will work together with the City Hall to suppress abuse - he said.
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\ The day before yesterday, the PM met with members of organized fan groups to\ clarify that excesses will not be tolerated.
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"Instructions have been given to avoid confrontations and clashes. They are fans, and they must behave civilly. However, the Military Police will be present at bus stops and other gathering places. We ask fans to maintain this peaceful environment," said Marcus Jardim.
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\ The points of possible celebrations will receive police reinforcement. At the entrances to the two stadiums, 166 BPRv officers, in 70 vehicles, will patrol and carry out blitzes on Avenida Brasil, Linha Amarela, Avenida Perimetral and Linha Vermelha.
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CLOSE TO THE SIXTH: Coach asks Rio clubs to invest in the youth team
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'I'm helping to open doors for black people in Brazil'
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\ Andrade is proud to be the first black champion coach
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ANDRADE TALKS to Petkovic: the coach laments the lack of structure at Rio clubs
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\ Marcos Penido
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TERESÓPOLIS. On the eve of the decisive match against Grêmio, coach Andrade maintains his humility, seriousness, and respect for his opponents. But he doesn't hide his pride in becoming the first Black man to win the Brazilian championship title as a coach.
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"I think I'm helping to open doors for black people in Brazil, including many former black players who shone on the field and could have contributed even more by managing teams in Brazil. It's a gap that needs to be taken advantage of," he said.
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\ Even on the eve of Flamengo equaling São Paulo in number of victories\ in the Brazilian Championship, Andrade issued a warning to the Rio clubs:
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We can match São Paulo's number of titles, but Rio's football needs to improve its structure compared to some states. We're still behind in this regard, and we need to improve a lot. Having a good team isn't enough; having structure is very important.
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\ He is convinced of the importance of having good work at the base so that\ clubs can develop players:
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- When I was a player, Flamengo had eight young players from the youth academy and only three from outside. Today, we have Adriano and Aírton, who played for three months in the youth team. I know times have changed, but it's important to do good work in the youth divisions and provide the club with alternatives. It's cheaper, and there's a bond of love between the player, the club, and the fans.
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\ Ibson claims the belt if
\ time for champion
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\ One of the players revealed at the club and who took part in eight games of the\ Brazilian Championship, Ibson - currently at Spartak, Moscow - came to Brazil to see tomorrow's\ final:
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- I came to cheer. I'll be at Maracanã and I hope someone gives me a banner if the team wins the title. I've played eight games and I love this group.
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\ Ibson talked to Adriano and was provoked by Toró.
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"The guy who bothered us the most during training is here again. He was almost annoying. It's Ibson. I hope we can celebrate a great achievement on Sunday night," said Toró.
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Column\ Ancelmo Gois
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Flamengo is passion
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In the days leading up to the match that could give Flamengo its sixth Brazilian championship, the craze at the Rio Camelódromo was the pirated CD "Pet - It's the sixth, mané," featuring audio of the star's goals. It cost R$5.
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\ Calm down, guys.
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Column\Sports Panorama
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Football and friends
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Andrade has already decided what he'll do during his vacation, whether he wins the Brazilian championship or not. As soon as the dust settles, he'll join his former teammates and play a few games with Fla-Master, now under the management of Adílio and Júlio César Uri Geller. The plan is to play at least five matches. For him, there's nothing better than playing soccer with friends to relax.
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STRENGTH:\ Ibson, now in Russia, is "concentrated" in Teresópolis to\ encourage his former companions.
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\ ASKING DOESN'T HURT: Does anyone doubt that Flamengo is already the Brazilian champion of\ 2009?
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SPORTS JOURNAL
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Adriano eager to shout "He's the champion!"
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Rio de Janeiro –\ Italian champion with Inter Milan, standout player for the Brazilian national team at the 2004 Copa América and the 2005 Confederations Cup, and a World Cup player. With so much experience, Adriano needs nothing more to feel professionally fulfilled. Right? No. Even with this entire résumé, the\ Emperor doesn't hide his eagerness to win his first Brasileirão title.
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"I'm very motivated. It's an important title for me, for my family and for all Flamengo employees and fans. It's hard to contain my excitement, as the chance of winning the title is very high. We have to be calm to play a good game and win the sixth title," said the number 10.
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In addition to the title race, Adriano could reach some personal milestones this Sunday. The striker has 198 career goals and needs to score twice to reach the impressive 200 goals, as well as reach 21 goals for Flamengo in a single Brazilian Championship. This is a feat only Zico achieved in 1980 and 1982. Adriano is the competition's joint top scorer, alongside Diego Tardelli of Atlético-MG, with 19 goals.
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Álvaro will provide last minute support
\ \The defender is suspended from the match against Grêmio, but will go to Teresópolis this Saturday to support the team and will even participate in a training session with the group. Álvaro will be focused with the team at this very important moment when the sixth title is very close.
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RJ City Hall installs screens to show Flamengo vs. Grêmio
\ \Rio de Janeiro - Sunday, the 6th, is the final of the 2009 Brazilian Championship. Flamengo is the leader of the competition and can be crowned champion after 17 years. With this in mind and with tickets for the game against Grêmio sold out, the Rio de Janeiro City Hall decided to install three large screens so that those who don't want to stay at home and couldn't get a ticket to Maracanã can watch the game.
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\ The screens will be installed at Piscinão de Ramos; at Praça Guilherme da\ Silveira, in Padre Miguel\ and in front of the Império Serrano court, in Madureira, all in the North Zone.\ In addition, fans can watch in the thousands of bars spread throughout the city.
Another 75m² screen will be set up at the HSBC Olympic Arena in Barra da Tijuca, West Zone, where Flamengo will face Pinheiros at 15pm in the National Basketball League. Tickets cost R$20 and Flamengo fans will also be able to watch the football match against Grêmio, which could give the Rio de Janeiro club the Brazilian title, something that hasn't happened since 1992.
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THE DAY
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Stories of overcoming give Flamengo a boost
\ \Several players who could win the sixth title tomorrow have turned things around this season
\ \Teresópolis - Problems have become solutions, from the goalkeeper to the left winger, as they say in football parlance. Flamengo's roster includes players who have been questioned, faced personal and professional problems, overcome adversity on and off the field, overcome distrust, and are part of the team that has come back. For Andrade, this is a result of the group's strength.
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"We have a strong group that has overcome all adversity. Maldonado and Alvaro arrived at a time of turbulence and the team adjusted. Toró came in very well. I trust them all," analyzed the coach.
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Each player was forced to overcome obstacles, both on and off the field. With Cuca, the previous coach, the relationship was strained, and the group seemed to have its strength drained. With Andrade's appointment, the squad strengthened. "I have no doubt that the players play for me. Since I took over, I've noticed that, perhaps because of my achievements, my down-to-earth way of being. There was a chemistry," he said.
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In the group, beyond the collective victory, each team wants to crown their comeback with a sixth Brazilian championship. Adriano is one of the main symbols of this turnaround. The striker returned to Flamengo after leaving Inter Milan, depressed and seeking happiness in Brazil. In the decisive match against Grêmio, the Emperor has several goals: if he scores two goals, he will reach 200 as a professional and will equal Zico as Flamengo's top scorer in a Brazilian Championship. He currently shares the top scorer list in this year's competition with Diego Tardelli, both with 19 goals.
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INDIVIDUAL SCOLDINGS
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Andrade says that whenever he feels the need to make demands, he talks privately with each player to avoid exposing himself to the group. The coach knows that, despite all the team's achievements in 2009, one more ingredient is missing: the title. "Most of the players have never won such an important title. They need something more. It will be important for their resumes."
From heaven to hell
\ \Bruno: He started the Brazilian Championship badly and was accused of assault by a woman who claims to be pregnant with his child. He thrived in the most important games and even saved three penalties in a row, two of them in a single game.
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Leonardo Moura: He had his ups and downs on the field and in his personal life, failing to deliver what the fans expected of him. He recovered his good form, providing assists for important goals during the campaign.
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\ David: He faced justice in the fight with Palmeiras, suffered a serious injury to his face and, with Alvaro's suspension, he should be a starter in the game that could give Flamengo its sixth championship.
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Ronaldo Angelim: With Fábio Luciano's retirement, there was some distrust about his performance. He remained on the team and once again felt confident with Andrade's arrival.
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\ Juan: He was injured for a long time and was booed several times by the fans. He returned in the final stretch and could make history for the club with another title.
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\ Aírton: Marked by violent plays, he got his head in place and, at 19 years old, is an absolute starter.
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\ Torá: Relegated to the background with Cuca, he returned to have space with Andrade and\ assumed the position of the Chilean Maldonado.
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\ Willians: Questioned about the excess of cards and hard fouls, he changed his attitude\ and even became an important weapon in the team's attack.
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\ Petkovic: Hired to pay off a club debt, he became the team's brain trust at 37 years old and one of the stars of the Brazilian Championship.
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Zé Roberto: In a slump, he almost left the club at the start of the Brazilian Championship. He gained confidence under Andrade and shone in decisive matches.
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Adriano: After announcing his retirement, the Emperor showed that he can be useful to football. He is the competition's top scorer.
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\ ANDRADE: Considered the eternal interim and ignored by Cuca, he took over as coach and led the historic comeback.
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Andrade criticizes the match referee
\ \Rio - On the eve of the final, coach Andrade made a point of recalling two matches yesterday in which referee Heber Roberto Lopes, who will officiate the match against Grêmio, made mistakes that hurt Flamengo. The coach made it clear that he is concerned about the referee's performance.
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"Against Goiás, in the first round, he was having an unlucky day. He failed to call a scandalous foul on Willians and, in the sequence, they did the same golAgainst Barueri, together with the assistant, he failed to flag an offside in the 48th minute of the first half and we also conceded a goal. I ask him to be careful," said the coach.
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The coach admitted that the anxiety has increased in recent days, but he\ assures that he has slept peacefully, even with concerns about the refereeing\ and the proximity of the title.
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"Anyone who says they were already counting on a title fight is lying. Things changed during the championship. The five times I reached the Brazilian final, I won. In my life, I've had more victories than defeats," he emphasized.
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Andrade believes the time has come for changes to the organization of Rio de Janeiro football. "We need to change the structure to play on equal terms with the others." teams. Furthermore, it is important to train more players at the base so that we can mix the youngsters with more experienced players," said the coach.
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Who will score the sixth goal?
\ \Decisions often reveal unexpected heroes. Five Flamengo starters failed to find the net in the Brazilian Championship.
\ \Teresópolis - Scoring goals isn't for everyone. At Flamengo, in 37 matches played, only 14 players have scored, two of whom have already left the club (Emerson and Ibson). Adriano has scored 19 of the team's 56 goals in the Brazilian Championship. Of the 11 likely starters for tomorrow's game against Grêmio at Maracanã, five have yet to find the net. competition: Bruno, David, Ronaldo Angelim, Aírton and Toró. But it is in decisive moments that unusual heroes tend to emerge.
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\ In the 2006 World Cup, for example, defender Materazzi, who had conceded\ a penalty on Henry, scored Italy's equalizer and, in extra time,\ provoked Zidane, who was sent off after headbutting the Italian defender. Football is often told in Cinderella stories, and another one could\ be written tomorrow.
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Of the five Flamengo players who haven't scored yet in this Brazilian Championship, only David and Aírton have never found the net wearing a Flamengo shirt. Even goalkeeper Bruno has scored three times. Ronaldo Angelim has scored 12 goals, and Toró has netted five.
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"I don't worry about scoring goals. The important thing is that the team wins. I'm really rooting for the Emperor to do his job, to be the top scorer and stay here next year," said Toró, who in 2007 scored the winning goal in the 2-1 Brazilian Championship victory over Grêmio at the same Maracanã. "It's nice to score a goal in a packed stadium. But the time has come when everyone has to do their part. Mine is to protect the defense," he emphasized.
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\ Toró was hired by Flamengo at the end of 2005. After win the three-time state champion and the Brazilian Cup, he can't wait to lift the Brazilian trophy.
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\ "The anxiety It's very big, but we need to control this feeling. We do everything to pass the time, we play cards, we talk with our family, but we're always talking about Sunday's game. It's the game of our lives," Toró highlighted.
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After Maldonado's injury in a friendly match with the Chilean national team, Toró took over as a starter. Now, he hopes to repay Andrade's trust. "When I was playing for Fluminense, Andrade was the first to call me up for the U-15 national team. As fate would have it, I now have this chance to help him win an important title like this. He's a guy who really deserves it."
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David takes the lead to play the final against Grêmio
\ \BY\ JANIR JUNIOR
\ \Rio - Coach Andrade\ opted to field defender David in place of Álvaro, who is suspended, to start the first training session at Granja Comary. The others players are the same as team who defeated the Corinthians by 2\ to 0, last Sunday.
\ \In the middle of training, Éverton came on for Toró and ended up scoring the only goal in the 1-0 victory for the starters over the reserves. Due to the puddles on the pitch, the activity time ended up being shortened.
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\ The person who watched the training session, even in the rain, was midfielder Ibson, formerly of Flamengo and currently playing for Spartak Moscow.
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\ The Flamengo started the activity with: Bruno; Léo Moura, David, Angelim and Juan; Airton, Willians, Toró and pet; Zé Roberto and Adriano.
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Adriano: 'I didn't believe we could win the Brazilian title'
\ \Rio - While Petkovick, Zé Roberto, and Ronaldo Angelim are rested, forward Adriano has been showing enthusiasm and training well at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, where Flamengo is based. The Emperor provided three assists for goals in yesterday afternoon's training session. This Friday morning, he did it again, participating in the play completed by defender Álvaro with a lofted pass.
\ \After the activity, Adriano spoke to reporters and said that he is feeling very well and recalled the setbacks he had to get to the team Flamengo's starting player. "For everything I've been through, getting here is a victory. There are many barriers in the community, but I managed to overcome them," the Emperor told Rádio Brasil.
\ \The striker also revealed that he did not expect Flamengo to win the Brazilian title, however he highlighted the day do players red-blacks. "Honestly, I didn't imagine that we would get far. But we fought. I hope to finish as gunner and lift the cup", said the striker.
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SPORTS GAZETTE
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With Pet back, Andrade practically defines Flamengo
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Gazeta Press - Rio de Janeiro (RJ)
After leading the collective training session this Friday at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, coach Andrade practically defined the team that will enter the field on Sunday at Maracanã, against Grêmio, in search of another Brazilian title.
\ \The biggest change is in the red-black defense. Álvaro, suspended for receiving his third yellow card last Sunday against Corinthians, will give way to young David. Spared during last Thursday's activities, Zé Roberto and Petkovic participated normally in the activity.
\ \The team that will probably take the field on Sunday should be: Bruno, Léo Moura, David, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Aírton, Toró, Willians and Petkovic; Zé Roberto and Adriano.
\ \Illustrious visit: Also this Friday, midfielder Íbson paid a visit to his former teammates to offer encouragement. The player assured that he will be at Maracanã on Sunday to support the Flamengo. Íbson participated in the first rounds of the Brasileirão defending the red-black and will have a share of contribution, if the club wins the title
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Flamengo minimizes Grêmio's lineup
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Gazeta Press - Rio de Janeiro (RJ)
Flamengo still doesn't know which Grêmio team it will face in this Sunday's match, the final round of the Brazilian Championship. The Rio Grande do Sul club has been keeping a low profile and is expected to rest several starters. The decision on who will travel to the Rio de Janeiro capital will only be made after training this Saturday morning. This fact, however, has been downplayed by Flamengo fans, who will not change their schedule to face Grêmio's starters or reserves. Flamengo simply needs a win to win the Brasileirão.
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\"Flamengo cannot be worried about the Grêmio team's lineup.\ We have to worry about our way of acting and putting on a great\ game. Our rival has a very strong group, Quality
and, regardless of who is on the field, it will certainly cause us a lot of difficulties", said midfielder Willians.
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\ Similar thinking has the attacker Zé Roberto. "Grêmio will enter the field thinking about winning this match and you can be sure of that, since on the field, when the ball starts rolling, everyone wants to give their all. Soccer players don't like to lose and it's no different with Grêmio's athletes. It's up to Flamengo to continue Working in the best possible way to achieve victory regardless of who is defending the opponent's shirt", he explained.
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Like any decision atmosphere, this Sunday's match also has a touch of mystery for the hosts. At Flamengo, Andrade refuses to reveal the lineup and guarantees that he could surprise by fielding a more attacking team. This is all because he will be without defender Álvaro, suspended due to the third yellow card he received in the 2-0 victory over Corinthians. But everything indicates that David will be left with the vacancy. Striker Adriano, recovered from a burn on his foot,\ takes to the field.
In this scenario, Flamengo will take to the field this Sunday with the following formation: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, Álvaro and Juan; Aírton, Toró, Willians and Petkovic; Zé Roberto and Adriano. This Saturday the Flamengo delegation returns from Granja Comary, the Brazilian National Team's training camp, in Teresópolis, in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro.
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After ousting Jason, Flamengo could be São Paulo's nightmare
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Tossiro Yamamoto,\ special for GE.Net - Sao Paulo (SP)
Flamengo took the lead in the Brazilian Championship last round and will be champion on Sunday if they beat Grêmio. A red-and-black title would break São Paulo's dominance over the last five years, as since 2004, when Santos won the competition, only teams from São Paulo have lifted the trophy. This happened with Corinthians in 2005, and three consecutive times with São Paulo, which this season cemented the nickname Jason (a horror movie character who always resurfaces) for its constant survival after being presumed dead.
\ \This year's scenario was heading toward a new São Paulo triumph. Palmeiras held first place from the 15th to the 33rd round. São Paulo took it for three weeks and presented itself as a strong contender for a fourth consecutive title, not only due to its brilliant recovery, but also due to its recent string of highly reputable films in the Brazilian Championship. It was then that the Tricolor's dreams became a nightmare: wearing the red-and-black jersey of Freddy Krueger (Jason's cinematic rival), Flamengo returned to the scene and took the lead with one match remaining.
\ \As Krueger in the script of Freddy vs. Jason - a box office success in 2003 -, the Rio de Janeiro team has the chance to recapture its past glories, especially at the expense of its famous rival. The Gávea club hasn't emerged champion of a battle of this magnitude since 1992, when it annihilated Botafogo. Unlike São Paulo, which has commercially adopted Jason, putting on sale shirts with the character's name and the number 13 - a reference to the film "Friday the 13th" -, Flamengo rules out a similar move in reference to the "Nightmare on Elm Street" franchise, on the eve of the decisive match at Maracanã.
\ \"This is something created by the club to hype a match. Flamengo is focused on the game. We'll be as serious as we've always been," guarantees the club's vice-president, Delair Dumbrosck, one of those responsible for reviving the team this season. Among the main actions taken by the football board are the retention of Andrade as coach and the re-hiring of the brainchild Petkovic, which greatly facilitate the already well-honed artillery of the killer Adriano, who has 19 goals so far.
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Flamengo's marketing department also ignores Freddy Krueger as a symbol. "The fans use these mascots as a joke. But we only work with what we can transform into a product. We already have Urubinha and Uruba; it doesn't make sense to invest in a character to which we don't have commercial rights," said Flamengo's vice president of marketing, Ricardo Hinrichsen. "São Paulo itself can't use Jason without authorization," the Flamengo executive concluded.
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\ Krueger or not, to be the nightmare of São Paulo, Flamengo will face a Grêmio without major pretensions and possibly a reserve, but which carries in its official anthem the fame of immortal glory. "We are calm," guarantees\ Dumbrosck, "because we did correctly all the work that should have been done. The anxiety is a little bigger for the chance of winning the championship.\ But Flamengo arrived, and so we go to the dispute". The clash will be at 17 pm (Brasília time) this Sunday and, even before it starts, it already leaves the certainty\ that it will not be the last, just like in the seventh art.
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PELENET
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Anxiety takes over Flamengo and even causes "insomnia" in the squad
\ \Cauê\Rademaker
\ In Teresópolis
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On the eve of the decisive match against Grêmio this Sunday at the Maracanã, which could give Flamengo its sixth Brazilian championship, anxiety is taking over the red-and-black squad at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. According to the players, time is running out and it's hard to even fall asleep.
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Andrade knows that Flamengo needs to contain its anxiety to win its sixth Brazilian title.
\ \ \ \"There's no way I can sleep. There were nights when I only managed to fall asleep around 3am, 4am," admitted midfielder Toró, who will start in the match this Sunday at 17pm (Brasília time).
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The red-and-black delegation arrived in Teresópolis last Wednesday. Since then, they have been staying at the Brazilian national team's training camp and have only trained in the afternoons. Because of this, overcoming downtime has been a difficult task for the athletes.
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"We can't wait for the game to arrive. Every day we talk a lot and play cards to make the time pass, but it doesn't. All we want is to be champions and write our name in the club's history," added Toró, who also tries to talk a lot with his family on the phone.
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The players' anxiety is even worrying the Flamengo coaching staff. However, Andrade believes the worst is over and cites the draw against Goiás as an example. In that match, if Flamengo had beaten the Esmeraldinos, they would have taken the lead.
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"I'm sure the group will know how to manage their anxiety. Goiás serves as an example for us. We have experienced players who are used to making decisions," said the red-black coach.
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Since Tuesday, when the squad returned to training in Rio de Janeiro, psychologist Paulo Ribeiro has been working to contain the players' anxiety. Andrade believes the group will not make the same mistakes.
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"We can't go onto the field and each one wants to decide the game straight away. The base of this group has been together for some time and has won some state championships, but they need to take a leap forward and the Brazilian title would be that opportunity," concluded Andrade.
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This Saturday, Flamengo will train in the morning at Granja Comary. Afterwards, they will have lunch in Teresópolis and then head to Rio de Janeiro. The squad will remain at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca, in the city's West Zone, until the match against Grêmio.
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Adriano and Pet comment on the draw for the groups for the 2010 World Cup
\ \Cauê\Rademaker
\ In Teresópolis
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Even though they were focused on the decisive match against Grêmio, this Sunday, at 17pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, Flamengo's stars couldn't help but give their opinions on the draw for the 2010 World Cup, which took place this Friday in South Africa. Adriano and Petkovic commented on the chances of their respective teams: Brazil and Serbia.
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After a long time facing relatively easy teams in the first phase, Brazil has fallen into a difficult group. In Group G of the competition, Dunga's team faces Portugal, Ivory Coast, and North Korea.
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"It's a balanced group. We need to approach it very seriously. If we underestimate the teams, we could be surprised in the competition. We have to be careful," said Adriano.
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Petkovic is quite optimistic about Serbia's group. His team will face Germany, Australia, and Ghana in the first round.
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"We managed to get into a group that's favorable to our country. We're participating in a good group and we have a good chance of getting through to the second phase and having a good world championship," said the foreigner.
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Adriano has a good chance of playing in the World Cup in South Africa. After many problems, the striker regained Dunga's trust and was called up for the final qualifying matches. Petkovic, however, probably won't be included in the tournament squad, due to his age. He's long been an "outcast" and hasn't been included in his national team's squad.
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Pet and Zé Roberto train normally at Fla; David is selected in Álvaro's place
\ \Cauê\Rademaker
\ In Teresópolis
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After a day of scares, Flamengo trained in full this Friday afternoon at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. Petkovic and Zé Roberto, who were rested on Thursday due to muscle pain, are participating normally. In defense, there's no improvisation with Airton. David was added to replace the suspended Álvaro. Ronaldo Angelim, who had suffered a rib injury, was released.
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\ At this moment, the rain has decreased in intensity. Despite this, the field used by the red-blacks is very soaked, but nothing that hinders the practice of football.
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Adriano, a standout performer in the last training session, continues to cope well with the discomfort caused by a burn on his left foot. As a result, he will be available for the match against Grêmio on Sunday at Maracanã.
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A victory will see the Gávea team, which has 64 points, crowned Brazilian Champion after a 17-year wait. Flamengo's direct rivals for the title are Internacional, Palmeiras, and São Paulo, all with 62 points.
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\ With all the available starters present, Andrade will take the following formation to the field: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, David, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Toró,\ Airton, Willians and Petkovic; Zé Roberto and Adriano.
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Heavy rain doesn't keep Flamengo fans away from Granja Comary
\ \Cauê\Rademaker
\ In Teresópolis
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The heavy rain that hit the city of Teresópolis this Friday did nothing to dampen the spirits of the red-and-black fans. Although fewer in number compared to last Thursday's training session, dozens of fans were positioned near the fence at Granja Comary and cheered loudly as the players entered the field.
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"Adriano, you're beautiful. I love you!" shouted a hysterical teenager, next to two friends, all wearing Flamengo shirts.
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The red-black squad will shortly carry out the last collective training session of the week and the expectation is for Petkovic and Zé Roberto to be present, both of whom were spared from Thursday's activity due to muscle pain.
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The coach is also expected to confirm Airton's entry into defense, replacing the suspended Álvaro. With the midfielder sitting back, Andrade will decide between Kleberson and Fierro who will assist Petkovic in setting up plays in midfield.
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GLOBOESPORTE
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'Sometimes we stay up until 4am thinking,' says Toró about the 'final'
\ \Steering wheel reveals the anxiety of the group, who have been playing a lot of cards to pass the time at Granja Comary until Sunday
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Anxiety has been the worst enemy of Flamengo in the week leading up to the game\ against Grêmio, Sunday, at Maracanã. Toró admitted that the players have been having trouble sleeping just thinking about the duel that could guarantee the Brasileirão title.
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\ To pass the time, the group has been using all possible accessories:\ video games, cards, telephone...
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- We can't wait for the game to arrive... We talk, play cards, then train, eat, and time flies... It's a great moment for everyone to make their name in Flamengo's history. It's been 17 years since the club won the Brazilian championship. We talk until late, and it's hard to sleep without thinking about it. Grêmio. Sometimes we stay up until 3 or 4 in the morning thinking about it... – said Toró.
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\ Among the games, the main one so far has been the game of hearts out\ (whoever has the highest number of that suit loses). Whoever loses is forced\ to drink a glass of mineral water.
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\ This Friday, however, the players will not be able to sleep in. \ Saturday's training session has been moved to the morning.
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Big screen will show Fla x Grêmio after the Rubro-Negro game for the NBB at Arena da Barra
\ \Anyone who buys a ticket to watch basketball will be able to stay in the gym to watch the match that could give the team the Brasileirão title.
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Sunday afternoon is reserved for Flamengo at the Barra Arena. Fans who went to watch the team's game against Pinheiros in the Novo Basquete Brasil competition at 13 p.m. will be able to stay in the gym until 17 p.m. to cheer on the team against Grêmio in the match that could secure the Brazilian Football Championship title.
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At the end of the match, Arena da Barra will provide two large screens with full HD images for fans to watch the game, which will be held at Maracanã. Additionally, during the breaks, a DJ will entertain the stands until the match begins.
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\ Tickets cost R$20 (full price) and R$10 (half price) and are valid for both events.\ Tickets will go on sale on Sunday, starting at 10 am, at the Arena box office.
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Andrade confesses to being nervous about the game against Grêmio
\ \Coach talks about lesson against Goiás, refereeing, responding to criticism and other topics in his last press conference before Sunday's match
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Andrade meets the fans at Fla's training session
\ \Andrade's last press conference before the game Flamengo against Grêmio, Sunday, at Maracanã, was marked by the huge number of journalists and\ by the sincerity in answering questions. The coach did not want to\ confirm the team's lineup, but made it clear that anxiety cannot be\ an enemy of the players, as happened against Goiás.
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\ To this end, Flamengo's psychologist, Paulo Ribeiro, will talk to the players this Friday night at Granja Comary. Andrade admitted that he himself is nervous for the game that could guarantee Flamengo the sixth title.
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\ He also spoke about the values of the youth categories, the choice of referee\ Héber Roberto Lopes (Fifa-PR) and several other subjects.
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Check out the main excerpts from the interview below:
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During the week, you tested several tactical options. Have you already decided which team will face Grêmio?\
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Andrade: I won't be finalizing anything today. We'll talk to the coaching staff before game time to decide. I've studied some possibilities, and even if I start with one team, I might change things during the game. If we go with Everton or Fierro, they'll already know what to do. We'll take advantage of the week to test out some formations.
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Could Grêmio's lineup change Flamengo's formation?
\ Definitely. Today they don't have anything defined and we're waiting to see who comes to\ Rio or not. Whether they'll come with a starting team or a mixed team... At this point it's important to know everything.
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Did anxiety increase as the game got closer?
\ My anxiety has increased a bit, but nothing that will get in the way. Sunday\ takes longer and longer to arrive. That's part of being human. You have to\ know how to manage anxiety, not just me, but the older and younger players as well.
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At a decisive moment like this, are Maldonado and Álvaro missed?
\ They do, but we have a strong group. Toró lived up to expectations. These are absences we feel and we don't have to regret. We played without Adriano last week (against Corinthians) and managed to win.
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All the players have said they play for you too. Do you believe in this group adoration?
I have no doubt. Since I took over, they said they would play for me. My history at the club helped a lot, as did my way of working. There was a chemistry, and it worked. And my committee is important... I've been the same person since I took over. Nothing has changed. I have to maintain this attitude until the end. I have to be the same person, work with humility, respect my opponents...
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In recent years, the clubs that\ have fought for the title have always been more structured. Is this the opportunity to\ equalize that fight?
\ Our structure leaves a little to be desired, we all know that. If we match\ others, we can compete on equal terms...
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Last year, president Marcio Braga said that Flamengo would only be champions if it had eight youth players on the team. He was wrong because, currently, Flamengo only has Adriano and Aírton in its starting lineup. How do you see this situation?
Developing players from the youth academy is very important. However, in recent years, Flamengo has been unable to develop great players, and the board that was previously in charge didn't have the mindset to give the youth academy opportunities. Their focus was solely on signing players. Perhaps this new management will give more value to the youth academy, which has always been Flamengo's flagship. I'm in favor of providing more opportunities, as long as there are more quality players. But that doesn't mean there's no need to sign players. This mix is important. In that generation of the 80s, Raul, Lico, and Marinho came from outside. Mixing things up is important. Flamengo has always been like that.
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You could be the first black person to win a Brazilian title as a coach. How do you see this situation?
It's special. There are no Black coaches in Serie A, and I hope for a breakthrough to open the door for others. It's an opportunity you can't miss. Many athletes also have difficulty entering the market because of this.
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In that game against Santos, you were emotional. Do you believe that your Flamengo has emotion as a strong ingredient?
\ These players never achieved much. Just a few Cariocas. They needed\ something more, a Brazilian Championship, a Libertadores... This stirs their emotions, they know how important a title is.