THE GLOBE
 
 
The first without Pet in the undefeated streak


Suspended, player misses Fla and Andrade considers Zé Roberto to replace him





Marcos Penido

At 37 years old, not even the most enthusiastic Flamengo fan would have thought that Serbian Petkovic would be so missed in a game. Hired almost reluctantly to settle a debt the club owed him, the midfielder became the symbol of Flamengo's comeback and the team's main leader. He played in all ten games of the team's unbeaten streak, and his absence, due to an automatic suspension after receiving his third yellow card in the match against Botafogo, leaves a void for tomorrow's match against Barueri, at 21:50 p.m., at Arena Barueri.



Club anticipates concentration

Since coach Andrade doesn't like to complain, the solution is to find a solution within the group. Last week, he made it clear that Zé Roberto could play deeper in midfield, bringing in an attacking player to partner Adriano, likely Gil. But he could also field a midfield with strong marking and quick passing, keeping Zé Roberto and Adriano up front.

The important thing is that the chosen person performs the role well and helps the team in the collective aspect.

"Flamengo has players of great individual quality, who decide games. But the important thing is the team. We've played without Adriano before and had good results," says Andrade.

The biggest concern yesterday was player fatigue. According to the coaching staff and management, the team is beginning to feel the effects of the string of matches in the Brazilian and South American Championships.

It was decided that they would remain focused throughout the week. A sacrifice that began yesterday and will only end after Saturday's game against Santos. All for the good of the team, which could enter the top four of the Brazilian Championship if it beats Barueri.

The players checked in yesterday at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca. They travel this afternoon to São Paulo, where they will remain in training until Thursday morning. The afternoon is free, but they will return to training in the evening until Saturday, when the team faces Santos at Maracanã. The idea is to better manage everyone's diet and rest.

- It's an important sacrifice - said the vice-president of football, Marcos Braz, who will pay a bonus of R$60 to the players this week for having managed to earn four points in two games: against Vitória-BA and São Paulo.

- By paying this prize, I owe you another one for the victories against Palmeiras and Botafogo - said Marcos Braz.

Defender Álvaro has been cleared to face Barueri. He's expected to form a central defensive partnership with Ronaldo Angelim, who returns to the team, along with Willians, after serving an automatic suspension against Botafogo. Adriano was excused from training by the board.

Bruno was the one celebrating his good form. He saved a penalty from Lucio Flavio and secured the victory against Botafogo.

- I played with Lucio Flavio at Atlético-MG and got tired of seeing him take penalties in training. I focused and did well.

The team captain, the goalkeeper, issued a warning against fuss.

"I know the fans are excited, but the hype has to be put aside. We're fifth in the table and we have to work hard and not party," said the goalkeeper.

Former players Gil and Rodrigues Neto were at the club yesterday to give coach Andrade a hug.

- He really deserved a chance and he's showing his worth - said Gil.

Zé Roberto, Kléberson, Adriano and Petkovic, in addition to coach Dunga, participated yesterday in a lecture at the Bola Pra Frente Institute, by former players Jorginho and Bebeto.


 
 
Fla begins fight for the second consecutive title in the League


The red-black basketball team faces Uruguayan Defensor today in Argentina



MARCELINHO IS confirmed at Fla, as his punishment only applies to friendlies


Claudio Nogueira

A champion of the current Brazilian basketball season, Flamengo—champion of the South American League, two-time national champion, and four-time state champion—begins its fight for its second consecutive title in the continental competition today. Today, at 21 p.m. (Brasília time), the red-and-black team will face Defensor Sporting of Uruguay, the current South American champion (a competition other than the League), in Group C of the competition, in Santiago del Estero, Argentina. Also in the same bracket are the local team Quimsa and Malvín of Uruguay, who face each other in the second round at 23:30 p.m.

Tomorrow, also at 21 p.m., Flamengo will face Malvín, while Quimsa and Defensor Sporting face off in the final round. Finally, on Thursday, at 23:30 p.m. Brasília time, in what should be Flamengo's toughest match, the Rio de Janeiro team will face Quimsa, the home team. In the preliminary round, Malvín and Defensor Sporting face off. According to the rules, only the top-place team from each of the three groups advances to the final. Furthermore, the best second-place team from the three groups also qualifies for the final four.

Flamengo's coach for four seasons, while preparing the team for the League and for the second edition of the Novo Basquete Brasil (Brazilian Championship), which will begin in November, Paulo Chupeta laments the technical shortage of the State Championship, which did not provide the appropriate pace of play for the League.

"For the team, it was better to train than to play in the State Championship, if we're considering the League and the Brazilian Championship. The other big clubs in Rio, since they can't field teams as strong as ours, simply give up. Without Vasco, Fluminense, and Botafogo, the State Championship's glamour is lost," he declared. "In the city that will host the Olympics, it would be good if the authorities helped the basketball clubs."

Today's rival is the Uruguayan national team's base

In the State Championship, Flamengo achieved four very easy victories, with an advantage of more than 50 points.

"Last year, the team gained momentum in the Brazilian Championship and the League, but in 2009 we're missing more difficult games. But the group is experienced and should be able to handle it," said Chupeta.

Regarding the League, the coach knows that the opening rival, Defensor Sporting, is the base of the Uruguayan national team:

- There's Paes, who played in the Copa América for Uruguay, and two Americans. They're a tough opponent.

As for the red-black team, Chupeta is relieved, as point guard Marcelinho, punished for involvement in a brawl at a friendly tournament in Joinville, was suspended for five friendly matches, which will not hinder the group in any official competitions.

"Baby left the club (he went to Paulistano), and Jefferson Williams is injured and won't be playing. Our starting lineup will be Hélio, Duda, Marcelinho, Alírio, or Guilherme Teichmann, who recently arrived, and Coloneze. We also brought in Dedé and Victor Bocardo," explained Chupeta.

The venue for the League finals has not been chosen, but Flamengo, which has partnered with the administrators of the Arena Multiuso, could apply to host the decisive stage.

The 14th edition of the South American League features 12 clubs, including three Brazilian clubs: Flamengo, Pitágora/Minas, and Universo/Brasília. For the qualifying stage, the 12 teams were divided into three groups. In the second stage, four teams compete in the final four: the winners of groups A, B, and C, plus the runner-up with the best record in all three groups.
 
 
 
 
Calazans Column
 
 
Time to investigate

Flamengo continues its impressive unbeaten streak, now at 10 games, a truly significant milestone, but Andrade must already be investigating (at least I hope) the reasons for the team's drop in performance in the last two matches. Specifically, in the second half of the match against Botafogo, when, to summarize, Flamengo simply didn't play. That's the truth.


It's a case to be studied carefully, because another second half like that - and Flamengo not only doesn't win the game, as they won on Sunday, but they don't even draw.

The victory was due to several factors mentioned here yesterday, such as the amateurish incompetence of Botafogo's forwards (Reinaldo, André Lima, Jóbson), Bruno's excellent penalty save, and, simply, luck. Therefore, against a more decisive opponent, Flamengo would have lost the game, as they deserved, for having abandoned the attack and resorted to defense like a small team.

Or did other players besides Adriano get tired? The top scorer couldn't even run in the second half. Why?

It is also necessary to know why Leonardo Moura and Juan are playing so badly, why Fierro continues to be selected and why Gil was hired.

Not to say that there were no good moments from the team (besides Bruno's defense, Pet's spectacular play that Fierro wasted in the first half and Adriano's goal), we had the very pleasant surprise provided by the young defender Fabrício, who took control of his area.

Of course, Carlos Eugênio Simon wasn't the only referee with a poor performance in this last round. If there were just one bad referee every weekend, Brazilian officiating would be wonderful. And, in fact, it's terrible.

The referee in the Botafogo vs. Flamengo match failed to award a penalty for Toró, who handled the ball in the box, and, clearly to compensate, invented a penalty for Aírton a little later. The kind of referee who lacks personality, like nine out of ten of ours.
 
 
 
Good People Column
 
 
Idol's Mansion

Petkovic, with his wife, Violeta, purchased an 800-square-meter mansion in the Disegno condominium in Barra. He paid approximately R$3 million for the house, which will be completed in 2011.

Propósito

For Flamengo fans, this is one of the best news of the year. It means that Pet, the team's biggest idol, will be putting down roots in the city.
 
Fan war

Marcos Prado, of "Tropa de Elite," begins filming "Fla x Fla" in late 2010. The film, directed by him and produced by José Padilha, will address the violence within Flamengo's two largest fan groups. "They've been at war since the 90s. They called a truce about two years ago, but a lot of people have already died," says Prado, a die-hard Flamengo fan.
 
 
Renato Mauricio Prado Column
 
 
Best and worst

Passionate about statistics, Lauro Araújo has been a star in the field for 25 years. Today, he produces "scouts" of all kinds, using the performance of teams, coaches, and players in the Brasileirão as a basis. That's how he arrived at the ranking of coaches, up to this point in the championship. Without reading the rest of the column, would you venture to say which has the best performance? And the worst?


If you held back and placed your bets, check out the results now, based on numbers that, they say, never lie...

The best: 1st) Andrade, at Flamengo, with 63% success rate: 34 points won in 18 games; 2nd) Ricardo Gomes, at São Paulo, with 62,5%: 45 points, 24 games; 3rd) Celso Roth, at Atlético Mineiro, with 57%: 53 points, 31 games; 4th) Tite, at Internacional, with 54,3%: 44 points, 27 games; 5th) Ney Franco, at Coritiba, with 53,8%: 21 points, 13 games.

The worst: 5th) Diego Cerri, in Barueri, with 36,1%: 13 points, 12 games; 4th) Carlos Alberto Parreira, in Fluminense, with 33,3%: 10 points, 10 games; 3rd) Estevam Soares, in Botafogo, with 31%: 13 points, 14 games; 2nd) René Simões, in Coritiba, with 29,6%: 16 points, 18 games.

And the worst: 1st) Renato Gaúcho, at Flu, with only 20%: six points, 10 games.

Only coaches with at least ten matches in charge of the same team were included in the ranking. Inter's Mário Sérgio managed the team in just four matches (with a 66,7% success rate, with two wins and two draws), so he is not yet on the list.
 
 
 
 
 
SPORTS JOURNAL
 
 
 
Marcos Braz criticizes the holding of Sunday's match at Engenhão
Rio de Janeiro: At the end of the game, the always calm coach Andrade took a dig at Botafogo's board: "Besides losing the game, they lost income too." In addition to the manager, the vice-president of football, Marcos Braz, made a point of once again condemning the match being held at the Eengenhão stadium.
"The numbers were horrific. It seems that the income was close to R$650. Taking away all expenses, I believe that there is not even R$200 left for Flamengo. We would have had a different perspective if the game were elsewhere. If it were at Maracanã, our seizure would have ended, since we would have had greater resources. But that is in the past," said the director, in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
 
 
Adriano will not attend training this Monday, in Gávea
   
   
   
Rio de Janeiro: Adriano did not show up for training this Monday at Gávea, one day after the 1-0 victory, with a goal scored by the player himself, last Sunday. The coaching staff was unable to explain why the striker did not return with the rest of the Flamengo squad.
According to the club's press office, he was authorized by the coaching staff. Official information is that Imperador will only report this Monday at 22 PM, the time scheduled for the red-and-black delegation to concentrate on next Wednesday's match against Baureri at Arena Baureri.
 
 
Pet is out of the next game against Barueri, but Williams, Angelim and Álvaro return to the team
    Vipcomm
       

   
Rio de Janeiro: Midfielder Petckovic will miss Flamengo's next match against Barueri, next Wednesday. The Serbian received his third yellow card in the derby against Botafogo, last Sunday. The number 43 was the only player to play every match in the club's 10-goal unbeaten streak in the Brazilian Championship.
Coach Andrade will have plenty of options when it comes to team selection for the upcoming match, as Ronaldo Angelim and possibly Álvaro will be available. Defensive midfielder Willian is also returning from suspension and could form a midfield with Maldonado and Airton, who will be moved to defense to cover for the absences of the starters. If he wants a more attacking team, he could drop Zé Roberto back and put Gil or Dênis Marques alongside Adriano.
 
 
Flamengo is the favorite team of most Jornal dos Sports users.
Raphael Bittencourt - rbittencourt@jsports.com.br
Rio de Janeiro – Last week, JS asked users which team they supported. The options were: Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Vasco, plus "other" for those who don't support Rio de Janeiro's biggest clubs.

The race was very close until the end, with three teams battling for second place. With Flamengo leading from the start, Botafogo, Fluminense, and Vasco battled it out vote for vote. The fierce rivalry between the Red-Blacks and the Black-Whites (the two clubs decided the last three Cariocas) appears to be reflected in the poll's results.

Botafogo left Vasco (Flamengo's eternal rival) and Fluminense behind to take second place. Despite a strong run in Série B, the São Januário team finished fourth. Only 3% of internet users said they didn't support any of Rio's biggest clubs.

Check the result

What's your favorite team?

Flamengo - 35.41%
Botafogo - 21.75%
Fluminense - 20.04%
Vasco - 19.39%
Other - 3.41%
 
 
 
 
Andrade criticizes arbitration
Rio de Janeiro – Despite a 1-0 victory over Botafogo at Engenhão, Flamengo didn't play the same style as in recent matches and nearly suffered a setback. The team won thanks to Adriano's goal and Bruno's penalty save. Even with the result, Andrade wasn't satisfied with the team's performance, much less the refereeing.

"The referees are seeing penalties that only they see. Unfortunately, this has been happening to us," he complained.

Regarding the team, the coach criticized the team's stance in the second half, when the team retreated and came under pressure from Botafogo. For Andrade, Flamengo took an unnecessary risk, despite withstanding the black-and-white pressure until the end.
 
 
 
Flamengo should play with a starting defense against Barueri
Rio de Janeiro – Flamengo faced Botafogo last Sunday at Engenhão without its starting defense. Ronaldo Angelim served a suspension for his third yellow card, and Álvaro is recovering from an injury. Despite this, substitutes Aírton and Fabrício did their job, and the Rubro-Negro won 1-0.

Flamengo faces Barueri away on Wednesday, and Andrade is expected to start in defense. Angelim returns from suspension, and Álvaro will be reevaluated on Monday. If the defender feels no pain in his right knee, he should play.

Petkovic left the field against Botafogo with pain in his right thigh and will not face Barueri. However, the Serbian was already out of the game after receiving his third yellow card. Petkovic is serving a suspension and recovering from the pain to face Santos next weekend.
 
 
 
 
THE DAY
 
 
 
Despite the humble speech, Fla can reach the leadership on Wednesday
Rio - While the coaching staff and players continue to adopt a humble tone regarding Flamengo's chances of winning the Brazilian Championship title, the numbers are there to show that the Rubro-Negro has a chance of reaching the top of the competition in the next round.
For this to happen, the team needs to beat Barueri away from home, leaders Palmeiras have to lose to Goiás (and Flamengo have to reduce their goal difference by three goals), São Paulo and Internacional — who face each other at Morumbi — have to draw and Atlético needs to lose to Flu, at Maracanã.
 
The best campaign in the second round is Cruzeiro, followed by Fla
With a win in Wednesday's match and a draw between São Paulo and Inter, coach Andrade's team can now sleep at the top of the championship, as Atlético-MG and Palmeiras only play on Thursday.
While the red-and-black fans are thrilled with the good form and already dream of a sixth championship, the squad and their coach have adopted a very cautious stance, wanting to avoid the famous 'fuss'.
"Flamengo's goal is still to break into the top four. The championship is quite tight. We know we're only three points behind the leader, but we're not in the top four; we still have to fight back. We're very motivated and anxious, too. Flamengo is running on the outside," said goalkeeper Bruno, who cited the competition's tightness in the final stretch.
"The championship is narrowing, and with each passing game the responsibility increases. It's a competitive competition; the team that maintains the most balance from now on will be champion," assessed the number 8220.
Ronaldo Angelim, who returns to the team in the next game, was also measured in his words and declined to discuss the title. However, he acknowledged that, unlike the last round, the next one could be very favorable for Flamengo.
"Since there's a game between São Paulo and Internacional, if we win we'll enter the top four, which is our goal. We're focused, but it's still not easy. We know this competition is tough and we'll have to fight hard," said Angelim.
 
 
Pet's injury is not a concern and Álvaro returns to the team
Rio - Petkovic left Flamengo fans worried after Sunday's derby. However, Flamengo doctor Márcio Tannure stated that the pain in his right thigh does not indicate a serious problem. The player is simply undergoing treatment and did not need to undergo any tests. In any case, he would not face Barueri because he is suspended.
Petkovic did not give interviews, but communicated with fans via Twitter. "(I am) undergoing treatment in hopes of a speedy recovery. See you later."
Defender Alvaro is expected to return to the team tomorrow. He trained with fitness coach Alexandre Sanz. "He said he didn't feel any pain and is cleared to play. Everything is fine," Tannure said.
Alvaro's presence alongside Ronaldo Angelim will mean Andrade could once again field a starting defense against Barueri. In the derby against Botafogo, he had to improvise with midfielder Airton alongside defender Fabrício, who had just returned from the Brazilian national team that finished runner-up in the U-20 World Cup in Egypt.
 
 
Zé Roberto explains his good phase: 'I left the beans aside'

 
Rio - After overcoming fans' distrust of his signing and the boos he heard at some matches this year, midfielder Zé Roberto celebrates his recovery by wearing the Flamengo jersey. The key to his success, according to the player himself, was improved physical conditioning.
"Physically, I've lost three to four kilos in the last few months. I'm feeling the difference, I'm lighter on the field and that helps. You have to keep your mouth shut, stick to salads, lots of grilled meats, chicken. I had to give up beans. And a lot of training too," Zé Roberto told SporTV, explaining his successful diet.
Zè Roberto's good form is intertwined with the club's strong run in the second half of the season. On August 29, he scored the third goal in a 3-0 victory over Santo André, helping end a three-game winless streak and begin a ten-game unbeaten streak, which leaves the team three points behind leaders Palmeiras. In fact, this goal was the player's first in the Brazilian Championship, and he made a point of blaming Andrade for putting Flamengo in contention for the title.
"Andrade emphasized that we weren't doing enough in the championship (the team was 14th, five points away from relegation), and we bought into that idea and made it happen. Step by step, we won games, the top teams let us get close, and we were fortunate in our head-to-head matches. We have a real chance of winning the title, but we know we're behind other teams. We'll wait for a slip-up. If we do, we'll do our part, show up and show up strong," said Zé Roberto.
 
 
SPORTS GAZETTE
 
Andrade says Pet will face Santos

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)
Suspended from next Wednesday's match against Barueri, Petkovic is trying to recover from right thigh pain to be on the field against Santos on Saturday. Coach Andrade is confident he'll be able to count on the midfielder against Santos.
"I'm sure he'll be on the field on Saturday. He'll do two or three days of training and should be back training on Wednesday," Andrade explained in an interview with Sportv on Monday.
Petkovic overcame critics' distrust under Andrade. Another player the coach "recovered" was Zé Roberto, one of the standout performers in the run-up that put Flamengo in contention for a spot in the 2010 Copa Libertadores.
"Nobody forgets how to play football. I said that and the board understood. Zé Roberto regained his confidence and started playing well again," celebrated the Rubro-Negro manager.
Similarities: A member of the Flamengo team that won the Libertadores and the 1981 World Cup, Andrade believes that the current team has some similarities with the team that had Zico as its main player.
"I see similarities in the way the two teams play. The '81 team played with two wide players, Tita on the right and Lico on the left. Today, we have Willians on the right and Zé Roberto on the left," compared former midfielder and now coach Andrade.
 
 
After deciding the derby, Adriano is released from training at Flamengo

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)
After scoring the goal that secured Flamengo's victory over Botafogo on Sunday, striker Adriano simply didn't show up at the club on Monday afternoon. According to official information from the club, the Emperor was eventually excused from training and released by the club's coaching staff.
According to Fla's press office, Adriano will be alongside his teammates and the coaching staff this Monday, starting at 22 pm, Brasília time, when the entire squad will gather for the match against Barueri, on Wednesday, in Greater São Paulo.
However, the Emperor will have another commitment before rejoining Andrade and the coaching staff. That evening, the player will attend the Solidarity Dinner, an event organized by the Bola pra Frente Foundation, hosted by four-time world champions Jorginho, Dunga's current assistant with the Brazilian national team, and Bebeto.
After deciding the derby against Glorioso, Adriano re-joined Diego Tardelli as the Brazilian Championship's top scorer. While the Atlético Mineiro player scored against Vitória on Saturday to reach 16 goals in the tournament, the Emperor responded the following day with a goal against Botafogo.
Flamengo, meanwhile, has truly entered the race for this season's Brasileirão title. With the victory over Botafogo, the Gávea club reached 51 points and closed the gap on leaders Palmeiras. After 31 rounds, Flamengo is just three goals behind Verdão.
 
 
"Only in the salad", Zé Roberto celebrates good phase at Fla

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)
Zé Roberto arrived at Flamengo with high expectations, but it took him a while to get going. Enjoying his great form and the team's good form in the Brazilian Championship, he credits his improved physical form as the main reason for his growth. He performs better with a healthy diet than when faced with plates of beans.
"I've lost three to four kilos in the last few months. I'm feeling the difference, I'm lighter on the field and that helps. I have to keep my mouth shut, stick to salads, lots of grilled meat, chicken. I had to put beans aside," said Zé Roberto, in a statement to Sportv.
Scorer of four goals in the competition and Adriano's attacking partner, Zé Roberto is also celebrating Flamengo's rise. The team, which once worried about being close to the relegation zone, is now one point behind the top four and, unbeaten in 4 games, is beginning to dream of the title. The striker is just waiting for more stumbles from the other contenders.
"We have a real chance of winning the title, but we know we're behind other teams. We'll wait for a slip-up. If we do, we'll do our part, show up, and show up strong," said Zé Roberto. The reason for Flamengo's improvement, however, isn't a healthier diet, but rather the arrival of coach Andrade, who started as interim but transformed the team.
"Andrade insisted that we weren't doing enough in the championship, and we bought into that idea and made it happen. Step by step, we won games, the top teams let us in, and we were lucky in the head-to-head matches," said the striker, who started in the 1-0 win over Botafogo this Sunday at the Engenhão stadium.
 
 
Flamengo criticizes Engenhão's revenue after the classic

Rio de Janeiro - RJ)
The controversy between the Flamengo and Botafogo boards regarding the hosting of this Sunday's derby at the Engenhão stadium drove away the public, who feared conflict and chaos. Just over 1 people attended the 0-25 victory of Flamengo in the Brazilian Championship, which had a ticket capacity of 44.
"The numbers were horrific," said Marcos Braz, Flamengo's vice president of football, in an interview with Rádio Brasil. "After taxes, I don't think there's even R$200 left for Flamengo. If it were held elsewhere, the numbers would be different," continued the director, who defended holding the match at Maracanã, as was the case in the first half of the Nacional.
On that occasion, 29.508 paying spectators brought both clubs R$499.403,00. This time, in a match considered extremely important by both sides - Botafogo is fighting against relegation and Flamengo is fighting for the title -, despite the lack of attendance, the revenue was much higher: R$656.242,00.
"There was a seizure, like in other games. If it were at Maracanã, the seizure would end, because we would have been able to secure enough funds to cover the cost," complained Marcos Braz. Furthermore, the club's board must bear the maintenance costs for the damage caused by the crowd - in the bathrooms, fans ripped toilet seats off and urinated on the floor. In the stands, they broke about 100 seats.
In Barueri - Flamengo's next match is scheduled for this Wednesday at 21:50 pm (Brasília time) against Barueri at Arena Barueri. With an eye on attracting more fans for the away match, the team considered requesting a change of venue to São Paulo. The Greater São Paulo club, however, ruled out the possibility.
"We even considered playing at Pacaembu, but Barueri has several contracts for boxes and even with the city hall. The field there is also very good, and we understand the team's decision. It's important to play in the interior of São Paulo state to see our fans there," added Marcos Braz.
 
 
PELENET
 
Three kilos lighter, Zé Roberto attributes his good form to his strict diet
From UOL Esporte
In Rio de Janeiro
 
 
Who would have thought grilled chicken and salad could help Flamengo? However, at least indirectly, they have been helping, especially when the focus is on one player. This is because Zé Roberto, one of the team's standouts in its surge to the top of the Brazilian league, shut his mouth and lost three kilos in two months, becoming a key player on the team. He played in Flamengo's entire 11-game unbeaten streak: ten in the Nacional and one in the Copa Sudamericana.

"I'm in great physical shape, and that helps me a lot on the field. I'm lighter, and it's reflecting on my playing style. I had to give up beans and certain other foods to get into top form. I started eating grilled chicken and salad. And, of course, I trained hard to reach this stage," joked the midfielder in an interview with Arena Sportv.

Zé Roberto has already faced many challenges throughout the year. Having been overlooked, he was nearly traded to several clubs midway through the year. According to the playmaker, Andrade is largely responsible for the recovery of his strong performance.

"He talks a lot with the athletes, both on and off the field. His work as a coach is very good and he supported me a lot until I got back into shape. He trusted my work and now we're producing good results for Flamengo," he added.

Flamengo will be seeking its 11th unbeaten match in the tournament against Barueri this Wednesday at Arena Barueri. The team is in fifth place with 51 points, just four behind leaders Palmeiras and one behind fourth-place São Paulo.
 
 
 
 
Álvaro trains, doesn't complain of pain and is cleared for Wednesday
From UOL Esporte
In Rio de Janeiro
 
Flamengo will have its 'sheriff' back for next Wednesday's game against Barueri at Arena Barueri. Defender Álvaro, recovering from right knee pain, was cleared by the medical department after completing a physical training session on Monday.

Álvaro hasn't played in the Rubro-Negro's last two games, but the team has proven that it doesn't depend on the player. They won 2-0 against Palmeiras at Palestra Itália, and again against Botafogo at Engenhão, a 1-0 victory.
´
The number 14 will join Ronaldo Angelim in defense. The player also missed the last match, as he was serving a suspension for his third yellow card. Therefore, Airton will play in midfield, and Fabrício will return to the bench.

In midfield, there's a serious problem. Petkovic, suspended, will be unable to play. As a result, Zé Roberto will likely be dropped back, making room for Gil in the front line. Denis Marques will play on the outside.
 
 
 
 
Zé Roberto attends the event
Flamengo midfielder attends dinner hosted by Bebeto and Jorginho and still doesn't talk about the title
 
    José Geraldo Azevedo   
     
   
           

The Bola Pra Frente Institute, led by former players Bebeto and Jorginho, attracts several celebrities from the world of sports this Monday night, October 26th, to pursue a noble goal: helping children and adolescents. The first sports celebrity to arrive at a club in the São Conrado neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro was Flamengo attacking midfielder Zé Roberto, who saw the number of "good questions" increase after last Sunday's 1-0 victory over rival Botafogo.
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"We have to keep doing our job. We haven't even made it into the top four yet, and that's our main goal," said the Flamengo player upon arrival. "Now we can't think about dropping points; we have to do our homework and we'll also be looking for a win away from home," emphasized Zé Roberto, already looking ahead to the match against Barueri next Wednesday, the 4th, at the opponent's home ground.

In addition to helping Flamengo enter the group that guarantees a place in the Libertadores for the first time, Zé Roberto will have the mission of being the main person responsible for setting up the red-black plays, since Petkovic will not play after receiving the third yellow card.
"It's going to be a difficult mission, Pet is currently going through a spectacular phase. If I do even a little of what he does, I'll be satisfied," concluded a smiling but few-worded Zé Roberto.

 
 
 
Sensible, Fla's director sets an objective thinking only of Barueri
From UOL Esporte
In Rio de Janeiro
 
 
With his feet on the ground, unlike many Flamengo executives, vice president of football Marcos Braz preaches a sense of conscience at the Gávea club. Knowing they haven't won anything yet, the executive urges the squad to focus on each game and only think about the next three points. Flamengo faces Barueri this Wednesday at Arena Barueri in the 32nd round of the Brazilian Championship.

"We have to always think about the next game. We can't think about what's ahead and not finish the job at the back. We're close to the top four and we know our chances in the championship. But we have to take it step by step and only think about the next three points," he said in an interview with Rádio Brasil.

Marcos Braz is also not worried about Petkovic's absence for the ABC Paulista match. The Serbian was the only player to participate in Flamengo's entire unbeaten streak, which now spans 11 games (including the 1-1 draw against Fluminense in the Copa Sudamericana).

"I'm sure whoever comes in will fulfill the role assigned to them by manager Andrade. I don't even know what it will be, but I can already say that I have complete confidence in the player. Flamengo's squad is strong and will fill the midfielder's absence," the director concluded.

With the playmaker absent, Zé Roberto will likely be dropped back to fill the veteran 'maestro's' role. This leaves Gil or Denis Marques competing for a spot in the red-and-black starting lineup.

Flamengo sits fifth in the Brazilian Championship with 51 points. With seven rounds remaining, the team trails the league's leaders, Palmeiras, by three points. Only one point separates the Gávea club from fourth-place São Paulo.
 
 
 
 
If they beat Barueri on Wednesday, Flamengo will be able to reach their 'goal'
Cauê Rademaker and Pedro Ponzoni
In Rio de Janeiro
 
 
Flamengo is just three points behind Palmeiras, the leader of the Brazilian Championship. However, as they currently sit fifth in the competition, the talk at Gávea isn't yet about fighting for the title, but rather about breaking into the top four, which could happen this Wednesday.
WATCH THE GOAL OF THE MATCH
To do so, the red-and-black team needs to beat Barueri away from home. If they triumph, they'll already be in the top four. That's because São Paulo and Internacional, fourth and third respectively, face off at Morumbi Stadium, also on Wednesday.

As the São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul teams have only a one-point advantage over Flamengo, any result would leave the team from Gávea in the qualifying zone for the 2010 Libertadores.

"There are still many direct confrontations. We need to get into the top four and then stay there, which is even more difficult," said midfielder Maldonado, who added:

"This final stretch of the Brazilian Championship is very competitive. There are only big teams ahead. We've closed the gap on Palmeiras, who are the leaders, but we know that any defeat will leave us far behind. We have to treat each match as a decisive one."

Coach Andrade echoed the Chilean's sentiments. He believes Flamengo must continue to focus solely on a top-four finish before starting to talk about competing for the Brazilian Championship title.

"This competition is very difficult. We achieved our third consecutive victory and we're still not in the top four. That's why I ask for calm when talking about winning. Only the best teams remain in the competition, and we have to be cautious, as it's a very difficult championship," said the coach.

In addition to the clash between São Paulo and Internacional at Morumbi Stadium, second-placed Atlético-MG faces Fluminense in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday at 21 p.m. Meanwhile, leaders Palmeiras host Goiás at Parque Antarctica on the same day and time.

Flamengo will be without midfielder Petkovic for their match against Barueri on Wednesday at 21:50 PM, suspended with three yellow cards. However, they will be without defender Ronaldo Angelim and midfielder Willians, who missed the match against Botafogo due to suspensions.
 
 


 
GLOBOESPORTE
 
 
 
Painter offers painting to Angelim
Gaucho Rogellius surprises defender with a portrait after training in Gávea
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
 

Angelim shows the painting by Rogellius
As he left Flamengo's training session on Monday, Ronaldo Angelim received a tempting offer. Rio Grande do Sul painter Rogellius went to Gávea to offer him a painting of the Flamengo defender.

Since it wasn't a gift, but rather an offer to buy, Angelim hasn't yet closed the deal. The player returns to the team this Wednesday against Barueri after serving a suspension and analyzed the Rubro-Negra's run in the Brazilian Championship compared to 2007.

Two years ago, the team left the relegation zone and finished in third place. In this edition of the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo rose from 11th place, remains unbeaten in ten games, and is just three points behind leaders Palmeiras.

"In 2007, we had several fewer games, and that made things easier. This time, it was more about the strength of the group. Andrade changed the system, and the team fell into place," explained the defender.
 
 
 
Bruno celebrates another 'goal of the day' against Botafogo
Goalkeeper saves sixth penalty against rival and blames it on excessive training: 'I get food for my family from here'
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
 
 
 
Bruno trains the day after the game against Botafogo
The combination of penalties for Botafogo plus Bruno usually results in euphoria for the red-and-blacks. His save on Lucio Flávio's shot in last Sunday's 1-0 victory joins a long list. He has already made six penalty saves in derbies against the Alvinegro.
 
His journey began in the 2007 Carioca Championship. Two saves secured the title. This year, the red-and-black number 1's star shined again. He saved penalties from Victor Simões (in normal time) and Juninho and Leandro Guerreiro in the final.
 
The club's number 1 went through an unusual phase between July and September. He had personal problems and was criticized by the fans. But once again, a penalty against Botafogo restored him to his status as "Brazil's best goalkeeper." At least for the passionate fans.
 
"Saving a penalty is a bit like saving a goal. I know both sides (Bruno has scored three goals in his career) and I can say it's the same," he declared.
 
Lucio Flavio may not remember, but the inspiration for last Sunday's save came from when the two played together at Atlético-MG, in 2003. Bruno was still in the youth teams, but he memorized the Botafogo fan's favorite corner.
 
"The penalty kick is the goalkeeper's moment. Lucio Flavio has a lot of quality and trains a lot. I played with him at Atlético-MG and know his style of shooting. In the heat of the game, I figured he'd take it in his trusted corner. And it worked," said Bruno.
 
 
On Monday afternoon, the day after his performance in the derby, the goalkeeper deviated from the recommendations for light work or rest. He requested intense training and was granted it by fitness coach Roberto Barbosa. He put on his gloves and jumped dozens of times. He left the field sweaty and happy.
 
At the press conference, he spoke out against what he considered opportunism in the dissemination of news about his private life and praised the "red-black family".
 
"When I was getting beaten up and questioned, they created several situations that never existed. I've always been very open with my team. I took responsibility and I'm reaping the rewards. My teammates are my second family, and I'm happy here. This is where I feed my family," declared the goalkeeper, who has conceded just four goals in his last nine games.
 
Fifth in the standings, Flamengo returns to action this Wednesday against Barueri, away from home. GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be covering the match in real time, with videos, starting at 21:50 p.m. (Brasília time).
 
 
Bruno's penalty save reignites controversy over penalty retake
Arnaldo César Coelho says that Lucio Flavio's charges against Flamengo and Petkovic against São Paulo should not be repeated
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
 
 
Bruno's save of Lucio Flavio's penalty in the Botafogo-Flamengo derby reignited controversy over another penalty kick involving the Rio de Janeiro club: was the decision to overturn Rogério Ceni's save on a penalty kick taken by Petkovic in the match between the Rio de Janeiro club and the São Paulo club on October 10th the right one? Commentator Arnaldo César Coelho believes neither penalty should have been retaken.
 
Watch the moves in the video below and draw your own conclusions.
 
 
Andrade sees similarities between Flamengo in 81 and the current team
The red-and-black coach praises Petkovic and Zé Roberto on 'Bem, Amigos!'
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
 
 
A fan of Cláudio Coutinho, the coach who, in the late 70s, built the Flamengo base that would go on to win the Libertadores and the Interclub World Cup in 81, the current occupant of the position, Andrade, sees similarities between the red-and-black team of 2009 and the most successful team in the history of the Rio de Janeiro club.

"I see similarities in the way the two teams play. The '81 team played with two wide players, Tita on the right and Lico on the left. Today, we have Willians (with freedom) on the right and Zé Roberto on the left," said the Flamengo coach in an interview with the program "Bem, Amigos!".

Regarding Petkovic, one of the main players responsible for Flamengo's comeback in the Brazilian Championship, Andrade said he wasn't surprised by the player's excellent performances at 37 years old.

"Talent has no age. Pet takes great care of himself. I thought there was a chance he'd play like he did when he was younger. At 37, he's performing at a high level."
 
Andrade also had high praise for Zé Roberto, who was on the verge of leaving Gávea and whose performance improved significantly after the coach took over.

"No one forgets how to play football. He understood that, regained his confidence, and is flying high today," he said.
 
- Before, they said that Flamengo needed a number 10. Today, I can say that we have two: Pet and Zé Roberto - he added.
 
Adriano's role in the group was also highlighted by the coach.
 
"A star like him makes the coach's life easier. He's a leader within the squad. I'd like to have others like him in the group."
 
Regarding Petkovic's injury, who felt pain in his right thigh in the game against Botafogo, Andrade expressed confidence in the attacking midfielder's performance in Saturday's match against Santos.
 
- I'm sure he'll be on the field on Saturday - said the coach about the number 43, who will not face Barueri this Wednesday, having received his third yellow card in Sunday's classic.
 
 
CURTINHAS: Álvaro trains well and is cleared to face Barueri
Ronaldo Angelim also returns to the team in São Paulo
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
 
If Andrade is willing, Flamengo will have its starting central defense in the match against Barueri on Wednesday, away from home. After missing the last two games due to a right knee injury, Álvaro trained separately with fitness coach Alexandre Sanz and is ready to return.

"He said he didn't feel any pain and is cleared to play. Everything is fine," said doctor Márcio Tannure.
 
 
Ronaldo Angelim, meanwhile, has served his suspension and is back in the squad. However, he wouldn't object if the coach preferred to keep Fabrício and Aírton in the midfield.

- No one is vain. The entire group is available for Andrade to put forward whatever he sees fit.

Excursion to Barueri
Fans willing to travel to Barueri to watch Wednesday's game have an additional option. There will be a tour departing from Gávea at 11 a.m. on the day of the game and returning after the final whistle. The organizer is the iconic fan, Moraes. He warns that alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the trip.
 
 
Bruno recalls Flamengo's bad run: 'They laughed in our faces when we talked about the top four'
The goalkeeper prefers that the favoritism be with others and likes to see Rubro-Negro running on the outside in the Brazilian Championship
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
 
Bruno jumps during Flamengo training
Ten rounds ago, Flamengo had accumulated three consecutive losses and was only six points clear of the relegation zone. The top four were visible through binoculars, and leader Palmeiras seemed to be competing for another championship. Seven wins and three draws later, the tide has turned, and those who always believed in the team are keen to remember the bad times.
Bruno is one of them. This Monday, the goalkeeper recalled the period of fierce criticism and gloomy predictions for the Red-Blacks in the competition.

"They laughed in our faces when we talked about the top four. Title, then... But we don't have to talk about that right now. We need to win the next game," said the goalkeeper.

Flamengo is still one point out of the group that qualifies for the Copa Libertadores. In fifth place, the team faces Barueri on Wednesday away from home. If they win for the first time, they'll move into the top four, as São Paulo (fourth) and Inter (third) face off at Morumbi Stadium.

"The goal is still to break into the top four. The championship is tight. We're three points behind the leaders. We have to chase other teams. But of course, there's motivation and anxiety. Flamengo is an outsider," Bruno stated.
 
 
Fernandinho has little chance of facing Flamengo
Injured, Barueri's standout player in the Brazilian Championship will likely be replaced by the experienced Basílio
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Barueri, SP
 
Fernandinho is unlikely to face Flamengo
Barueri is expected to have a significant absence for this Wednesday's match against a highly-informed Flamengo at Arena Barueri in São Paulo. A standout player for the team in the 2009 Brasileirão, striker Fernandinho is in serious danger of missing the match against the Rio de Janeiro team due to muscle discomfort in his right thigh. If Fernandinho is unable to play, the experienced Basílio will be given a chance in the São Paulo team's attack.

Coach Diego Cerri already knows he won't be able to count on defender André Luís, who is suspended after being sent off against Náutico. His replacement will be Paulão, who will make his club debut, forming a defense alongside Daniel Marques and Leandro Castan.

The likely Barueri team for the duel against Flamengo is: Renê; Paulão, Daniel Marques and Leandro Castan; Marcos Pimentel, Ralf, João Vítor, Thiago Humberto and Márcio Careca; Basilio and Val Baiano.
 
 
Flamengo asks for sacrifice in the final stretch and adopts concentration until Saturday
The group will sleep in hotels until the match against Santos, at Maracanã
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
 
Until next Saturday, Flamengo players will have to forgo their families to sleep alongside their teammates. The club's board of directors and coaching staff have decided to adopt a weekly training camp period starting this Monday.

The players will report to their hotel in Barra da Tijuca by 23:30 p.m. On Tuesday, the group will travel to São Paulo to face Barueri the following day. After returning to Rio on Thursday afternoon, the squad will be released and will return to training camp late that evening for the match against Santos at Maracanã.

- The moment demands this type of sacrifice – said vice-president of football Marcos Braz.

Unbeaten in ten games, Flamengo is in fifth place with 51 points, three behind leaders Palmeiras.
 
 
Without expanding on the matter, Flamengo releases Adriano from reappearance
The day after the victory over Botafogo, the starters do regenerative work. Pet undergoes treatment on his right thigh.
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
 
 
For the hero, extra time off. Adriano didn't rejoin the squad on Monday afternoon in Gávea. The club confirmed they had released him, though they didn't disclose the reason. The other starters went to the club for recovery work the day after the 1-0 victory over Botafogo (watch the Emperor's goal in the video below), while the reserves performed technical work on the pitch.
 
Vice-president of football Marcos Braz confirmed the consented absence, without elaborating on the matter.
 
- He was released.

Petkovic, who complained of pain in his right thigh, received treatment in the physical therapy room and did not need an MRI on site. He sent a message via Twitter.

- (I'm) undergoing treatment in search of a speedy recovery. See you later – said the player.
 
The Serbian would not play on Wednesday against Barueri because he is suspended for his third card and is working to return for Saturday's match against Santos.

Unbeaten in ten games, Flamengo is in fifth place in the Brazilian Championship, with 51 points.
 
 
Marcos Braz, on fundraising at Engenhão: 'The numbers were horrific'
Flamengo's vice president of football thinks the amount raised against Botafogo is unfair
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
 
With 25.192 paying spectators and R$656.242,00 raised, far less than expected for Botafogo vs. Flamengo, Flamengo's vice president of football, Marcos Braz, lamented the low attendance figures for the derby. The Engenhão stadium, which will host Rio's derbies in the coming years due to the renovation of the Maracanã, had several empty seats.

"The numbers were horrific. After taxes, I believe there wouldn't even be R$200 left for Flamengo. If it were held elsewhere, the numbers would be different. There was a seizure, as in other games. If it were held at Maracanã, the seizure would be lifted, as we would have been able to secure enough funds to cover the cost," the director said in an interview with "Rádio Brasil."

Flamengo's complaint stems from the current state of the championship. The game was expected to attract a large audience, as Flamengo is fighting for the title, and Botafogo is fighting to escape the relegation zone. However, the first-round match at Maracanã drew 29.508 paying spectators, and the total revenue ended up being lower than this Sunday's: R$499.403,00.
 
Regarding the next challenge, against Barueri, Marcos Braz reveals that the possibility of the game being played in the capital of São Paulo was considered:

"We considered playing at Pacaembu, but Barueri has several contracts for VIP boxes and even with the city government. The field there is also very good, and we understand the team's decision. It's important to play in the interior of São Paulo state to see our fans there."
 
 
Adriano closes 2009 efficiently in the role of hero of the Rio classics
The striker averages one goal per regional duel and helps Flamengo maintain its 11-game unbeaten streak against Rio rivals in the Brazilian Championship.
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
 
 
Botafogo and Fluminense couldn't resist Adriano's power. In the four derbies he's played since returning in May, the striker has scored four of Flamengo's five goals (an average of one per match) and helped the team maintain a long unbeaten streak in Rio de Janeiro matches in the Brazilian Championship.
 
The 11-game streak began in 2007. During the run that secured their place in the Libertadores, the Red-Blacks lost 2-0 to Flu. After that, seven wins and four draws secured valuable points in the standings.
 
The first derby of this Brazilian Championship was one to forget. Adriano did little, and the 0-0 draw with Fluminense kept Flamengo in mid-table. Against Botafogo at Maracanã, the Emperor scored, but it was Emerson who secured a 2-2 draw in second-half stoppage time.
 
In the second match against Tricolor, the number 10 strolled the field and scored both goals in a 2-0 victory. Against Botafogo last Sunday, he was less brilliant but still very effective. In the 32nd minute of the first half, he outplayed the black and white defense with strength and power, securing the three points (watch the action in the video above).
 
- I hope to further improve my physical condition to help Flamengo reach the top of the Brazilian Championship - said Adriano, the tournament's top scorer alongside Diego Tardelli, with 16 goals.
 
Unbeaten in ten games, the club's best streak in the Brazilian league, Flamengo sits in fifth place with 51 points (three behind leaders Palmeiras). The next round will be against Barueri, away from home.
 
Check out Flamengo's unbeaten run in Brazilian classics:

 2009 Brazilian Championship
Fluminense 0 x 0 Flamengo
Flamengo 2 x 2 Botafogo (Adriano and Emerson)
Flamengo 2 x 0 Fluminense (Adriano, 2)
Botafogo 0 x 1 Flamengo (Adriano)

2008 Brazilian Championship
Fluminense 0 x 1 Flamengo (Leo Moura)
Flamengo 3 x 1 Vasco (Ibson, Fabio Luciano and Cristian)
Flamengo 0 x 0 Botafogo
Flamengo 2 x 2 Fluminense (Marcelinho Paraíba and Kleberson)
Vasco da Gama 0 x 1 Flamengo (Jorge Luiz, own)
Botafogo 0 x 1 Flamengo (Kleberson)

2007 Brazilian Championship
Flamengo 2 x 1 Vasco (Ibson and Toró)
 
 
 
 
 
Inter, São Paulo and Flamengo have a chance to sleep in the lead on Wednesday
Teams can take advantage of the fact that Palmeiras and Galo play on Thursday
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
 
The battle for the Brasileirão title has heated up to such an extent that three teams could reach the top spot on Wednesday: Internacional, São Paulo, and Flamengo. All this because Palmeiras and Atlético-MG, the two leaders of the competition, don't play until the following day (watch the goals from the round below).

São Paulo and Inter, both with 52 points, face each other at 21:50 p.m. in the city of São Paulo. The winner will reach 55 points, leaving Verdão (54) and Galo (53) behind.

Flamengo (51) will have a harder time reaching the top. Besides beating Barueri away from home, they need to hope for a draw between São Paulo and Inter and also take a three-goal lead from Palmeiras.

On Thursday, Alviverde plays at home against Goiás, while Atlético-MG visits Fluminense in Rio de Janeiro.
 
 
Pet will undergo an examination this Monday to determine if he has an injury to his right thigh.
Sérvio and Andrade believe it shouldn't be anything serious and that he can face Santos next Saturday.
Rodrigo Benchimol Rio de Janeiro
 
Petkovic received his third yellow card and is out of the match against Barueri on Wednesday (watch the highlights in the video below). But that's not the biggest headache for Flamengo's coaching staff, as it was already expected that he would be rested for this match. It's the pain the Serbian felt in his right thigh during the derby against Botafogo that's causing concern.

It was because of these injuries that he ended up being replaced by Gil in the second half of the game. Pet will be reevaluated this Monday and will undergo an imaging test to determine if there is any type of injury in the area.

"He's been feeling this pain since the first half. But I don't think it's serious. It's a good thing he got the third yellow card, as he would have been rested for the game against Barueri because he couldn't handle the demanding pace of playing twice a week," Andrade said.

Petkovic also downplayed the problem. After all, he has a whole week to undergo treatment.

"Only on Monday will we have a better understanding of what happened. I think we'll be able to play (against Santos)," said the Serbian.
 


THROW
 
Fla should have a starting defensive duo on Wednesday
Álvaro and Ronaldo Angelim return to the team against Barueri

LANCEPRESS!
Defender Ronaldo Angelim, who will return to the Flamengo squad against Barueri, appears unconcerned about the strong performance of young Fabrício, who played well in his place against Botafogo. Angelim revealed one of the team's biggest secrets this year.
"We're not vain. It'll be great to have everyone at Andrade's disposal. Our group is united and knows what it wants. We know the next six games will be very important. However, we're more focused on the Barueri match," said Angelim.
Another player expected to return to the team is defender Álvaro, who returned to training on Saturday, but the club's doctors decided it was best to leave him out of the match against Botafogo.
"I believe he has a good chance of playing in the game and facing Barueri. If he no longer feels any discomfort at the venue, he'll travel to São Paulo with the rest of the group. In principle, he shouldn't be a problem," explained Márcio Tanure.
 
 
Flamengo reaches ten matches without defeat
The team surpasses Joel Santana's streak. With a 100% record at the stadium, Engenhão becomes a lucky charm.

Adriano scored the winning goal for the red-black team (LANCEPRESS!
The victory over Botafogo at Engenhão marked several milestones for Flamengo. In addition to reaching their tenth unbeaten game—an unprecedented feat in the points-based era and surpassing the streak led by Joel Santana in 2005—the Rubro-Negro maintained their 100% record at the stadium, now with four matches played.
Adriano, who scored the winning goal for Flamengo, commented on the importance of the team's grit. According to the Emperor, despite the three points, Flamengo has seen a drop in performance in recent games.
"This victory means a lot, for me too, of course, but I'm thinking about Flamengo. And we have to try to improve, because we've slipped in recent rounds," said Adriano, who tied Diego Tardelli for the top scorer's tally with 16 goals.
One of the highlights of the match, Zé ​​Roberto complained about Flamengo's performance in the second half and congratulated goalkeeper Bruno.
"We could have scored more goals early on. Then we fell back and got into trouble. Bruno saved us. The victory could have been easier," analyzed the former Botafogo player.
 
 
Flamengo receives nothing from the income from the classic
Part of the revenue that went to the club was seized.

Marcos Braz recalled that if the classic was at Maracanã, the income would be better (LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's vice president of football, Marcos Braz, expressed disappointment with the revenue from the match between Botafogo and Flamengo. The derby had a paying crowd of 25.192, totaling R$656.242,00. According to the match's ticket, due to the liens, Flamengo received none of the revenue.
"The numbers were horrific. Revenue was 600. And after deducting all expenses, there was about 200 left. But we would have had different perspectives if this game had been held elsewhere. There was a seizure, as has been the case with other matches. But if we had held this game at Maracanã, this seizure wouldn't have been significant," Braz told Rádio Brasil.
Of the R$210.731,00 (50% of the income) that was rightfully owed to it, the club suffered three seizures. The largest of these reached R$158.000,00.
 
 
Flamengo's stance in the final stage does not please Andrade
The red-black coach believes the team took an unnecessary risk.

Andrade complained about the refereeing of Índio (LANCEPRESS!
Despite another win and a ten-game unbeaten streak in the Brazilian Championship, coach Andrade assessed that the team didn't perform as he had hoped. For the red-and-black manager, the game was more about the three points than the team's performance.
"In this game, we weren't able to replicate our performances from the previous ones. We made a poor decision in the second half and took unnecessary risks, but we managed to contain Botafogo's momentum and withstood the pressure well," the coach analyzed.
Another point that displeased the coach was referee Luiz Antônio da Silva Santos's involvement. Andrade complained about the penalty awarded against André Lima.
"The referees are seeing penalties that only they see. I can't see them. Unfortunately, this is happening to us," he criticized.
 
 
Classics bring giants closer to the fight for the Brasileirão title
The gap between leaders Palmeiras and sixth-place Cruzeiro is just six points. In the fight against relegation, Coritiba moves away from the relegation zone.

Palmeiras, Atlético, Inter, São Paulo and Flamengo: together in the fight for the cup (Photo: Lancepress!)

Bernardo Gleizer RIO DE JANEIRO



 
This weekend's round of classics brought three giants closer to the fight for the Brazilian Championship title. This is all, it's worth noting, also because of Palmeiras' 2-0 loss to Santo André on Wednesday – the league leader has gone four games without a win and three without scoring.

Check your team's chances in the Brasileirão!
On Saturday, however, Atlético Mineiro beat Vitória 1-0 at Mineirão Stadium – a goal by Diego Tardelli, who also missed a penalty – and is the team most threatening the Greens' lead. With the victory, Atlético Mineiro now has 53 points – one behind the leader. On Thursday, they face bottom-placed Fluminense at Maracanã.

Check out the standings and see the next games
On Sunday, the classics contributed to making the Brasileirão even more exciting. Internacional, which many considered out of the title race, defeated Grêmio at Beira-Rio in front of 36 fans and moved into third place with 52 points.

Watch the goals of the round!
At Vila Belmiro, 9 people watched the resurrection of "Jason" São Paulo, who defeated Santos 4-3 in a thrilling derby—featuring a winning goal from Rogério Ceni, who hadn't scored in over a year and was sent off ten minutes later. Tricolor is in fourth place, one win behind Inter. And on Wednesday, São Paulo vs. Internacional plays at Morumbi Stadium!

Who will be the Brazilian champion? Take the poll!
In the first Botafogo-Flamengo derby at the Engenhão stadium—which was full of chaos and fighting, especially on the red-and-black side—the red-and-black team's efficiency was evident. Adriano scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory, which confirmed Flamengo's rise and left the team from Gávea just three points behind Palmeiras.