THE GLOBE

Fla faces the challenges of the present, exalts the past and plans for the future

The club, which plays against Figueirense today, plans a museum in Gávea.

Carlos Eduardo Mansur

The red-and-black team's current fortunes are focused on today's match at 18:20 PM at the Maracanã against Figueirense, which could put Flamengo in first place in the Brazilian Championship. Off the field, the club is preparing to celebrate its past and make ambitious plans for the future. In Gávea, more than 5 trophies and historical pieces are being prepared to be part of the museum the club plans to open within a year at its headquarters.

The museum is part of the contract between Flamengo and Olympikus and will occupy 2.270m². The company's investment will be an advance on the contract's installments. However, the aim is to attract partners through the Rouanet Law. The cost is approximately R$8 million.

The project promises interactivity and technology in areas such as a timeline that will tell the club's history, tributes to idols, and fans. Facing Lagoa, a panel will display messages. Sometimes, based on the club's fan base and Brazil's population growth rate, a fan counter will appear. The club is working with City Hall to include it on Rio's tourist itinerary. Currently, without attractions, Gávea already receives 3 visitors per month.

The agreement with Olympikus will be used to strengthen the club in other negotiations, one of which is the upcoming contract with Petrobras.

"Olympikus has 5 points of sale throughout Brazil. The Petrobras brand will be more exposed. They'll have to pay more," says president Márcio Braga.

Maxi returns to the starting lineup against Figueirense

Under the contract with Olympikus, Flamengo receives a fixed annual R$13 million, plus R$300 for its official website. It receives R$7,3 million for uniforms. Revenue is estimated at R$8,4 million from the official stores that Olympikus will open and R$2,5 million from the museum.

Without Renato Augusto and Cristian, who are injured, and Diego Tardelli, who is suspended, Caio Júnior will start Maxi today.

"The time I spent unused is in the past. When you don't play, you even think about leaving," said Maxi.

Flamengo: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fabio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Toro, Ibson, Jonathan and Marcinho; Maxi and Souza. Figueirense: Wilson, Bruno Aguiar, Vinicius and Asprilla; Leo Matos, Magal, Diogo, Cleiton Xavier and Marquinho; Rodrigo Fabri and Wellington Amorim. Referee: Leandro Vuaden (RS)

BROADCAST: Premiere and Rádio Globo

Sports Panorama

Word from Marcio

Márcio Braga called us yesterday about last Saturday's note, in which we detailed the draft of his controversial proposal for a new Flamengo statute. The president assured us that he will not run for a third consecutive term, nor for the presidency of Flamengo, nor for the Flamengo New Generations project. He said he will leave office in December 2009.

SPORTS JOURNAL

The Sheriff's Last Chance

Fábio Luciano knows that 2008 could be his last chance to be Brazilian champion

Eduardo Lacombe, Bernardo Peirão and Nathan de Lima

Fábio Luciano wants to do the lap of honor with the 2008 Brazilian champion's trophy

With an enviable resume, Sheriff Fábio Luciano, in addition to winning important titles such as the FIFA World Cup in 2000 and the Copa do Brasil in 2002, both with Corinthians, also won the trust and affection of everyone at Flamengo during his time at the club, which began in 2007. However, to enter the hearts of the Red-Black Nation once and for all, he intends to make an unprecedented gesture in his career: to do a lap of honor with the Brazilian champion trophy in his hand.

With a contract that runs until the end of 2009, but can be renewed whenever he wants, the player knows, and has already stated, that his days as a professional soccer player are coming to an end. Therefore, this Brazilian Championship may be his last chance to lift the trophy, which has long held a reserved place in his living room.

"Actually, my contract lasts as long as I want. As long as I'm healthy and our team is winning, I'll be happy as can be," the player joked, before adding: "I've never won a Brazilian Championship, and this could be my last chance," he said.

To win this coveted title, the Flamengo captain knows that every game is important, regardless of the venue or the opponent. That's why, yesterday, at the end of training, he explained the importance of tomorrow's match against Figueirense and warned not to underestimate the team from Santa Catarina.

"Figueirense isn't as weak as people say. They have experienced and seasoned players like Rodrigo Fabri, Cleiton Xavier, and Cesar Prates. This kind of team does a different kind of work and ends up bothering everyone. We can't get complacent. Since we're not playing midweek games, it's normal for our adrenaline to drop a bit. But we have to always be alert," warned Fábio Luciano.

If Flamengo does its homework and beats Figueirense at Maracanã, it will go to bed as the leader of the Brazilian Championship and will only lose its position if Cruzeiro beats Vasco on Sunday at Mineirão.

Motivated, Maxi faces Figueirense at Maracanã

Argentine striker Maxi, scheduled to face Figueirense this Saturday at Maracanã, revealed that, some time ago, he thought about leaving Flamengo, as he was not being used by coach Joel Santana.

"This opportunity is very important to me. I used to come here, just train and never play. I was losing motivation. I thought about leaving Flamengo, but I didn't want to leave without playing, without doing something good," said Maxi.

Lineup\ The starting 11 for the match against the Santa Catarina team will be: Bruno, Léo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Toró, Jônatas, Ibson, and Marcinho; Maxi and Souza. Caio Júnior preaches respect for Figueirense\

Dhavid Normando

Flamengo faces Figueirense next Saturday, aiming for its fourth victory in the Brazilian Championship. The game is at Maracanã, and therefore, everyone at Gávea is focused solely on victory. Coach Caio Júnior is confident, but reminds everyone that Figueira deserves respect.

"Figueirense isn't the same team as last year, but they're still dangerous. We have to always respect them," said Caio Júnior.

Vote of confidence

Caio Júnior showed that as long as Ibson is at Gávea, he'll be a starter. The coach was full of praise for the Flamengo midfielder and made it clear that not even the player's poor form will be enough to take his place in the lineup.

"I think Ibson deserves credit; he's important and is training very well. I'll use him as long as I have the opportunity. I'll motivate him a lot so that if he has to leave Flamengo, he leaves the best image possible," said Caio.

The situation of Ibson, who belongs to Porto de Portugal, remains undefined and the midfielder may be close to leaving Gávea. Fla wins in the debut of the Troféu Brasil

The team plays well enough to beat Pinheiros 9-5 in the first match

Eduardo Vieira

Nina Lima/JS

Flamengo player prepares to throw in the team's victory over Pinheiros

It wasn't a dream debut, but Flamengo achieved the most important thing: a 9-5 victory over Pinheiros in the opening match of the Brazilian Water Polo SuperTrophy yesterday at the Júlio Delamare pool. The standout performer was forward Illana Pinheiro, with four goals. Also scoring for the Flamengo were: Marina Canetti (two), Cecília Canetti (one), Carol Mello (one), and Manuela Garcia (one). Gabi Leme (two), Daniella (one), Isabella (one), and Mayla (one) scored for Paineiras. Their next opponent will be Pinheiros tomorrow at 9 a.m. at the same venue. Today at 16 p.m., Paineiras and Pinheiros face off.

Flamengo came out determined to finish the match and had some extra help: Paineiras goalkeeper Sabine Beller was late and was replaced for two quarters by the makeshift Isabella Ungaretti. The red-and-blacks took advantage and managed to take a 5-1 lead. However, the performance didn't please coach Antônio Canetti, who constantly asked the team for more energy. Argentina's Julieta Kruguer moved well and created good opportunities for her teammates.

In the third quarter, however, Flamengo slowed down and struggled. Gabi Leme from São Paulo scored twice, bringing Paineiras closer to 5-4. Then, the duo of Illana Pinheiro and Marina Canetti came into their own, and with a goal each, Flamengo staved off the opposition's threat. In the end, the coach took advantage of the situation to give his substitutes opportunities, and the score was controlled until a 9-5 victory.

Coach Antônio Canetti was harsh with the girls: "It wasn't a good performance. We lacked a bit of determination, a bit of will. That can't happen. It was really bad." Illana Pinheiro acknowledged that the team thought the match would be easy. "We relaxed a bit, and that made the game a bit more complicated. But what mattered was the win. We'll have to have a different approach against Pinheiros, who are a very experienced team."

The championship final will be next Sunday at 11:20 am.

THE DAY

Maxi celebrates his chance in the starting lineup

Rio - Argentine Maxi will once again start for Flamengo's attack in Saturday's match against Figueirense at Maracanã. The striker admitted he had a difficult time at Gávea but hopes to shine again for Flamengo.

"When I wasn't playing, I thought about leaving, but I didn't want to leave Flamengo without first making a mark here. The responsibility of playing for Flamengo is always great, Caio is supporting me and I have to think about that when I step onto the field."

The number 17 said that Caio Júnior's arrival gave him a lot of motivation.

"When a player isn't being used, it's normal to lose motivation. Caio's arrival was good for me and the other players. I hope to live up to this opportunity I'm getting."

Maxi promises to fight hard to win the Brazilian Championship title.

"I want to be Brazilian champion with Flamengo. It's something priceless and I'll fight hard to help my teammates and the coach achieve that."

Caio Jr confirms team for tomorrow

Rio - Coach Caio Júnior has confirmed the lineup that will face Figueirense at 18:20 p.m. on Saturday at the Maracanã stadium. The team, which will feature Ibson and Maxi, is fighting for its fourth victory in the Brazilian Championship.

"Figueirense is a different team than last year, it's still in formation, it signed players this week, but it has a good history at Maracanã and we must always respect that," commented Caio Júnior, in an interview with Rádio Globo.

Regarding the return of Ibson, who did not play against Fluminense last Sunday due to injury, the coach believes he could be the starter based on what he has already shown at Gávea and also commented on the player's possible departure.

"He deserves it, he's having a great year. He played very well last year. He's an important player for Flamengo. I'll use him until the last opportunity, and if he has to leave, let him leave in the best possible way," analyzed the coach.

Caio spoke about five-time champion Kleberson, who hasn't yet performed as expected of him at the club, but has the coach's full support.

"Kleberson is a player I know from Atlético's youth academy in Paraná. I'll do everything I can to help him and give him confidence," he concluded.

Flamengo will take to the field with the following formation: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Toró, Jonatas, Ibson and Marcinho; Maxi and Souza.

Paraguayan Gavilan, who left the club last week, has signed with Portuguesa and will remain with the São Paulo team until the end of the year.

Caio Júnior wants a team with regularity in the Brazilian Championship

Rio - After recreational training this morning in Gávea, coach Caio Júnior praised the Flamengo team's results in this Brazilian Championship. The Flamengo coach, in an enthusiastic tone, emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency in such a long competition.

"The results so far have been excellent. But the championship is long and consistency is essential. In July, there will be 10 consecutive games on Wednesday and Sunday. It will be exhausting for all teams and that's why we need to be ready to get good results that will help us in the future."

Caio Júnior praised the quality of the red-and-black squad. According to the coach, the team has great replacements to fill the absences of Tardelli, Renato Augusto, and Cristian.

"The good thing about having a squad like ours, especially in the midfield. I lost three players at once, but there are replacements to build the team without losing quality. Whoever comes in will show their worth."

Flamengo's manager admitted that the biggest challenge at the moment is finding a key midfielder. Maxi, who is in the starting lineup for Saturday's game, is being mentioned by the coach.

"The biggest challenge so far is coordination. I haven't found that man yet and I'm looking for him. It would be Renato Augusto, but he won't be able to play. Maxi was a little unmotivated, he was crucial in the last game and will be again now. He's a strength of ours that is emerging."

Caio Júnior urged caution for the match against Figueirense. The Flamengo coach recalled the Santa Catarina team's history of strong results at Maracanã.

"Figueirense is a team still developing, but it is always dangerous and has a history of playing well at Maracanã. That's why we must always respect them."

The coach took advantage of the press conference to say he will give Kleberson all the support he can. Caio highlighted the quality of the number 15's football.

"I spoke with Kleberson, whom I've known since the youth teams at Atlético-PR. He's someone I respect a lot, especially as a person, because he's an excellent character, and I told him to stay calm. I'll do everything I can to help him regain confidence and return to playing great football."

SPORTS GAZETTE

Flamengo, behind in the lead, hosts Figueirense\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In the third of four consecutive matches scheduled for the Brazilian Championship at Maracanã, Flamengo hosts Figueirense this Saturday at 18:20 pm (Brasília time) for the fifth round. With ten points so far, the Rubro-Negro can temporarily secure the lead, as Cruzeiro - also with ten points - will only play on Sunday to face Vasco. While the Rio de Janeiro team is fighting for the top spot, the Santa Catarina team has five points and is in 11th place. Undefeated so far in charge of Flamengo, coach Caio Júnior hopes his team can once again take advantage of playing at Maracanã, where they have already beaten Santos, Grêmio, and Fluminense in this Brazilian Championship.

"Flamengo thrives when it plays at home and with the support of its fans. We know it won't be an easy game, but we need to show the same determination we've shown to get another victory. It's crucial to pick up points early in a competition as tough as the Brazilian Championship," the coach emphasized.

One of Flamengo's key players, right-back Leonardo Moura admits his respect for his opponent, but guarantees his total commitment to seeking another positive result at Maracanã.

"The goal is to win all our matches at home. Of course, we'll respect Figueirense, but at Maracanã, Flamengo has to win. In the fans' minds, Figueirense may be a weak team, lacking tradition, but we respect all our opponents. They've had good Brazilian Championships, and when you don't pay enough attention to an opponent, you lose the match," the Flamengo winger emphasized.

Midfielder Ibson, who has missed Flamengo's last two Brazilian Championship matches, is back after recovering from a physical problem. He assures he won't feel the lack of rhythm this Saturday.

"I worked a lot on my fitness last week. This week I've been training normally with the ball and I'm feeling good. I really want to help Flamengo," said the Flamengo midfielder, who could leave the club at the end of the month if Flamengo doesn't resolve his situation with Porto.

Striker Diego Tardelli was sent off against Fluminense and will have to serve a suspension. He will be out for Flamengo, as will midfielder Cristian and midfielder Renato Augusto, both ruled out by the Flamengo medical department.

Figueirense, meanwhile, arrives in Rio de Janeiro without the experienced César Prates, who was injured and not cleared to play. On the other hand, right-back Léo Mattos has recovered from an injury suffered in the last match and will be on the field.

One of the most experienced members of the Figueira group, midfielder Rodrigo Fabri admits the difficulties that the Santa Catarina team will face, but guarantees a team willing to go after victory.

"We know that Flamengo is a dangerous opponent, playing at home, where they have achieved good results, but we are aware and have a quality squad that will do everything to get a positive result," said the midfielder.

Caio Júnior praises Ibson, who should return to the starting lineup\ Gazeta Press\

Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After Friday's recreational training session, coach Caio Júnior confirmed that midfielder Ibson will return to Flamengo's starting lineup for the match against Figueirense this Saturday at Maracanã. Loaned by Porto until the end of this month, Ibson may be playing his final matches for Flamengo. While the player's future is yet to be determined, the coach assures he won't let go of him. "Of course I'd like to have Ibson for longer, but I can't interfere with that. I'll use him until the last opportunity. If he has to leave, I hope he finishes well, I hope he leaves with the best image possible," Caio emphasized.

But while Ibson returns to the team after recovering from a muscle injury, midfielder Kléberson will have to wait a little longer before reclaiming his place in the starting lineup. This Friday, the player spoke with Caio Júnior after training.

"One of the things I discussed with him is that I have a lot of respect for him. I told him to stay calm, because I'm going to help him get back to his best form," said the red-and-black coach.

PELENET

Maxi Biancucchi admits to being motivated with Caio Júnior at Fla

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

With Joel Santana, chances were few. However, once Caio Júnior arrived at Flamengo, Maxi Biancucchi began to gain more attention at Gávea. Proof of this is the Argentine's presence in the starting lineup against Figueirense on Saturday at Maracanã, at 18:20 pm, in the fifth round of the Brazilian Championship.

Argentine Maxi Biancucchi (left) will start for Flamengo against Figueirense

After a good start to the season with Flamengo, Maxi began to lack regularity and, as a result, fell into oblivion for then-coach Joel Santana.

"When a player isn't being used, it's hard to stay motivated. But Caio's arrival was very good for me and the others who were on the sidelines," said the Argentine, projecting what the attacking duo with Souza will be like.

"We have different characteristics, and that can help. While I play on the outside, Souza plays more centrally. I believe we can have a great rapport, especially since we've already played together," he concluded.

Caio Júnior supports Kléberson, who is going through a difficult phase at Flamengo

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Midfielder Kléberson has not yet been able to show his football skills in a Flamengo shirt.

Kléberson isn't doing well for Flamengo. Concerned about the player's situation, coach Caio Júnior said he will give the midfielder his full support. The first conversation took place this Friday in Gávea.

"We had a chat. I know Kléberson well, from the youth ranks at Atlético-PR. He's someone I respect a lot, especially as a person. I told him to stay calm. I'll do everything I can to help him regain confidence and play great football again," said Caio Júnior.

Kléberson arrived at Flamengo in late 2007. However, as he was suspended by FIFA, the midfielder was only able to make his debut this year. To date, the player has played 23 matches and scored only one goal.

In this Brazilian Championship, Kléberson started against Santos and Grêmio. However, in both matches, he ended up being replaced by Cristian and Renato Augusto, respectively. Against Internacional and Fluminense, the midfielder was not used by Caio Júnior.

For the clash with Figueirense, this Saturday, Flamengo should be lined up with: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jônatas, Toró, Ibson and Marcinho; Maxi Biancucchi and Souza.

Caio Júnior highlights the importance of consistency in the Brazilian Championship

From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\

Flamengo's start to the Brazilian Championship is encouraging. With ten points and second place (behind Cruzeiro on goal difference), the Rubro-Negro won three matches (Santos, Internacional, and Fluminense) and drew one (Grêmio). However, aware of the long competition, coach Caio Júnior urged his team to maintain consistency.

Aware that the Brasileirão is long, coach Caio Júnior asked Fla for consistency

"The results so far have been excellent, but the championship is long and consistency is essential. In July, we'll have back-to-back games on Wednesday and Sunday. It will be exhausting for all teams," he said.

To remain among the top teams in the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo must defeat Figueirense this Saturday at 18:20 PM at Maracanã Stadium in the fifth round of the competition. Regarding his opponent, the Flamengo coach asked for a lot of respect.

"Figueirense is a team still developing, but it's always dangerous and has a history of playing well at Maracanã. That's why we always have to respect them," he emphasized.

Against Figueirense, Flamengo will be without midfielder Cristian, who is injured, and forward Diego Tardelli, who is suspended. Ibson and Maxi Biancucchi are the substitutes, respectively.

In this way, Rubro-Negro enters the field with the following formation: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jônatas, Toró, Ibson and Marcinho; Maxi Biancucchi and Souza.

Fla leads preference in PPV

EDITORIAL STAFF\ From the Sports Machine, in São Paulo\

Flamengo is the most popular club among pay-per-view subscribers of the Brazilian Football Championship Series A and B.

The result is the fruit of a survey conducted by Premiére Futebol Clube (PFC). In the survey, Rio fans came out ahead of the rest, with 15% of the signatures made this year.

In second place were Corinthians and Fluminense, with 12% of subscribers. São Paulo, with 8%, and Grêmio and Internacional (both with 7%) were others that achieved significant results among viewers.

In addition to fan preferences, the study mapped, for the first time, the profile of package subscribers. According to the survey, the preference is male. Of PPV subscribers, 95% are men. The average age is 33.

With this survey, Globosat, which holds the PPV marketing rights, partially pleases the clubs, who have always asked for sales to be made divided by clubs, and not for the entire championship.

The survey of preferred fan bases allows, for the first time, mapping the clubs that lead in package sales. However, this could create a crisis in the discussion about the distribution of PPV revenue. For this season, PFC is expected to break sales records, with 550 subscription sales for Série A and 125 for Série B, increasing revenue for Globosat and the clubs.

GLOBOESPORTE

With an eye on the lead, the undefeated Fla welcomes Figueirense to Maracanã

Rubro-Negro struggles to overcome the Santa Catarina team and still hopes to lose to leader Cruzeiro; Figueira hopes to surprise

Maxi Flamengo training

Second in the Brazilian Championship with ten points from four games (losing to Cruzeiro on goal difference), Flamengo hosts Figueirense this Saturday at 18:20 pm at Maracanã. Flamengo's goal is to win and hope for a stumble against Vasco on Sunday to secure a lead. Figueira, in 11th place with five points, is fighting to surprise and close in on the top spot. The main attractions for Flamengo are the returns of Maxi and Ibson (after injury) to the starting lineup.

On the Santa Catarina team, some players know Flamengo well. Wilson and Leo Matos were born and raised at Gávea, and Rodrigo Fabri has already formed a strike partnership with Romário for Flamengo. In the history of the teams' head-to-head record, Figueira has the advantage. In 12 matches, they have six wins, three draws, and three losses.

Flamengo will have Maxi and Ibson among the starters. Caio Júnior warns of the danger of facing Figueira, who often causes trouble at the Maracanã Stadium. At Flamengo, coach Caio Júnior is having trouble selecting the team. Renato Augusto, with left thigh pain, Cristian, with a sprained left ankle, and Diego Tardelli, suspended, are out of the match. The good news is Ibson's return to the starting lineup after two games away. Argentine forward Maxi, who will partner with Souza, is getting a chance in the starting eleven. The coach is warning the players, knowing the team won't have an easy time against the Santa Catarina team.

"The Figueirense team is still developing, they signed a player this week, but they're always a dangerous team and have a history of playing well at Maracanã. Therefore, we must always respect them. Our results so far have been excellent. Soon we'll start playing games on Wednesdays and Sundays back to back, which will be tough for everyone. We have to prepare well and earn points early on," he warns.

Toró, who will once again play as a defensive midfielder, emphasizes the importance of the team doing its homework. He believes it's not time to overwhelm opponents yet, as the competition is still very early. On Sunday, for example, Cruzeiro, which is battling Flamengo for the lead, hosts Vasco at Mineirão.

"Regardless of the other games, we have to think about winning, doing our part. Let's put this dry spell aside, especially since the championship is just beginning," he says.

Macuglia changes formation to face Flamengo\ At Figueira, concerned about the number of goals conceded in the last two games (five in total), coach Guilherme Macuglia, who, upon taking over, complained a lot about the squad's fitness, is changing the team's formation. Against Flamengo, the team will play with three defenders.\

César Prates, who missed the goalless draw with Goiás, is out again with a calf injury. This Friday, before the trip to Rio de Janeiro, midfielder Élton felt a twinge in his thigh during recreational training, and the coaching staff decided to rest him.

Defender Bruno Aguiar, signed from Mirassol, arrived at the club on Monday, trained normally during the week and secured a place in the starting lineup.

Fla cleans up foreigners

Six foreigners used to play at the club. Now, only two remain: Maxi and Hugo.

Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Maxi is the only foreigner in the main team

Two Argentines, two Paraguayans, one Colombian, and one Uruguayan. Flamengo experienced an influx of foreign players into its football department earlier this year. But now the situation has changed. Four of these players are no longer with the club.

The "cleansing" began in the youth ranks. Paraguayan Igor failed the adaptation period and was released. Shortly after, Colombian Santiago Tréllez left the club.

- He didn't adapt and we understood that it wasn't worth keeping him - explains the coordinator of the youth divisions, Rivelino Serpa.

The only remaining player is Uruguayan Hugo. However, he doesn't have much prestige. He recently went on a European tour with the junior C team.

In the professional ranks, foreigners had few opportunities. "Hermano" Colace and Guarani Gavilán left after less than half a dozen games for Flamengo. Lionel Messi's cousin, Maxi, was forgotten, but he regained prestige under Caio Júnior and is expected to start next Saturday's match against Figueirense.

- He's an old winger, who I really like - says the red-black coach.

Related, Éder has a chance to come on during the game against Figueira

Caio Júnior praises the player and another striker, Maxi, who will start this Saturday at Maracanã

Fred Huber From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Éder competes for the ball with Leo Moura during Flamengo's training session. The striker is on the bench this Saturday.

Flamengo's 21-year-old striker Éder, signed by Flamengo at the beginning of the year, was one of the club's management's big bets for the season, but he didn't get a chance under coach Joel Santana. After Caio Júnior's arrival, the player's contract was renewed, and this Saturday, against Figueirense, he will be included in the squad and has a chance to start during the game. Previously, he only came on in the final minutes of the match against Vasco in the Carioca Championship.

"Éder has potential, he'll be on the bench with Obina. Who knows, maybe he'll get a chance during the match?" says the coach.

Another player who was overlooked at Gávea and who will get a chance is Argentine Maxi, but as a starter. Caio Júnior is betting that the speedy striker could be a valuable asset for Flamengo.

"Maxi will be a new force on the team. He was a little unmotivated, but now he'll have his chance as a starter. He's a fast, sharp player, and we need that at Maracanã," he says.

Recently signed defender Dininho is not yet physically fit enough to be included in the squad.

Starting against Figueira, Maxi vents: 'I thought about leaving Flamengo'

The striker, who had few chances with Joel Santana, celebrates the arrival of Caio Júnior and the possibility of starting a match again

Fred Huber From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Maxi will form an attacking duo with Souza in the match against Figueirense, on Saturday, at Maracanã

Striker Maxi was confirmed by coach Caio Júnior in Flamengo's starting lineup for Saturday's match against Figueirense at Maracanã. The Argentine, who had a strong start in the derby against Fluminense, gets the chance after Diego Tardelli was suspended after being sent off in the last match. In a heartfelt tone, the player celebrated the opportunity and recalled his ostracized days at Gávea, when he lacked opportunities and even considered leaving the club.

"This opportunity is very important to me. When a player isn't playing, it's hard to find motivation. I'd come to the club to train and not play, or go to the bench and not play. I thought about leaving Flamengo, but I didn't want to leave without playing, without doing something good. After I got injured, I didn't come back the same. When I started here, I didn't have a preseason, but now it's a different story. I always had the expectation that something would change for me," he celebrates.

Even though he's not at his ideal playing pace, the Argentine hopes to be on the pitch the entire time.

- I think I can last the 90 minutes - he says.

Fla's great start to the Brasileirão championship excites Maxi, who dreams of being national champion wearing the red and black shirt.

"The responsibility of playing for Flamengo is huge. The Brazilian Championship is a very tough competition, but winning the title would be incredibly important," he says.

Numbers make Caio Júnior effective Toró as first midfielder

The player guarantees that he sees no problem in playing further back: 'What I have to do is grab the chance, the important thing is to play'

Fred Huber From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Flamengo's 'tick', midfielder Toró is the leader in disarms in the Brasileirão until the fourth round

Toró's performance as a defensive midfielder in Flamengo's opening games in the Brazilian Championship caught the attention of coach Caio Júnior. He's the competition's standout player in terms of ball steals, with 22 in four matches. The Flamengo manager believes he's found the player's true position.

"Toró has made 22 tackles in recent matches, the most in the league. I think it was good that he started his career as a midfielder, but the numbers show that his signature skill is scoring," he says.

Toró, who has played in every position in Flamengo's midfield, assures that he doesn't have a preference for a position. According to him, the important thing is to always be a starter, helping the team.

"Always wearing the Flamengo jersey is good, regardless of the position. I'm young, I have a long way to go, and wherever the coach asks me to play, I'll go. Joel was already putting me in a more defensive position, but this is the first time I've played as a defensive midfielder. What I have to do is seize the opportunity; the important thing is to play," he says.

From Flamengo to the national team, wear and tear is left aside

Focused on the South American tournament with Brazil, Paulo Chupeta, Duda, Hélio and Coloneze are not thinking about resting days after their unprecedented title

Matias Zibecchi From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Hélio is one of the red-blacks called up for the Brazilian national team

On Tuesday, June 3rd, Flamengo won its first national title in men's basketball history. Two days later, four souls who were present at the Acesb gymnasium in Brasília will train with the Brazilian national team. Coach Paulo Chupeta, point guard Hélio, forward Duda, and center Coloneze are the protagonists of this rush to triumph in four colors: for the red and black, the mission was accomplished; now it's time for the green and yellow.

On Thursday, the players underwent medical exams and only left the training camp to attend the red-and-black title celebration at a restaurant in Leblon. This Friday, starting at 18 p.m., they will have their first ball practice for the Brazilian team at the Gávea gymnasium.

"If I have to go ten years without vacation, I will. I want to take advantage of this opportunity I've been given to experience this special moment of playing for the national team," says Hélio, who is making his senior national team debut.

Duda was South American champion in 2006 in Venezuela, and now he hopes to repeat the feat, putting an end to fatigue:

"I'm feeling tired, but it's definitely for a good reason. I don't know if I'll make the top 12, but I'm very proud to be part of the team."

The red-and-black team celebrates its unprecedented national title

Coach Paulo Chupeta, who will lead the Brazilian national team in the South American Championship, has no doubts in considering Flamengo as the springboard in his career.

"My arrival on the national team was a result of Patrícia Amorim's project. And that's thanks to the Flamengo jersey, the biggest showcase in the world. Thank God I'm part of the Flamengo family," the coach exclaims.

The news of Chupeta joining the national team makes Flamengo's director of Olympic sports, who is one of the main creators of the national champion team, feel fulfilled.

"The biggest answer to all this was Chupeta joining the national team. You can have a good team, but the coach has to deliver. He's a homegrown talent, having been with the club for seven years, and was an assistant to Miguel Ângelo da Luz and Cláudio Mortari before taking over as coach," says Patrícia Amorim.

Center Coloneze doesn't believe the red-and-black players will be privileged by having the same coach on the national team:

- On the one hand, it's a benefit because we already know him, but on the other hand, we're going to have to work harder than ever precisely because he already knows us.

Absences of Renato Augusto, Tardelli and Cristian do not worry the coach

Flamengo coach analyzes the situation of midfielders Ibson and Kleberson

Fred Huber From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Full of morale with the coach, Ibson returns to the starting lineup after two games away

Flamengo will be without three key players this Saturday at 18:20 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium against Figueirense. Coach Caio Júnior will be without Renato Augusto, Diego Tardelli, and Cristian, but he isn't particularly concerned about the situation. He believes the quality of Flamengo's squad allows him to rest easy, without any major worries.

"The good thing about having such a qualified squad is that I don't worry so much about absences. It's a chance for the players who are out to show their worth," he says.

Caio Júnior doesn't just have problems with starting the team. He'll have the return of midfielder Ibson, who had sat out Flamengo's last two matches. The coach says the player deserves to return to the starting lineup and doesn't believe he's unmotivated due to his upcoming contract expiration.

"Ibson deserves it. He's doing a great job at Flamengo, having a great Brazilian Championship last year. He's motivated, and even if he has to leave the club, he'll want to leave the best image possible," he says.

The red-black commander also commented on the situation of Kleberson, Flamengo's main signing for the season, but who has not yet convinced the fans of his importance.

"I've known Kleberson since the youth teams. We had a conversation, and I told him I have a lot of respect for him. I told him to stay calm and I'll help him regain his confidence," he concludes.

Flamengo dreams of competing in the Club World Cup in 2010

The club is qualified for the Liga das Américas, which will be a qualifying event if Interclubes actually gets off the ground.

Matias Zibecchi From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Rio de Janeiro

Fla won its first national title in 2008

Celebrating Flamengo's unprecedented National Basketball Championship title, the Red-Blacks are already thinking about bigger things. Current South American runner-up, the Rio de Janeiro team dreams of competing in the Club World Cup in two years:

- We received news that the next Liga das Américas, which we automatically qualified for due to the Brazilian title, will be worth two spots to compete in the Club World Cup in 2010 - guarantees Arnaldo Szpirro, the club's basketball director.

To get there, the Flamengo board knows it's crucial to continue the project that formed the Brazilian champion team. One of the key figures in assembling the group that brought the first Brazilian basketball trophy to Gávea, Patrícia Amorim aims to retain all the players, even knowing it will cost more due to the increased value of the champions.

"It was a challenge to propose to the board the creation of this championship team, which was actually quite inexpensive compared to the Oscar era. But now we know it will cost more, since everyone is so valuable. We just need to have the capacity and competence to maintain the group. I don't see it as an expense, but rather as an investment in the club's ability to build a championship team," summarizes Flamengo's director of Olympic sports.

THROW

Maxi/Souza duo is undefeated for Fla

Rubro-Negro won nine matches with both attackers as starters

Souza and Maxi will play together for the first time in 2008

Hugo Perruso RIO DE JANEIRO

With Maxi joining Flamengo's squad, fans will have one more reason to be confident of a victory at Maracanã. The new attacking duo of the Argentine and Souza has never lost a game since their debut.

They played ten matches in last year's Brazilian Championship, and their record is enviable: nine wins and one draw. At Maracanã, they had a 100% record. The duo scored only four goals (three from Souza and one from Maxi), but the team scored 19.

For Maxi, the reason for the good numbers are the characteristics of the two attackers that complement each other.

"Our characteristics are different, and we complement each other. Those who play on the outside have to feed those who play on the inside (Souza). We'll try to maintain this good average with another win," he said.

See below the games of the Maxi/Souza duo:

Flamengo 4x0 Juventude 23/8/2007\ Flamengo 3x1 Goiás 26/8/2007\ Juventude 2x2 Flamengo 23/9/2007\ Flamengo 1x0 Atletico-MG 29/9/2007\ Flamengo 1x0 Sao Paulo 04/10/2007\ Paraná 0x1 Flamengo 13/10/2007\ Flamengo 2x1 Vasco 18/10/2007\ Flamengo 2x0 Grêmio 21/10/2007\ America-RN 0x1 Flamengo 28/10/2007\ Flamengo 2x1 Corinthians 31/10/2007\

Fla takes on Figueirense with an eye on the lead

If they win at Maracanã, Rubro-Negro will sleep as the sole leader of the Brazilian Championship.

Flamengo and Figueirense duel at Maracanã

LANCEPRESS!

Second in the Brazilian Championship with 10 points, Flamengo hosts Figueirense this Saturday at Maracanã, eyeing the outright lead. Since Cruzeiro, also with 10 points, only plays on Sunday, Flamengo can sleep in first place in the competition. Figueirense, on the other hand, will rely on its strong record against its home opponent (three games, two wins, and one loss) to return to winning ways and move up from 11th place.

Flamengo will also benefit from its excellent record at the stadium in this Brazilian Championship. They've played three games and won three (Santos, Internacional, and Fluminense). But coach Caio Júnior's team will need to overcome an opponent that often gives Flamengo trouble in the competition: out of 12 games, the Santa Catarina team has won just three and lost six.

"We have to be careful with them, as they have a good track record at Maracanã. We have a lot of respect for Figueirense, for that reason and for their good squad," said Caio Júnior.

Flamengo will have two changes compared to the team that beat Fluminense 1-0 last Sunday. Ibson, recovered from left thigh pain, returns in place of Cristian, who is sidelined due to left ankle pain. Up front, Maxi will get a chance in place of the suspended Diego Tardelli.

"The chance they're giving me is important. It's hard to stay motivated if you haven't been playing. I hope to do my best in this match," said Maxi.

With five points, Figueirense is looking to bounce back against Flamengo. Still winless in charge (one loss and one draw), coach Guilherme Macuglia hasn't confirmed his starting lineup, but he's expected to field three defenders.

Defense remains the Santa Catarina team's biggest headache: in four games, they've conceded ten goals. However, for striker Wellington Amorin, the defensive efforts are already paying off.

- We conceded a lot of goals in the last games, so the coach paid more attention back there, so we wouldn't concede so many goals, and it paid off - highlighted striker Wellington Amorim, referring to the 0-0 draw with Goiás.

While the defense is a concern, the offense has also been lacking. They haven't found the net in two games (Vitória and Goiás). Knowing this, Macuglia should field wingers who can push upfield: Marquinhos and Leo Mattos.

Among the absences, right-back César Prates, with a left calf injury, is expected to be the most noticeable absence.

Maxi almost left Flamengo this year

With no chance under Joel, the Argentine striker considered leaving the club. Now, he wants to remain in the starting lineup.

Souza 'blesses' his new attacking partner

LANCEPRESS!

A key player in Flamengo's 2007 recovery, Maxi nearly left the club in 2008. Underused this season by Joel Santana, he considered leaving. Now, with Caio Junior in charge, the striker is back in the starting lineup and hopes to stay with the team.

radio l! - The fact that I wasn't used much almost gave me the opportunity to leave. But I didn't want to leave without proving my worth, and now I have my chance. (Click here to hear more)

Maxi said he's grateful to his new manager for the chance he's been given against Figueirense. He also explained how difficult it was to stay motivated without playing.

radio l! - The chance the coach is giving me is important, I hope to do my best to get other opportunities. For those who haven't been playing, it's hard to stay motivated. (Click here to hear more)

Flamengo's midfielders play a variety of roles

Even with absences, Caio Junior will have an easy time putting together the team, this Saturday, against Figueirense

Jônatas, Toró, Ibson and Marcinho, Caio Junior's trusted men (Credit: Cleber Mendes)

Guilherme de Paula RIO DE JANEIRO

act Rodrigo Benchimol RIO DE JANEIRO

Even if all players were available, Flamengo coach Caio Júnior would have a versatile midfield against Figueirense this Saturday. Not even the absences of Cristian and Renato Augusto change one characteristic of the Flamengo defense: the versatility of its players.

Toró, Jônatas, Ibson, and Marcinho can all boast of playing in a variety of positions. The latter has played as a holding midfielder, then as a linking midfielder, then as a striker at Flamengo, but will return to coordinating plays against Figueirense.

A right winger in the youth academy, Ibson became a professional defensive midfielder. But he's occasionally used as a more advanced midfielder. Jônatas then rotated through all four midfield positions. With Joel Santana, in 2005, he was a sweeper; at Espanyol, he played as a right midfielder.

But Toró is perhaps the best example, especially because of the new role he's playing alongside Caio Júnior. In Fluminense's youth academy, he was an attacking midfielder. He dropped back, dropped back, dropped back, and now he's tasked with playing that false center-back role on the right flank that Jaílton used to play.

"The one who benefits from this trait is Caio Júnior. It's the kind of thing that makes a difference in a long championship," said Toró, who is still getting used to his new role.

His responsibility to score will be even greater with the departure of Cristian, another player who also performs multiple duties in the midfield. The defensive midfielder was officially ruled out after spraining his left ankle on Wednesday.

Renato Augusto, who alternates between attacking and attacking, is also out due to left thigh pain. As a result, Marcinho has been moved back from attack to play in midfield, and Maxi will partner with Souza.

For captain Fábio Luciano, this number of players capable of performing multiple roles shows that Flamengo has a good squad.

"Modern football demands this from the midfield forward. You have to be able to mark and attack with equal quality. This creates a lot of variety within the team. With the same players, you can change the formation," said the defender.

Leonardo Moura agreed with the red-black captain.

– It’s good to have a group with these characteristics – said the full-back.

The one who should like it is Caio Júnior.

Toró: Caio Júnior's favorite 'thief'

Coach praises player's ball steals in the last game against Flu\ LANCEPRESS!\

The numbers don't lie. Counting just Flamengo's last game against Fluminense, defensive midfielder Toró made 22 steals, and this ability has pleased coach Caio Júnior immensely.

The coach highlighted Toró's skill in disarming and believes that every team should have a guard dog with the characteristics of the red-black number 21.

– In the last game, Toró made 22 steals. This is undoubtedly the Brazilian record so far.

Toró preferred to adopt a humble tone and made himself available to the coach for whatever he needed.

"It's important for me to wear multiple hats. I know I'm young and have a long road ahead of me. I try to help the coach with whatever he needs," said Toró.