Inter v Avaí

Tite is once again expected to reshuffle his side as Avaí visit the Beira-Rio with both club’s undefeated so far in the Campeonato Brasileiro (18:30 local time).

Álvaro, Índio, Guiñazu, Magrão and D’Alessandro have all been left out of match squad whilst Nilmar recovers from a hip problem. Only goalkeeper Lauro and full backs Bolívar and Kléber are expected to continue from the side which defeated Coritiba midweek. Taison is expected to start from the bench as he did against Goiás last week.

Youngster Talles Cunha is expected to start up front alongside Alecsandro in the absence of Inter’s first choice forward pairing knowing that competition amongst the forwards is set to increase, despite Walter being injured with the arrival of Bolaños this week.

Sorondo is expected to continue his return to fitness in central defence alongside the ever improving Danny Morais.

“We are adopting a strategy of dividing the squad between the two competitions. We have a competent squad. It’s good because it gives everybody first team football”, explained the central defender.

Avaí meanwhile have made an encouraging start life in the Brasileira after promotion from Série B last year. The Santa Catarina based club are currently unbeaten from their first three games but are yet to win, having drawn against Atlético-MG, Flamengo and Coritiba.

Avaí are expected to welcome back their influential midfielder and captain Marquinhos who is set to make his first appearance in the Brasileirão following injury.

Inter: Lauro; Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Maycon, Glaydson, Giuliano, Andrezinho; Alecssandro, Talles Cunha

Avaí: Eduardo Martini; Ferdinando, Emerson, André Turatto, Uendel Pereira; Marcus Winicius, Bruno, Marquinhos, Muriqui; Evando, William

Fluminense target Rosinei

Inter are likely to face competition in their efforts to extend Rosinei’s loan contract at the Beira-Rio.

Rosinei’s loan agreement with Inter expires at the end of next month and the club are keen to negotiate an extension to the deal with Spanish club Murcia who own the 26 year old.

However, speaking in an interview on Friday, Fluminense coach Carlos Alberto Pereira revealed that he would like to see the club “make every possible effort to sign him”.

Rosinei who is currently injured has previously played for Cruzeiro, São Caetano and Corinthians.

Picture: Rosinei in aciton against Ulbra earlier this year

Brasileirão Preview

The fourth round of the Campeonato Brasileiro is upon us this weekend as Inter host recently promoted Avaí at the Beira-Rio.

Elsewhere two of the competitions favourites -São Paulo and Cruzeiro face each other at the Estádio Morumbi. Also in São Paulo state Santos take on Corinthians.

Unbeaten pair Atlético-MG and Náutico play Santo André and Fluminense respectively

Today:
Coritiba v Goiás
Atlético-MG v Santo André
Botafogo v Sport

Tomorrow:
Náutico v Fluminense
Santos v Corinthians
São Paulo v Cruzeiro
Vitória v Grêmio
Flamengo v Atlético-PR
Barueri v Palmeiras
Internacional v Avaí

Inter UK special feature!

As the first ever English language site devoted to Inter nears its first birthday, I’m delighted to welcome Ronald Gordo (Fat Ronald!) to the blog who will be sharing his views and feelings to us directly from Rio Grande do Sul each Friday.

This week Ronald shares his early experiences of following Inter from outside the club’s home city of Porto Alegre.

When Matt contacted me to ask if I wanted to write about Inter in this blog, I thought: who is crazier? He (who make a invitation) or I (who accepted)?

Is not easy to writing about football for the people who invented the football... and using a language unknown to me...

Anyway, the people will read know the football and the English language. Thus, the damage will be small.

Who am I? I am a criminal lawyer, 42 years old and i live in south of Brazil, very close to the Argentina's border... 450 km away from Porto Alegre, home of Sport Club Internacional.

Today, i can drive to Porto Alegre in 5 hours and watch all games in Beira-Rio Stadium. Actually, I do it whenever I can.

But in 70's - when I discovered the red shirts of Inter - there were no paved roads, no good passenger trains, no transmissions by television... only poor narrations by radio... and one or two trips per year, if my father had much money left.
So, I used to love the Inter of far... As this is also the position of Matt and the readers of this blog, I think we can understand each other.
That said, let's talk business: Internacional is experiencing a magic moment.

The first factor is the number of members. In Brazil, all big clubs have one or two thousand members. Nonetheless, the Inter has 83 thousand, the highest number in Latin America. All members pay a monthly and this gives Inter financial independence.
For historical reasons, Inter was the club of the middle class and poor people. Gremio was the club of the rich people. That was a huge difference of sponsorship, and that was money to hire and pay players, doctors, trainers and to build facilities. Now, Inter has fans in all social classes. In Beira-Rio Stadium, you can see a lot of US$ 500's tennis and hundreds of people without a tooth in the mouth. Talk on racism in Gigante and you'll see blond, green-eyed people against you. Today, there are no fights or confusion in the Beira-Rio. So women and children can watch games. This is the second factor: Inter took one hundred years, but has reached Henrique Poppe's (Inter’s founder) dream: to be the club of people... all people.The third factor: honest leaders. Football move millions of dollars in Brazil, and - unlike the cows - the money has no marks. Simply mix your money and nobody else knows what’s there. In the last 10 years (at least), this has not happened in the Inter.

The last factor: Traditionally, the Colorado (translates as ‘the Red’) has always had the best young players in Brazil, but between being a promise and becoming a star there is a lot of time. Place a youngster in a bad team or make business too early and you always lose. Inter have learned from these mistakes.

So, if you unite people, have money to hire and pay, are honest and have good youth facilities, you have everything to be football champion...

Matt, enjoy this moment... it has not happened in a century.

Have a real nice week.

Ibson speculation grows / Bolaños joins Inter

Speculation linking Porto owned midfielder Ibson to Inter has intensified with former Inter forward Wason Renteria being linked into the deal.

According to Ricardo Vidarte, a highly respected journalist based in Porto Alegre the complex deal could be near to completion.

Vidarte reports that Porto who own the Flamengo defensive midfielder, are also interested in purchasing the full rights of their Wason Renteria. The Colombian striker joined Porto from Inter in 2007 and is jointly owned between Porto and the Brazilian based Sonda investment group who have strong links with Internacional having played a major role in bringing several players to the Beira-Rio. Renteria has currently be out on loan from Porto to another Portuguese club, Braga this season.

It is thought that despite denial by Inter vice president Fernando Carvalho, Porto would be prepared to sell Ibson’s registration to the Sonda group in exchange in negotiation for complete ownership of Wason Renteria. If this deal was to be agreed it would then become highly likely that 25 year old Ibson would be negotiated to Inter.

To confuse matters further, Inter are not the only club interested in Ibson with Grêmio, CSKA Moscow, FC Köln and the players current club Flamengo all keen to secure the player’s services.

Meanwhile, in a busy day for the Sonda group, their client – the Ecuadorian forward Luis Bolaños finally completed his move to Inter.

The 24 year old was presented to the press yesterday afternoon.

Following an unsuccessful spell at Santos, Bolaños was brought to Inter after impressing clubs across South America and Europe with his performances during LDU Quito’s unexpected Copa Libertadores success last year.

Upon arriving at the afternoon training session Bolaños received a particularly warm welcome from fitness coach Fábio Mahseredjian who was amongst the coaching staff at Fluminense who LDU defeated in the Libertadores final.

“You took the Libertadores title away from me! “, joked the fitness coach in the dressing room.

Bolaños meanwhile is keen to settle at the club.

“I like to play with pace and look for goals. If not I work to defend and try to create passes for my team-mates

“The structure of the club is also very good. Now I want to improve my Portuguese” ,added the attacking midfielder who has signed with Inter until 2013.

Bolaños is now expected to work closely with fitness coach Elio Carravetta for the next couple of weeks to reach full fitness before becoming available to Tite for selection.

Picture: Ibson (Top) could join Bolaños (Bottom) at Inter

Nilmar injury boost

Club doctor Carlos Poisl has revealed that he believes that Nilmar will recover from injury in time to join up with the Seleção next week.

The news will be a major boost to both Inter and Dunga after the striker was stretchered off in the 37th minute following a collision with a Coritiba defender.

Nilmar was at the Beira-Rio this morning where he has been undergoing further tests as Tite hoping he will be available for Sunday’s match against Avaí.

Despite a physical performance for Coritiba last night, Nilmar is Inter’s only injury concern.

Meanwhile the club have confirmed that new signing Luis Bolaños will finally be officially presented to the media after this afternoon’s training session.

Bolaños arrived in Porto Alegre yesterday and was at the Beira-Rio to see his new team defeat Coritiba last night.

Picture: Nilmar fears not as bad as first thought after he was stretchered off last night

Footbo latest

I was recently asked to write a few words for an global football/social networking site called footbo.com

As from today, I’ve posted an English language summary on the major state championships and the story of the Campeonato Brasileiro so far!

You can read the full piece here, obrigado!

Inter win marred by Nilmar injury

Inter take a strong lead into their semi final second leg after coming from a goal down to defeat Coritiba 3-1. The result however could prove costly to Inter as Nilmar was stretchered off following a collision in the first half.

As widely expected, Tite opted for Andrezinho to start in central midfield in the absence of Guiñazu (suspended) as he also recalled the first team player's who were rest during Inter’s weekend win in Goiás.

The evening didn’t start as planned however and despite Inter players warning of the need to keep a clean sheet during the first leg, Coritiba took the lead early on as Marcos Aurélio (14) found space inside the Inter box to turn and shoot.

If the Coritiba goal was to serve as a warning, it achieved its aim as Inter responded shortly afterwards. The Colorado star duo of D’Alessandro and Nilmar linked up to feed the ball to Taison (21) on the edge of the box, who somehow how found space to drill in a superb shot into the bottom corner.

With Coritiba proving to be resilient to break down the half ended on a negative for Inter as Nilmar was stretchered off with a hip injury, shortly after colliding with Coritiba’s central defender Felipe. The injury places immediate doubts over the striker’s recent call up to the Seleção, as Inter await confirmation of the extent of the injury.

Inter began the second half showing improvement ball retention as they slowly increased pressure on the visitors. Having scored the first, Taison created Inter’s second as he broke into the Coritiba box at pace to cleverly turn and pick out substitute Alecsandro (61) who found time and space to give Inter the lead.

The Colorado supporters had barely finished celebrating when Inter stuck again to extend their lead two minutes later. Taison’s pace once again pulled the Coritiba defence apart and the plucky number seven found his striker partner Alecsandro inside the box who flicked the ball over to Inter’s cup hero Andrezinho (63), who chested the ball before sending a volley into the back of the net.

The win sends Inter to Coritiba’s Estádio Couto Pereira in a strong position with a two goal lead. Even a 1-0 defeat will be enough to secure Inter a place in the Copa do Brasil final against either Vasco or Corinthians who played out a 1-1 draw last night at the Maracanã.

INTERNACIONAL 3-1 CORITIBA
Marcos Aurélio 14
Taison 21
Alecsandro 61
Andrezinho 63

INTER: Lauro; Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Sandro, Magrão, Andrezinho (Marcelo Cordeiro), D’Alessandro (Glaydson); Taison, Nilmar (Alecsandro)

CORITIBA: Vanderlei; Márcio Gabriel, Felipe, Pereira, Vicente; Rodrigo Mancha, Leandro Donizete, Pedro Ken (Cleiton), Carlinhos Paraíba; Marcos Aurélio (Ramón), Ariel (Hugo)

Attendance: 43,363

Highlights:



Picture: Taison continued his impressive form last night

Inter v Coritiba

Inter welcome Coritiba to the Beira-Rio tonight in the first leg of their Copa do Brasil semi final. Despite good a relation which has led to a joint marketing campaign as the two clubs both celebrate their centenary; Inter must take full advantage of the 50,000 crowd expected at the Beira-Rio tonight (21:50 local time).

Inter have a full squad to chose from expect for the suspended Guiñazu. Andrezinho is expected to get the nod over Glaydson as the Argentine’s replacement after his free kick sealed Inter’s place in the competitions last four. The selection of Andrezinho could be a significant indication of how Inter will approach the game with the midfielder more renowned for his creativity and attack prowess rather than the defensive, ball winning qualities of the Inter captain Guiñazu.

“Andrezinho has an ability to organise similar to Guiñazu and his quality of passing is very good. We will be well served”, praised Tite.

Nilmar who was recently called up to the Seleção squad was one of several players rested in last weekends win against Goiás. The Inter striker told the press of the importance of the Colorado support.

“People know that the support or our fans is great in the Beira-Rio. At difficult moments of the match they inject a dose of spirit into the team”, explained the highly rated number nine.

Coritiba arrived in Porto Alegre on Monday night minus their main forward Marcelinho who is suspended after collecting his third yellow card again Ponte Preta in the previous round. Former Inter youth product Cleiton is available to René Simões after returning from injury but it is not confirmed whether the central defender will start.

Coritiba have made a disappointing start to the Brasileirão, with last weekends 2-2 draw against Avaí their only point so far in the championship.

INTER: Lauro; Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Sandro, Magrão, Andrezinho, D’Alessandro; Taison, Nilmar

CORITIBA: Vanderlei; Felipe, Pereira, Cleiton (Pedro Ken); Márcio Gabriel, Rodrigo Mancha, Leandro Donizete, Carlinhos Paraíba, Vicente; Marcos Aurélio, Ariel

Bolaños to undergo medical / Ibson linked with Beira-Rio move

Luis Bolaños is expected to arrive in Porto Alegre this morning where he will undergo a medical and officially sign for the club.
The 24 year olds transfer to Inter had previously been delayed due to extended talks between the Sonda investment group (who own the player) and his previous club LDU Quito.

Bolaños arrived in Brazil in January but failed to settle under Vágner Mancini at Santos. It is thought that the deal taking Bolaños to Inter will see the club own 50% of the player’s registration.

Meanwhile, Radio Bandeirantes is linking Flamengo’s Ibson with the Colorado. The 25 year old defensive midfielder is currently owned by Porto and is on loan to Fla until the 5th July.

The radio station reports that Ibson is keen to extend his stay in Brazil although Porto are thought to be keen to enter negotiations with CSKA Moscow in Russia. Grêmio are also thought to be interested in the player along with Flamengo, who would need to pay around R$12 million to purchase Ibson’s registration outright.

Ibson initially came through Flamengo in the juniores and made his first team debut in 2003. After attracting the attention of several European clubs Ibson moved to Porto in 2005 where he fell out with coach Jesualdo Ferreira. Ibson lost his place in the Porto team and convinced the club to loan him back to Brazil where he impressed once again in a Flamengo shirt.

Picture: Is Ibson an Inter target?

Suspension worries for Inter and Coritiba

The Coritiba squad arrived in Porto Alegre last night with René Simões bringing a 19 man squad to the Gaúcho capital.

Coritiba’s only major concern ahead of tomorrow’s big semi final is the absence of experienced top scorer Marcelinho. The former Grêmio and Flamengo forward misses out through suspension.

Meanwhile Tite will be forced into making a change of his own. With Guiñazu also suspended the Inter coach will chose from either Andrezinho or the more defensive Glaydson in midfield.

Despite being no confirmation from Tite, Andrezinho, hero from the quarter final against Flamengo is the most likely to start.

The in-form midfielder spoke to ClicEsportes yesterday afternoon about the possibility of replacing Guiñazu in a less natural defensive midfield.

“My football has improved a lot under the command of Tite. I was not a wise defensively but I have already performed in this role in the past year when Guiñazu unfortunately could not play in the final of the Sudamericana”

Glaydson also spoke the loss of Guiñazu but refused to confirm whether he would play.

“People already have an idea of who will be the replacement but as the training session was closed to the press, we cannot say anything.

“Guiña is the one face that runs all the time. On the field the team is calm to attack because we know that he is behind them to hold it together. But nobody is irreplaceable. We support each other so whoever is picked has a good game.”

Picture: Cup hero Andrezinho is likely to start against Coritiba

Campeonato Brasileiro Round Up

With the 3ª Rodada of the Brasileirão completed, Inter are the only team to have taken maximum points following their 1-0 victory away to Goiás.

Vitória, the other remaining club with 100% record fell to a 2-0 defeat away to Cruzeiro as Kléber scored twice. Náutico and Atlético-MG both remain undefeated and move into second and third place as both teams recorded 3-2 away wins against Atlético Paranaense and Sport respectively, whilst Josiel scored both Flamengo goals in their 2-1 win away to Santo André.

At the Estádio Palestra Itália, Palmeiras and São Paulo finished 0-0. São Paulo who have won the last three championships are without a win and are already seven points of leader's Inter.

Meanwhile Colombian midfielder Molina inspired Santos to a comfortable 4-1 victory against nine men Fluminense in Rio.

3ª Rodada results: (Sat) Corinthians 2-1 Barueri, Cruzeiro 2-0 Vitória, Goiás 0-1 Internacional (Sun) Atlético-PR 2-3 Náutico, Grêmio 2-0 Botafogo, Palmeiras 0-0 São Paulo, Fluminense 1-4 Santos, Sport 2-3 Atlético-MG, Santo André 1-2 Flamengo, Avaí 2-2 Coritiba

Highlights of all the weekends goals:

Inter prepare for Coritiba without Guiñazu

Undefeated in the Brasileirão, the Inter side which defeated Goiás returned to Porto Alegre yesterday ahead of another busy week, starting with Wednesday’s semi final first leg with Coritiba followed by the visit of Avaí on Sunday.

With D’Alessandro, Álvaro, Nilmar and Kléber all rested on the weekend, Inter’s main concern against Coritiba is the absence of captain Guiñazu who is suspended after receiving his third yellow card on the weekend.

Tite is expected to choose between either Andrezinho or Glaydson in the Argentine’s absence.

Picture: Influential captain Guiñazu will miss the first leg against Coritiba

3ª Rodada latest

The Campeonato Brasileiro continued yesterday with two other fixtures being played.

The championships only other club with a 100% record, Vitória, fell to defeat away to Cruzeiro. In form striker Kléber scored twice to secure the Raposa a 2-0 win. In São Paulo, Corinthians picked up their first win of the Brasileirão beating Barueri 2-1 at the Estádio do Pacaembu.

Last night:
Corinthians 2-1 Barueri
Cruzeiro 2-0 Vitória
Goiás 0-1 Internacional

Today:
Atlético-PR v Náutico
Grêmio v Botafogo
Palmeiras v São Paulo
Fluminense v Santos
Sport v Atlético-MG
Santo André v Flamengo
Avaí v Coritiba

*Apologies for the delay in posting the full Goiás v Inter match report and highlights.

Taison strike steals Inter win

Taison came off the bench tonight to hand their third consecutive Brasileirão, his first goal of the tournament.

Inter fielded a mixed side at the Estádio Serra Dourada with the return of long term absentee Gonazlo Sorondo being the most notable change to the team with the Uruguayan returning to central defence alongside Danny Morais. First team regulars Lauro, Bolívar, Magrão and Guiñazu were all involved and Alecsandro started up front alongside the inexperienced young striker Talles Cunha.

With both teams so far undefeated in the Brasileirão, Goiás wasted no time searching for their opening goal with Lauro forced to push an attempt from Felipe wide within the opening minute of the game. The Goiás forward continued to threaten the Inter back four becoming a prominent figure in Goiás’ attacks throughout the half as Inter offered little relying on Andrezinho and Giuliano to create. Felipe’s striker partner and popular ex-Colorado Iarley also went close to putting the home side in front shortly before the break as he shot at Lauro from a Goiás corner and the former Inter man saw claims for a penalty turned down by the referee after Sorondo appeared to push the striker.

Inter began the second half looking a lot more positive with Copa do Brasil hero, Andrezinho continuing to look lively. Tite looked to capitalize on Inter’s positive start to the half introducing Taison for Giuliano, also bringing on midfielder Sandro minutes later in a straight swop for Magrão. The home side almost took the lead shortly afterwards as a shot took a wicked deflection of Sandro forcing Lauro to save well midway through the half. Almost immediately Inter retaliated on the counter attack as Alecsandro fed the ball over to Taison who’s weak was cleared off the line by Rafael Tolói. Taison was to make up for his wasted attempt however as he started and finished the move which resulted in Inter scoring. In a typical Colorado counter attack, Taison just inside the Goiás half fed the ball wide to Marcelo Cordeiro on the left hand side who crossed the ball into the box which was met by the head of the explosive Inter forward who’d burst into the box to score in the 77th minute. Marking a rare substitute appearance, striker Leandrão could have doubled Inter’s lead with just minutes remaining in anther Inter counter attack but saw his chip over Harlei go harmlessly wide as Inter held on to pick up their third successive win in the championship.

GOIÁS 0-1 INTERNACIONAL
Taison 77

GOIÁS: Harlei, Ernando, Rafael Tolói, João Paulo (Jael); Fábio Bahia, Amaral, Ramalho, Filipe Menezes (Eduardo Ramos), Júlio César; Felipe (Bruno), Iarley

INTER: Lauro; Bolívar, Sorondo, Danny Morais, Marcelo Cordeiro; Glaydson, Magrão (Sandro), Guiñazu, Andrezinho; Giuliano (Taison), Alecsandro (Leandrão)

Attendance: 6,918

Highlights:

Goiás v Inter

Inter must put aside their dramatic win against Flamengo and focus on the Campeonato Brasileiro once again, as Inter travel to central Brazil to face Goiás (18:30 local time).

Inter arrived in the state capital Goiânia yesterday without Nilmar, Álvaro, D’Alessandro and Kléber as Tite plans are making changes throughout the side to keep players fresh for next Wednesday’s Copa do Brasil semi final with Coritiba.

Right back Bolívar and midfielder Magrão are available after completing one match bans and are likely to start in a side which could also expected to feature Danny Morais, Marcelo Cordeiro and Glaydson. Youngster Talles Cunha is also set to start alongside Alecsandro. Inter’s man of the moment Andrezinho will also start.

After winning the Campeonato Goiano earlier this year, Goiás have had an eventful start to their Brasileirão campaign. Goiás have drawn 3-3 in their opening two games against Náutico and Santos and remain undefeated. Forward Iarley, remains a popular figure with Inter fans after a successful spell at the Beira-Rio.

Possible teams:
GOIÁS: Harlei; Rafael Tolói, Ernando, Gomes; Fábio Bahia, Ramalho, Everton, Júlio César, Zé Carlos; Felipe, Iarley
Coach: Hélio dos Anjos

INTER: Lauro; Bolívar, Índio (Sorondo), Danny Morais, Marcelo Cordeiro; Glaydson, Magrão, Guiñazu, Andrezinho; Talles Cunha, Alecsandro
Coach: Tite

D’Ale and Guiña NOT called up

Following from yesterday’s post claiming that D’Alessandro and Guiñazu had been announced in Maradona’s latest Argentina squad, I can confirm that the pair have not be called up.

To clarify the situation, the full Argentina squad for their qualifiers against Colombia and Ecuador is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Juan Pablo Carrizo, Mariano Andujar and Federico Vilar

Defenders: Javier Zanetti, Gabriel Heinze, Daniel Diaz, Nicolas Burdisso, Martin Demichelis, Emiliano Papa, Juan Forlin, Marcos Angeleri, Nicolas Otamendi

Midfielders: Javier Mascherano, Fernando Gago, Maxi Rodriguez, Jonas Gutierrez, Christian Gimenez, Sebastian Battaglia, Juan Sebastian Veron, Daniel Montenegro

Strikers: Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Carlos Tevez, Lisandro Lopez, Diego Milito, Gonzalo Bergessio

Maradona calls up D’Alessandro and Guiñazu

Both D’Alessandro and Guiñazu have been called up to the Argentine national side by Diego Maradona.

The Argentine Football Association (A.F.A) have announced a 26 man squad for their forthcoming matches against Colombia and Ecuador on the 6th and 10th June.

D’Alessandro has been capped 26 times for Argentina, scoring four goals whilst Inter’s captain Guiñazu returns after a lengthy absence from the national team having previously been capped on four occasions.

The pair will miss Inter’s games against Corinthians and Cruzeiro along with Nilmar and Kléber who were called up by Dunga for the Brazil squad yesterday.

Picture: Guiñazu returns to the Argentine squad with D'Ale

Brasileirão Preview

This weekend brings us the third round of fixtures of the 2009 Campeonato Brasileiro with the top two clubs both in action later today.

Vitória travel to Minas Gerais state where they face a Cruzeiro side who begin life without star midfielder Ramires, who has just completed a move to Benfica. Inter are away to Goiás and are likely to field a mixed side with Tite keeping a close eye on the forthcoming Copa do Brasil semi-final against Coritiba.

The Palmeiras – São Paulo derby is the pick of Saturday’s games with both teams making disappointing starts in the opening two rounds. Fluminense and Santos who are both tipped by many as outsiders for the Brasileirão title meet in Rio whilst Flamengo will be aiming to avoid a slip up against undefeated newcomers Santo André.

3ª rodada fixtures:

Saturday:
Corinthians v Barueri
Cruzeiro v Vitória
Goiás v Internacional

Sunday:
Atlético-PR v Náutico
Grêmio v Botafogo
Palmeiras v São Paulo
Fluminense v Santos
Sport v Atlético-MG
Santo André v Flamengo
Avaí v Coritiba

Blog do Torcedor latest

It’s Friday once again and that means that you can read my latest views in Portuguese on Mateus Reck’s Blog do Torcedor on GloboEsporte.com

You can view my weekly blog here, thanks to Mateus for translating!

Muito Obrigado!

Inter undergo final preparations for Goiás

Internacional will train this morning before travelling to Goiânia later today with Tite expected to make several changes from the team which defeated Flamengo.

Midfielders Rosinei and D’Alessandro are definitely ruled out whilst Danilo Silva is also a doubt with a knee problem. Rosinei is likely to face up to three weeks out picking up a muscular problem in training whilst D’Alessandro has also complained of a muscular strain and has been told to rest for three days.

Colorado hero Andrezinho is almost certain to start against Goiás whilst Danny Morais, Glaydson, Giuliano and Alecsandro are also set to start.

Índio, Taison and Nilmar are not expected to travel and are to be rested ahead of next Wednesday’s semi final with Coritiba.

Meanwhile, Fernando Carvalho has revealed that the club will try and delay Kléber and Nilmar from joining the Seleção after the pair were named in Dunga’s squad yesterday. Kléber and Nilmar are expected to join up with the Brazil squad on Monday and Inter are keen to keep the pair for the Coritiba game.

“We are divided with the call ups. It is good for the players and the club but it comes at an important time for us. Through president Vitório Píffero, we will try to delay their call up for two days so that they can play against Coritiba.”

Picture: Danilo is a concern for Saturday's game

Nilmar and Kléber announced in Seleção squad

Both Nilmar and Kléber have been announced in the Seleção squad for Brazil’s forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Paraguay (6th and 10th June) and also the Confederation Cup which runs from 14-28 June.

Whilst the news will undoubtedly be well received by the player’s, news of Nilmar and Kléber’s international commitments will come as a blow to Inter who are at a key point of the season.

The pair will miss are expected to miss at least five matches for the Colorado, including the first leg of the Copa do Brasil semi-final against Coritiba and the first leg of the Recopa against LDU Quito. Inter also have two key Campeonato Brasileiro fixtures during this time against title challenging Cruzeiro in Belo Horizonte and Flamengo in Rio.

Nilmar and Kléber join Andreee Santos (Corinthians), Victor (Grêmio) and Ramires (Cruzeiro) as the only Brazil based players in the 23 man squad.

The squad in full:

Julio César - Internazionale
Gomes - Tottenham
Victor - Grêmio

Maicon - Internazionale
Daniel Alves - Barcelona
Alex - Chelsea
Juan - Roma
Lúcio - Bayern de Munique
Luisão - Benfica
Kleber - Internacional
André Santos - Corinthians

Anderson - Manchester United
Gilberto Silva - Panathinaikos
Josué - Wolfsburg
Ramires - Cruzeiro

Elano - Manchester City
Felipe Melo - Fiorentina
Júlio Baptista - Roma
Kaká - Milan

Alexandre Pato - Milan
Luís Fabiano - Sevilla
Nilmar - Internacional
Robinho - Manchester City

Picture: Nilmar's form is rewarded with a call up into Dunga's squad

Inter defeat Rubro Negro to advance to semi finals

A late free kick from substitute Andrezinho secured Inter’s place in the Copa do Brasil semi finals after defeat Flamengo 2-1 at the Beira-Rio. The victory secures Inter a semi final tie with Coritiba which will be the clubs first appearance in the competition’s last four since 1999.

Having recalled all the major first team players who were rested against Palmeiras on Sunday, Inter were only missing the suspended pair of Bolívar and Magrão as Danilo Silva and Rosinei continued in the starting eleven.

With former stars Fernandão and Rafael Sobis amongst the 47,000 inside the Beira-Rio, both teams began the game looking for the win. The pace of Taison and Nilmar looked a constant threat to the Carioca defence whilst efforts from D’Alessandro and Taison ensured that goalkeeper Bruno was kept busy. Inter opened the scoring taking a lead late in the first half as Nilmar latched onto a poor Flamengo back pass and burst deep into the Fla half, before squaring the ball to Taison (43) whose side footed shot gave Inter the lead.

The second half remained a close affair with both teams threatening, and Flamengo substitute Emerson (74) finally gave the travelling support something to shout about when he finished from close range to equalise. With the tie evenly balanced and seemingly about to sent Flamengo through on away goals, substitute Andrezinho (89) was brought on and within minutes sent the Beira-Rio into delirium as he smashed in a 25 yard freekick to rescue Inter’s place in the Copa do Brasil, scoring against his former club.

INTERNACIONAL 2-1 FLAMENGO
Taison 43
Emerson 74
Andrezinho 89

INTER: Lauro; Danilo Silva (Alecsandro), Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Sandro (Andrezinho), Rosinei (Glaydson), Guiñazu, D´Alessandro; Taison, Nilmar

FLAMENGO: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Airton, Ronaldo Angelim, Juan; Toró (Everton Silva), Willians, Ibson, Kléberson, Zé Roberto (Émerson) (Welinton); Obina

Attendance: 47,738

Highlights:



Copa do Brasil round up
Having secured a 1-0 defeat against Ponte Preta on Tuesday night, Coritiba confirmed themselves a semi-final fixture against Inter, winning 3-2 on aggregate.

In last night’s other fixtures, a 1-1 draw saw in Salvador saw Vasco comfortably eliminate Vitória and advance through 5-1 aggregate. Vasco will now face Corinthians in the other semi final who drew 2-2 (3-2 aggregate) against Fluminense in Rio. Corinthians took a two goal advantage through Chicão and Jorge Henrique but despite second half goals from Alan and Thiago Neves, Flu were knocked out.

Tuesday:
Coritiba (3) 1–0 (2) Ponte Preta

Wednesday:
Vitória (1) 1-1 (5) Vasco
Internacional (2) 2-1 (1) Flamengo
Fluminense (2) 2-2 (3) Corinthians

Semi-Final (dates to be confirmed)
Inter v Coritiba
Vasco v Corinthians

Inter v Flamengo

Inter can take a significant step towards achieving Copa Libertadores qualification if they can progress to the Copa do Brasil semi final tonight (21:50 local time).

After a resilient defensive performance saw the Colorado come away with a goalless draw from Maracanã last week, Inter will be fully aware that a score draw at the Beira-Rio could sent Flamengo through on away goals.

With 50,000 expected at the stadium for tonight’s crucial game Inter are set to make several changes after resting eight players in Sunday’s Brasileirão victory over Palmeiras.
“Our strategy is to perform well and to remain well balanced. A single goal would make this happen. We will need to play well, create and mark” declared Tite in yesterday’s press conference.

Tite’s side will field a different team from the first leg. Bolívar and Magrão are both suspended with Danilo Silva and Rosinei likely to come into the side.

“This is likely, but I do not discard other alternatives”, Tite revealed.
Against Palmeiras on Sunday, Rosieni was forced off the field with an injury concern however the midfielder appears to have made a full recovery, whilst Inter trio Álvaro, Guiñazu and Nilmar all walk a suspension tightrope having already picked up two yellow cards each.

After arriving in Porto Alegre yesterday, Flamengo trainined at Grêmio’s training facilities in the south of the city. Cuca has stated that he will not confirm his team until shortly before kick off as he waits for Emerson to prove his fitness after picking up a knee injury. Obina and Zé Roberto are expected to start for Fla if Emerson fails to recover in time.

Speaking to the press yesterday Cuca appeared fully aware of the challenge that faces his team.

“Inter are one of the best teams in Brazil. They have played 500 minutes without losing and have defeated two great teams in the BRasileirao but we have a good squad. We will fight to be successful. We are prepared to face Inter and their 45,000 supporters”, declaired the Flamengo coach.

INTER: Lauro; Danilo Silva, Índio, Álvaro e Kleber; Sandro, Guiñazu, Rosinei e D'Alessandro; Taison e Nilmar.

FLAMENGO: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Airton, Ronaldo Angelim e Juan; Toró, Willians, Ibson e Kléberson; Obina (Émerson) e Zé Roberto.

Fernandão expected at Beira Rio / Flamengo arrrive in Porto Alegre

Inter are expecting 50,000 at the Beira-Rio for tomorrow's Copa do Brasil quarter final with club legend Fernandão expecting to be in attendance to watch his former club.

It will be the first time Fernandão who now plays for Al-Gharafa in Qatar, will watch Inter at the Beira-Rio since leaving the club almost a year ago.

Since we were eliminated from the Asian Cup I have been looking at the calendar to see what game I could attend. I will also try and go to Goiânia to also see Goiás against Inter.

Meanwhile the Flamengo squad landed in Porto Alegre this afternoon ahead of tomorrow’s quarter final second leg at the Beira-Rio.

Arriving at Porto Alegre’s Salgado Filho airport, there was a high security presence the Flamengo delegation were quickly whisked away without speaking to the waiting press and escorted to the Hotel De Ville in the north of the city.

Before leaving Rio, Flamengo underwent their final preparations during a light training session where Fla coach Cuca worked through attacking play with strikers Obina and Zé Roberto. The finance stricken club are also boosted by the news that wages for both April and May have been paid in full.

Picture: Club icon Fernandão will watch Inter against Fla

Copa do Brasil Preview

Inter or Flamengo’s semi final opponents will be confirmed tonight as Coritiba meet Ponte Preta at the Estádio Couto Pereira.

The tie remains finely balanced after Ponte Preta held the Série A club to a 2-2 draw in Campinas.

In tomorrow night’s fixtures, Vitória face an uphill struggle to comeback from a crushing 4-0 first leg score line against Vasco whilst Fluminense are looking to overturn a 1-0 defeat against Corinthians at the Maracanã.

Copa do Brasil Quarter Final, Second Leg:

Tonight:
Coritiba (2) – (2) Ponte Preta

Tomorrow:
Vitória (0) v (4) Vasco
Internacional (0) v (0) Flamengo
Fluminense (0) v (1) Corinthians

Inter loanee Ramon impresses at Vasco

In the aftermath of a year which shook the historic club’s foundations, Internacional’s Ramon has made quite an impression at Vasco da Gama’s Estádio São Januário as the club rebuilds itself.

A disastrous 2009 saw Vasco relegated from the Campeonato Brasileiro for the first time and the loan signing of the Inter left back was one of a number of signings the club made. The deal suited both Vasco and Ramon who was keen to play regular football after finding it difficult to establish himself in the Inter first team. Since moving to Rio however, Ramon 21, wasted no time in make a good impression at his new club and he was voted in the Seleção of the Campeonato Carioca.

With Vasco under pressure to gain promotion for Série B at first attempt Ramon has featured in the club’s opening two matches, scoring the first (see below) and assisting the second in Vasco’s 2-0 win against Ceará.


Despite only being contracted to the Rio based club until the end of the year, Ramon seems keen to extend his stay, as he explained to GloboEsporte.com.

“Vasco has been the beginning of everything. I was not formed at Vasco and I know I must be grateful to Inter, but it is here that I have identified with myself. I want to enter the club’s history. I want to help the team get back into Serie A and want to win the Copa do Brasil and play in the Libertadores. I see Vasco as the club that I want to establish myself and I want to enter the club’s history with players such as Juninho, Edmundo, Roberto Dynamite and several others. I’m glad with my form at the time being and it seems that I could be with this club for one, three or four years.

I want to stay here but I have a contract to follow. If at the end of the year things do not go the way I want, I will come back to Vasco in the future.
Because of my age, this year I need to establish myself in a team and play regularly or I would become a player of perpetual promise. I am very happy be playing regular football in my career.

At Internacional I played a game and I was only give ten minutes. In my position it is difficult to do anything in ten minutes. A striker can come onto the pitch and make a goal, for a full back it is difficult"

With Ramon having already made 24 appearances for Vasco it remains to be seen whether he will return to Inter in 2010 and compete for the left back position with Kléber and Marcelo Cordeiro.

Picture: Will Ramon return to the Beira-Rio?

Danilo Silva glad to return

After an impressive performance for Inter yesterday, Danilo Silva is looking forward to Wednesday’s match against Flamengo.

Danilo who along with Danny Morais and Lauro was considered one of Inter’s best performers in the 2-0 win over Palmeiras, it expected to start against Flamengo with regular right back Bolívar suspended.

“It was good to play today because I had been injured for twenty days. I have not played since the game against Guarani and have not had match practice”, explained Danilo during the post match press conference.

The right back was also quick to warn of the threat offered by Flamengo’s left back Juan as Inter begin to prepare for Wednesday’s crucial second leg.

“We have to take more precaution (with Juan). We need to surround him and not allow to infiltrate us and get crosses in”, declared Danilo who made his seventh appearance of the year last night.

Picture: Danilo impressed during Inter's win over Palmeiras yesterday

Brasileirão Round Up

The 2ª Rodada of the Brasileirão was completed over the weekend as Inter take an early lead at the top of the table. The Colorado are closely followed by Vitória who are the only other club to have a 100% record after just two games.

Current champions São Paulo were held to a draw at home to Atlético Paranaense whilst the Carioca clubs, Flamengo, Fluminense and Botafogo were all involved in goalless draws.

2ª Rodada results: (Saturday) Coritiba 2-4 Santo André, Flamengo 0-0 Avaí, Atlético-MG 2-1 Grêmio (Sunday) Internacional 2-0 Palmeiras, São Paulo 2-2 Atlético-PR, Santos 3-3 Goiás, Barueri 0-0 Fluminense, Náutico 2-0 Cruzeiro, Botafogo 0-0 Corinthians, Vitória 1-0 Sport

1. Internacional P2 Pts 6
2. Vitória P2 Pts 6
3. Náutico P2 Pts 4
4. Santo André P2 Pts 4

Highlights of all the weekends goals:

Experimental Inter side see off Verdão

The Colorado continued their 100% record in the Campeonato Brasileiro at the Beira-Rio tonight with a scrappy 2-0 victory over Palmeiras.

Despite making a total of eight changes throughout the entire team, Tite’s side took an early lead as defender Danny Morais (11) marked his first Brasileirão appearance of the season with a goal after Taison and Andrezinho linked up following an Inter corner.

Palmeiras, tipped by many to be amongst the front runners for this year’s Brasileirão title offered little threat in the first half and Taison was denied a great opportunity to add Inter’s second as keeper Marcos reacted quickly shortly after the half hour mark. Inter were almost made to rue Taison’s miss shortly after as former Gremista Diego Souza shot narrowly wide.

The second half began with Palmeiras making all three substitutions within the opening 15 minutes of the half and Tite retaliated by introducing Guiñazu for Rosinei to strengthen Inter’s midfield as the match failed to settle into any sort of pattern. Despite the change, Palmeiras came close to levelling as Diego Souza’s shot clipped the post as it went wide. With twenty minutes remaining, another Colorado favourite was introduced as D’Alessandro came on for Andrezinho with both sides struggling to settle.

As the clocked ticked down on another Inter victory, Palmeiras midfielder Pierre was harshly issued his second yellow card of the evening with Nilmar appearing to fall without any contact. Deep into the four minutes of stockage time, Inter added their second to seal the victory as D’Alessandro (90) was left with an easy finish after Marcos pushed out Nilmar’s shot.

In a game lacking cohesion from both sides, Tite cannot have any complaints as Inter strode to their second Brasileirão victory, keeping their third successive clean sheet with an experimental side.

INTERNACIONAL 2-0 PALMEIRAS
Danny Morais 11
Pierre sent off 89
D’Alessandro 90

Attendance:

INTER: Lauro, Danilo Silva, Danny Morais, Bolívar, Marcelo Cordeiro, Glaydson, Sandro, Rosinei (Guiñazu), Andrezinho (D’Alessandro), Taison, Alecsandro (Nilmar)

PALMEIRAS: Marcos, Mauricio Ramos, Danilo (Fabinho Capixaba), Marcão, Souza (Mozart), Pierre, Cleiton Xavier, Diego Souza, Armero; Keirrison, Marquinhos (Ortigoza)

Highlights:

Inter v Palmeiras

Inter play their the first home game of the 2009 Brasileirão later today (16:00 local time) as fellow title challengers Palmeiras visit the Beira-Rio.

Tite’s side began their Brasileirão campaign last Sunday as Nilmar’s outstanding goal handed Inter a 1-0 win against Corinthians. Then, on Wednesday Inter were in action again as they took a 0-0 draw from the Maracanã against Flamengo in the Copa do Brasil.

With the visit of Palmeiras and a crucial second leg against Flamengo over the next four days, Tite is expected to make changes to the Inter team as central defenders Índio and Álvaro (both rested) and midfielder Magrão (thigh) are all expected to be absent despite speculation earlier this week suggesting that Nilmar, D’Alessandro and Guiñazu would all be absent.

Danilo Silva is likely to start as Bolívar reverts to central defence alongside Danny Morais in the Internacional defence whilst reports suggest that Rosinei will figure for the injured Magrão. Notably, popular Uruguayan central defender Gonzalo Sorondo is expected to be named amongst the substitutes after returning from a lengthy knee injury which last saw him feature for Inter last August against Grêmio.

After dominating at state level this year, Inter have build up an impressive record at the Beira-Rio with 16 wins and a draw, having scored 54 goals and conceding just seven. Tite clearly feels that playing at the Beira-Rio serves as a major advantage to his Inter side.

“Inside the Beira-Rio, we are close to our supporters and we gain extra strength. Things flow more”, explained the Inter coach.

Vanderlei Luxemburgo is set to name a familiar face in his Palmeiras side as former Colorado defender Marcão is expected to return to the Beira-Rio for the first time since leaving Inter earlier this year. Marcão is expected to feature in a three man Palmeiras defence alongside Mauricio Ramos and Danilo.

Another former Inter player, Cleiton Xavier who has established himself as a key player in the Verdão midfield did not travel to Porto Alegre whilst Diego Souza formerly of Grêmio is likely to be one of Palmeiras main attacking threats along with widely admired striker Keirrison.

Palmeiras opened their Brasileirão account last week after coming from a goal behind to defeat Coritiba.

INTER: Lauro; Danilo Silva, Bolívar, Danny Morais, Kléber; Sandro, Guiñazu, Rosinei, D’Alessandro; Taison, Nilmar

PALMEIRAS: Marcos, Mauricio Ramos, Danilo, Marcão; Souza, Pierre, Cleiton Xavier, Diego Souza, Armero; Keirrison, Marquinhos

Brasileirão 2ª Rodada latest

Newly promoted Santo André shock Coritiba, whilst Inter’s Copa do Brasil opponents Flamengo are held to a goalless draw by fellow newcomers Avaí. Grêmio lose in Minas Gerais to Atlético.

Saturday’s results:
Coritiba 2-4 Santo André
Flamengo 0-0 Avaí
Atlético-MG 2-1 Grêmio

Sunday’s fixtures:
Internacional v Palmeiras
São Paulo v Atlético-PR
Santos v Goiás
Barueri v Fluminense
Náutico v Cruzeiro
Botafogo v Corinthians
Vitória v Sport

Lauro attracts English interest

Radio Gaúcho is reporting that representatives from England will be attending the Beira-Rio for today’s game against Palmeiras as goalkeeper Lauro continues to attract attention from Europe.

Lauro 28, has previously spoken publically about interest from Italy where he is thought to be keen to continue to career. Despite Radio Gaúcho's claims, there are no reports linking Lauro to any English clubs in the U.K media.

The Inter number one joined the club last year from Cruzeiro and played a key role in the club’s Copa Sudamericana and Campeonato Gaúcho triumphs.

Picture: Lauro celebrates Gauchão title

Tite plans defensive changes

Reports from this morning’s private training session suggest that Inter are to make three changes to the side which drew 0-0 with Flamengo midweek.

Radio Gaúcho reports that central defenders Índio and Álvaro will both be rested for tomorrow’s visit of Palmeiras whilst Magrão is not expected to recover in time from a thigh injury.

Bolívar is expected to revert to central defence and partner Danny Morais who will make his first appearance of the new Brasileirão as does Danilo Silva who will start at right back. Rosinei is thought to be Tite’s choice to replace Magrão.

Taison and Nilmar are both expected to start up front despite suggestions earlier this week that Nilmar would be rested for Alecsandro.

As usual, a full match preview will here appear tomorrow.

Picture: Danny Morais is likely to start against Palmeiras

Brasileirão 2ª Rodada

The second round of Brasileirão fixtures kicks off this week with Inter’s match against fellow title challengers Palmeiras being the pick of the games whilst Inter's Copa do Brasil opponents Flamengo welcome recently promoted Avaí.

Saturday:
Coritiba v Santo André
Flamengo v Avaí
Atlético-MG v Grêmio

Sunday
Internacional v Palmeiras
São Paulo v Atlético-PR
Santos v Goiás
Barueri v Fluminense
Náutico v Cruzeiro
Botafogo v Corinthians
Vitória v Sport

Walter injury fears confirmed

Results have confirmed that Walter has ruptured ligaments and faces a six month layoff after a collision with another player in a juniores game against São José.

Despite not featuring regularly for Inter this year, the 19 year old has never been far away from the headlines and last month stormed out of the team hotel after finding out that he would not be playing before making a public apology.

This latest news may also interest several major European clubs who are thought to be closely monitoring Walter's progress at the Beira-Rio this season after the striker impressed at the U20 Sudamericana earlier this year, finishing as the competitions top scorer.

Meanwhile, Magrão appeared at the Beira-Rio today for treatment with a thigh complaint which could rule the midfielder out of Sunday’s match against his former club Palmeiras.

Globo Blog do Torcedor latest

After a brief absence, my latest views on Inter are to appear in Portuguese each Friday on Mateus Reck’s Blog do Torcedor on the Globo Esporte site.

Thanks to Mateus Recks translation skills, it’s great opportunity for me to speak to Inter supporters in your first language.

This week I discuss Inter’s cautious approach this week, where they’ve remained undefeated from away games with both Corinthians and Flamengo.

To view the full text click here.

Walter struck by injury blow

Walter could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines after breaking down with a knee injury whilst playing for the juniores yesterday.

Although the club are awaiting the results of an MRI scan, there are fears that Walter may have ruptured ligaments which would rule the striker out for six months.

Luiz Crecente from the club’s medical department explained, “It happened in the game against São José-PA. He twisted his knee that there was swelling. We’ve scanned the area and as soon as we have the results we will speak on the subject. I do no want to say too much at this time but the possibility of a rupture in the ligament exists”.

Picture: Walter could be out for up to six months

Tite could make change for Palmeiras

Already without two players after Magrão and Bolívar both collected their third yellow cards against Flamengo, unconfirmed reports are suggesting that Tite could make further changes for Sunday’s match with Palmeiras.

With Inter facing Flamengo next Wednesday in the decisive Quarter Final second leg, Tite is said to be considering resting up to four players for the visit of the Verdão with defender Índio, midfielders Guiñazu and D’Alessandro and Nilmar all possibly being absent.

If these reports are true then Danny Morais, Rosinei, Andrezinho and Alecsandro could all be handed starts for Inter.

Meanwhile, Palmeiras left back Marcão formerly of Inter has warned his side that they need to stop Nilmar.

Picture: Alecsandro could start against Palmeiras

Bolaños to complete Inter move in next 48 hours

Luis Bolaños is expected to complete his move to Inter within the next 48 hours. The deal is thought to be near to completion with only ‘small details’ between the Sonda Investment group and the Ecuadorian club, LDU Quito, who part own the player to be finalised.

Speaking to Guaíba radio last night, Giovanni Luigi gave an update on the situation.

“Internacional always take care when speaking on negotiations. We will wait until tomorrow or Saturday to see if there are further developments. Bolaños is a great player but the deal still lacks some things. We have to wait”, revealed the Inter director.

When asked about Wednesday draw with Flamengo, Luigi Internacional were below what it can produce.

“There were some aspects for the performance yesterday but the important thing was to leave the Maracanã with a draw since at the Beira-Rio we can do everything to win the game and continue in the Copa do Brasil”, he explained.

Picture: Giovanni Luigi believe's Bolaños deal is close to completion

Stubborn Inter take 0-0 draw from Maracanã

Internacional came away from the Maracanã last night with a goalless draw in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil quarter final against Flamengo.

It was a stubborn defensive performance by Inter as Flamengo controlled the game for long periods. Recent absentee Sandro returned in midfield after recovering from injury and was prominent for the Colorado along with Guiñazu and goalkeeper Lauro.

With Inter under constant pressure in the first half from Flamengo, the Colorado found themselves saved by the post. Going forward, Inter had limited changes whilst the home side wasted a string of opportunities to take the lead.

In the second half, the pattern continued as Flamengo dominated possession. Inter did however begin to grow as the game wore on and Andrezinho and Alecsandro were introduced for D’Alessandro and Taison. With just minutes remaining, substitute Andrezinho fashioned Inter’s best chance of the game as he swung in a dangerous freekick towards the Flamengo far post which Bruno was forced to push over. Deep into stockage time it was Andrezinho again who came inches to breaking the deadlock as he struck the post from twenty yards out. The rebound fell kindly to Alecsandro whose shot was somehow kept out by Bruno who made a spectacular double save to keep Inter at bay.

With the draw handing both teams an opportunity to go through from next week’s second leg at the Beira-Rio, Inter will be regretting that both Bolívar and Magrão will be suspended after picking up their third yellow cards last night.

FLAMENGO 0-0 INTERNACIONAL

Flamengo: Bruno; Léo Moura, Aírton, Ronaldo Angelim , Juan; Willians, Toró (Josiel), Ibson, Kléberson; Everton (Erick Flores), Emerson (Obina)

Internacional: Lauro, Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Sandro, Magrão (Rosinei), Guiñazu, D'Alessandro (Andrezinho); Taison (Alecsandro), Nilmar

Attendance: 53,479

Highlights:

Picture: Inter captain Guiñazu ensured that Inter would not be beaten

Flamengo v Inter

Inter’s quest for silverware continues tonight as attentions turn to the Copa do Brasil with Tite’s side competing with Flamengo for a place in the semi-finals at the famous Maracanã (21:50 local time).

Having already eliminated União Rondonópolis, Guarani and Náutico, Inter will be looking a positive result tonight to take back to the Beira-Rio for next week’s second leg.

The Colorado arrived in Rio de Janeiro last night with Nilmar in demand by supporters and media following his outstanding goal in Inter’s 1-0 win against Corinthians on Sunday.

Tite has the rare luxury of being able to choose from a full squad for tonight’s first leg with Sandro expected to return to the side after missing Inter’s last three games with a calf problem. Glaydson who had deputised for the defensive midfielder is likely to be dropped to the bench. Meanwhile Taison, who had concerns with a hip injury, is also expected to start despite an unimpressive start to Inter’s Brasileirão campaign.

Flamengo who suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Cruzeiro on the weekend are expected to be without popular striker Obina and coach Cuca who he serves a touchline ban.

Recently signed Adriano is also on the absentee list but full back Léo Moura who was heavily linked with Inter earlier this year, is expected to start.

Flamengo: Bruno, Welinton, Aírton, Ronaldo Angelim; Léo Moura, Willians, Ibson, Kléberson, Juan; Everton, Emerson

Inter: Lauro, Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Sandro, Magrão, Guiñazu, D'Alessandro; Taison, Nilmar

Copa do Brasil latest

Ponte Preta and Coritiba were held to a 2-2 last night in the Copa do Brasil quarter final in Campinas, São Paulo.

With the winner of the tie facing either Inter or Flamengo in the semi final stage, the match will now be decided in Coritiba’s Estádio Couto Pereira next week.

Copa do Brasil Quarter Final, First Leg:

Last night:
Ponte Preta 2-2 Coritiba

Tonight:
Vasco v Vitória
Flamengo v Internacional
Corinthians v Fluminense

Paulinho loaned to Figueirense

Inter have confirmed that reserve midfielder Paulinho has joined Serie B side Figueirense.

Paulinho, who has just turned 20, joins the Santa Catarina based outfit on loan until the end of the year.

After being relegated from the Brasileirão last year, Figueirense began their Série B campaign on Saturday with a 3-0 over Ipatinga.

Picture: Paulinho will be hoping for regular football at Figueirense

When Nilmar met Noel!

After attracting the attention of the football fans around the world after his spectacular goal against Corinthians last weekend, Nilmar met Oasis star Noel Gallagher yesterday.

Oasis who played in Porto Alegre last night, met the Inter striker at the club’s Gigantinho gymnasium where the concert was being played.

“This is the boy who scored the incredible goal”, quipped Noel Gallagher as the two met. “We’d like to have Nilmar at Manchester City”, he added, speaking about the club he famously supports.

The band each received shirts signed by Nilmar who was clearly delighted at meeting the band.

“Thank you! Very good, my wife adores them. They are one of the biggest bands in the world”, exclaimed Nilmar after recieving autographs from the band.

Picture: Nilmar meets Manchester City supporting Noel Gallagher

Nilmar aiming for Seleção call up

Following his wonder goal against Corinthians this weekend, Nilmar has reiterated his desire to be named in the Seleção.

Since starting in 2002 with Inter, Nilmar has scored almost 100 goals in a career which has also seen the 24 year old play for French club Lyon and Corinthians and the prolific number nine is keen to attract the attention of Dunga.

“I know that the goal alone will not take me into the Seleção. Clearly, it helps but it’s necessary that I give continuity. There is another game already on Wednesday and I know that I have to do the same”, Nilmar told Globo Esporte.

Dunga meanwhile is expected to announce his next squad later this month for the Seleção’s forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and at home to Paraguay on the 6th and 10th June.

Nilmar’s goal once again:


Picture: (Top) Nilmar celebrates his goal at the Pacaembu

Bolaños ready for Inter challenge

Luis Bolaños has spoken to Bandeirantes radio over his expected move to Inter and is confident he can succeed at the Beira-Rio.

“I know that Internacional have supporters who are great but also very demanding. I want to gain the affection of the supporters”, explained the Ecuadorian.

“I guarantee that I am in good physical condition but I lack match fitness. I know the there is great competition but I will work hard to gain a place”, added the 24 year old.

Bolanos who only moved to Santos from Copa Libertadores champions LDU Quito in January, failed to settle in Vila Belmiro and made just nine appearances for Vágner Mancini’s side, seven in the Campeonato Paulista and two in the Copa do Brasil.

Despite no official confirmation from Inter, speculation is rife that Bolaños will be complete a move to the Beira-Rio this week with some reports suggesting the deal could even be finalised today.

Taison and Sandro train

After recovering from injury, Taison and Sandro trained yesterday afternoon and are both expected to be available for tomorrow’s Copa do Brasil match with Flamengo in Rio.

Despite starting against Corinthians, Taison has been suffering with a hip injury. However, the number seven participated in a muscular workout with the team who played in Sunday’s 1-0 win.

The remaining players, who did not play on the weekend, underwent a full training session and were joined by Sandro who appears to of recovered from a calf strain which had ruled him out of Inter’s opening Brasileirão fixture.

Both players are expected to be named in Tite’s squad to travel to Rio de Janeiro tonight.

Picture: Sandro returned to training yesterday

Bolaños to join Inter “as soon as possible”

Santos director of football Adilson Durante Filho has revealed to the press that Luis Bolaños' solicitors have requested to end his contract with Santos as soon as possible so that he can join Internacional.

“Bolaños is owned by one of our partners, the Sonda (Investment) group who also have a partnership with Inter. Already they requested that the solicitors rescind his contract so that he can sign for Inter as soon as possible. I find that he is a player of great potential but he did not really fit into the Santos team. I think that at Inter it will be different because beyond being an excellent player, he is a great player”, explained the Santos director during his side’s 1-1 draw with Grêmio last night.

Picture: Formerly of LDU Quito and Santos, Bolaños is set to join Inter

Brasileirão Round Up

All the goals and results from the first round of games of the 2009 Campeonato Brasileiro.

Saturday:
Sport 1-1 Barueri
Palmeiras 2-1 Coritiba
Avaí 2-2 Atlético-MG

Sunday:
Corinthians 0-1 Internacional
Fluminense 1-0 São Paulo
Atlético-PR 0-2 Vitória
Cruzeiro 2-0 Flamengo
Santo André 1-1 Botafogo
Grêmio 1-1 Santos
Goiás 3-3 Náutico

Highlights:

Nilmar super strike seals superb Inter win

Internacional got their Brasileirão campaign off to a winning start tonight as a superb first half strike from Nilmar earned Inter all three points in a resolute win against Corinthians at the Estádio Pacaembu.

More to follow...








CORINTHIANS 0-1 INTERNACIONAL
Nilmar 8

Corinthians: Felipe; Jean, Diego (Alessandro), Renato; Diogo, Cristian, Boquita, Jucilei (Dentinho). Wellington Saci (Otacílio Neto); Lulinha, Souza

Internacional: Lauro; Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Glaydson, Guiñazu, Magrão, D´Alessandro (Andrezinho); Taison (Giuliano), Nilmar (Alecsandro)

Attendance: 15,424

Highlights:

Corinthians v Inter

After dominating this year’s Campeonato Gaúcho and making steady progress in the Copa do Brasil, Inter will make their debut in the 2009 Brasileirão later today against fellow title contenders Corinthians at the Estádio Pacaembu, São Paulo (16:00 local time).

Inter approach Brazil’s most respected competition tipped by many journalists and pundits to be champions for the first time since winning their last Brasileirão title thirty years ago. Inter’s form heading into the competition has been highly impressive. 81 goals have been scored in their 27 games so far whilst conceding just 16 goals. Central defender Álvaro however is keen Inter remain calm despite the hype surrounding Inter.

“The secret is to keep our feet on the ground and to work with the intensity that we have shown since the beginning of the year. Now it is necessary more than ever to show seriousness and concentration. The opponents are strong and we have to be well prepared”, explained the 30 year old.

With both Inter and Corinthians winning their respective state championships without defeat, ‘invicta’, Tite is only without midfielder Sandro who stayed in Porto Alegre recovering from a calf problem. Taison, who was a concern after picking up a knock against Náutico last Wednesday has made a full recovery and is expected to start alongside Nilmar who returns to his former club for the first time.

Corinthians meanwhile return to Série A after coach Mano Menezes led the Timão to the Série B title last year after the club were dramatically relegated to Brazil’s second division on the last day of the 2007 championship after Inter lost to fellow relegation candidates Goiás. The history between Inter and Corinthians of course go back further to 2005 when Corinthians won the Brasileirão amidst turmoil and in highly controversial circumstances.

With Inter leading the championship, a match fixing scandal emerged and Corinthians were required to replay seven games, from which they picked up an extra four points. The two clubs then met in one of the final rounds of the competition, in a 1-1 draw at the Pacaembu with Inter having a legitimate goal disallowed and midfielder Tinga was harshly sent off, with the result enabling Corinthians to remain top of table. Corinthians managed to stay top for the remaining two rounds and were crowned champions despite fierce protests and an appeal from Inter.

Having attracted the attention of the world’s media earlier this year with the arrival of Ronaldo, the former Seleção star and Jorge Enrique were not named in the squad and are to be rested whilst centre back William and midfielder Elias are ruled out through injury with midfielder Dentinho also doubtful with Mano Menezes not expected to confirm his team until shortly before kick off.

INTER: Lauro; Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Glaydson, Guiñazu, Magrão, D´Alessandro, Taison, Nilmar.
Técnico: Tite

CORINTHIANS: Felipe; Alessandro, Chicão, Diego, André Santos; Cristian, Boquita, Douglas, Dentinho; Otacílio Neto, Souza
Técnico: Mano Menezes

Brasileirão latest

Last night's results:

Sport 1-1 Barueri
Palmeiras 2-1 Coritiba
Avaí 2-2 Atlético-MG

Remaining 1ª rodada fixtures: (Sun) Corinthians v Inter, Fluminense v São Paulo, Atlético-PR v Vitória, Cruzeiro v Flamengo, Santo André v Botafogo, Grêmio v Santos, Goiás v Náutico

Bolaños to join Inter within the week

The Correio do Povo newspaper is claiming that Ecuadorian forward Luis Bolaños will complete a move to Internacional within the next week.

Bolaños, 24, has recently ended his contract with Santos after moving to Brazil from Ecuadorian football in January this year after being a key member of LDU Quito’s Copa Libertadores triumph last year.

The player’s rights are owned by the Sonda investment group who also worked with Inter to bring Nilmar, D’Alessandro and Kléber to the club and the deal is thought to be near to completion, only lacking official confirmation.

Return of the Brasileirão

The 2009 Campeonato Brasileiro begins this weekend as the 1ª rodada gets underway later today.

Inter are considered by many to be strong candidates for this year’s title although they are expected to face fierce competition from the likes of current champions São Paulo, Palmeiras and Cruzeiro and Corinthians.

This week’s fixtures:

(Sat) Sport v Barueri, Palmeiras v Coritiba, Avaí v Atlético-MG (Sun) Corinthians v Inter, Fluminense v São Paulo, Atlético-PR v Vitória, Cruzeiro v Flamengo, Santo André v Botafogo, Grêmio v Santos, Goiás v Náutico

Inter hopeful over Taison and Sandro

Inter are hopeful that both Taison and Sandro will be fit to play in tomorrow’s Brasileirão opener against Corinthians.

Taison, Inter’s top scorer this year, limped off the field against Náutico midweek but trained as normal yesterday whilst defensive midfielder Sandro, has missed Inter’s last two games after suffering from a calf strain, also returned to training.

It is though Taison is expected to play whilst Sandro will undergo a fitness test this morning before Tite’s squad fly to São Paulo later today.

Picture: Taison is expected to start tomorrow

Bolaños offered to Inter

Fernando Carvalho has confirmed that Santos’ Ecuadorian forward Luis Bolaños was offered to Internacional.

Speaking to Bandeirantes radio, the Inter president revealed that Inter had looked at the Bolaños on two previous occasions and that after finishing his contract with Santos, a representative of the player had contacted Inter.

Carvalho refused to rule out any future deal, as when asked of the possibility of Bolaños playing for the Inter this year he commented, “He could be a reinforcement”.

Picture: Could Bolaños be Inter's next signing?

Leandrão expected to leave Beira-Rio

Reserve striker Leandrão is thought to be attracting attention from clubs in both Brazil and Europe according to Guaíba radio.

With first team opportunities limited for the 25 year old, it is thought that Leandrão has been told he can leave the Beira-Rio.

Former Grêmio coach Celso Roth, now at Atlético-MG is thought to be keen as are Botafogo, who Leandrão played for in 2003. An unnamed club from Greece have also thought to be interested.

Picture: Leandrão is expected to leave Inter

Inter quash left back rumours

Fernando Carvalho denied agreeing a deal to sign young left back Lima after reports surfaced linking Inter with the 17 year old.

Speculation had suggested that Inter had agreed a loan deal with Lima who has already featured heavily for Criciúma in this year’s Campeonato Catarinense, with Inter’s young defensive midfielder Paulinho, who is also attracting interest from Figueirense, moving the other way.

Picture: Young left back Lima is already a first team regular at Criciúma

CBF perform u-turn over transfer rule

The CBF have reversed their recent decision which would allow players to play for only Brazilian club in this year’s Brasileirão.

It is thought that the CBF received pressure and criticism from many of Brazil’s top clubs after announcing the new ruling last week and have revised the ruling.

The new ruling will allow a player’s who have played a maximum of six games to be eligible for another club in the Campeonato Brasileirão which kicks off this weekend.

Nilmar keen to face Corinthians

Nilmar is looking forward to facing his former club Corinthians on Sunday for the first time since leaving the São Paulo based club in 2007.

“It’s the first time I will play against Corinthians after returning to Inter and it should be a great game. Today I’m well, recouped from injuries and looking to win against Corinthians in the Pacaembu”, explained Nilmar.

The striker also played down the pressure surrounding Inter as they head into the new Campeonato Brasileiro.

“We are already accustomed to being favourites since last year. Our squad is strong and the team has shown consistency but favouritism is always off the field. It is on the field where we must show to materialise it”, he added.

Picture: Nilmar keen to face former club

Colorado ease into Quarter Finals

A comfortable 2-0 win at the Beira-Rio last night secured Inter a quarter final clash with Flamengo, with Taison and D’Alessandro scoring early in each half.

Inter’s latest victory see’s Náutico eliminated by a 5-0 aggregate score line as their undefeated run continues. The victory however could come at a price as top scorer Taison left the field injured.

More to follow…

INTERNACIONAL 2-0 NÁUTICO
Taison 1
D’Alessandro 52

Teams:
Lauro; Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Glaydson, Magrão (Rosinei), Guiñazu (Andrezinho), D'Alessandro; Taison (Alecsandro), Nilmar
Coach: Tite

Eduardo; Alex (Wellington), Gladstone, Negretti, Sidny; Vágner, Galiardo (Juliano), Johnny, González (Dinda); Gilmar, Anderson Lessa
Coach: Waldemar Lemos

Attendance: 25,945

Highlights: (now available to all regions)

Inter v Náutico

Internacional are widely expected to confirm their place in the Copa do Brasil Quarter Finals tonight. Anything other than a dramatic Náutico victory in tonight’s second leg would be enough to see Inter go through, with the Colorado taking a healthy 3-0 lead into the Beira-Rio (21:50 local time).

Having eliminated União Rondonópolis and Guarani in the competition’s previous rounds, Tite is expected to field a strong side to secure Inter a quarter final tie against either Fortaleza or Flamengo who meet tonight at the Ceará, north eastern Brazil, following a goalless draw in Rio.

Despite having scored 20 goals in their last four games, concerns regarding Inter’s vulnerability to defend arial balls grow louder, an untimely concern with the Campeonato Brasileiro beginning with a tricky visit to Corinthians this weekend.

With the Corinthian’s match in mind, Tite will be looking for another focused and effective performance from his side.

“Each day we training well with intensity. The advantages will be confirmed on the field. Our objective will again be not to suffer a goal at home. In doing this, we’re looking to go through into the next step of the competition”, explained Tite.

Tite is expected to name the same side which started the first leg a week ago in Recife, with Sandro once again expected to miss out as the midfielder recovers from a calf strain. Gladyson who impressed against Náutico last week, is expected to continue once again.

“It’s the chance that all players wait for. I am well prepared and ready to put in another good performance for the side”, commented the former São Caetano midfielder.

Náutico coach Waldemar Lemos will have midfielders Galiardo and Johnny available following suspension although central defender Asprilla, striker Carlinhos Bala (suspended) and on loan Inter midfielder Derley are all unavailable. Andreson Lessa is expected to partner top scorer Gilmar up front.

INTER: Lauro; Bolívar, Índio, Álvaro, Kléber; Glaydson, Magrão, Guiñazu, D'Alessandro; Taison, Nilmar
Coach: Tite

NÁUTICO: Eduardo; Alex, Gladstone, Negretti, Sidny; Vágner, Galiardo, Johnny, González; Gilmar, Anderson Lessa
Coach: Waldemar Lemos

Brasileirão preview

Ahead of the start of the 2009 Campeonato Brasileiro, the English language ‘Pitaco do gringo’s Brazilian football blog’ has a full preview ahead of the big kick off and looks at al of the main candidates at both ends of the Série A table.

Click here to be taken to the preview.

Seleção of 2009 Gauchão announced

The FGF announced their team of the 2009 Campeonato Gaúcho last night, with seven Inter players named in eleven.

The side was entirely composed of players from Inter and Grêmio, who did not even make the final of either of the two stages.

Tite was named as the best coach whilst Leonardo Gaciba was named as the competition’s best referee.

Goakeeper: Victor (Grêmio)
Rightback: Ruy (Grêmio)
Centre backs: Índio (Inter) and Réver (Grêmio)
Leftback: Kléber (Inter)
Defensive midfielders: Sandro and Guiñazu (Inter)
Attacking midfielders: Souza (Grêmio) and D’Alessandro (Inter)
Forwards: Taison and Nilmar (Inter)

Picture: Taison and Nilmar were both named in the XI

Corinthian Churrasco?!

Corinthian’s celebrated winning the 2009 Campeonato Paulista last night after defeating Santos 4-2 on aggregate. However, celebrations didn’t quite go to plan as you can see!



With state championships coming to a close across Brazil, Flamengo defeated Botafogo on penalties to win the Campeonato Carioca, whilst a 1-1 draw with rivals Atlético-MG secured Cruzeiro the Campeonato Mineiro.

Atlético Paranaense, Avai, Goiás, Vitória and Fortaleza also all won their respective state championships.

Inter prepare for 2009 Brasileirão opener

After having yesterday off, the Inter squad return to training today ahead of a busy week cumulating with their opening fixture in the Campeonato Brasileiro, away to Corinthians.

The squad will train at 9:30 this morning (local time) in the first of two scheduled sessions today as Inter prepare for the Copa do Brasil second leg with Náutico at the Beira-Rio on Wednesday.

Inter will then continue training on Thursday, Friday and Saturday before flying to São Paulo ahead of Sunday’s game at the Estádio do Pacaembu.

Schedule: (all times are local time)
- Monday (04/05)
9:30 - Training
16:00 - Training

- Tuesday (05/05)
16:00 - Training

- Wednesday (06/05)
9:30 - Trainings for players not in first team squad
21:50 – Inter (3) v (0) Náutico (Copa do Brasil 3rd Round 2nd leg)

- Thursday (07/05)
16:00 - Training

- Friday (08/05)
16:00 - Training

- Saturday (09/05)
10:00 – Training and travel

- Sunday (10/05)
16h - Corinthians v Internacional (Round 1, Campeonato Brasileiro)

Inter suffer friendly defeat

An experimental Inter side were defeated 3-1 yesterday afternoon by Figueirense in Florianópolis.

The match was an opportunity for Inter to field players who had not featured heavily so far in the first team this season.

Figueirense took the lead at the Estádio Orlando Scarpelli after Rafael Coelho (24) took advantage of poor Inter defending.

The Colorado then equalised through Leandrão (40) as the striker finished Walter’s cross into the box shortly before half time.

Inter however fell behind to two late second half goals. Substitute Marcelo (75) put the home side in front before Alê (83) headed in Figueirense third of the afternoon.

Line Up: Michel Alves; Arilton (Wagner da Silva), Danny Morais, Sorondo, Marcelo Cordeiro; Maycon, Paulinho, Giuliano, Andrezinho; Walter, Leandrão (Talles Cunha)

Inter set for Figueirense friendly

A mixed Inter squad will play Figueirense in Florianopolis, Santa Catarina tomorrow (16:00 local time).

Figueirense requested the fixture earlier this week as part of their preparations for their forthcoming Série B campaign after being relegated from Série A last year.

Inter are not expected to use any players who featured in Wednesday’s Copa do Brasil victory against Náutico and are expected to use the match as an opportunity for some of the squad’s fringe players to play 90 minutes.

The likes of Danilo Silva, Danny Morais, Gonzalo Sorondo, Maycon, Andrezinho, Leandrão and Walter could all be involved.

Picture: Sorondo is expected to continue his return to fitness against Figueirense tomorrow afternoon

Nilmar calm over Palermo links

Upon arriving back at Porto Alegre's Salgado Filho aiport late yesterday afternoon, Nilmar spoke to the press about Inter’s latest performance and the speculation which has linked him with a move to Palermo.

“We obtained our objective which was to leave there with an advantage. Now we are keen to keep the same rhythm in the next match to qualify. There is always speculation even with it being far from the opening of the transfer window. But, if they want something they must talk with the president. I have two years left on my contract, clearly anything can happen, but I am happy, I am in the team and I have nothing to complain about”, explain Nilmar.

Despite the recent reports linking the striker with a return to European football, both Vitório Píffero and Nilmar’s agent have confirmed that no offer has been made for the player.

Picture: Nilmar not phased by latest rumours