Flamengo defines training locations in the USA for the new FIFA Club World Cup

One statistic has been causing discomfort within Flamengo: the drastic drop in ball time in recent matches . The problem, which reflects a chronic deficiency in Brazilian football, involves the slow pace, excessive stoppages, and constant referee interference, factors that have been compromising the quality of the games.

Flamengo on match stoppages: "Excessive stoppages compromise the flow of the game and the quality of the show"

In their last four matches, Flamengo has played less than 55 minutes of effective football in all of them . The most critical point came in the match against Juventude, which set a record low of the season, with less than 50 minutes of play. These numbers are well below the ideal for a high-level match.

AVERAGE BELOW THE INTERNATIONAL STANDARD

According to international recommendations adopted by the world's major leagues, the ideal minimum playing time should be 60 minutes. However, Flamengo has consistently fallen short of this mark throughout the season .

A graph released by the club shows that the red zone, an indicator of matches with less than 50 minutes of ball play, was reached on more than one occasion, setting off a warning sign: “Flamengo's latest games have exposed a curious and alarming fact: the constant drop in ball play time and the slow pace , often imposed by excessive and unnecessary interference from the referee.

Excessive stoppages compromise the flow of the game and the quality of the performance. Excessive rigidity on the sidelines, nonexistent fouls, complacency with the game's timing , delays in replacements, and decisions that stall the game have become commonplace.

Against Juventude, for example, the ball's play time fell below 50 minutes, the worst rate of the season . The international recommendation is at least 60 minutes, but this has rarely happened. Brazilian football needs to move closer to global best practices to offer fans a more dynamic and fair game," Flamengo's statement read.

FILIPE LUÍS AND PLAYERS CRITICIZE REFEREEING

After the match against Cruzeiro, Filipe Luís, Léo Ortiz, and Saúl were emphatic in their criticism of the officiating . The coach revealed that, as soon as he learned of the referee's schedule, the group anticipated difficulties, and the performance confirmed their concerns.

"I've always avoided talking about refereeing, but it's difficult. When his name came up, we knew it would be complicated. The decisions aren't the same, and the criteria change during the game . Cards are given inconsistently, and this affects the flow of the match," said Filipe Luís.

NEXT REFEREE DEFINED

Next Sunday (05), Flamengo faces Bahia, in the 27th round of the Brasileirão. The match will be commanded by the referee from Pernambuco, Rodrigo Lima . The ball rolls at 6:30 pm (Brasília time), at Arena Fonte Nova, in Salvador, with broadcast by Premiere (pay-per-view).

Flamengo returns to the field this Sunday (5), at 6:30 pm (Brasília time), to face Bahia at Arena Fonte Nova, for the 27th round of the Brazilian Championship. The clash promises a full house: so far, more than 45 thousand tickets have already been sold , reinforcing the expectation of a large audience in Salvador.

TICKETS SOLD OUT

Ticket sales began last Sunday (28), with priority check-in for members of the Tô na Fonte category. Even after the general opening, members still have access to purchase. Prices range from R$33 to R$280, with half-price tickets available and free for children up to 11 years old. The section designated for Flamengo fans is already sold out .

TICKET PRICES

• North Upper Seat – R$76 (half R$38)
• Superior East Chair – R$80 (half R$40)
• North Chair – R$ 90 (half R$ 45)
• East Chair – R$ 100 (half R$ 50)
• Special Lower Chair – R$ 130 (half R$ 65)
• Superior Special Chair – R$ 140 (half R$ 70)
• Premium Lounge – R$280
• Children's Lounge – R$ 170

DECISIVE DUEL IN THE BRAZILIAN CHAMPIONSHIP

On the field, the match has strategic importance for both sides. Bahia, defeated by Botafogo in the previous round, is trying to re-enter the top four and also depends on the results of Botafogo and Mirassol. Flamengo , meanwhile, is looking to extend its lead at the top of Série A and maintain its good form under Filipe Luís , who is trying to solidify the team's title bid.

MATCH DETAILS

Bahia and Flamengo face each other in the 27th round of the Brazilian Championship this Sunday (05), at 6:30 pm (Brasília time), at Arena Fonte Nova, in Salvador. The match will be broadcast on Premiere (pay-per-view). The match will be refereed by Rodrigo Lima (PE).

Although the transfer window is closed, things are still abuzz behind the scenes. Arsenal has set a sale price for striker Gabriel Jesus , who is being eyed by Flamengo and Everton. According to journalist Ekrem Konur, the English club is asking for around £30 million, equivalent to R$215.6 million at the current exchange rate, for the player. Thus, interested teams are already aware of the Gunners' asking price.

Behind the scenes, Flamengo is monitoring the center forward's situation and evaluating a possible move. However, the board believes the amount requested is above Brazilian football's financial standards . Mengão is also considering other players for the position.

SITUATION OF GABRIEL JESUS

With a contract valid until June 2027, Gabriel Jesus lost his place at Arsenal after the arrival of striker Viktor Gyökeres , formerly of Sporting (POR). Furthermore, manager Mikel Arteta has been using midfielder Mikel Merino as a makeshift player in the attacking sector, which has further reduced the Brazilian's chances.

Given this scenario, the player is considering seeking new horizons. The departure would also aim to regain his place on the Brazilian national team , with the 2026 World Cup in the United States in mind. Currently, Gabriel Jesus is not among coach Carlo Ancelotti's options.

AND FLAMENGO?

The red-and-black squad currently has three center forwards: Pedro, a fan favorite ; Wallace Yan, who is attracting interest from European clubs; and Juninho, who is expected to be traded in the next transfer window. Even with the number 9, the board is considering bringing in a major reinforcement for the position, but the high cost of Gabriel Jesus is seen as a hurdle.

FLAMENGO'S NEXT GAME

While observing the market, Flamengo focuses on the four lines. The team faces Bahia this Sunday (05), at 6:30 pm (Brasília time) , at Arena Fonte Nova, for the 27th round of the Brasileirão. Leader with 55 points, Mais Querido seeks victory over the sixth-placed team, which has 40 points, to remain firm in the fight for the title.