Flamengo's head coach is optimistic about 2009

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(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-12-26 13:53

RIO DE JANEIRO -- Back for his third chance as head coach of the Flamengo soccer team, Cuca said on Thursday that he is excited and optimistic about the 2009 season.

Leo Moura (R) of Flamengo celebrates with his teammates Marcelinho Paraiba (L) and Obina after scoring against Coritiba during their Brazilian championship soccer match at Maracana stadium in Rio Janeiro, October 23, 2008. [Agencies]

Replacing Caio Junior as head coach, Cuca promises to fight nail and tooth for all the tournaments his team will participate in. Junior was fired after Flamengo finished in fifth place in the 2008 Brazilian soccer championship, missing out on their chance to play in the 2009 Libertadores Cup.

"I am confident that we will have a big year. I was brought it to win all the tournaments that we will enter. We will begin by winning the State tournament, then the Brazilian Cup, the South American Cup and the Brazilian soccer championship. We want them all," said Cuca.

The coach already handed in his list of players he wants for next season to the team's administration. According to the coach, the list is short and precise.

"We have a very experienced group. Technically, everyone is strong. We plan on making few changes," added Cuca.