Bayer 04 Brazil Tour – Day 4 blog: Christ the Redeemer in red, Renato Augusto and Co. watch Werkself friendly

+++ 18 July, 20.17: ‘Black and Red Night’ – Christ the Redeemer lit up in red +++

After the friendly, the Bayer 04 group made their way straight to the Casa Camolese, an atmospheric locale in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. That was the venue for the ‘Black and Red Night’, a relaxed get-together for Bayer 04, Bayer Consumer Health and Bayer Crop Science.

In between lively discussions and the atmospheric ambience with local traditional music a few samba dancers joined in and that put people in a great mood. Brazilian joie de vivre! The big highlight: Rio’s most famous landmark and one of the seven modern wonders of the world, Christ the Redeemer was lit up in red in keeping with motto of the get-together.

The get-together at the ‘Black and Red Night’ ends day four of the Bayer 04 Brazil Tour. There are several exciting events planned for tomorrow, Saturday 19 July. Be ready - see you tomorrow!

+++ 18 July, 16.31: The first friendly is over +++

The match is over, the Werkself lose 5-1 in the first friendly of the preseason. Flamengo player Gusttavo put the hosts 5-0 up after the restart (55') with youth player Montrell Culbreath pulling a goal back 15 minutes later for the final score (71'). The match report

+++ 18 July, 15.26: Half-time +++

After 45 minutes, the Werkself with five youth players in the starting line-up our 4-0 down against the CR Flamengo U20 team. While the Brazilians are in the middle of their league campaign, it's the first outing for our lads in the preseason. A short breather and then – with several changes over the course of the second half – carry on.

+++ 18 July, 14.37: Ten Hag first time in dugout +++

And there are the first minutes under the leadership of our new head coach Erik ten Hag. Jonas Hofmann led the Werkself onto the pitch as captain, Arthur receives a warm welcome from his fellow countrymen.

+++ 18 July, 14.23: Just before kick-off +++

About to start. The atmosphere here is overwhelming. And there are numerous children in the stand who are certainly creating an atmosphere. Bring on the game!

And where we’re talking about spectators: In addition to Paulo Sergio, Rodrigo Chagas, Zé Elias and Henrique there is another legend here: Renato Augusto! The now 37-year-old came to Leverkusen from CR Flamengo in 2008 and he played for the Werkself for five years. Great to see you again, Renato!

+++ 18 July, 13.04: Arrival at Estádio da Gávea +++

The lads have just arrived at today's venue. And what an impressive stage. You don't really know where to look first. On the one side there is the distinctive, historic stand with the big Flamengo logo and to the right – on the edge of the impressive mountain backdrop – the world-famous Christ the Redeemer. In addition, there is a clear blue sky, the sun is shining and birds fly over the palms and the pitch. Incredible.

For the team it into the changing rooms get ready for the warm-up. Also something different: The lads get changed in the Flamengo basketball hall right next to the pitch. You don't see that every day but it definitely looks cool.

+++ 18 July, 11.11: Stretching exercises +++

After breakfast – as is usual on matchdays – the players have a relaxed warm-up routine at the team hotel. With bands and yoga mats there is plenty of stretching – the lads are ready for the matchday.

The team set off for the Estádio da Gávea, where the first friendly of the preseason kicks off at 14:30 (19:30 CEST). We will report from there.

+++ 18 July, 9.04: Matchday! +++

Good morning, dear Werkself fans! Are you ready for the first match under new head coach Erik ten Hag? After many exhausting sessions here in Rio over the past few days, Bayer 04 play the CR Flamengo U20 team when it's the evening for you back home.

The latest information on the opponents, the venue, live stream and, of course, the match can be found on our media channels. Have fun!