Coach Fernando Diniz is preparing significant changes to the squad for the return game of the fifth phase of Copa of Brasil against Barra-SC, scheduled for Thursday at 7:30 pm on Neo Química Arena. The decision to field a mixed team reflects the club’s priority to remain in the fight to escape the relegation zone in Campeonato Brasileiro, where Sunday’s clash against Botafogo in Rio of Janeiro gains maximum weight.
With the 1-0 lead achieved in Florianópolis, Corinthians is comfortable in the knockout duel. Diniz keeps in mind both the advancement in the tournament and the streak of crucial points in the national competition. Isso explains why he rests some athletes and offers opportunities to reserve before Sunday.
Mudanças confirmed in defense and midfield
Hugo Souza continues as goalkeeper, while the defense undergoes changes in the central marking. Gabriel Paulista continues, but André Gustavo Henrique replaces other available options. Matheuzinho remains on the right and Fabrizio Angileri remains on the left.
In midfield, Allan and André form the defensive duo. Breno Bidon receives the opportunity, with Dieguinho as an alternative if the holder is unable to do so. Rodrigo Garro continues, but Zakaria Labyad appears as an option to add muscle to the sector.
Ataque with Pedro Raul and Kaio César in focus
Kaio César and Pedro Raul form the front line. Yuri Alberto remains an offensive alternative if the coach needs changes in the second half. The duo must receive support from Rodrigo Garro and Zakaria Labyad in their creations.
Memphis Depay remains a confirmed embezzlement. The Dutchman did not regain his best physical shape after a period of treatment and will be spared throughout the week to only return for weekend commitments. Seu’s return is planned exclusively to face Botafogo.
Departamento doctor removes four athletes
Corinthians continues with important casualties in the medical department:
- Vitinho
- Kayke
- Hugo
- João Pedro Tchoca
Todos remains unavailable for any competitive activity this week. The absence of these names forces Diniz to rely on the alternative squad available at the base.
Cenário from Copa from Brasil and prizes in play
Atual champion of Copa of Brasil, Timão continues in search of the fifth championship of the tournament. Para advances to the round of 16, the Parque São Jorge club will play for any draw or victory, thanks to the positive result of the first leg.
The prize for eliminating Barra-SC reaches R$3 million. The amount reinforces the club’s cash flow at a financially delicate time and contributes to investments in the squad during the season.
Estratégia resting before the classic
Corinthians has been carrying out tactical activities since Monday. The athletes performed positioning exercises on offensive and defensive set pieces. Diniz assembles the team thinking about solid defensive standards against Barra-SC, maintaining scoring efficiency without absences from an established name.
Thursday’s duel serves as an assessment of quality. Reservas gains minutes, the squad refines tactical standards and on Sunday the starters return rested for the clash against Botafogo in the search for points that avoid relegation.