Paulo Sérgio was sent off against Afogados and does not play in the first leg against Retrô (Photo: Rafael Vieira/DP) Victory in suffocation
I don’t suffocate. Náutico beat Afogados and reached the semi-finals, in a tough and difficult duel. The first one was very busy. Timbu repeated the formula from other games: total pressure at the beginning. But the goal didn’t come and Afogados resisted. With the momentum more contained, Náutico began to let Owl work within the offensive field. The red-and-white nervousness hindered the offensive plays. Júlio César was a dull player and Patrick Alan was ineffective in the middle. In the final stretch, we had the two decisive moves. First, the childish mistake of goalkeeper Vágner, who almost leaves the ball at the feet of Afogados’ attackers. Then, at 47, after a beautiful play by Arnaldo on the right, the ball fell to Paulo Sérgio, who protected it and arranged it with care for Patrick Alan to send the bomb.
Taking advantage was what Náutico needed, so that Alan Aal could reorganize the team. But it wasn’t like that. Náutico returned with a red shirt and left the good football in the dressing room. Afogados returned better, creating good chances. The exaggerated retreat of the red and white team was not understood. The Owl’s attackers had too many mistakes in their submissions. Náutico needed something new and Thalissinho was that piece. With him, the attack grew and, at 42, he missed the penalty. After six minutes of conversations with the VAR, Paulo Sérgio sealed the victory. And then came the problem with the attacker, who made a gesture with his fingers, and even though it was directed towards his fans, the referee understood that it was offensive and sent the athlete off. In times of organized bans, Paulo Sérgio should never have made such a gesture. Náutico e Retrô comes and with the controversy that will stir up the week: Laércio Guerra, president of Fênix, will he take another crack at Alvirrubro or will it be the turn of Timbu president, Bruno Becker, to have his revenge?
Game expectations
The fourth semifinalist will be announced in Arruda. Santa Cruz and Central repeat the duel from the last round, with Tricolor winning. The stubborn fighter is worth a place in the semi-finals and also a place in Series D in 2025. Patativa has problems, mainly offensively: two goals in the last four games. Santa Cruz will have a passionate fan base in Arrudão. And whoever loses, goes on vacation on the third day of March. There is a whole expectation of the game.
Attitude x Pressure
Santa Cruz coach Itamar Schüller must have worked twice as hard. As a coach, preparing the best formation, and as a psychologist, to keep the team focused against Central. With a full house, the crowd’s behavior will dictate Tricolor’s rhythm on the field. Pressure will ensue if the goal doesn’t come early. Cool head to maintain attitude on the field. I bet on Santa Cruz to win.
To strengthen
Coach Mariano Soso now has good options in the offensive midfield and attack. The problem is in the defensive system. On the list of reinforcements, two defenders and a midfielder. Sport lacks more aggressive play at the head of the area. Furthermore, the injuries to Thyere and Renzo opened the eyes of the Leo managers to hire them as quickly as possible.