Diniz wants sharper Corinthians attack as injuries mount before Copa do Brasil last 16 | OneFootball

Fernando Diniz is satisfied with Corinthians’ defensive structure but is urging improvement in the final third as absences up front deepen with decisive knockout matches looming.

According to Globo.com, Yuri Alberto has a muscle injury, Pedro Raul is out with pubic pain and Vitinho has suffered another knee problem. A new contract for Memphis Depay remains unsigned.

In April, Kayke underwent surgery to repair an anterior cruciate ligament injury and remains some way from returning. The injured list also includes midfielders Zakaria Labyad, who had been in good form before a serious knee injury, and Rodrigo Garro, who has a right foot trauma and is doubtful for the next match.

From the recent regulars, only Kaio César and Jesse Lingard are available. Dieguinho started the 0-0 draw with Athletico-PR but struggled to impress.

Striker Gui Negão is an option, yet Diniz has not used him, leaving him out of some squads and without minutes since taking charge in April.

Since the World Cup break, Corinthians have conceded only one goal in three games. They scored three against Remo, one against Bahia and none versus Athletico-PR, as Diniz prioritises raising attacking output in the second half of the year.

The first test comes at Internacional on Sunday at 19:30 Brasília time at Beira-Rio in the Copa do Brasil round of 16 first leg. The return is on Thursday at 20:00 at Neo Química Arena.

Source: Globo.com