Martinelli on Fluminense draw sub: “We’ve got a packed schedule”

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·5. April 2026

Martinelli on Fluminense draw sub: “We’ve got a packed schedule”

Midfielder Martinelli reflected on Fluminense’s 1-1 draw with Coritiba at Couto Pereira in the 10th round of the Brazilian Championship. In the player’s view, the Tricolor controlled much of the match and created enough chances to secure the win.

According to the midfielder, the team found it difficult mainly at the start of the match against a deeper-lying opponent, but responded well after falling behind and managed to equalize.

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“I think it was a great game. We managed to control most of the match. Their team sat very deep, with practically everyone behind the ball. In the first half it was a bit more difficult, more stop-start, but we ended up conceding a goal. Even so, the team deserves credit, we responded well. We had chances and, right at the end, even had opportunities to win the game. I think that’s what the Brazilian Championship is like — every match is difficult, especially away from home. So we have to value this point. The team played a great game and now we have our Libertadores opener, which needs our full attention,” said the midfielder.

The player also commented on being substituted during the match. According to him, the change was part of the coaching staff’s plan to manage physical wear and tear amid the packed schedule.

“The coach asked me how I was feeling, and I said I was fine. He told me to keep going a little longer, but this is all planned by the staff together with the fitness team. We have a tough schedule, so there is that kind of monitoring. But I’m fine, thank God,” Martinelli added.

After the draw in the Brasileirão, Fluminense now turns its attention to its Copa Libertadores opener, when it will face Deportivo La Guaira in the first round of the continental competition.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.