Alexsander hails run, values break and highlights team progress after win | OneFootball

Atlético’s 1-0 win over Vasco on Sunday afternoon (31) at São Januário, in the 18th round of the Brazilian Championship, had special meaning for defensive midfielder Alexsander. Brought on in the second half by coach Eduardo Domínguez, the midfielder celebrated the opportunity to earn more and more space in the black-and-white squad.

In the mixed zone after the match, the player highlighted the work done in training and his satisfaction at getting more minutes on the field again.

“I’m very happy. I’ve been working hard to earn more minutes. I’m happy to be able to play again,” he said.

Atlético’s win was secured by a goal from center-back Vitor Hugo in the 32nd minute of the first half, a result that took Galo to 24 points and moved the team closer to the group fighting for the top spots in the table.

Break will be important for the squad’s recovery

With the schedule paused because of the World Cup, Atlético’s squad will begin a vacation period before returning to work. For Alexsander, the break comes at an important moment in the season: “These 20 days will be important so we can rest and come back even stronger,” he commented.

The defensive midfielder believes the pause could help the group recover its energy for the rest of the season, with Atlético still alive in the main competitions on the calendar.

Eyes on the top of the table

Besides celebrating the away win, Alexsander stressed the importance of the result earned in Rio de Janeiro for the club’s ambitions in the Brazilian Championship:

Asked about the team’s recent performances, Alexsander said he sees clear improvement in the latest displays by Eduardo Domínguez’s side: “Yes, of course, we’re showing that on the field. We had some ups and downs, but now we’ve managed to get things right and achieve results,” he added.

Atlético ends the first part of the season on a high, coming off a positive run of results and with renewed confidence for the return of competition.

Break and next match

After the match at São Januário, the black-and-white squad was released for a vacation period. The team is scheduled to report back on Monday, June 22, when the players will begin preparations for the rest of the season.

Galo’s next official match will not be until July 22, against Bahia at Arena MRV, in the 19th round of the Brazilian Championship.

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