Centre-forward role a headache for Santos against Cruzeiro, here’s why | OneFootball

Santos risks not having a professional center forward in the match against Cruzeiro, for the 38th round of the Brazilian Championship. Lautaro Díaz is out and Tiquinho Soares is doubtful.

The Argentine will not be able to play due to contractual issues. He is on loan to Peixe from Raposa. Meanwhile, the Brazilian is dealing with pain in the back of his left knee. The number 9 was absent in the 3-0 victory over Juventude last Wednesday in Caxias do Sul.

Tiquinho will still be evaluated in the upcoming training sessions to determine if he can play on Sunday. Santos will train this Friday and conclude preparations on Saturday.

The experienced player felt the pain in the 3-0 victory over Sport. On that occasion, he was a starter. Without him, Lautaro Díaz took the position against Juventude.

If neither is available, Vojvoda may change the tactical scheme and place Neymar as a false 9. The attacking midfielder, who is in good form, has been used in this role several times this season.

Other options are Rollheiser and Thaciano. The two alternated in the position in the 1-1 draw but could not perform up to expectations.

The decision on who will play is expected to be made only on Saturday, the day before Santos' last game of the year.

Standings Situation

Santos is in 14th place, with 44 points, two points ahead of Vitória, which is at the top of the relegation zone. The São Paulo team needs a win to stay in Serie A. If they falter, they will depend on other results.

Next Santos Game

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