Corinthians defender backs Fernando Diniz and looks ahead to Libertadores last-16 test | OneFootball

Gabriel Paulista says Fernando Diniz has reinforced belief in Corinthians after a bruising cup exit, and the side responded in the league ahead of a Libertadores last-16 meeting with Rosario Central.

According to Meu Timao, Corinthians were eliminated from the Copa do Brasil by Internacional last week. They quickly switched focus to the Brasileirão and won 2-0 at Estádio Municipal de Bragança Paulista, narrowing the gap to the top five.

The centre-back, a starter under Dorival Júnior who remains a defensive leader for Diniz, said the coach gives the squad confidence and licence to play with and without the ball, while demanding collective defending. He admitted the cup defeat hurt and felt Sunday was about changing the mood.

Since the calendar resumed after the World Cup pause, Corinthians have played six competitive matches across league and cup. The run reads four wins, one draw and one defeat, the 2-0 loss at Beira-Rio that sealed their elimination.

Corinthians face Rosario Central on Thursday, then the return is at Neo Química Arena on 20 August at 21:30, with penalties if the aggregate is level. The league win lifted them to seventh on 32 points, one behind fifth-placed Cruzeiro, the first Libertadores qualification berth for 2027. Paulista expects a combative tie against Argentinian opposition and aims for a positive result.

Source: Meu Timao

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