Cuca expected to keep Santos shape for Athletico-PR | OneFootball

Cuca is expected to keep Santos’ shape for the visit of Athletico-PR on Sunday at Vila Belmiro, having drilled the same set-up at CT Rei Pelé. According to Diario Do Peixe, the work pointed to the side likely to start the 22nd round fixture at 18:30 Brasília time.

Friday’s session centred on technical and tactical details, mirroring the approach used in the Copa do Brasil win over Remo that secured quarter-final progress. Cuca kept the core from that tie and did not test changes among the starters.

The likely XI is Gabriel Brazão in goal, a back four of Gabriel Menino, Adonis Frías, João Ananias and Escobar, midfielders João Schmidt, Christian Oliva, Gabriel Bontempo and Barreal, and a front two of Caballero and Gabigol.

Even so, there will be a notable absence compared with the last match. Neymar is suspended after receiving a third yellow card and will not face Athletico-PR.

Cuca also remains without Lucas Veríssimo, Vinícius Lira, Gustavo Henrique, Pepê Fermino and Moisés, all still in recovery. Igor Vinícius, who missed the Remo game with lower-back pain, remains a doubt.

Santos train again on Saturday as preparations are finalised. They sit 15th in the table on 22 points and are chasing a win to move away from the relegation zone.

Source: Diario Do Peixe

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”