Diniz praises the most criticised area, says: ‘That was Vasco’s best match’ | OneFootball

After the 1-1 draw with Botafogo, coach Fernando Diniz gave a surprising and counterintuitive analysis of Vasco da Gama’s performance. The coach strongly praised the defensive system’s performance. The sector, which had been the most criticized, was described by the manager as the team’s highlight in the derby, even saying it was perhaps the best match the team has played under his command in this aspect.

+ Vasco and Botafogo draw 1-1 in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals

Coach praises the improvised center-back duo

The main focus of Diniz’s praise was the center-back duo formed by the makeshift defensive midfielder Hugo Moura and Lucas Freitas. According to the coach, they neutralized the opposing strikers. He stated:

Diniz also defended his defense in the play that led to Botafogo’s goal. He made a point of differentiating the goal conceded in the derby from the mistakes made against Corinthians. The coach declared:

Vasco’s coach praised the defenders – Photo: Pedro Cobalea/Lance!

Improvement in the second half almost secured Vasco’s victory

Regarding the offensive side, Diniz assessed that the team started the game “a bit stuck,” but loosened up in the second half, creating “a series” of chances. He believes the team had a moment when they could have won.

However, the fatigue of players like Coutinho and Rayan slowed the pace. The draw, therefore, takes the decision to the second leg, on September 11.

Whoever wins advances to the semifinals of the Copa do Brasil. If the score is tied again, the decision will go to penalties.

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