Fernando Diniz backs under-fire Corinthians players and eyes reset after World Cup break | OneFootball

Corinthians lost 2-0 at home to Platense in the final round of Group E of the Libertadores. According to Meu Timao, Fernando Diniz defended out-of-form players in the wake of the defeat.

Franco Zapiola struck from the spot before the break after Rodrigo Garro conceded a penalty following a flapped corner. After half-time, he seized on goalkeeper Hugo Souza’s stray pass and chipped the second.

Midfielder Allan, booed at the Neo Química Arena, was, Diniz said, experienced enough to handle pressure at a club of Corinthians’ size, citing spells at Atlético-MG and Fluminense.

He linked the reaction to Allan’s 1 April red card at Fluminense for an obscene gesture at Lucho Acosta, which drew a one-match STJD ban, and to a shove on a Platense player that aided time-wasting at 2-0.

Souza’s display came under scrutiny only days after he was omitted from Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.

André Luiz did not come off the bench, and, once trusted by Diniz, has lost his place after a failed March move to Milan under Dorival Júnior and red cards for an obscene gesture and a reckless challenge.

Diniz cited a gruelling schedule, saying last season ended two or three days before Christmas and the squad returned in January, and he believes the World Cup break could help reset the group. He highlighted Saturday’s trip to Grêmio at 17:30 in Porto Alegre, the 18th round of the Brasileirão.

Source: Meu Timao