From warm-up to whistle, Vitor Roque’s Palmeiras return in 1-0 win over Athletico-PR | OneFootball

Vitor Roque made his comeback for Palmeiras after an ankle problem, featuring late in the 1-0 win over Athletico-PR in São Paulo on Sunday.

According to Globo.com, the forward rejoined the matchday squad after almost a month out. He had been absent since 21 March against São Paulo, having felt ankle pain since the Choque-Rei Paulista semi-final, and playing through the State final, where he scored the title-clinching goal against Novorizontino, slowed his recovery.

He resumed group work with some restrictions during the trip from Salvador to Cartagena for meetings with Bahia and Junior Barranquilla. In physical transition, he missed the Dérbi on 12 April, and although he wanted minutes against Sporting Cristal, the Health and Performance Unit requested one last strengthening phase.

Before kick-off he joined the reserves’ warm-up, showed his spring, joined the rondo and rehearsed finishes, including a fine strike past first-choice goalkeeper Carlos Miguel. He also spent time with children by the pitch before returning to take his place on the bench.

Already warming, he was called by João Martins and received an ovation as he replaced Ramón Sosa on 36 minutes of the second half. He logged 16 minutes, with four involvements on the ball and one offside, drawing two fouls and losing possession in the other two, while winning two of three defensive duels.

His attacking moments were limited by the game state, with Palmeiras 1-0 up and down to 10 after Murilo’s red card. Post-match, he said he was happy to be back helping, called it a hard-fought win, and stressed he needs training and rhythm, adding he will keep working with humility to reach 100% and that he feels comfortable in long sleeves.

Roque now has six goals and one assist in 17 appearances this season, 10 as a starter. Fully recovered, he is likely to be included for Thursday’s 19:30 Copa do Brasil tie against Jacuipense.

Source: Globo.com