Grando praises Weverton as two penalty saves boost Grêmio 3-1 friendly win | OneFootball

Gabriel Grando saved two penalties in Grêmio’s 3-1 friendly win over Cruzeiro at Mané Garrincha in Brasília, strengthening his case to challenge Weverton for the starting spot.

According to Globo.com, Grando lauded Weverton’s professionalism on and off the pitch and said players must work to give the coach something to think about when chances arise. He noted Weverton had been representing Brazil and said he will give his best whenever selected.

Head coach Luís Castro said he is relaxed about the goalkeeping battle, praising Grando’s display and seeing a promising path for the academy graduate. Despite Weverton’s presence, he indicated Grando could get further opportunities.

Penalty saves are nothing new for Grando. In 2023 he helped Grêmio into the Copa do Brasil semi-finals by stopping two Bahia spot-kicks in a shootout.

After a period of consolidation he lost his place the following year with Agustín Marchesín’s arrival, then joined Cruzeiro on loan and has been working to regain his spot at Grêmio.

At Cruzeiro he worked with forward Kaio Jorge, whose penalty he saved on Sunday. He also denied debutant Gabriel Pec, both in the second half.

This season he has made three appearances, all in the Gauchão, the last on 31 January in a 1-1 draw with Juventude. He returned as a starter in a late June friendly against Cascavel.

Weverton has returned from the World Cup with Brazil, resumed training at CT Luiz Carvalho on Monday, and should start against Mirassol on Friday when the Brasileirão restarts.

Source: Globo.com