Group strength takes Galo to the semi-finals | OneFootball

Galo’s qualification for the Copa do Brasil semifinal was built by a squad that once again showed its strength. In the 2-1 win over Cruzeiro at Arena MRV, players who started on the bench played a direct role in Atlético’s comeback and were crucial to the turnaround.

Victor Hugo was the clearest example. Back on the pitch after a spell in the medical department, the No. 30 came on in the second half and was directly involved in both Atlético goals. He scored the equalizer and, in the 43rd minute, provided the assist for Fred to score the qualification-clinching goal.

But the squad’s response had started earlier.

Squad response

Still in the first half, Ruan Tressoldi had to leave the field. Vitão came on in his place and helped the team maintain its organization and intensity in a highly demanding match.

At halftime, Reinier replaced Cassierra. In the second half, Alan Minda came on for Alan Franco, Victor Hugo replaced Bernard and, later on, Gustavo Scarpa came in for Natanael.

Each change brought new qualities to the team and helped Galo keep up the pressure in search of the comeback.

The strength of the available options was also highlighted by Renan Lodi after the match.

The full-back’s words sum up the spirit of a team that had to overcome different setbacks during the decider.

Victor Hugo makes the difference

Among all the players who came on during the match, Victor Hugo had a special impact.

The No. 30 returned to action in one of the most important matches of the season. In the 32nd minute of the second half, he appeared inside the box to score the goal that brought Atlético level again.

Atlético 1 x 1 Cruzeiro.

The equalizer changed the course of the decider once again.

Eleven minutes later, Victor Hugo was in the spotlight again. This time, he received the ball and found Fred in a great position. The No. 7 finished first time and scored the winner.

Atlético 2 x 1 Cruzeiro.

Goal by Victor Hugo. Assist by Victor Hugo. Goal by Fred. Galo through.

Everyone for one goal

Atlético’s comeback also came through the team’s ability to adapt.

After halftime, Eduardo Domínguez adjusted the positioning of Bernard and Kevin Castaño. According to the coach, the change also came from a conversation with the players themselves.

The connection between the coaching staff and the players was important for Atlético to keep control of the match and find solutions throughout the 90 minutes.

And the group responded.

Commitment until the end

While Victor Hugo and Fred made the difference up front, other players also had to overcome difficulties to help Galo.

Everson took the field even with a fracture in his left foot and underwent intensive treatment to be available. Ruan left the game with an injury. Vitão came on and did his job. Reinier, Minda, Victor Hugo and Scarpa were all called upon during the match.

The qualification was, therefore, the result of a squad that answered when called upon.

Renan Lodi made a point of highlighting that quality:

The result put Atlético among the final four of the Copa do Brasil.

More than just a comeback, the night at Arena MRV showed the strength of a group in which those who start, those who come on and those who stay on the bench all work toward the same goal: taking Galo even further.

Follow Galo on social media: @atletico

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