Léo Jardim: 'Dream come true' as Vasco reach Copa do Brasil next round | OneFootball

Léo Jardim was the hero behind Vasco’s dramatic qualification for the final of the Copa do Brasil. After a 180-minute battle against Fluminense, the goalkeeper shone in the penalty shootout, saving two shots, securing a 4-3 victory and sending the Cruzmaltino back to a national competition final after a long 14 years.

The composure of a penalty specialist

This wasn’t the first time Léo Jardim stood tall in a penalty shootout. A specialist in the art, the goalkeeper revealed his secret to shining in moments of maximum pressure, like the one at Maracanã.

“I think it’s about trying to stay calm when things get a bit hectic. It’s a lot of work, a lot of focus. Being as balanced as possible to make good decisions,” explained the number 1, who has already been in six penalty shootouts in the Copa do Brasil throughout his career.

“I’m happy to be able to help once again and to highlight the work of the whole team, of all the staff. Honestly, it was a dream for us to be in this final,” he declared, emotionally.

From fan pressure to the glory of the final

Léo Jardim also made a point of acknowledging the criticism and pressure the team faced throughout a season of ups and downs.

“We know that the fans’ demands are normal. We need to deliver on the field and, at times during the season, we ended up being inconsistent. So, the fans’ pressure is totally understandable,” said the goalkeeper.

“But the most important thing is this: they never stop supporting us, always filling the stadium, no matter our situation. We’re very happy to be able to provide a moment like this, and we’re going to fight for this title to give this gift to the fans,” he promised.

Clash of giants in goal and respect for Fábio

The night at Maracanã also featured a special duel between two great goalkeepers. On the other side was the experienced Fábio, who also made some great saves during the match. Léo Jardim spared no praise for his opponent and said he was honored to have taken part in such a high-level contest.

“Fábio is a great goalkeeper, I really admire his work, and as a person—I’m truly a fan. So, to take part in a penalty shootout against him, and against other great goalkeepers, is an honor, a privilege. That’s why I work so hard to be at their level and to always help Vasco,” concluded the hero of the qualification.

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