No Cuesta, Diniz eyes makeshift defence as Vasco face Vitória | OneFootball

The situation of Vasco's defense has once again become a concern for Fernando Diniz. With Carlos Cuesta still recovering from a muscle edema in his thigh, the coach admits that the Colombian has little chance of facing Vitória this Sunday at 4 PM in São Januário, for the 27th round of the Brasileirão. The uncertainty about the starter's return highlights an even bigger problem: the loss of confidence in the reserve defenders, who have repeatedly failed in the opportunities they received.

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Palmeiras vs. Vasco, Flaco López — Photo: Marcos Ribolli

Lucas Oliveira falters and is booed

Chosen to replace Cuesta against Palmeiras, Lucas Oliveira had his first start since February — and did not seize the opportunity. He was directly involved in the first two goals scored by Flaco López: he deflected the pass that led to the initial goal and slipped during the second, participating in the scramble that ended with the ball in the back of the net.

In the second half, he continued to lose battles to Vitor Roque and only avoided further embarrassment because one goal was disallowed for offside and Léo Jardim saved another play. The fans' patience ran out, and the defender was booed when substituted by Mateus Carvalho.

Diniz defended the player:

Lucas Freitas faces a similar situation

Before Lucas Oliveira, Lucas Freitas was Diniz's first choice for the defense. However, he also lost his spot after a decisive mistake against Bahia: he made a passing error during ball distribution, leading to the goal that opened the scoring. He was taken off in the first half — booed by the fans — and has not been used as a starter since.

Unlikely alternative: Hugo Moura in defense

With confidence shaken in the two reserves and Cuesta still in doubt, Diniz may resort to an alternative solution: improvising Hugo Moura as a defender, alongside Robert Renan. The midfielder returns from suspension, and his inclusion would open up this possibility.

Injury situation

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Carlos Cuesta in action for Vasco — Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

Diniz avoided creating expectations about Cuesta but projects the Colombian's return only after the FIFA Date, in the match against Fortaleza on October 15.

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