Sabino shines, secures spot in São Paulo’s starting XI | OneFootball

The defender Sabino has been gaining ground at São Paulo this season. The number 35 is in great form, has overtaken Arboleda among the starters, and forms a solid partnership with Alan Franco in the Tricolor’s defense.

Sabino arrived at São Paulo in 2024 and began to receive more opportunities after Crespo’s arrival in June of last season. Even so, he was the third option in the squad, behind Alan Franco and Arboleda. When the coach opted for a three-defender formation, he also competed with Ferraresi for a spot among the starters.

This year, the initial scenario seemed similar, with only two appearances in the first five games. However, after strong performances against Flamengo and Santos and a drop in Arboleda’s form, Sabino became the main reference in Crespo’s defensive system.

Starting in the last three matches, he stood out against Grêmio and Ponte Preta, totaling 13 defensive actions. In the knockout match against Bragantino, he was heavily involved in the duels, registering 19 defensive interventions and playing as the only center-back in the final stretch after Alan Franco’s sending off.

Even with competition from Arboleda and Ferraresi, Sabino has been consolidating himself as the main option in São Paulo’s defense, alongside Alan Franco. In the eight games he has played, the Tricolor kept a clean sheet in three.

São Paulo’s Form

After defeating Red Bull Bragantino in the quarterfinals, São Paulo will face Palmeiras in the Paulistão semifinal at the Arena Barueri. In the Brasileirão, the Tricolor is in second place with seven points, the same as leaders Palmeiras.

Next Match

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