Santos gear up for a final atmosphere ahead of clash with Vitória | OneFootball

The 3-1 victory over Corinthians last Wednesday, during the 28th round of the Brazilian Championship, seems to have lifted a cloud from over Santos. The atmosphere is noticeably lighter behind the scenes.

The tension, however, still exists, of course, as the club remains threatened by the relegation zone. The difference to Vitória, the first team within the Z4, is still only three points. Therefore, the match against the team from Bahia, scheduled for Monday, is treated as a final.

The squad and technical staff are focused and determined to, hopefully, finally change the fight for Santos in the Brasileirão. And the game against Corinthians is serving as a motivation.

Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda stated that it was the best performance of the team since he took charge. The players' attitude on the field pleased everyone: the staff, the squad, and the fans.

One of the highlights of the success over Timão, with a goal and an assist, Álvaro Barreal emphasized the need for Peixe to maintain the attitude against Vitória and in the continuation of the competition.

“It has to be a game similar to the last one. The last one was a final and now it's another final. The mentality has to be the same, both for the player and the fan. Everyone together and try to do the same as in the classic,” he said.

“You have to have attitude during all games. It's attitude, concentration, and trying to do the best possible in the championship. It's a final, as it was against Corinthians. It's a six-point game. We have to prepare in the best possible way,” he added.

How is Santos doing?

Vojvoda has three reinforcements. Tomás Rincón and Thaciano, who were absent against Corinthians, have recovered. The midfielder had a muscle edema in his left calf. Meanwhile, the attacking midfielder had discomfort in his ankle.

Alexis Duarte also returns. The defender reported back last Thursday after serving the Paraguayan national team during the FIFA date.

Santos, however, has two confirmed absences. Neymar is still recovering from an injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh. João Schmidt, on the other hand, is suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards.

Santos' Next Game

Santos' Standings Situation

Santos is in 16th place, with 31 points, three more than Vitória, which opens the relegation zone.

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