Dorival backs Martínez at full-back: "Played it simple" | OneFootball

The coach Dorival Júnior needed to find a solution to replace Matheuzinho, who was suspended against Vitória, and bet on an alternative never used before: José Martínez in an improvised role. The midfielder from Corinthians was chosen by the coach for the number 2 position.

The coach's choice was surprising. Before the match, it was speculated that Félix Torres or Charles would take the spot, especially since they had been tested in the position on other occasions. However, Dorival opted for José Martínez and approved of the player's performance.

The black-and-white coach backed Martínez's selection in place of Matheuzinho and explained the decision based on two factors: the Venezuelan's characteristics and a strategic analysis of Vitória. The coach understood that the midfielder could contain the advances of left-back Ramon.

“It was an excellent performance by Martínez. We noticed some of his characteristics, and the speed that Vitória's team brings down that side, especially with Ramon's great runs, would cause difficulties and problems for us. He handled the game very well, playing with simplicity, within his best conditions, fighting and giving his all. We had few problems there, which is an important fact,” highlighted Dorival.

Indeed, José Martínez kept it simple. Improvised as a right-back, Corinthians' number 70 did not have a brilliant match but helped stop Vitória's attacks on his side.

According to Sofascore data, the Venezuelan made four clearances and recovered one ball, in addition to winning five out of nine ground duels. Offensively, he did not contribute much. He had 67 actions with the ball and attempted three crosses, but none were successful.

And what about Jacaré?

Without Matheuzinho, Corinthians does not have many options for the right-back position. The only alternative to field a player originally from that position would be João Vitor, known as Jacaré. The young academy player has been training with the professionals and was one of the options to replace the number 2.

However, Dorival was evasive about Jacaré's situation. The coach urged patience with the 18-year-old and said he would get an opportunity “at the right moment.”

“[João Vitor] Jacaré is being prepared. At the right moment, when he shows us that he is fully ready, he will certainly have an opportunity,” the coach assessed.

Jacaré has already played twice for the professional team this season, both in the Campeonato Paulista, when Corinthians was still managed by coach Ramón Díaz. Dorival, on the other hand, has not yet tested the young player in official matches. Recently, the youngster renewed his contract with Corinthians until October 2029.

Corinthians' position in the standings

With the result, Corinthians achieved their second consecutive victory for the first time in the Brazilian Championship. The team climbed to the ninth position in the standings and reached 39 points, distancing themselves from the relegation zone and appearing, albeit temporarily, in the upper part of the table.

Upcoming Corinthians matches

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