Sampaoli hails Dudu, clarifies Alexander after Galo beat Ceará | OneFootball

Atlético returned to winning ways in the Brasileirão, defeating Ceará 1-0 last Saturday (25) at Arena MRV. After the match, coach Jorge Sampaoli discussed, in the press conference, two players who have been in the spotlight in recent days: Alexander, who has not yet played after being cleared by the Medical Department, and Dudu, once again decisive in the black and white jersey.

On the bench for the last two matches, Alexander has not played since September 24. Even though he was listed, the forward did not receive any minutes against Del Valle and Ceará. When questioned about the player's situation, Sampaoli explained that the decision was made as a precaution.

“Alexander is not 100%. In the last training session, he showed some kind of insecurity, and that's why I preferred not to take any risks,” said the Argentine coach, emphasizing that he will only be used when there is complete physical and psychological confidence in the athlete.

While Alexander awaits another chance, Dudu is experiencing the opposite situation. The number 92 has been crucial in Galo's last two matches. In Ecuador, he scored the equalizing goal against Independiente del Valle (EQU), keeping Atlético alive in the continental semifinal. Against Ceará, he was the playmaker: he assisted Alan Franco to decide the match and secure three points for the Alvinegro in the Brasileirão.

Sampaoli did not hold back on praising the forward:

What's coming up…

With high spirits, Atlético now turns its attention to the Copa Sudamericana. Next Tuesday (28), at 9:30 PM, Galo hosts Independiente del Valle at Arena MRV for the return leg of the semifinals. Needing a simple victory in front of their fans, the team from Minas Gerais seeks to secure a spot in the continental final, continuing their strong pursuit of the title.

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