Fernando Diniz praises Zakaria Labyad for versatility after Corinthians’ 1-1 at Peñarol | OneFootball

Fernando Diniz praised Zakaria Labyad for his versatility after Corinthians drew 1-1 with Peñarol, the Moroccan scoring to keep the side top of Group E.

The fifth-round Copa Libertadores tie was played at Estadio Campeón del Siglo in Montevideo. According to Meu Timao, Diniz said he is still getting to know the 33-year-old, called him very technical, and noted he can operate as an attacking midfielder or a second midfielder as well as the role he filled here.

Labyad, announced on 22 February, had not played since November 2025 with Dalian Yingbo in China, so Corinthians staged a tailored pre-season to build his fitness before his March bow.

He debuted on 11 March in a 2-0 home defeat to Coritiba in the Brasileiro and was eased in before earning this first start. Used sparingly under Dorival Júnior, his minutes increased after Diniz arrived in early April, featuring in eight of the past 13 matches.

The result confirmed Group E leadership and a Pot 1 place in the last 16 draw. Corinthians now aim to improve their overall Libertadores ranking in the final group fixture. They face Atlético-MG on Sunday at 18:30 at the Casa do Povo in the 17th round of the Brasileirão.

Source: Meu Timao