Analysis: Abel's stubborn streak spoils Giay's best night for Palmeiras | OneFootball

Abel Ferreira is the kind of coach who would rather die clinging to his convictions when making changes to Palmeiras. That was the case in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals against LDU at Nubank Parque. The slim home advantage leaves their bid for a place in the next round at risk next week, at Ecuador’s altitude.

Three center-backs

The three-man defense has been Abel Ferreira’s choice since Barboza arrived. The no-nonsense center-back has technical limitations when playing out from the back and in the attack-versus-defense battle, which highlighted the No. 2’s difficulties. There were several misplaced passes, especially in the second half.

Attack only on one side

With Piquerez underperforming yet again, Palmeiras once more looked to build their plays down the right. Jhon Arias and Giay created the best chances, and the right-back turned in his best performance in nearly 100 matches for Palmeiras. It was his goal, in fact, that secured the win and the advantage.

Besides the goal, the No. 4 had other chances, but ended up wasting two finishes that could have increased the lead.

One substitution

Abel Ferreira chose to make just one substitution, bringing on Heittor for Vitor Roque. The coach explained that the team’s dynamic was working well and, because of that, he preferred to change as little as possible in the structure. The problem was that in the second half of the final stretch, Barboza and Murilo had space to work the ball, but without success.

Big problem

For the return leg next Wednesday (16), Palmeiras will be without Gustavo Gómez, who is suspended. Without the team’s reference point in that area, it remains to be seen whether Abel will bring in Bruno Fuchs or keep the back three by slotting in Piquerez or Giay there, as he has done in previous situations.

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