Atlético resume training after Carnival, prepare for América semi-final | OneFootball

The Atlético squad returned to training this Wednesday (18th) at Cidade do Galo, after a break during Carnival. Riding high from their 7-2 victory over Itabirito in the last round of the first phase of the Campeonato Mineiro, the alvinegro team now turns its attention to the state championship semifinal.

The first match in the battle for a spot in the final will be against América, next Sunday (22nd), at Arena MRV. The match marks the beginning of an important sequence for Galo this season.

Galo still without a coach

Atlético has not yet announced a new coach. Since the dismissal of Argentine Jorge Sampaoli, made official last Thursday (12th), the team has been led by permanent assistant Lucas Gonçalves.

Lucas is expected to be in charge of the team again in the derby against Coelho. Internally, the management continues to evaluate the market, but so far, there has been no decision regarding the new head coach.

Decisive sequence

After the match against América for the state championship, Atlético's schedule remains intense. The club faces Grêmio on the 25th at 9:30 PM for the Brazilian Championship. Then, they face América again on March 1st for the second match of the Mineiro semifinal.

This marathon will require special attention from the interim coaching staff, both in terms of physical conditioning and tactical organization, especially amid the uncertainty about the permanent coach.

In pursuit of another final

Besides the rivalry, the clash against América could represent another important chapter in the club's recent history. Atlético is trying to extend an impressive streak in the Campeonato Mineiro: since 2006, the team has not missed a state final.

If they eliminate Coelho, Galo will reach the milestone of 20 consecutive finals. In the 19 previous finals during this period, the club has lifted the trophy 12 times. Cruzeiro has won six titles in this span, while América has won only once, in 2016.

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