Diniz hails Léo Jardim as Vasco reach final against Corinthians | OneFootball

After 14 years, Vasco is back in a Copa do Brasil final. This Sunday, at Maracanã, the Cruzmaltino eliminated their rival Fluminense on penalties after a draw on aggregate and advanced to the final. Coach Fernando Diniz celebrated Vasco's qualification a lot in the press conference after the match.   

“It was a moment of great celebration, of profound ecstasy. It was a great joy to see the fans celebrate something they truly deserve. We took another step towards a dream of every Vasco fan. Everything is set for a great final,” said Diniz.   

Léo Jardim in the National Team?

Vasco qualified thanks to two saves by goalkeeper Léo Jardim, who has been very decisive for the Gigante da Colina. According to Diniz, the player deserves a spot in the National Team.   

“Léo is a fundamental player for us. Every day he becomes more identified with Vasco's fans. Every day he improves his skills, whether with his feet, which they said couldn't play with a goalkeeper, and now he is one of the most important in the beginning of plays. He is extremely dedicated. In my opinion, he is a goalkeeper candidate to compete in a World Cup. Léo has the requirements to be called up to compete in the World Cup,” he stated.  

Final against Corinthians

Finally, Diniz projected the two matches against Corinthians for the Copa do Brasil final. The first leg is this Wednesday, at 9:30 PM (Brasília time), at Neo Química Arena. 

“Corinthians has a great team, a fanbase that supports a lot, and they will play a game in São Paulo within their domain, but we will play the final here at Maracanã. We need to know how to rest and prepare. Everything is set for two great matches,” evaluated Diniz. 

Photos: Matheus Lima / Vasco

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