“It was not a good result”

The 0-0 scoreline in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil final did not reflect the superiority that Fernando Diniz saw in his team. During the press conference after the draw at the Neo Química Arena, in the early hours of this Thursday (18), Vasco da Gama’s coach adopted a speech of satisfaction with the performance, although he admitted that the result could have been better. For the commander, Cruz-Maltino controlled the actions against the Corinthians and deserved to leave Itaquera with the advantage on the scoreboard.

Despite the lack of victory, Diniz dismissed any negative feelings. He demonstrated pragmatism in analyzing the decision scenario.

“I agree that we played better. We deserved to win the match. But I don’t have a feeling of frustration and I don’t think it’s a good result, either way. I think it will be decided at the Maracanã,” he said.

The coach understands that the away draw keeps the match completely open. He transferred the responsibility of defining the title to Rio de Janeiro.

The highlight of the press conference was the analysis of the defensive system. Known for building attacking teams, Diniz surprised by classifying this Wednesday’s performance as the strongest of his management in protecting his own goal.

“What remains for me is a good feeling about what the team did. The team was perhaps, defensively, Vasco’s best game under my command. The team was very obedient”, he underlined.

This solidity neutralized the Corinthians attack and allowed Vasco to play safely in a hostile environment.

Diniz praises Coutinho and Rayan

The coach was keen to name those responsible for this consistency, evoking the sacrifice of his avant-garde players. Philippe Coutinho, the team’s conductor, received particular praise for his dedication without the ball.

“Some players in a particular way, like Coutinho and Rayan, more Coutinho. By characteristic, they sacrificed a lot to make things happen the way they did,” explained Diniz.

For him, seeing a star with Coutinho’s technique dedicate himself to marking symbolizes the group’s commitment to the title goal.

Now all attention turns to next Sunday. Vasco and Corinthians meet at the Maracanã, at 6 p.m., for the last 90 minutes. Whoever wins lifts the cup. In the event of a new tie, the champion will leave the penalty shootout. Diniz is betting on maintaining this “delivery” and the support of the fans to win his second title in the competition.

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