Guilherme Alves, technical director of Atlético-MG, addressed the media following the club's 2-0 loss to Grêmio in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil semifinal held in Porto Alegre. Speaking on behalf of the staff, Alves admitted that the team is navigating a challenging period but stressed his unwavering trust in the work of coach Barba Domínguez and the entire roster.
The director noted that this defeat adds to a recent string of setbacks, including losses in classic matches against Flamengo and Cruzeiro in the Brazilian Championship, as well as a defeat to City Torque despite advancing to the Sudamericana final. Alves acknowledged the emotional toll on the squad, stating that while the players are upset and discouraged, they are by no means defeated.
With the current aggregate score, Atlético-MG faces a steep challenge for the second leg scheduled for November 7 at Arena MRV. The team must win by a margin of three goals to advance in regular time, whereas a two-goal victory would send the tie to penalties. Alves expressed optimism regarding the potential return of injured players Fred and Thiago Borbas, hoping they can be included in the lineup to assist their teammates.
Drawing parallels to the Sudamericana quarterfinals against Santos, Alves recalled how the team overcame a similar 2-0 deficit away from home by winning 4-2 at Arena MRV. That match ultimately went to penalties, where Gabriel Delfim secured victory with three saves. Ahead of the Copa do Brasil return leg, Atlético-MG will face Botafogo away on Wednesday in the 35th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro. The team currently sits in sixth place with 50 points, four behind Athletico-PR, which leads the G-5 standings.
Sources: Globo Esporte.