Santos lost 2-1 to Bragantino in Bragança Paulista on Monday in the 34th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro, once again exposing problems with defending aerial balls and creating danger in attack. The result marked the team’s worst spell of results in the competition’s second half, according to the match analysis.
An own goal by Rodinei early in the match set the tone for a difficult night. Cuca’s side struggled to contain Bragantino’s attacks down the wings and long balls, including direct passes from goalkeeper Thiago Volpi towards the forwards. Santos’ defence was left exposed, and both centre-backs and the left-back were shown yellow cards.
Santos also found it hard to break down Bragantino’s crowded defence, circulating possession without testing the goalkeeper consistently. Coutinho and Gabigol eventually combined to score the visitors’ goal, with individual skill helping them get through the opposition’s defensive block.
Cuca and Gabigol protested after Rony was not awarded a penalty, but the analysis said the refereeing decision did not change the assessment of Santos’ overall performance. The team has won only once in its last six league matches. Defeats to Atlético-MG and Bragantino, along with home draws against Flamengo, Bahia and Palmeiras, have left Santos further from its Libertadores objective.
The upcoming international break gives Cuca time to regroup the squad and work towards the closing stretch of the league season. It also offers an opportunity to recover key players who are receiving treatment for injuries.
Sources: Globo Esporte.