Atlético: Cuca reveals which player played a role in the sacrifice against Flamengo

Atlético's qualification for the quarterfinals of the Copa do Brasil, on Wednesday (August 6), against Flamengo , highlighted the commitment of the squad led by Cuca. The coach revealed, after the match, that right-back Renzo Saravia participated in the decisive clash despite facing a physical problem, which required medical attention before the duel.

Saravia felt muscle discomfort in his right calf during the first leg, played at Maracanã. As a result, he sat out the Brazilian Championship match against RB Bragantino . However, he did play in the second half of the return leg at Arena MRV, replacing Natanael.

Cuca emphasized that the athlete needed medication to play, emphasizing his importance to the defense. "Renzo Saravia was supposed to be out of the game today. He received an injection in the morning, another in the afternoon to be available. We can't give up on a player like him, with his experience, and that's what happened."

The coach also praised the impact of the Argentine's entry on the team's tactical balance. "He came on with a lot of effort and was very important for us defensively, giving the team greater balance."

The string of decisive matches has required planning from Atlético, and Cuca recognized the need to preserve players. Therefore, he announced that he will monitor the team's performance in the match against Vasco, scheduled for Sunday (August 10) at 4 pm (Brasília time) at São Januário, for the 19th round of the Brasileirão. The intention is to have full strength for the match against Godoy Cruz in the South American Cup, the following Wednesday.

"There are a lot of games on top of games, and we have to control the load or we'll end up getting everyone injured. Sunday is another game to think about, to get the players as fresh and rested as possible, so they have the strength to play the knockout match against Godoy Cruz on Wednesday," explained the coach.

Despite the recent performance, Cuca said the players' requested time off after qualifying was denied. "The guys wanted tomorrow off today. And they were supposed to give them tomorrow off... everything they've been doing, traveling, but it's not possible. We'll be back there working tomorrow morning. They get mad at us, but it's no use. It's the best thing for us."

Finally, the coach praised the group's attitude and reinforced his confidence in the squad to maintain their competitiveness. "They understand, it's great. We're determined, and that's how we do it. We'll work them physically, recover whoever needs to recover, train whoever needs to train, and get ready for a good game on Sunday."