Galo has only one defeat at home this season, precisely to Leão
The Copa do Brasil is back. This Wednesday, at Mineirão, Atlético-MG receives Fortaleza, at 21:30 (Brasilia time), the same time that Atlético-PR and Flamengo face each other in the other semi duel. The return game between Atlético and Fortaleza will be on the other Wednesday (27), at Castelão, capital of Ceará.
At home, Galo has only been defeated once this season, in 29 matches. There are 17 sequential matches without losing. The last setback was precisely for the next opponent, Fortaleza, for the first round of the Brazilian Championship. The Lion won the match by 2-1.
But now the page is turned and the subject is Copa o Brasil. For the fifth time in the semifinal of the tournament, Atlético-MG is looking for the third final in eight years.
Coach Cuca can’t count on Nathan Silva, as the defender has already played for Atlético-GO in the competition. Igor Rabello and Réver dispute the position. On the right side, Guga continues as a starter, as Mariano, with a groin injury, is not yet able to play. In attack, Diego Costa, Savarino and Vargas trained with the ball and must, at least, be related to the confrontation. Saved in Goiânia, Jair resumes his post in midfield.
Fortaleza wants to continue making history in the Copa do Brasil. If the semifinal is unprecedented, the fans want more. They want to advance against Atlético-MG and reach the finals of the national millionaire competition, combining the good moment of Serie A (when they are third in the table) with that of the Copa do Brasil.
Vojvoda is expected to make changes as it enters the field on Wednesday. Romarinho may be new to the attack in the absence of David. Benevenuto and Lucas Lima cannot play for the Cup, as they are not registered in the competition.
