Confrontation winner faces either Atlético-MG or Fluminense
Balance is the word that can define this confrontation in the quarterfinals of the Copa do Brasil. After the 2-2 draw in the first leg, at Morumbi, Fortaleza and São Paulo decide soon, at 9:30 pm (Brasilia time), at Castelão, who will be the semifinalist on the other side of the bracket. Without the goal criteria for, any new tie takes the decision to penalties. Whoever wins in normal time, by any score, qualifies. Whoever wins will face the winner of Atlético-MG and Fluminense, who will also face off today, at Mineirão.
Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda will not have Benevenuto and Lucas Lima at his disposal, as they have already played for other teams in the competition. Besides, Felipe is doubtful. Jackson and Matheus Vargas should replace the former. In the case of Felipe, if he doesn’t act, Jussa and Ronald fight for the vacancy.
.There are already six games that Fortaleza does not win (five in Serie A and one in the Copa do Brasil). In addition, time can make history, because at no point did it qualify for the semifinals of the competition.
Under pressure, São Paulo is also trying to ward off a future crisis. The defeat to Fluminense, by the Campeonato Brasileiro, last weekend, brought the club to a point in the relegation zone.
Hernán Crespo will have the return of Arboleda, who has recovered from a strain on his left thigh, and can remake the defensive trio alongside Miranda and Léo. The coach’s expectation is to have Rigoni and Benítez in 100% physical condition to be able to use a pair. Both must be holders, as well as Eder, who was currently the bank. On the other hand, Crespo cannot count on Calleri and Gabriel, who are not registered for the Copa do Brasil.
