After Fluminense clinched a narrow 1-0 victory against Sampaio Corrêa at the iconic Maracanã stadium, in Campeonato Carioca, Coach Fernando Diniz stepped up to the podium, his face a mix of relief and contemplation.
He took a moment to shine a light on the duo of Ganso and Renato Augusto, who shared the field in this match. “You can both play (together), there is no manual that says that two quality players cannot play.”, questioning the usual beliefs with a slight rebellious tone.
He paused, letting his words sink in. “It doesn’t mean they will always play together. But you can play.” He emphasized their intelligence, not once but twice, painting a picture of their potential to transform the game with their combined presence.
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As the conversation flowed, Diniz didn’t shy away from addressing the tough battle Fluminense faced to penetrate Sampaio Corrêa’s robust defense. “We have to congratulate Sampaio Corrêa,” he admitted, nodding to the strategic depth of their play, which was focused on defense and quick counterattacks.
VEEEENNNNNNNNCEEEEEE O FLUMINEEEEENSE! GERMÁN CANO FAZ MAIS UM NA TEMPORADA E O FLU VENCE O SAMPAIO CORREA POR 1 A 0 NO RETORNO AO MARACA! pic.twitter.com/I3Ix4ppb50
— Fluminense F.C. (@FluminenseFC) February 9, 2024
The breakthrough goal, a testament to persistence and skill, only materialized in the second half, a period Diniz felt was enhanced by Renato’s quality. “I saw that the game allowed us to be more aggressive,” he reflected, a subtle acknowledgment of the tactical shift that led to victory.
Confira o gol 86 de Germán Cano com a Armadura Tricolor! pic.twitter.com/GU0j0Jr3N9
— Fluminense F.C. (@FluminenseFC) February 9, 2024
Yet, not all was well in Diniz’s eyes. He expressed deep concern over the state of the Maracanã’s pitch, a sore point for a stadium of such stature. “It’s really bad,” he lamented, detailing the disruptions and neglect that had left the turf far below expected standards. This wasn’t just a passing comment; it was a plea for respect towards one of the world’s most revered football arenas.
Fluminense, now leading the Taça Guanabara with 17 points, looked ahead to their next challenge against Vasco, carrying with them the lessons and reflections shared by Diniz in those moments after the match.
