Still in March, Vice President Márcio Lara said Hurricane would prioritize the national championship. It's not what's been happening in the field.
In all the last Brasileirão games, Martín Varini spared some holders and climbed a mixed team. And he took a small advantage, falling on the table.
The Hurricane even won from Cuiabá, but tied with Inter and lost to Bragantino, Grêmio and Youth. The club is only the ninth placed, with 29 points.
Hurricane has two late games (against Atlético-MG and Fluminense). But even if you win these two games, you won't even reach the G-6.
In relation to the title of Brasileirão (priority of the club, at least in the speech), then, neither is spoken. Athletico is already 17 points behind the leader Botafogo.
" My priority is to put the best 11 for each game. When you start playing every three days, for the team to produce, you need energy. It's no use putting players by name," said the red-black commander half-empty.
Hearts to save Athletico
With Brasileirão increasingly distant, Athletico will try to save the centenary with the Cups. In both South American and Brazilian Cups, there are six games left for the title.
The way, however, will not be easy. To begin with, Hurricane will have to hold the Belgrano in Argentina with a minimal advantage (after victory by 2 to 1 on the way).
If you pass Belgrano, Hurricane will probably face the Racing – Argentinean's room placed. And the semifinal may have FortressRosario Central, Bragantino...
The way of the Brazil Cup will be set on Tuesday (20). But Athletico could have teams like Athletic-MG, Flamengo and Sao Paulo from the front.
With the mistakes you have made in the last few matches (mainly in the defensive system), Athletico cannot be considered a favorite in any of these matches.
It remains to be hoped for a more "accessible" way in the Cups. Or, of course, correct the weaknesses and try to strengthen for decisive matches. All to save the centennial.
To increase the challenge, Athletico should not make many hirings. Bruno Praxedes may be the only backup. Varini will have to draw milk from stone. Hell of a challenge.
Next games
The Athletic, therefore, returns to the field before the Belgrano.
- 22/08 Thursday, 19h: Belgrano (outside)
- 26/08, Monday, 9:00 p.m. Vasco (outside)
- 29/08, to be defined: quarter finals of the Brazilian Cup
- 01/09, Sunday, 16h: Palm trees (home)
- 12 or 13/09, to be defined: quarter finals of the Brazilian Cup
