In their first game under the command of Fernando Diniz, Corinthians debuted with victory in the Copa Libertadores this Thursday (9), beating Platense, in Argentina, 2-0.
After nine games without winning, the black and white team triumphed again with goals from Kayke and Yuri Alberto, both in the second half, at the 8th and 25th minutes. In both plays, the attackers took advantage of passes from Rodrigo Garro, the highlight of the match.
Technically superior, Corinthians encountered difficulties in the first half and only scored once on goal, while the opponent demanded good saves from Hugo Souza.
Still without showing clear signs of Diniz’s work — known for his style based on ball possession and short output —, the team had difficulty building plays before the break. The coach has been in charge of the squad since Tuesday (7), when he was presented as a replacement for Dorival Júnior, fired by the club after a long sequence of bad results.
Returning to the second half, the Parque São Jorge team began to control more possession, especially with Garro’s greater participation.
With a 2-0 lead, Corinthians still had one more player after the 35th minute, after Saborido was sent off, with a direct red card for a harsh foul on Matheus Bidu.
With the scenario under control, Diniz opted to save parts and rotate the squad, with an eye on Sunday’s classic against Palmeiras, in the Brazilian Championship Series A.
In the national competition, Corinthians occupies 16th place, the last one outside the relegation zone. The team hasn’t won since the second round, when they beat Athletico Paranaense.
For the Libertadores, Corinthians returns to the field on the 15th, when they host Santa Fe, in Itaquera.
