Author: Shreyas Sharma
In a frank post-match press conference, Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira didn’t mince his words in taking full responsibility for his team’s elimination from the Conmebol Libertadores semi-finals against Boca Juniors. The thrilling encounter at Allianz Parque ended 1-1, with Boca Juniors coming out on top 4-2 on penalties.
Abel Ferreira made this clear from the start, saying: “What do you want me to say? That I’m responsible? The person most responsible, and this isn’t the first time I’ve said this, is me. So I’m going to tell you: I’m the person most responsible for eliminating“.
The coach faced numerous questions about his line-up choices for the decisive match against Boca Juniors. He experimented with Marcos Rocha at right-back and Mayke further forward, playing as a wing-back alongside Artur and Rony. The decision caught the attention of fans and pundits alike, especially after the goalless draw in the first leg.
Abel Ferreira responded firmly, affirming his role as coach of the team and responsible for the preparation and strategy of the squad. He defended his choices and expressed his conviction in the decisions he made. “Who is the coach of this team? Who does everything to make Palmeiras win? Who is with them every day? So that’s it. I have nothing more to say” he emphasized.
Despite the elimination, Abel Ferreira praised the young talents who contributed to the team’s performance during the match. Players like Kevin, Luis Guilherme, Fabinho and Endrick made significant contributions, with Endrick coming on at half-time to help secure the draw that led to a penalty shoot-out.
Regarding the match, Abel Ferreira acknowledged that the Boca Juniors goalkeeper played a decisive role, making crucial saves. He said that his team followed their game plan, but couldn’t overcome the resistance of the opposing goalkeeper.
With the Libertadores campaign over, Palmeiras are turning their attention to the Brasileirão. Despite being eliminated from the continental competition, Abel Ferreira still believes that Botafogo, his biggest rivals in the league, have everything it takes to be champions.
Palmeiras’ next challenge is against their arch-rivals, Santos, at the Arena Barueri, with Abel Ferreira and his team eager to keep up their pursuit of the Brasileirão title in the coming games.