Author: Serg Atrakhov, Vishwajit Sawant
In a match marked by a lack of attacking productivity, Atlético-MG and Goiás played out a goalless draw at the Serrinha stadium in Goiânia on Monday night. Scolari’s team was nominally considered favorites, but apparently the players are in a “psychological hole”. How else can you explain such a poor game from very good players in recent months? Remember that the last time they won the championship was a month and a half ago, on June 4. After that, there were two defeats and three draws. Add to that a withdrawal from the 1/8 Cup in Brazil. The only positive sign is that the team has reached the last eight of the Copa Libertadores, where they will face Palmeiras on August 3 and 10.
If we go back to the game against Goiás, a hypothetical win would lift Atlético-MG immediately up to eighth place. The visitors tried to play aggressively, controlling the ball and the pace of the match, but all their attacking efforts “broke down” against the hosts’ well-organized defense. Atlético didn’t create a single really dangerous moment, but they did manage to miss at least twice, both of which were saved by Everson. In the eighth minute, he caught the ball from João Magno’s corner kick and, in the 66th minute, he saved Alano’s shot, which flew past all the defenders.
In the second half, Atlético-MG maintained the same pattern, with possession, but without the creativity needed to open up the Goiás defense. Meanwhile, Goiás used quick counter-attacks to trouble their opponents, ensuring that the black and white defensive line was present. In the 92nd minute, captain Guillermo Arana received a red card for hitting an opponent with an elbow. This episode put an end to Mineiro’s poor play.
A 0-0 draw, which is unlikely to please the visitors. Atlético are in 12th place. As they have to play Grêmio away and Flamengo (currently second and third in the league) in the next two rounds, it’s safe to assume that Atlético will be even closer to the relegation zone. Goiás, meanwhile, will face Cruzeiro on Sunday in the hope of securing a more favorable result.
Remember that the matches on Matchday 15 – América – Vasco and Corinthians – Grêmio have been postponed to a later date. As for the rest of the games, we offer you their analysis: