Author: Soorya G
In an interview after the
1-0 win over Goiás
Abel Ferreira tactfully dispelled any possible controversy surrounding Breno Lopes and his celebration that seemed to irritate some Palmeiras fans on Friday night. The coach stressed the importance of team unity and the support of the fans, recognizing the need for all the players to contribute.
“The first thing to say is that we always need our fans. They know we have a very small squad and we need all our players. We depend a lot on the support of our fans. Secondly, I’m the first to admit my mistakes here; I’ve been kicked out a few times, often for not controlling my emotions“, began Abel when asked if Breno Lopes wasn’t lacking control.
Breno Lopes came on at the end of the game and had two consecutive missed chances, deflecting a cross after a fine pass from Raphael Veiga and then shooting off target. Many spectators expressed their dissatisfaction with these moments at Allianz Parque. However, Breno Lopes redeemed himself on his third chance and gestured to the crowd during his celebration.
“Emotions are part of soccer. The most important thing is the support of the fans. Even I sometimes lose control of my emotions. We need all our players, because our squad is very small. We have to be more and more united at home, and the fans are the heart of our team” said Abel Ferreira.
“We ran until the last second for them, as we did today. It was worth the money they paid to see the goal in the final seconds. What matters is that Breno scored the winning goal, which is what we needed“, added Abel Ferreira during the interview.
Breno Lopes, both hero and scapegoat, received mixed reactions from some fans after the final whistle. Shouts of “attention, respect for the Verdão fans” echoed in the stands.
“He didn’t play as much as he would have liked, but he left his mark on the club. He’s someone I trust, someone I like and someone who has something in him, which is scoring goals. He has a gift for scoring goals. It’s not the first time: count the goals he’s scored in the few minutes I’ve given him. It’s important” said Abel Ferreira.