Sul-Americana victory boosts morale, but Dorival Júnior calls for consistency and warns about São Paulo's 'problematic situation' in the Brazilian Championship.
São Paulo secured its qualification for the Copa Sul-Americana quarterfinals by defeating Bolívar by 3-1, demonstrating resilience on the field. The tricolor team, which initially opened the scoring, conceded an equalizer from Asprilla but managed to react and secure the victory to advance in the continental competition.
Following the triumph, coach Dorival Júnior gave a press conference in the early hours of last Wednesday, August 19. The coach expressed his satisfaction with the players' dedication but made sure to emphasize the need to maintain consistent performance for the upcoming challenges.
Despite the euphoria of advancing in the Sul-Americana, Dorival Júnior issued an important warning about the club's reality in the Campeonato Brasileiro. The contrast between continental success and their position in the national league table worries the coaching staff and the fans.
Recognition of the Squad's Effort and the Right Path
During the press conference, Dorival Júnior did not spare praise for the athletes' attitude on the field, highlighting their ability to overcome challenges. He stated that the effort shown against Bolívar is the path to follow, demonstrating confidence in the team's potential to evolve.
“What I want is for the team to continue giving their all as they have been. I trust that we are on the right path and perhaps seeking a better condition,” declared the São Paulo coach, emphasizing the importance of maintaining intensity and commitment from everyone.
Crucial Warning About the Brazilian Championship
Despite the significance of the Sul-Americana qualification, Dorival Júnior made a point of keeping their feet on the ground, focusing on the challenges of the Campeonato Brasileiro. He emphasized that Tricolor's situation in Série A still demands maximum attention and continuous effort.
“It was an important game, but it was just one match. We have to be aware of that. Our situation in the Brazilian Championship is still problematic; we are conscious that today's effort was important,” the coach pointed out. He even recalled the feeling of frustration after the recent draw with Coritiba, despite the team's good performance in that game.
Challenging Overview in the Série A Table
In the Campeonato Brasileiro, São Paulo finds itself in a delicate position, occupying the 13th spot in the table. With 27 points, the club is just four points away from Mirassol, who has 23 points and is the first team in the relegation zone. This scenario makes every Série A match a true “final.”
Tricolor Paulista's Next Commitment
São Paulo's next challenge in the Campeonato Brasileiro is scheduled for Sunday, August 23. The team will travel to Santa Catarina to face Chapecoense, in a match valid for the 24th round of Série A of the Brasileirão. The ball will kick off at 6:30 PM, at Arena Condá, and Tricolor seeks a positive result to move away from the bottom of the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dorival Júnior's assessment of São Paulo's Sul-Americana victory?
Dorival Júnior expressed satisfaction with São Paulo players' effort after the 3-1 victory over Bolívar, which secured their qualification for the Copa Sul-Americana quarterfinals. He praised the team's commitment.
What is São Paulo's situation in the Brazilian Championship?
São Paulo's situation in the Brazilian Championship is considered problematic. The team occupies the 13th spot, with 27 points, being just four points above the relegation zone, which includes Mirassol with 23 points.
When does São Paulo play again in the Brasileirão?
São Paulo will play again in the Brazilian Championship on Sunday, August 23, to face Chapecoense. The match will be at Arena Condá, at 6:30 PM, for the 24th round of Série A.