The Tricolor coach criticized his team's inability to capitalize on chances and secure a vital win in the Brasileirão, despite dominant possession.
São Paulo FC coach Dorival Júnior openly expressed his deep disappointment and frustration following the team's 1-1 draw against Coritiba. The match, part of the 23rd round of the 2026 Brazilian Championship, unfolded at MorumBIS in São Paulo, SP, leaving the coach to reflect on persistent issues that cost his side a crucial victory.
Júnior pinpointed a recurring problem, noting that a single defensive lapse ultimately denied them the chance for a win. This pattern, he explained, has plagued the team in multiple matches, despite dedicated efforts to rectify it. The coach emphasized that difficulties with set pieces continue to undermine their potential to climb higher in the league standings.
Addressing the team's performance and the fervent support from the stands, Dorival Júnior placed the onus squarely on his players. He lamented the missed opportunities, particularly after a dominant first half, and acknowledged the team's debt to their fans, according to reporting by Yahoo Sports - Top Stories.
Frustration with Persistent Set Piece Vulnerabilities
Coach Dorival Júnior did not mince words when discussing his team's defensive frailties, especially concerning set pieces. He highlighted a painful regularity, stating, “It's frustrating because, from one play, we ended up losing the chance for a win.” This issue, he reiterated, “has been happening repeatedly in several matches.”
Despite the coaching staff's relentless focus and work on these defensive situations, Júnior admitted they remain a significant hurdle. He noted that “set pieces have been taking away a real chance for us to be in a much better position in the league,” underscoring their impact on São Paulo's championship campaign.
Missed Opportunities and Unfinished Business
Beyond defensive woes, Dorival Júnior also pointed to a crucial failing in the attacking third. He admitted, “We owe our fans because of what we tried to do in the first half, playing practically the entire time in the opponent's half.” This dominance, however, failed to translate into a decisive advantage.
The coach lamented the team's inability to convert pressure into goals, adding, “But, once again, we lacked the most important thing, which is making the decisive play and finishing the job.” This sentiment reflects a broader challenge for São Paulo in securing wins from commanding positions.
Coach Takes Full Responsibility, Praises Fans
Dorival Júnior took full accountability for the draw, shielding his players while acknowledging the collective shortcomings. Praising the loyal supporters, he stated, “The fans did their part, and they did it very well. Once again, we fell short. The responsibility is ours.”
He further highlighted the team's missed opportunity, emphasizing the relative ease of the game for his goalkeeper. Júnior concluded by stating, “Today our goalkeeper practically didn't have to make a save, so we had the obligation to try something different so that we could end the match with a win.”
São Paulo's Crucial Schedule Ahead
The draw against Coritiba now shifts São Paulo's immediate focus to upcoming vital fixtures across multiple competitions. The Tricolor will return to action on Tuesday, October 18, at 9:30 p.m., once again at MorumBIS.
This next challenge is a crucial second-leg match in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana round of 16 against Bolívar-BOL. Following that, São Paulo will resume their Brasileirão campaign on Sunday, October 23, at 6:30 p.m., traveling to Arena Condá in Chapecó, SC, to face Chapecoense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Dorival Júnior say about the Coritiba draw?
Coach Dorival Júnior expressed deep frustration after the 1-1 draw with Coritiba, highlighting recurring issues with set pieces costing the team potential wins and admitting they owed the fans a better result.
What specific issues did Dorival Júnior highlight?
Júnior pointed out that São Paulo repeatedly loses win opportunities from single plays, particularly due to struggles with set pieces. He also noted a lack of decisive playmaking and finishing despite dominating possession in the opponent's half.
When is São Paulo's next match?
São Paulo's next match is on Tuesday, October 18, at 9:30 p.m. against Bolívar-BOL at MorumBIS, for the second leg of the CONMEBOL Sudamericana round of 16.
Where was the São Paulo vs Coritiba match played?
The 1-1 draw between São Paulo and Coritiba, part of the Brasileirão's 23rd round, took place at the MorumBIS stadium in São Paulo, SP.
How did Dorival Júnior assess the fans' presence?
Dorival Júnior praised the fans for doing their part "very well" at the stadium, but took responsibility, stating that the team "fell short" and had the obligation to win, especially since their goalkeeper barely had to make a save.