Renato Gaúcho revealed that Carlos Vinícius's goal in Grêmio's 2-0 win over Atlético-MG in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil semifinal was the result of a set piece rehearsed in training. The striker opened the scoring early after taking advantage of a quick restart by goalkeeper Weverton from a goal kick, beating the Atlético marking and finishing with no chance for Gabriel Delfim. The source report noted that Carlos Vinícius was not offside because he received the ball directly from a goal kick.
In a post-match press conference, Renato Gaúcho said the move is part of Grêmio's set-piece strategies. He explained that the team works on different alternatives to surprise opponents when Weverton has the ball and stressed the importance of executing the plan during matches. The coach said the goal was not improvised, adding that Grêmio trains such plays and asks the players to carry them out on match day. He also highlighted the danger of set pieces, said he tells his players to avoid unnecessary fouls because dead-ball situations can decide a game, and noted that the team must continue training and working to keep the group motivated.
The 2-0 victory at the Arena do Grêmio gave the home side an advantage in the tie for a place in the Copa do Brasil final. The teams are scheduled to meet again in the return leg at the Arena MRV, Atlético-MG's home in Belo Horizonte, next Saturday, the 7th.
Before that decisive match, Grêmio faces Flamengo at the Maracanã on Wednesday, the 4th, in the 34th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro.
Sources: CNN Brasil.