On April 6, 2025, Atlético Mineiro faced São Paulo at Arena MRV in Belo Horizonte for a Brasileirão Série A match. The game concluded in a 0-0 draw, highlighted by the late-game expulsion of Atlético-MG’s defender Lyanco. Head coach Cuca expressed his dissatisfaction with Lyanco’s conduct, emphasizing the necessity for greater discipline on the field.Oddspedia+2Sofascore+2FOX Sports+2
Match Overview
The encounter was tightly contested, with both teams generating scoring opportunities but failing to convert. Atlético-MG maintained 59.5% possession and registered six shots on target, while São Paulo had 40.5% possession with four shots on goal. Both goalkeepers, Everson for Atlético-MG and Rafael Monteiro for São Paulo, delivered crucial saves to keep the match goalless. ESPN.com
Lyanco’s Red Card Incident
In the 90’+9′ minute, Lyanco received a second yellow card for a bad foul, leading to his expulsion and leaving Atlético-MG with ten players during the critical final moments. ESPN.com+1Evrim Ağacı+1
Cuca’s Response
Post-match, Cuca addressed Lyanco’s dismissal, underscoring the importance of emotional control:
“Lyanco has his own personality. If I take away that characteristic, I might need him to be himself again later, and perhaps he wouldn’t be able to. So, I need to set a limit. Today, he received a yellow card that he shouldn’t have. Pushing an opponent right in front of the referee results in a card.”
Cuca highlighted the need to balance Lyanco’s aggressive style with team discipline to prevent future setbacks.
Lyanco’s Perspective
Lyanco also commented on the incident, expressing frustration with the officiating and defending his playing style:FOX Sports+1Evrim Ağacı+1
“If I were to be sent off, it should have been in the first half. I’m not going to change my way of playing.”
He emphasized his commitment to maintaining his approach on the field despite the disciplinary action.
Implications for Upcoming Matches
Due to the red card, Lyanco will serve a suspension and miss Atlético-MG’s next fixture against Vitória on April 14, 2025. His absence poses a challenge for Cuca in strategizing the team’s defense for the forthcoming match.
Conclusion
Lyanco’s expulsion underscores the critical balance between assertive play and discipline in professional football. For Atlético-MG, maintaining focus and minimizing disciplinary infractions will be vital in their pursuit of success in the Brasileirão.
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Further Reading:
