Athletico one step away from its second most important state title

In Brazilian football, second place is the same thing as last. The phrase may be outdated, but it reflects the reality of the fan’s feelings. Naked and raw. Let the players who were runners-up in the world in 1950 or 1998 say so.

Less painful for those from 98 who managed to rehabilitate, four years later, with the victory of the fifth world championship. But those over 50 were stigmatized forever.

Fans live for emotion and there is no greater emotion than being champion. However, some titles have a more profound impact than others depending on the events, the facts that preceded the decision and other details typical of the rich magic of football, an absolutely disconcerting sport.

Now, in the final of the Paranaense Championship, Athletico is one step away from its second most important state title. The first, of course, was the first, in 1925, a year after the new club emerged; and the second for being the first in the year in which it celebrates its centenary of foundation. It would be the first title in Atletica’s second centenary.

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Well, let’s get to the game. Maringá, surprised by the defeat at home in the first decisive match, had the whole week to get its head in order. Coach Jorge Castilho must have pulled an ear here and another there and adjusted the team for the great challenge they will face at Arena da Baixada.

Maringá is a tight-knit team, which has good players, but lost its way in the previous game where it used more physical strength than its recognized technical skills. This needs to be reviewed if they want to surprise Hurricane.

Since Cuca took over as Athletico’s coach, what caught the most attention was the desire and willingness of all players to improve their performance.

Contrary to the apathy, bordering on laziness, that characterized the team during Osorio’s time, we now see everyone striving to gain the coach’s trust and a place in the starting group. Gone are the days of the starting eleven, that’s a thing of the past. Now, with the modern calendar for big clubs with four annual championships – state, continental, Copa do Brasil and Brasileirão –, coaches are forced to work with around 25 players at practically the same level to keep up with their commitments.

Hence the large number of investments in the base, in hiring reinforcements and in attempts to discover above-average stars to be traded in the million-dollar international market.

Yes, Athletico is the favorite to win the title of two-time champion of Paraná, but they need to do so, practicing a style of play with good technique and a lot of determination and determination.