Cuca celebrates Santos' presence in three competitions: 'I'm proud to be part of this group'

After the match at Mangueirão, the coach highlighted the squad's unity to overcome difficulties off the field and keep the team alive in the national tournament. The next challenge, according to him, is to improve performance in the Brazilian Championship.

"I'm proud to be part of this group. We join hands to face all off-field problems and continue moving forward. We just need to get going in the Brasileirão", said Cuca at a press conference.

Cuca demands better use of Santos

Despite the classification, the coach regretted the wasted opportunities during the confrontation. In Cuca's opinion, Santos could have achieved a more relaxed victory if they had been more efficient in their submissions.

“We had a great first half, with control of the game, when it was 11 against 11. We created opportunities, but then Marllon, Remo's defender, was sent off and the game changed”, he analyzed.

With one less player, Remo started to play more backwards and reduced the spaces for the São Paulo team.

"Remo lowered the lines and we didn't have any more speed with Caballero. The spaces closed a lot, but we still created good plays and failed in finishing", he added.

Coach defends Marllon's expulsion

Cuca also commented on Marllon's expulsion, a move that provoked complaints from Remo's board. For the Santos coach, the referee made the correct decision after reviewing the VAR.

"Caballero would be in front of the goal. That's what VAR is for. When you lose, you complain about everything", he declared.

When will Santos' next game be?

After qualifying in the Copa do Brasil, Santos turns its attention to the Brazilian Championship. The team faces Athletico-PR on Sunday, at 6:30 pm, in Vila Belmiro.