Crespo Rests Key São Paulo Players for Libertadores as Young Set for Pro Debut in Saturday’s Brasileirão Clash with Sport
Ahead of Tuesday’s Libertadores showdown with Atlético Nacional, São Paulo coach Hernán Crespo opted to keep several important players in the capital to focus on the continental duel. Rafael, Alisson, Marcos Antônio and Luciano remained in São Paulo to prepare exclusively for the Libertadores, freeing the squad to face Sport on Saturday at Ilha do Retiro in the Brasileirão.
Starting XI for the Sport match
– Young; Maik, Sabino, Alan Franco, Patryck; Pablo Maia, Luan, Rodriguinho; Tapia, Dinenno, Ferreira.
– Crespo will give Young his professional debut in goal. With options limited, Alan Franco and Sabino are expected to start in central defense. Lucas is among the players on the bench.
Injuries and absences
– São Paulo is dealing with a high number of injuries: Arboleda (left rectus femoris muscle), Wendell (left thigh), and Oscar (vertebral fracture).
– Additionally, Luiz Gustavo is sidelined for the year due to pulmonary thromboembolism; Calleri (ACL rupture in the left knee) and Ryan Francisco (ACL rupture with a meniscal issue) are also out for the season.
Sport squad confirmed for the São Paulo game
– Sport will line up with: Gabriel, Matheus Alexandre, Rafael Thyere, Ramon, Igor Cariús; Christian Rivera, Zé Lucas, Lucas Lima, Matheusinho; Léo Pereira, Derik Lacerda.
Standings prior to the match
– São Paulo sits seventh in the table with 28 points.
– Sport occupies the bottom position with nine points.
Commentary and context
– This strategic rotation underscores Crespo’s priority on the Libertadores clash, while giving São Paulo a chance to test new combinations in a Brasileirão encounter.
– Young’s anticipated debut represents a notable moment for the squad, as Crespo looks to balance immediate domestic obligations with the looming continental commitment.
– The notable injuries on the São Paulo side will be a factor to watch, as the coach attempts to field a cohesive back line with available players.
Summary
– Crespo’s plan centers on preserving key pieces for the Libertadores and integrating squad depth to face Sport, aided by the potential pro debut of Young. The match offers an opportunity for São Paulo to consolidate form in the league despite significant injuries, while Sport seeks to climb off the bottom of the table.
Positive note
– The rotation provides a chance for young players to gain experience and for the team to showcase resilience and tactical flexibility under Crespo’s management, with the Libertadores on the horizon as a major motivational backdrop.