Réver praises Carpegiani's scheme: "We are very strong in marking"

Defender celebrates winning the Guanabara Cup, but emphasizes focus on future goals

By Matheus Oliveira - in 19/02/2018 às 19:51

The day after winning the Guanabara Cup, Réver was present in the Victorino Chermont Press Room, at Ninho do Urubu, after the regenerative training session held this Monday (19) by the athletes who started the match. Just as he did in last year's Campeonato Carioca, the red-black captain took the trophy home before handing it over to the club at the Gávea headquarters.

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The trophies that pass by the defender's residence are greeted with celebration by his sons, who have inherited their father's winning streak. During the conversation with reporters, the number 15 was accompanied by Réver Júnior, who, at the height of his four years, is another of his father's motivations in the pursuit of titles.

"Before I told them I was taking it, they were already asking for the trophy. They were sleeping when I arrived yesterday, so they only saw it today when they got back from school. I'm very happy to bring this joy to the fans and also to my children," celebrated Réver.

Despite the important first step towards the Campeonato Carioca, there is little time for celebration. This Wednesday (21), Mais Querido will make its debut in the Taça Rio against Madureira, in a match that will be played at Engenhão. While on Sunday it will be time to face Fluminense, in the first classic of the second round of the State Championship.

However, the crucial match against River Plate of Argentina is on the red-and-black captain's mind. It will be the first step for the Red-and-Blacks toward qualifying for the knockout stage of the continent's most prestigious competition. According to Réver, the experience from last season will be valuable in their quest for a better campaign in 2018.

"Our group is very difficult, regardless of which team finishes the group. We know the difficulties we'll face. We have a lot to learn from River," he said. "Last year, we ended up failing a lot away from home, failing to pick up points. In controlled matches, we failed to win. Therefore, we need to be cautious in away matches so we can go further in the Libertadores," the defender added.

Coach Paulo César Carpegiani's work at the beginning of the year has pleased fans, commentators, and especially the squad, which delivered solid performances in this first round of the State Championship. According to the captain, the team's strategy has increasingly brought out the best in the team.

"Last year, we also had a certain style of play, as the coach knew the team very well. This year, Carpegiani tested the team with formations he likes, and it's paid off. We're very strong in defense, strong defensively, even playing with just one defensive midfielder, and efficient up front. It was a short period of training, but we need to be prepared," Réver emphasized. "The Libertadores is here, and we have a very important game. And we'll also face Madureira and Fluminense, which we have to win, as well as River Plate," he emphasized.

Watch the captain's full press conference on FlaTV.