Davide says Botafogo needed to beat Atlético-MG and explains Montoro’s release: ‘It’s a dream for him’

The importance of winning at this moment is significant. We deserved these three points. We went through a difficult period, but the players didn’t give up and kept working. We needed this victory. We had a different attitude, worked on the defensive phase, knowing how to manage the moments of the game. We did everything we talked about. It was a game we needed.
One of the best players for Botafogo against Atlético-MG was Álvaro Montoro. The Argentinian midfielder was Davide’s standout player alongside Santi Rodríguez. The number 8 started the play that led to the goal by the Uruguayan, securing the win for the hosts at Nilton Santos. The coach explained Montoro’s release to play in the U-20 World Cup, where he will represent Argentina.
‘Firstly, it’s a club decision, which I have to respect, and secondly, it’s a dream for him. We won’t keep a player here who dreams of playing for his national team. That’s why the decision was made. I agree he’s a key player, known for his final pass and ability to create opportunities even without great speed. He poses a threat, but above all, he needs to improve defensively. With this attitude, he will improve,’ said Davide.
Davide saw a very balanced first half until Chris Ramos’ expulsion. The coach stated the match was locked in midfield, lacking rhythm. Botafogo lost the striker just before halftime but opened the scoring three minutes after the break through Santi Rodríguez.
‘When we were 11 vs. 11, it was a first half with a lot of blockage. We wanted to press with individual marking and often played directly with the goalkeeper, but we were losing second balls and duels. We lacked the mobility and pace needed to create goal-scoring chances,’ Davide said, continuing, ‘Clearly, the second half was different, but the first half lacked pace. I think Atlético Mineiro also wanted a slower game since they played in Bolivia and managed to slow down the pace.’
‘Midfield control
– I believe what we faced in a tough situation was a change in defensive attitude. Both wing players, Montoro and Santi, did a fantastic job. They worked by cutting inside, which was crucial. I don’t think we need many tactical changes. We must maintain this defensive attitude when defending, tracking back, and switching flanks. Playing together over time will help them improve. since Santi hasn’t played much in that position and Álvaro either. They need to improve their tactical understanding because they’re young players. I think that’s where they can improve the most. This defensive attitude tactically benefitted the team greatly.’
‘Absence of Chris Ramos in the next game and other absences
– Now we’ll think about it on Monday, even though we have a day off tomorrow, we’ll address the issues Monday. We’ll work with the players we have, evaluate those who are tired with the medical staff, then see how training goes. We have an extra day to prepare for the game and make a decision. It’s true we’ll have some absences in the upcoming match, but we’ve been dealing with several absences at this time.’
‘Midfield changes
– Due to fatigue. I saw Savarino was tired from his duties, having to mark two players: a midfielder and a first-half midfielder, as another was marked by Chris. In the second half, he had to cover two players. He was feeling some discomfort in the adductor before the game, so I didn’t want to risk it. Montoro also left due to fatigue, and I needed to switch to a back five in the final minutes. Santi also came off due to fatigue.’
‘No substitutions
– Our defensive phase in the middle block was good in the first half. Chris’ absence was felt when we pressed high. Without him, the only change was Vitor Hugo being free, but he couldn’t score. Our full-backs provided good protection for our goal, so I didn’t substitute anyone. I believe the team was solid, and I only made changes when players were tired, while keeping the same structure. Without Ramos, we couldn’t be as aggressive.’