Everything you need to know about the match between River-PI and Bahia in the 2nd round of the Group Stage of the Copa do Nordeste on Saturday, February 10th, at 4pm, at the Albertão Stadium, in Teresina.
River
River-PI is currently in 8th place in Group A in the Copa do Nordeste, a position that it clearly aims to improve.
In relation to its offensive and defensive performance, the team has presented a varied trajectory, but with an inclination to participate in matches with an average of more than 0.5 goals, a tendency that manifests itself consistently in all its clashes.
Analyzing their last clashes in their territory, River showed different performances. Facing Altos, they ended up suffering a 2-0 defeat, a result that they undoubtedly want to avoid repeating.
However, previously, they had victories against Picos (2×1) and 4 de Julho-PI (1×0), demonstrating their ability to recover after setbacks. Considering the last three results in general, River won two victories and suffered one defeat, signaling a relatively positive form.
Fabiano Soares, coach of River-PI, decided to spare players in the game against Altos due to the intense schedule of matches and travel. After the 2-0 defeat, he took responsibility for team selection and the slow performance in the first half, highlighting an improvement in the second half.
Thus, he lamented the lack of efficiency in crossing and the need for more concentration in finishing. Soares emphasized the importance of a more competitive stance and the urgency of reversing the negative streak of consecutive defeats.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that River-PI added three Fluminense players – Cayo, Joílson and Diogo – to the squad, who are still adapting and do not have a set date for their debut.
Bahia
On the other hand, Bahia boasts a winning streak, winning four consecutive games.
The team has not suffered defeat in the last five games and has remained unbeaten in the last three, displaying a solid defense and an effective attack. Leading Group B of the Copa do Nordeste, Bahia reflects its exceptional performance in the competition.
In the last three matches, Bahia accumulated favorable results, including victories against Sport (2×1) and Bahia de Feira (2×0), as well as a resounding 5×0 victory over Itabuna in the Bahia championship.
In the previous match against Itabuna, Bahia coach Rogério Ceni made nine changes to the starting lineup, demonstrating confidence in the depth of the squad and giving opportunities to different players.
Furthermore, highlights for Yago Felipe, Cauly and Cicinho in the victory over Itabuna: Yago scored two goals, one of them from a free kick, Cauly scored his first goal of the season and Cicinho provided a decisive assist.
Regarding direct confrontations between River-PI and Bahia, there has only been one clash in the last seven years, with River-PI emerging victorious by 1-0.
Conclusion:
Therefore, River-PI has shown a drop in performance in the last two matches. Considering the current performance of both teams, Bahia seems to enjoy a slight advantage, especially due to their winning streak and solid defense.