Part 5/8:
Post-match reflections from Gabigol indicate acknowledgment of his role in altering the game's outcome. He stated, “It was a clear play; I’m not a malicious guy. I tried to give a push but missed and caught him with my elbow.” Accepting responsibility for the defeat, he emphasized the need for vigilance in future matches to avoid similar situations.
Additionally, Alexandre Matos, Cruzeiro's director, expressed concerns about the officiating and the role of VAR. He highlighted a perceived bias in the calls, questioning why the referee for the VAR was from Paraná, especially given the historical context of the rivalry. He underscored the importance of fairplay in Brazilian football, stating that the club has long faced disadvantages that haven’t been addressed adequately by authorities.