Fernando Diniz, known for his philosophy of short passing and possession, returns to a continental final, this time with Cruzeiro in the Copa Sudamericana. After his historic triumph with Fluminense in the 2023 Copa Libertadores, the Brazilian coach faces the challenge of consolidating his style in an environment demanding immediate results.

Don't miss the Copa Sudamericana final on beIN SPORTS this Saturday at 3:00 PM ET.

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Diniz is a unique coach in Brazil, with short passes and ball control as his core principles. His strategy focuses on creating numerical superiority in specific areas of the pitch, prioritizing a patient and calculated build-up, even under pressure. However, this risky approach has led to goals conceded when opponents apply high pressing, drawing criticism during defeats.

The 50-year-old coach joined Cruzeiro in September, where he has struggled to implement his style and achieve consistency in the Brazilian League. With only two wins in ten matches, the fans remain unconvinced. Nevertheless, in the Sudamericana, he managed to guide the team through the semifinals against Lanús and now aims to secure the title to bolster his credibility among supporters.

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Diniz’s career has been a rollercoaster of successes and setbacks. After debuting as a coach in 2008, he gained recognition by taking the modest Audax to the 2016 Campeonato Paulista final, eliminating giants like São Paulo and Corinthians. His philosophy of football led him to manage major teams and, in 2023, to be invited as interim coach of Brazil’s national team. However, disappointing results, including his tenure with the national team, led to an early exit.

Don't miss the Copa Sudamericana final on beIN SPORTS this Saturday at 3:00 PM ET.

With Cruzeiro, Diniz has another opportunity to prove that the art of football can go beyond aesthetics and deliver tangible achievements. The Sudamericana final will be the stage for him to reaffirm his style and pursue a new title to solidify his place in Brazilian football.