Inter finds itself in a favorable position to qualify for the final of the Campeonato Gaúcho. Following their 2-0 victory over Caxias at the Centenário Stadium last Saturday (22), they can secure their place even with a one-goal defeat. The return leg will take place at home, offering the team another advantage.
Despite this promising scenario, goalkeeper Anthoni has adopted a cautious tone, emphasizing the need for hard work and respect for their opponents to guarantee progression to the final. "The only thing conditioning our return to the final is work. It's true we've built up an important advantage, but it can also be misleading. If we don't do our part, if we don’t enter with seriousness, respecting the rival for the campaign they ran, we could very well be surprised. That's natural in football worldwide," he asserted.
Anthoni underlined the mental aspect of the game as being pivotal for the team's success amid their historical struggles. "We need to approach this match with seriousness. Everyone here understands the historical background of our recent eliminations. Several players have faced disappointments and are aware of how significant this Saturday's game is for us. We're all focused on executing and delivering the necessary response to confirm our place in the final," he stated.
Should they confirm their spot, the Internacional will be breaking the jinx of not reaching the finals for three consecutive years, having faced exits at the semifinal stage in 2022, 2023, and 2024, being eliminated by Grêmio, Caxias, and Juventude respectively. Their last appearance at the final was back in 2021 against their archrival, which they lost.
Historically, it has been close to nine years since Inter last lifted the trophy, claiming their last title under coach Argel Fucks back in 2016. An additional motivation for the current team is to prevent Grêmio from achieving their eighth consecutive title, which would lead them to surpass the all-time record set between the 1960s and 1970s.
Inter is set to clash with Caxias again for the second match of the semifinal on Saturday (March 1) at 21:30 (Brasília time) at Beira-Rio. Both teams understand the stakes: for the Colorado, it’s about reestablishing their dominance, and for Caxias, it’s about capitalizing on any opportunity presented to them.
Anthoni also spoke about the opportunities being provided to younger, up-and-coming players within the squad. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday (26), the goalkeeper emphasized group cohesion and mentoring. “We often converse with the younger members of the team, providing them guidance. The group, as a whole, is responsive and hardworking. Roger has offered many opportunities, especially during training. We feel happy to have them here, as we understand the challenges they face to arrive where we are now,” he noted.
On the subject of the team's semifinal lead, Anthoni reiterated the necessity of diligence and respect for their competitors. “Our work is what conditions us to reach another final. We need to respect the opponent for having arrived at this stage. We still have Thursday and Friday to adjust whatever is necessary and strive for positive results,” he asserted.
He highlighted over the past years the value of having their supporters rallying behind them, adding, “The confidence matters greatly. It recognizes the effort, whether it is from the fans, fellow teammates, or the coaching staff. It’s significant to have support, as it supplements our training and propels us to perform even stronger on the field.”
Looking at their defensive chemistry, Anthoni noted the importance of collaboration with fellow defenders Victor Gabriel and Vitão, saying, “The factor of chemistry plays a pivotal role. We have been able to keep the team’s core since the match against Mexico, which has built the confidence Victor Gabriel needed. It's half the battle to grasp the importance of playing for the Inter.”
Expressing pride over his personal connection to the club, Anthoni concluded, “It is different being part of this institution. Having grown up here and now contributing to the pursuit of this title allows me to engage deeply with the fans and the team. We’re all hunting for victory together.”