Football Season Guide

Coritiba didn't have a glamorous experience at Série B, last season, but was competent enough to hold a top-4 position for the last 12 rounds. 'O Coxa' is now back at the top flight with the added interest of joining their arch-rivals Athlético PR, with whom they will be playing the final for Campeonato Paranaense this week. Despite clearly weaker than their neighbours, Coritiba may be an interesting side to watch in Série A, this season. With the attacking football enthusiast Barroca at the helm, Coritiba will try to be a positive and propositive side even if playing against stronger sides. Barroca's obsession with building up with short passes from behind may cost some frustrating points while the team learns the best way to avoid silly mistakes. But there are good players in key positions for that job to be done in a clean way. The veteran winger Rafinha is arguably the most skilled unit on the squad, and will count on the explosive Patrick to provide the right channel the of energy to combine with Rafinha's creativity. On the other side, new signing Neilton may be an interesting adding, even if Robson proved to be capable enough to create danger on his own. In the striker position, 19-years old Igor Jesus is an interesting player, more because of his quality on and off the ball than for his finishing ability. The more experienced Sassá will be constantly pushing for a start and hope to have his definite season in Série A after a few successive disappointing years.