Boavista defender Bruno Onyemaechi is set to make a pivotal positional shift, moving from his customary left-back role to center-back for the team’s upcoming Portuguese League clash against Arouca in Round 17.
The change comes in response to the suspension of Uruguayan center-back Rodrigo Abascal, who earned his fifth yellow card during the derby against FC Porto, ruling him out of the crucial encounter.
With Abascal unavailable and no suitable alternative in the squad, Boavista head coach Petit is expected to rely on Onyemaechi to anchor the defense.
While Onyemaechi has predominantly played as a left-back for Boavista and Nigeria’s Super Eagles, he is no stranger to the center-back position, having made 34 professional appearances in the role. His adaptability makes him a natural choice to plug the gap in Boavista’s backline.
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This tactical adjustment creates a new challenge for Coach Petit, as Onyemaechi’s absence on the left flank leaves a void. The team may struggle to find a replacement, especially with Joel Silva nursing a muscle injury and doubtful for the match.
Boavista hopes Onyemaechi’s defensive versatility will bring much-needed stability to their reshuffled backline. The team is eager to break a winless streak that has persisted since November and secure a vital victory.
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The match is scheduled for Saturday at Estádio do Bessa Seculo XXI and is critical for Boavista as they aim to close the first half of the season on a high note.
