RodoFut7 takes Ponta Grossa to Libertadores and aims for an unprecedented title

The participation of RodoFut7 in the Copa Libertadores begins this Friday, September 4, in Florianópolis (SC). Representative of Ponta Grossa in the international competition Rey de Las Americas 2026, the team has as main bets the intensity, versatility of the cast and the physical recovery work during the marathon of matches.

The debut of the team was scheduled for 3 pm this Friday against the Prevenir Association, of Monte Carmelo (MG). The tournament takes place between September 4 and 7 in the capital of Santa Catarina and gathers teams in search of the continental title.

At the head of RodoFut7, coach Gustavo Mendes says that work for the competition began even before the team entered the court. Creating an environment of unity and intensity among players is one of the priorities.

“Preparation starts from outside the field. There is a synergy between us,” says Mendes.

RodoFut7 seeks unpublished title

The Libertadores contest represents the opportunity for RodoFut7 to win an unprecedented title and expand the presence of Ponta Grossa in the national and international sports scene.

For Gustavo Mendes, the level of competition requires athletes to be able to maintain energy and concentration throughout the sequence of matches.

“You have to play a competition of this level with spirit, with energy. We hope to bring that energy into training,” he says.

RodoFut7 in the Copa Libertadores is part of Group F and will have a first phase marked by a short interval between the confrontations.

In addition to the game against the Prevenir Association, the schedule foresees two matches on Saturday (5). At 10:30, the opponent will be Joinville. Later, at 6 pm, the team of Ponta Grossa faces the Selección La Vendetta of Argentina.

List offers different alternatives

Another factor considered important by the technical committee is the variety of characteristics of the athletes available in the cast.

The intention is to allow RodoFut7 to change its strategy according to the behavior of each match, taking advantage of the individual characteristics of the players without losing the collective organization.

“We can play with this list in a variety of ways. I hope to be able to fit the best pieces at the right time from what the game asks for,” explains Gustavo Mendes.

The ability to adapt can gain even more importance in the face of opponents with different styles during the first phase.

Physical recovery will be decisive

The sequence of the competition also puts physical preparation in the spotlight.

Considering the initial schedule, the RodoFut7 will have three matches in a interval of less than 30 hours. The technical committee, therefore, works not only on tactical and technical issues, but also on the recovery between confrontations.

According to Gustavo Mendes, rest, food and especially the quality of sleep will have a direct impact on the performance of the players.

“The secret, individually, is the sleep of each one. The board provides the best possible structure, we will use it and be able to have this recovery more quickly,” he emphasizes.

With the preparation focused on the intensity and special attention to the physical conditions of the athletes, the representative of Ponta Grossa starts the dispute of the Rey de Las Américas 2026 trying to advance in the competition and seek an international title for the city's fut7.