The head coach of new Paulista 1 champions Ituano, Doriva, has spoken of his pride at the title triumph after the Itu based side beat Brazilian heavyweights Santos in a dramatic penalty shootout last night to claim only their second ever regional title.
“Santos could have won, and we won,” Doriva told Goal, “but the sum of the two games, it was cleat that we play, we attack. Anyway, we took the initiative as well.”
“This title is also the answer to those unfortunate statements, after our victory over Sao Paulo. Now they will have to repsect us.”
Doriva was brought in to manage the club by ex-Brazil and Midlesbrough teammate Juninho Paulista, who is sporting director. They play in the fourth tier of domestic football and their only previous Paulista victory came back in 2002.