Tite changed Botafogo plan to bring Hakim Ziyech on earlier

Botafogo coach Tite changed his plans for Hakim Ziyech at half-time during the 2-0 defeat by Mirassol, bringing the Morocco international on earlier than intended because he believed the team needed his individual quality.

Tite had initially planned to give Ziyech between 15 and 30 minutes on the pitch. However, the Botafogo manager revised that approach during the interval after deciding that the former Morocco star could provide attacking options and help the side find a way back into the match.

Speaking at his post-match news conference, Tite said Ziyech’s technical ability was the reason behind the change. He highlighted the need for a player capable of producing individual solutions, particularly in situations requiring runs through the opposition or the creation of attacking chances.

The coach also explained that Ziyech is not restricted to one position. The player can operate as a winger, play in midfield or take on the role of a playmaker. Tite believes giving him greater freedom to move around the pitch will allow him to express his creativity and make better use of his technical skills.

Ziyech was unable to prevent Botafogo from suffering another defeat by Mirassol, with the team failing to overturn the two-goal deficit after his introduction. Nevertheless, his contribution during the minutes he played made a positive impression.

The Morocco international received the highest rating among Botafogo players in the match, according to the post-game assessments. His performance also drew praise from Botafogo supporters, who responded positively to his technical ability and the attacking qualities he showed after coming on.

Although Ziyech could not rescue Botafogo from defeat, his appearance gave Tite and the club’s fans an encouraging indication of the impact he may have in the coming period. His ability to play in several attacking roles offers the team additional ways to approach matches, particularly when individual skill is needed to unlock a defence.