The highly anticipated Derby between Palmeiras and Corinthians took place on February 6, 2025, at Allianz Parque, within the seventh round of the Campeonato Paulista. The match, broadcasted exclusively on TNT and Max, ended dramatically with both sides settling for a 1-1 draw, amid fierce competition and controversial decisions.
Initially scheduled for 20:00 (local time), the kickoff was delayed due to heavy rain across São Paulo, setting the stage for what should have been a thrilling showdown. Palmeiras entered the match currently ranked third in Group D with 11 points, following their impressive 4-1 victory over Guarani just days prior. Meanwhile, Corinthians were leading Group A with 18 points, coming off consecutive wins, adding to the excitement surrounding the Derby.
Palmeiras made their aggressive intentions clear from the outset. Eight minutes in, Maurício scored with finesse, converting Piquerez's precise assist, sending the home crowd roaring with jubilation. The early lead, built on momentum, seemed to set Palmeiras up for success. Yet, as the game progressed, the team struggled to capitalize on numerous scoring chances.
Despite controlling possession and territory, Palmeiras saw glaring opportunities slip away. Coach Abel Ferreira's strategy aimed to exploit width and pace, but the finishing left much to be desired. A notable moment came when the Alviverde squandered significant chances, including efforts from Piquerez and Estêvão—each swiftly closed down by the Corinthians defense.
Ironically, it was Corinthians who struck back when tied at 1-1 late in the first half. Just before the halftime whistle, Yuri Alberto leveled the match with a well-executed strike following Memphis Depay's assist, sending shockwaves through Palmeiras's defensive line and briefly silencing their supporters.
The second half saw the match tilt dramatically when Yuri Alberto was expelled for receiving his second yellow card for what the referee deemed simulation. The ejection came just 16 minutes after the break, compelling Corinthians to retreat defensively. Palmeiras, now with a numerical advantage, resumed their dominance but found themselves frustrated by inadequate finishing.
Faced with the expulsion's repercussions, Corinthians regrouped and relied on counter-attacks, hoping to capitalize on any Palmeras mistakes. Yet, the pressure mounted as the Verdão ramped up their attacking ambitions, pushing for the winner.
When the game reached its climax, as the clock ticked down, Palmeiras earned the chance to reclaim their lead via a penalty. Estevão stepped up, but his low shot was heroically saved by goalie Hugo Souza, marking yet another unfortunate chapter for Palmeiras's finishing woes. Estevão himself expressed frustration with the missed opportunity, which not only could have secured the win but also raised questions surrounding the legitimacy of the penalty, as remonstrations followed concerning players entering the area prematurely.
With the final whistle, the 1-1 draw left both teams pondering what could have been. Palmeiras, having seen their high-caliber performance diminished by missed opportunities, must now grapple with their apparent finishing difficulties—a concern from the previous year still evident as they strive for improvement.
While both teams discussed their performances post-match, whispers of potential complaints, particularly concerning the penalty decision, circulated among supporters and analysts alike. Palmeiras is reported to have indicated intent to file grievances with the Federação Paulista de Futebol (FPF) over the incident, which could ignite fresh discussion on rule enforcement.
Looking forward, the Derby's aftermath demonstrates how both teams must quickly analyze their tactics and adjust for the competition's remaining matches. The 2025 Paulistão remains competitive, but the outcome of this match highlights the razor-thin margins often determining Derby outcomes, as passion and tension continue between these storied rivals.