Corinthians and Palmeiras are set to clash on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 21h35 (Brasilia time) in the decisive second leg of the Campeonato Paulista 2025 final at the Neo Química Arena. The first match saw Corinthians edge out Palmeiras with a narrow 1-0 victory at Allianz Parque, thanks to a goal from Yuri Alberto. This result gives Corinthians a significant advantage as they only need a draw to secure the championship. On the other hand, Palmeiras must win by at least two goals to claim the title outright; a victory by just one goal would send the match to penalties.
The stakes couldn't be higher for both teams. For Corinthians, this match represents a chance to end a six-year trophy drought, with their last title coming in 2019 when they lifted the Paulistão trophy. The atmosphere in the Neo Química Arena is expected to be electric as fans rally behind their team, hoping to see them raise the coveted trophy once again.
“We’re focused and ready for this challenge,” said Corinthians coach Ramón Díaz. “The support of our fans will be crucial, and we aim to make them proud.”
As for Palmeiras, the team is eyeing an unprecedented tetracampeonato, a feat that would further cement coach Abel Ferreira’s legacy at the club. The players are aware of the historical significance of this match, with four key players—Weverton, Mayke, Marcos Rocha, and Gustavo Gómez—on the brink of becoming the most decorated players in the club's history.
“We know what’s at stake, and we’ll give everything to achieve this title,” stated Palmeiras midfielder Raphael Veiga. “The rivalry only adds to the excitement, and we are ready for the challenge.”
Both teams have faced challenges leading up to this final. For Corinthians, there are uncertainties regarding the lineup as some players, including Rodrigo Garro, are dealing with injuries. Garro has been nursing a knee issue and will be evaluated right before the match. The expected starting lineup for Corinthians is Hugo Souza; Matheuzinho, Félix Torres, Gustavo Henrique, and Angileri; Raniele, José Martínez (with Ryan likely to step in), André Carrillo (possibly replaced by Alex Santana), and Memphis Depay alongside Yuri Alberto up front.
Palmeiras also has its share of injury woes, with Marcos Rocha ruled out due to a thigh injury and Gustavo Gómez recovering from a knee issue. However, the team is set to field key players who have returned from international duty, including goalkeeper Weverton and forwards Estêvão, Richard Ríos, Emi Martínez, Piquerez, and Facundo Torres. The probable lineup for Palmeiras includes Weverton; Mayke, Murilo, Micael, and Piquerez; Richard Ríos, Emi Martínez, and Raphael Veiga; Estêvão, Facundo Torres, and Vitor Roque.
The match will be officiated by referee Matheus Delgado Candançan, with assistants Neuza Ines Back and Danilo Ricardo Simon Manis, and VAR overseen by Daiane Muniz.
Fans can catch the action live on Record TV, Play Plus, R7, CazéTV (YouTube), Max, Nosso Futebol, Uol Play, and Zapping.
As the time ticks down to the kickoff, both teams are preparing for what promises to be an unforgettable night of football. The rivalry between Corinthians and Palmeiras, known as the Paulistão Derby, is one of the fiercest in Brazil, and this final is no exception. With a championship on the line, emotions will run high, and the players will be eager to etch their names into the history books.
Corinthians, with their home advantage, will look to capitalize on their strong defensive performance from the first leg, while Palmeiras will aim to unleash their attacking prowess to overturn the deficit.
As the teams finalize their preparations, the anticipation builds. Will Corinthians be able to hold onto their slim lead and claim the title, or will Palmeiras rise to the occasion and secure their place in history?
This highly anticipated showdown is not just about the trophy; it’s about pride, legacy, and the unyielding spirit of two of Brazil’s most storied football clubs.
