In a thrilling culmination of the Campeonato Paulista, Corinthians and Palmeiras are set to clash in the final match on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 21:35 (Brasília time) at the Neo Química Arena in São Paulo. This highly anticipated encounter follows Corinthians' narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg, courtesy of a goal from Yuri Alberto. With the stakes higher than ever, both teams are gearing up for a showdown that promises to be filled with drama and intensity.
For Corinthians, the path to victory is straightforward: a draw will secure the title, putting an end to a six-year drought since their last state championship in 2019. The team, led by coach Ramón Díaz, is eager to reclaim glory and celebrate in front of their home fans. Meanwhile, Palmeiras, under the guidance of Abel Ferreira, faces a daunting challenge. To emerge victorious, they must win by at least two goals to clinch the championship outright or by a single goal to force a penalty shootout. This adds an extra layer of pressure as they seek to make history by becoming the first team to win four consecutive Paulista titles.
The rivalry between these two clubs is legendary, and this match marks the ninth time in history that the title will be decided in a derby. With so much on the line, the atmosphere is expected to be electric. Both teams have had their share of challenges leading up to this decisive match. Corinthians will be without key player Diego Palacios, while Palmeiras is grappling with several injuries, including Gustavo Gómez, Paulinho, Marcos Rocha, and Bruno Rodrigues, who will all miss the match.
Palmeiras has struggled against their rivals recently, having not defeated Corinthians in their last three encounters, with their last victory dating back to July 1, 2024, when they won 2-0. Vitor Roque, a forward for Palmeiras, expressed confidence ahead of the match, stating, “We are prepared, training hard to win the title. Everything is open for us to go there and win.” This sentiment reflects the determination of the Palmeiras squad as they aim to reverse their fortunes in this critical matchup.
On the other hand, the Corinthians lineup is looking strong, with Hugo Souza in goal and a solid defense featuring Matheuzinho, Félix Torres, Gustavo Henrique, and Angileri. The midfield is set to include Raniele, José Martínez, and André Carrillo, while the attacking duo of Memphis Depay and Yuri Alberto will look to capitalize on any opportunities. The team has had a solid preparation period, with over ten days without a match due to the FIFA break, allowing them to focus on strategies and conditioning.
As for Palmeiras, they will field a lineup that includes Weverton in goal, with a defensive line of Mayke, Murilo, Micael, and Piquerez. The midfield will feature Emiliano Martínez, Aníbal Moreno, and Raphael Veiga, while the attack will be spearheaded by Estêvão, Facundo Torres, and Vitor Roque. Aníbal Moreno’s inclusion is noteworthy as he replaces Richard Ríos, who faced travel issues returning from international duty.
The match will be broadcasted across multiple platforms, ensuring that fans can follow the action live. Viewers can catch the game on TV Record and various streaming services including Play Plus, R7, CazéTV on YouTube, Max, Nosso Futebol, UOL Play, and Zapping. This accessibility is crucial for fans eager to witness what promises to be a historic clash.
In the lead-up to the match, both teams have expressed their readiness to compete fiercely. Corinthians' coach Ramón Díaz is keen on capitalizing on their home advantage, while Abel Ferreira is determined to inspire his team to overcome the odds. The players have emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and executing their game plans effectively.
“We know it will be a very difficult match. It’s a classic, another final. We will give our best, impose our rhythm, even playing away from home,” said Mayke from Palmeiras, highlighting the team’s resolve. As the players prepare for battle, the anticipation among fans is palpable, with both sets of supporters gearing up to create an unforgettable atmosphere.
The historical significance of this match cannot be understated. Should Palmeiras triumph, they will etch their name in the annals of Paulista history as the second team to achieve four consecutive titles, a feat previously accomplished only by Paulistano during the amateur era from 1916 to 1919. Conversely, a victory for Corinthians would mark their 31st state title, a milestone that the club is eager to achieve.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the excitement builds. Fans from both sides are preparing for what is sure to be an epic showdown filled with passion, skill, and the relentless pursuit of victory. The stage is set for an unforgettable night of football, where legends can be made and history rewritten.
In conclusion, the final of the Campeonato Paulista is not just a match; it’s a battle for pride, legacy, and the ultimate glory in Brazilian football. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd or the skill on the pitch, this derby will undoubtedly be a spectacle that fans will remember for years to come.
