As the sun sets on the Neo Química Arena, anticipation builds for the highly awaited clash between Corinthians and Palmeiras in the final of the Campeonato Paulista on March 27, 2025. Kickoff is set for 21h35 (Brasília time), and the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams as they vie for the coveted title.
Yuri Alberto, a key player for Corinthians, has the chance to etch his name into club history during this decisive match. With the potential to score at least once against Palmeiras, he could become the top scorer for Corinthians against their arch-rivals in the 21st century, surpassing Romarinho’s current record of five goals. Alberto is currently tied with Jô and Roger Guedes, each having netted four goals against Palmeiras.
Alberto's history in classic matches is impressive as well. He is just one goal shy of becoming the top scorer for Corinthians in all classic matches since 2001, trailing only behind Jô and Danilo, who each have 12 goals. With 11 goals in 25 classic matches, Alberto is keen to add to his tally and solidify his legacy within the club.
In an interesting twist, if he manages to score against Palmeiras, he would also mark them as his biggest victim among Corinthians' main rivals, matching Santos, who have also suffered five goals from him. This season has been particularly fruitful for Alberto, who has already scored five goals against rivals, marking his most prolific year since joining Corinthians in 2022.
Alberto's statistics with Corinthians are noteworthy. He has played 166 matches, with 73 wins, 44 draws, and 49 losses, boasting a success rate of 52.81%. His goal tally stands at 64, complemented by 17 assists. In the context of the Neo Química Arena, he has scored 39 goals in 85 games, placing him among the top scorers in the stadium's history.
In a show of commitment to the club, Yuri Alberto recently tattooed a hawk on his arm, a symbol of the Gaviões da Fiel, the main fan group of Corinthians. This act has endeared him further to the supporters, symbolizing his dedication ahead of this crucial final.
As the match approaches, Alberto reflects on the significance of the first-leg advantage that Corinthians holds, describing it as "treacherous." He emphasized the importance of the home crowd in pushing the team toward victory, stating, "It’s the first time I’m playing a final at home. Arriving with a positive result and having our fans supporting us from the first to the last minute will be essential. They give us a lot of strength, and I’m sure they will create an incredible atmosphere for us."
However, it’s not all smooth sailing for Alberto. He is still recovering from a clavicular injury that has recently developed into tendinitis, causing him discomfort. He recalls a previous clavicular dislocation from 2017 or 2018, which had not troubled him until recently. "I had a lot of difficulty in the first leg. The position I slept in caused inflammation and tendinitis, which has been quite bothersome. But we’re working with the medical team to ensure I’m 100% ready for the match," he explained.
Corinthians enters this final with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg played at Allianz Parque, where they fought hard to secure the lead. Following a break due to the FIFA international window, the team has been preparing intensively for this crucial Derby, promising a fierce encounter.
The atmosphere at the Neo Química Arena is expected to be electric, with only Corinthians' supporters allowed in, creating a cauldron-like environment. The fans are eager to see their team lift the Paulistão trophy for the 31st time, and the players are equally motivated to deliver a performance worthy of their passionate supporters.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes will be on Yuri Alberto and the Corinthians squad as they aim to capitalize on their first-leg lead and secure their place in history. Will Alberto rise to the occasion and become the hero the fans hope for? Only time will tell as the action unfolds on the pitch.
