In what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the Campeonato Paulista, Corinthians will face off against their fierce rivals Palmeiras on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 21h35 (Brasília time) at the Neo Química Arena. Known as the "dérbi," this match is not just a game; it’s a battle for pride and glory in Brazilian football.
The first leg of this final saw Corinthians secure a narrow 1-0 victory at Palmeiras' Allianz Parque, thanks to a goal from Yuri Alberto. This result gives Corinthians a crucial advantage, as they now only need a draw to clinch the championship title. On the other hand, Palmeiras must win by at least two goals to claim the trophy outright; a one-goal victory would lead to penalties.
As the clock ticks down to kick-off, the atmosphere is electric. Ángel Romero, a key player for Corinthians, expressed his excitement about the upcoming match, stating, "A dérbi is always special, right? Whether it’s in the Brazilian Championship or any competition, a dérbi is very special. Personally, I also enjoy playing this kind of game. So, it’s going to be a really attractive final for everyone, and let’s hope Corinthians becomes the champion."
Palmeiras’ Mayke echoed the significance of the match for his team, emphasizing the need for focus and strategy: "It’s about going in with a calm head and doing what the coach has worked on this week, putting rhythm on the field. But we’re going all out because we know it’s a final. It’s a very important final because, for all of us, it’s another championship that will be marked in history."
Corinthians coach Ramón Díaz has not officially confirmed his lineup, but the probable starters include Hugo Souza; Matheuzinho, Félix Torres, Gustavo Henrique, and Fabrizio Angileri; Raniele, José Martínez, and André Carrillo; with Rodrigo Garro (or Talles Magno or Ángel Romero), Memphis Depay, and Yuri Alberto leading the attack. Meanwhile, Palmeiras’ coach Abel Ferreira has settled on a lineup featuring Weverton; Mayke, Murilo, Micael, and Piquerez; Richard Ríos, Emi Martínez, and Raphael Veiga; Estêvão, Facundo Torres, and Vitor Roque.
In a twist, Rodrigo Garro, who suffered from patellar tendinopathy, has been cleared to play after rigorous training sessions leading up to the final. His return adds depth to the Corinthians squad as they aim to end a six-year title drought while simultaneously preventing Palmeiras from achieving an unprecedented fourth consecutive championship.
On the tactical front, Corinthians fans are advocating for a 4-4-2 formation, with 67.1% of participants in a recent poll expressing their desire to see Garro in the starting lineup. The remaining fans were split between preferring Ángel Romero as a starter with Memphis Depay playing a more central role and those who favored the 4-3-3 formation that was previously employed.
As the teams prepare for this monumental clash, both sides are acutely aware of the stakes involved. For Corinthians, a draw would secure their 31st Paulistão title, while a win would further solidify their status as a dominant force in Brazilian football. Conversely, Palmeiras is under pressure to overturn the first-leg deficit and keep their championship hopes alive.
The match will be broadcast live on Rádio Nacional starting at 21h15, and fans across Brazil are eagerly anticipating what is sure to be a captivating showdown. With both teams showcasing a mix of tactical prowess and raw emotion, the stage is set for a night of unforgettable football.
As the players step onto the pitch, the tension will be palpable. Will Corinthians hold their nerve to claim the title, or can Palmeiras mount a comeback to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this is a final that will be remembered for years to come.
