In a tense showdown at Neo Química Arena on March 27, 2025, the final of the Campeonato Paulista saw Corinthians and Palmeiras battle to a 0-0 draw, securing the title for the Timão due to a 1-0 victory in the first leg. The match, attended by a vibrant crowd of 48,932 fans, showcased the fierce rivalry between these two giants of Brazilian football.
Despite the lack of goals, the game was filled with drama and excitement. Corinthians, under the guidance of coach Ramón Díaz, entered the match with a solid defensive strategy. The team included standout players like Hugo Souza, who would later become the hero of the night, and Memphis Depay, whose antics sparked controversy.
The first half was marked by a cautious approach from both teams. Corinthians controlled possession, passing the ball around their defensive line while Palmeiras attempted to press from midfield. The first real opportunity came from the Corinthians side when Yuri Alberto received a pass from Memphis Depay but failed to convert, sending a cross wide of the target.
Palmeiras responded quickly, with Raphael Veiga attempting a free kick that was cleared by Corinthians defender Raniele. As the match progressed, both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances, with the tension palpable in the stands.
The second half brought more intensity, especially when Vitor Roque was fouled by Félix Torres, resulting in a penalty for Palmeiras. Raphael Veiga stepped up to take the shot, but Hugo Souza made a stunning save, keeping the score level and sending the Corinthians fans into a frenzy.
"Hugo Souza shines and holds Palmeiras back!" tweeted SCCP News, highlighting the goalkeeper's crucial intervention that defined the match.
Just moments after the penalty save, the match took another turn when Félix Torres received a second yellow card for a foul on Vitor Roque, leaving Corinthians with ten men. However, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience, holding their defensive shape despite the numerical disadvantage.
As the clock ticked down, the match erupted into chaos. Memphis Depay, attempting to waste time, stood on the ball near the corner flag, which infuriated the Palmeiras players. This led to a scuffle involving both teams, with substitutes joining in the fray. The referee, Matheus Candançan, had to intervene, resulting in the expulsions of Marcelo Lomba and José Martínez after a lengthy VAR review.
The incident caused a stoppage of nearly seven minutes, and the match was extended by 16 minutes of added time, heightening the drama as both teams sought a breakthrough.
Despite the late-game chaos, neither team could find the back of the net. The final whistle blew, confirming a 0-0 draw, and with it, Corinthians celebrated their 31st state title, having successfully defended their lead from the first leg.
Corinthians' victory prevented Palmeiras from achieving an unprecedented fourth consecutive title, leaving the Verdão to ponder what went wrong after a strong campaign. Coach Abel Ferreira's side will now shift their focus to the upcoming Campeonato Brasileiro, where they will face Botafogo on March 30, 2025.
The final was not just a battle for the title but also a showcase of the historical rivalry that dates back to 1917. The match's intensity was reflected in the statistics, as both teams combined for numerous fouls and heated exchanges, reaffirming the fierce nature of the Dérbi.
Hugo Souza, who was instrumental throughout the match, was celebrated as the hero, having made multiple crucial saves, including the penalty. His performance was a key factor in ensuring that Corinthians held on to their slim advantage.
Memphis Depay, while contributing to the team's attacking efforts, also played a pivotal role in the late-game controversy, demonstrating both skill and a knack for stirring emotions in high-pressure situations.
As the players left the pitch, the atmosphere in Neo Química Arena transformed into a celebration for the Corinthians fans, who had waited six long years for a state title, the last being in 2019. The players were greeted with cheers and applause, with Ramón Díaz lifting the trophy amidst a sea of black and white.
On the other hand, Palmeiras, despite the disappointment, could hold their heads high after a season filled with impressive performances, including victories over São Paulo and Santos in the knockout stages leading up to the final.
The rivalry between Corinthians and Palmeiras continues to captivate audiences, with this final adding another chapter to their storied history. Fans eagerly anticipate the next encounters, with both teams now gearing up for their respective campaigns in the national league.
The match was broadcasted across various platforms, drawing significant viewership and underscoring the Dérbi's status as one of the most-watched events in Brazilian football. With the season ahead promising more thrilling encounters, both teams are set to battle not just for titles but for pride in one of football's most intense rivalries.
