In a highly anticipated clash, Corinthians will host Palmeiras this Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 21h35, at the Neo Química Arena in São Paulo for the grand final of the Campeonato Paulista. This matchup not only promises to be a thrilling encounter but also carries significant implications for both teams, as they vie for one of Brazil's most prestigious state titles.
The match is set to be broadcast live across a variety of platforms including Record, PlayPlus, R7, CazéTV, Max, UOL Play, Nosso Futebol+, and Zapping TV, ensuring fans from all over can catch the action. The stakes are high, especially for Palmeiras, who are aiming for their unprecedented fourth title in this competition.
Corinthians enters the final with an advantage after securing a 1-0 victory in the first leg at Allianz Parque. That result means the Timão needs only a draw to clinch the championship, while Palmeiras must win by at least two goals to lift the trophy outright. If Palmeiras manages to win by a single goal, the match will go to penalties, adding an extra layer of tension to this already intense rivalry.
This final marks yet another chapter in the storied history of the São Paulo derby, which has seen the two teams face off in eight previous finals. Historically, Palmeiras leads the head-to-head tally in state finals with five titles to Corinthians' three. However, the momentum appears to be with the Corinthians, who have not lost at home since August 2024, boasting a record of 18 wins and four draws in their last 22 home matches.
Corinthians, under the guidance of coach Ramón Díaz, is optimistic about securing their first state title since 2019. The team finished the regular season with an impressive 36 points from 15 matches, including 11 wins, three draws, and just one loss. Their robust performance has seen them score 25 goals while conceding only 14.
However, concerns loom over the lineup as midfielder Garro is doubtful due to a knee issue sustained in training. Additionally, both José Martínez and André Carrillo are uncertain after playing for their national teams earlier this week. These potential absences could prompt Díaz to make strategic adjustments, possibly introducing Talles Magno into the starting eleven.
On the other side, Palmeiras, managed by Abel Ferreira, is determined to overcome the odds. The Alviverde finished the season with 29 points, securing eight wins, five draws, and two losses. They have scored 25 goals and conceded 11, showing a solid attacking front. Nonetheless, questions remain about the fitness of midfielder Richard Ríos, who played in two recent international matches for Colombia. If he is unable to play, Ferreira may opt for a more offensive lineup to chase the necessary victory.
As the teams prepare for this decisive encounter, the atmosphere is electric. Fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling display of football. The stakes are not only about glory but also financial rewards, with the champion set to earn R$ 5 million, while the runner-up will receive R$ 1.65 million. The potential for both teams to end the tournament with a total of R$ 49 million in revenue, combining prize money and participation fees, adds an extra incentive to perform.
For those unable to attend the match in person, the game will be available for viewing throughout South America, thanks to a broadcasting deal with TyC Sports, allowing fans in Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Colombia, and Venezuela to tune in. This broad coverage reflects the significance of the Paulista Championship in the region and the fierce rivalry between these two clubs.
The players will undoubtedly feel the pressure, but they also thrive on it. As the clock ticks down to kick-off, the excitement builds. Will Corinthians secure the title with a draw, or can Palmeiras pull off a stunning comeback to claim the championship? Fans are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the outcome of this monumental clash.
Regardless of the result, this final is set to be a showcase of Brazilian football at its finest, illustrating the passion and intensity that characterizes the Campeonato Paulista. As the teams take to the pitch, all eyes will be on the Neo Química Arena, where history will be made and a champion will be crowned.
