Corinthians is set to host Universidad Central (Venezuela) this Wednesday night at the Neo Química Arena, competing for advancement to the next round of the CONMEBOL Libertadores. The much-anticipated match will kick off at 21:30 (Brasília time), following their initial encounter—which ended in a 1-1 draw—an outcome both teams are eager to surpass.
For Universidad Central, this coming bout holds significant historical value as it marks the team's first venture onto the international stage. Arriving from Caracas, the Venezuelan squad embraced their pre-match preparations at Palmeiras' renowned Academy of Football, where they benefitted from top-notch training conditions. "The facilities of Palmeiras are top-notch. They treated us very well, we trained with total tranquility, on excellent pitch conditions. Impeccable," commented one source on the experience.
On the other side, the Brazilian powerhouse Corinthians takes this match with utmost seriousness, marking the return to field of their strongest lineup after strategically resting key players during last weekend's match against Guarani. Coach Ramón Díaz has employed the 4-3-1-2 formation. Expected starters include Hugo Souza as the goalkeeper, backed by defenders Matheuzinho, André Ramalho, João Pedro Tchoca, and Matheus Bidu. The midfield consists of José Martínez, André Carrillo, and Breno Bidon, leading to forwards Memphis Depay and Yuri Alberto—two players the Corinthians rely on heavily for offensive thrust.
The only player missing from this match for Corinthians is Raniele, who suffered a second-degree hamstring injury during the previous match with Universidad Central and will be sidelined for about four to six weeks. With everything at stake, the supporters fervently anticipate seeing their team deliver the results required for advancement.
The stakes are high as only the team securing the victory will proceed to the third preliminary phase of the Copa Libertadores, where either Barcelona de Guayaquil or El Nacional will await. This forthcoming matchup will take place on March 5 or 12, depending on the draw.
All eyes will be on the Neo Química Arena this evening as the teams arrive for what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
Fans who wish to catch the action can view the match live on Disney+, as the drama of the Libertadores continues to captivate audiences around the continent.