On February 23, 2025, the fate of Palmeiras hung dangerously on the balance as they faced Mirassol in the decisive final match of the grupo fase for the Campeonato Paulista 2025. Needing not just to win but also relying on other teams' performances, the stakes couldn't have been higher for the Verdão, who launched their campaign with high hopes of qualifying for the quarter-finals.
Entering the final game, Palmeiras sat third in Group D with 20 points, closely trailing behind Ponte Preta, who had 22 points and were up against Red Bull Bragantino. While São Bernardo led the group and already secured their qualification, Palmeiras' aspirations rested precariously on the outcome of both their match and the Ponte Preta fixture.
A recent victory against Botafogo-SP propelled confidence within the squad, giving Abel Ferreira's team some reprieve as they headed to what was seen as the most pivotal encounter of the group stage. The atmosphere was tense as fans filled the stands, fully aware of the possible heartbreak looming if their team faltered.
Throughout the game, the intensity was palpable. Palmeiras took the lead early on, but Mirassol quickly equalized, sending shivers down the spines of devoted fans. At one point during the match, the scoreboard showed Mirassol leading 3-2, placing Palmeiras on the brink of elimination. According to GC Mais, it was stated, "A derrota ou empate da Ponte Preta é essencial para que o Palmeiras avance no torneio..." The need for both victories became increasingly clear.
Not only were Palmeiras players striving for the win, but their fans also felt the urgency of needing Ponte Preta to falter against Bragantino. The teams were locked in fierce competition, with every minute of the match feeling like an eternity. The constant ups and downs left supporters anxious, checking their phones for updates on the other game.
With the seconds ticking away, Palmeiras managed to pull themselves back from the depths of despair and even regained the lead against Mirassol, finally winning the match 4-3. This result, combined with the Ponte Preta being defeated, meant they avoided elimination and secured their ticket to the knockout stages. This thrilling comeback was described aptly by GC Mais: "Se o Palmeiras conseguir manter a vantagem e vencer esta partida, poderá avançar..." The joy of the fans echoed throughout the stadium as they realized their team would live to fight another day.
After the thrilling last moments of the game, Palmeiras celebrated as they confirmed their place among the elite teams moving forward. They were joined by other clubs including Corinthians, São Paulo, Novorizontino, and São Bernardo—who had already qualified for the quarter-finals prior to this matchday, ensuring fierce competition lay ahead.
Yet, the anxiety remained palpable as reports confirmed, "Com isso, o Palmeiras não foi eliminado do Campeonato Paulista 2025..." But would they manage to reclaim former glories? The upcoming matches are bound to be intense, with Palmeiras set to take on formidable foes as the tournament progresses.
With the group stage behind them, all eyes now turn to what the quarter-finals will bring. After such dramatic events, Palmeiras' supporters can only hope their club can build on this momentum as they pursue success this season, aiming for the coveted title of tetracampeão.