Tijuana 0-0 Palmeiras, and then some

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São Paulo Cup elimination through a penalty shootout against Santos. 17h of traveling. Artificial grass. Strong opponent. Palmeiras returned home with a not great but certainly good result against Tijuana, now needing a simple victory in the return game to qualify for the quarter-finals in the Libertadores Cup. With no other duties but training and resting in the two weeks to follow – and with the possible return of some players from the medical department, for example Patrick Vieira – expectations are high. The Pacaumbu stadium will be sold out, no doubt about it.

Against Tijuana, Palmeiras were again more heart than anything else, combined with the tactical obedience from previous Libertadores games. The relatively weak performances we’ve seen in away games did not repeat this time. Special mentioning to Bruno – magnificent between the posts – and Vinícius – working hard and always available on the left flank, keeping Tijuana’s defence busy.

 — ooo —

Last week, playmaker Serginho joined the squad. The 22-year-old was defending Oeste as of late, but spent his formative years at Santos with no other than Neymar and Paulo Henrique Ganso. Very eager, he caused a good impression when officially presented, pleased to once again be part of a big team. Serginho has been included in the Libertadores squad and can be used as playmaker or even a forward. He comes on loan until end of May 2014.

Palmeiras are studying other reinforcements, but as cash continues scarce, preference is given to options that include player swaps: Vasco players might be involved and, possibly, Maikon Leite from our side.

 — ooo —

This Saturday, club members gather in a General Assembly to take a vote on the 15% filter, as unanimously proposed by the DC. If the proposal is ratified, the Direct Vote is securely implemented already as of coming election. The filter is not ideal (no filter should be necessary, imho), but the most important right now is securing the direct vote. Thus, Anything Palmeiras endorse the “yes” vote on this one.

Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!