Pumped after yesterday’s important high-odds victory against Sport, all attention is on the Brazil Cup. The Verdão face Cruzeiro on Wednesday, basically needing a victory after the 3-3 home draw in the first leg. Any victory or a 4-4 draw or above would see Palmeiras through to the semi-finals. A 3-3 draw would lead to a penalty shoot-out, while any other result would see Cruzeiro through. In relation to the line-up against Sport, Cuca can draw on some important reinforcements. Playmaker Alejandro Guerra and defensive midfielder Felipe Melo are now available, having recovered from muscular fatigue. Same goes for centre-backs Edu Dracena and Yerry Mina, both expected in the starting eleven on Wednesday. In addition, Dudu, Borja, Tchê Tchê and Michel Bastos are available, all four suspended against Sport.
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However not all is flowers: forward Willian strained his left thigh during last week’s draw against Flamengo and is out for 4-6 weeks. Defender Juninho, right-back Mayke and defensive midfielder Bruno Henrique arrived at Palmeiras after the 24 April entry deadline for the Brazil Cup. Centre-back Luan was already at the club but at the time still recovering from a serious foot condition: naturally, he was not graced with one of the limited spots.
Cruzeiro yesterday fielded a mixed bag against Avaí, parked in the relegation zone, and were beaten by the odd goal. Palmeiras also fielded a mixed bag against Sport but came out much better. Wednesday is anybody’s guess. Expect a great game of football.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 