Playing against one of the title contenders, Palmeiras put out another strong performance, Deyverson scoring an early goal to secure the victory. The current Brazilian champion now sustains a streak of 26 games undefeated in the tournament, equalizing the feat of Palmeiras’ stupendous “2nd Football Academy” of the 70s (the record was set in 1972). In addition, 11 straight victories at the Allianz Parque (Palmeiras’ longest) and 15 straight home victories (idem).
Marcos Rocha and Felipe Melo received yellow cards.
Line-up
Weverton; Marcos Rocha, Luan, Gustavo Gómez and Diogo Barbosa; Felipe Melo, Bruno Henrique and Scarpa (Moisés); Dudu (Raphael Veiga), Zé Rafael (Hyoran) and Deyverson.
Green light
Palmeiras’ greatest strength continues to be the defense. Another clean sheet for Weverton, seldom challenged due to the excellent performance of the defensive line.
Yellow light
The game could have been decided early if only Palmeiras had seized one of the many counter-attack opportunities that were offered by Inter; in one of these, Hyoran encountered an open goal but missed the target.
Attendance was not bad – 31.500 spectators – but nevertheless slightly under last year’s average. Against a strong opponent and title-contender. Something to keep an eye on.
Red light
Nothing to mention, red light off for today.
Rede Globo
In the ending minutes, the whole Allianz Parque chanted against TV Globo, sending a clear message in support of Palmeiras in the ongoing negotiations/war related to broadcasting rights.
Next challenge
San Lorenzo, at the Allianz Parque, on Wednesday 8 May, for the Libertadores Cup. With both teams already classified, what’s at stake is pole position and a better campaign, which in turn gives the advantage of playing the second game of the knockout phase at home.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
– – – ooo – – –
by Augusto Anteghini Oazi
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 