The scorecard indicates a game much smoother than the reality: it took a – to some – questionable penalty in the 56th minute to lose up the nerves and secure Palmeiras’ spot in the quarterfinals of the Libertadores Cup.
Raphael Veiga scored the opener, showing personality. Borja, Scarpa and Dudu completed the card, to the joy of the thirty five thousand supporters at the Allianz Parque.
Line-up
Weverton; Marcos Rocha, Luan, Gustavo Gómez and Diogo Barbosa; Felipe Melo, Bruno Henrique and Raphael Veiga (Scarpa); Willian (Hyoran), Dudu and Borja (Deyverson).
Bruno Henrique and Raphael Veiga received yellow cards.
Green light
Palmeiras’ second half showed supporters all they ever wanted: defensive line once again solid, scoring opportunities created with ease and players fighting for the ball with intensity.
Yellow light
Palmeiras first half was a test of the nerves for many supporters, as the team did not create a clear opportunity to score and a goal from Godoy Cruz would seriously threaten advancement to the next phase.
Red light
Argentinian teams definitely don’t accept to lose. After Palmeiras’ third goal, Godoy Cruz started to deliver lots of aggressive tackles. In one of them, Manzur almost broke Dudu’s ankle and was sent to the showers early.
Borja
The Colombian center forward struck again in the Libertadores Cup. With yesterday’s goal, Borja has become our second greatest striker in Libertadores Cup history with 11 goals, just behind Alex (12). Fingers crossed he takes the lead already in the quarterfinals.
Next challenge
It’s Derby time! On Sunday 4 August, for the Brazilian Championship, Palmeiras go to the Itaquerão Stadium to play Corinthians. With a full week to rest after the Derby, Felipão will probably line-up Palmeiras in full strength. It is a difficult task to achieve, but a victory would definitely put Palmeiras back on the virtuous cycle.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
—- ooo —-
by Augusto Anteghini Oazi & Kristian Bengtson
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 