Nothing but the three points and a completely drenched pitch in the second half are worth mentioning in yet another uninspiring performance from Palmeiras, this time against almost-certain relegated Avaí. With Flamengo beating CSA 1-0, the gap remains at 10 points, with 10 rounds to go.
Line-up
Weverton; Jean, Luan, Vitor Hugo and Diogo Barbosa; Bruno Henrique and Felipe Melo; Lucas Lima (Gustavo Scarpa), Dudu, Carlos Eduardo (Hyoran); Deyverson (Henrique Dourado).
Weverton received a yellow card.
Green light
The three points keep the dream alive and, more importantly, takes the edge of the heavy (and justifiable) critics should Palmeiras have walked away with only one point. In the second half, at least the battle instinct was there.
Yellow light
Carlos Eduardo received another opportunity, and once again left everyone unimpressed. Deyverson was instrumental in the victory, scoring once and suffering the penalty that Scarpa converted. It’s disturbing to depend on someone like Deyverson.
Red light
In the first half, before the rains and in good playing conditions, Palmeiras sustained more than 70% ball possession but concluded only 6 times: the same number as the adversary, who made Weverton work hard between the posts. Palmeiras seem uninspired, lacking identity, a pattern or game plan. This being Brazil, Mano must provoke a change, and fast. A few more rounds of this, and his job will be on the line.
Next challenge
The atmosphere is one of tension and uncertainties. After facing two on paper weak adversaries, Palmeiras on Wednesday evening receive eternal enemy São Paulo FC at the Allianz Parque. More than the result itself, our player’s posture during the Choque Rei will indicate whether Mano has a grip or not of the squad. A very important clash, this one.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 