Repeating the performance against Red Bull Bragantino on the first leg of the round-of-16, Palmeiras yesterday constructed a considerable advantage to secure a spot in the Brazil Cup semifinals. All three goals were scored in the first half, between the 35th and 40th minute, by Scarpa, Veiga and Veron, respectively. Rather chocking result, considering the Palmeiras lineup was missing eight regulars.
In the second half, Palmeiras reduced the rhythm and Abel carried out some experiments, as he has previously indicated he will do when opportunity arises. Mayke was tested on the right wing, Alan Empereur made his debut in a defensive line of five players and Patrick de Paula had his first chance with the new coach.
Line-up
Weverton; Marcos Rocha, Emerson Santos, Renan and Scarpa; Danilo, Zé Rafael (Patrick de Paula) and Raphael Veiga (Rony); Lucas Lima (Alan Empereur), Veron (Mayke) and Willian (Gabriel Silva).
Emerson Santos and Renan received yellow cards. Abel Ferreira received a straight red – rather strangely – allegedly having complained about something to the referee.
Green Light
Scarpa played as left-back, out of his original position, and was Palmeiras’ best player yesterday, in particular offensively and to the delight of Abel Ferreira, who suggested to Tite that Scarpa would be a valuable asset to Brazil National Team. Veron also had a good night, scoring a beautiful goal and assisting Veiga.
Yellow Light
Despite slowing the pace, Palmeiras still created opportunities in the second half, but Willian was clearly out of sync with his teammates and blew two big chances to further increase the lead and make Palmeiras’ job in the second leg even easier.
Red Light
Another possible injury, this time to Zé Rafael, who had to be immediately substituted. The images didn’t indicate the same severity as Felipe Melo’s or Wesley’s injuries, but Zé could be out of combat for a few matches. Fingers crossed.
Next Challenge
Palmeiras return their attention to the Brazilian League, playing at the Allianz Parque against Fluminense, on Saturday 14th. The carioca team is surpassing expectations, being one point ahead of Palmeiras having played one more game. A victory would make Palmeiras advance at least one position, further reducing the gap to the leaders.
Breaking news
Gabriel Menino, serving the national squad, has been diagnosed with COVID-19. This is the second Palmeiras player receiving the diagnose. Buckle up for what’s likely to come.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
– – – ooo – – –
by Augusto Anteghini Oazi
*Here at Anything Palmeiras, we love football. We love Palmeiras. We are always keen to see Palmeiras play, and keen to write about it for you. But we’re against the return of football in a country that still hasn’t controlled the coronavirus pandemic. We express our deepest sympathy to the families whose loved ones have been taken by the disease.
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 