São Paulo – Palmeiras: An unbelievable comeback extends Palmeiras’ dominance in the rivalry (2-3)

São Paulo haven’t beaten Palmeiras, one of their biggest rivals, in open play since 2023. The winless streak against Abel Ferreira’s side kept growing, and when it seemed that this time it would be different, São Paulo suffered an unbelievable comeback and saw Maurício change the course of yet another Palmeiras victory. With this result, Palmeiras reached 55 points and climbed to the top of the Brasileirão table on Matchday 27.

Tactical analysis and match report by Marcus Arboés.

The legendary former striker Hernán Crespo returned for his second spell in charge of São Paulo and has been using a back three, though he’s been dealing with several injuries, including Oscar (former Chelsea) and top scorer Calleri. The starting XI featured Rafael in goal; Alan Franco, Arboleda (former Ecuador National Team) and Sabino in defense; Cédric Soares (former Arsenal) and Enzo Díaz as wingbacks; academy products Pablo Maia and Marcos Antônio joined Bobadilla (Paraguay National Team) to form a midfield trio; up front, Luciano and Tapia (Chile National Team) led the attack.

On the other side, Abel Ferreira’s Palmeiras — the longest tenured manager in Brazil — had fewer injury absences and several international call-ups: Weverton (former Brazil National Team) in goal; Giay, Gustavo Gómez (Paraguay), Murilo and Piquerez (Uruguay) in defense; Aníbal (recently called up by Argentina), Andreas Pereira (former Fulham), Raphael Veiga and Felipe Anderson (former Lazio) in midfield; and the traditional forward duo Vitor Roque (former Barcelona) and Flaco López (Argentina call-up).

The perfect first half from São Paulo

It had been so long . . .