Analysis: Corinthians rewarded for resilience as a new idol emerges | OneFootball

By André Costa

Corinthians struggled, but qualified for the final of the Copa do Brasil this Sunday, against Cruzeiro. The team had a poor first half, but bounced back in the second and was rewarded with a magical night at Neo Química Arena.

Contrasting Halves

The first half was dominated by Cruzeiro, who controlled the game with high possession (59%) and created the best chances. The Fox scored with Arroyo and would have scored more if not for the saves by Hugo Souza.

The second half, however, was completely different. Dorival made changes, and Corinthians came back with a new attitude. By bad luck, they were punished with a goal from Kaio Jorge early on, but fought back and had their resilience rewarded with a goal from Matheus Bidu.

The team still had chances to score more and seal the deal, but was stopped by Cássio and the post, twice.

Deserved Spot

Corinthians' qualification was more than deserved. Despite the ups and downs in the second leg, Dorival Júnior's team showed more solidity over the 180 minutes of the tie.

A New Idol is Born

In the penalty shootout, the Corinthians fans witnessed the birth of a new idol. Hugo Souza saved two penalties and, once again, was decisive when all seemed lost.

The goalkeeper, who had already decided other knockout matches and even the Paulistão final with penalty saves, is well on his way to cementing his face in the Corinthians hall of fame. Perhaps all that's missing is a major title, like the one the team will compete for this week. If they win, Hugo will certainly place himself among the greats in the club's history.

(Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Agência Corinthians)

Vasco Ahead!

In search of their fourth title, Corinthians will face Vasco in the Copa do Brasil final. Fernando Diniz's team eliminated Fluminense on penalties this Sunday at Maracanã.

The first leg of the final is scheduled for next Wednesday, December 17, at 9:30 p.m. (Brasília time), with Corinthians as the home team. The decisive match will take place on the 21st, next Sunday, at 6:30 p.m., at Maracanã.

Corinthians' Next Match

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.