Corinthians’ key boosts: starters return, home edge for semis | OneFootball

Corinthians has another important challenge ahead this midweek. Timão hosts Athletico-PR in the second leg of the quarterfinals of the Copa do Brasil. The match kicks off this Wednesday at 9:30 PM (Brasília time) at Neo Química Arena.

The São Paulo Alvinegro won the first leg 1-0 and only needs a draw to secure a spot in the semifinals. To achieve this, the team will count on two key advantages that can make a difference in a knockout match: the possible return of some starters and the home advantage.

Return of starters excites Corinthians

Corinthians may have up to four starters back for the decisive Copa do Brasil clash. The main one is Yuri Alberto. The center forward surprised everyone with his recovery from inguinal hernia surgery and has been training normally with the squad. Gazeta Esportiva has learned that there is a strong possibility that the number 9 will start the match leading the Alvinegro attack.

Right-back Matheuzinho is also expected to return to the starting lineup. He missed the Derby due to a strain in his right thigh but has also been working normally with his teammates. Another important return is Matheus Bidu, who served a suspension in the classic against Palmeiras and should also be in the starting eleven against Furacão.

There is also a chance, albeit slim, that Raniele will be available for the match. The player may be included in the squad, but this depends on the midfielder's progress in the coming days. The number 14, it’s worth noting, is recovering from a muscle injury in his left thigh.

Meanwhile, Carrillo, who is recovering from ankle surgery, is a definite absence for this Wednesday’s match against Furacão.

‘Zeroed’ defense

Another aspect that excites Timão is the consistency of their defensive system in the Copa do Brasil. In five matches played in the competition, the Alvinegro team has not conceded a single goal. On the other hand, they have found the net six times.

The scenario is quite different in the Brazilian Championship. In the national league, the team’s defense has been inconsistent, conceding 28 goals in 22 rounds.

Home advantage is fundamental

Finally, the home advantage could also be crucial for Corinthians to confirm their qualification. The Faithful Fans have made a difference with their unwavering support throughout the 90 minutes, especially in knockout matches. The fans put on a beautiful show in the classic against Palmeiras, in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil round of 16.

Although Corinthians have only one win in their last seven home matches, the team still proves to be very strong on their own turf. In the current season, the Alvinegro has recorded 16 wins, seven draws, and only four losses, totaling a 67.9% success rate.

Corinthians have also not been defeated as hosts in knockout matches in 2025. There have been seven matches (against UCV-EQU, Barcelona de Guayaquil-EQU, Mirassol, Santos, Palmeiras [2x], and Novorizontino), with six wins and one draw.

Upcoming Corinthians matches

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