Derby stirs boos for Abel as Palmeiras face Corinthians for Paulistão | OneFootball

Palmeiras and Corinthians face each other again this Sunday (8), at 8:30 PM (Brasília time), at the Neo Química Arena, in a classic match that, besides its historical weight, brings back recent, striking memories for the green side. The reunion takes place during the Campeonato Paulista, with both teams still seeking the mathematical confirmation of their qualification.

In 2025, Palmeiras was eliminated by Corinthians in the Copa do Brasil, at Allianz Parque. The 2-0 defeat, which closed the aggregate at 3-0 for their rival, was marked by boos and insults directed at coach Abel Ferreira and the board at the final whistle. The Portuguese coach has publicly mentioned, on different occasions, the impact of that moment, showing discomfort with the fans' reaction.

After that episode, Palmeiras comes into the classic in a more stable sporting situation and is trying to turn their recent good form into a result in the derby. In the last round, the team thrashed Vitória 5-1 at the Arena Barueri, in a dominant performance that boosted the squad’s confidence ahead of the decisive clash.

Off the pitch, part of the fans have once again voiced their opinions, this time with criticism directed at football director Anderson Barros, mainly regarding sports planning. The protests, however, do not directly affect the squad’s environment, which remains focused on the final stretch of the group stage of the State Championship.

Corinthians, on the other hand, are enjoying a positive moment. Champions of the Supercopa do Brasil after a 2-0 win over Flamengo, the team comes into the Derby on a high. In midweek, even with a mixed squad, Timão beat Capivariano 3-0 in the Paulistão, resting starters and turning their attention to the classic.

Like Palmeiras, Corinthians have not yet mathematically secured their spot in the next phase, and the head-to-head clash could decide the qualification for both. In a classic that blends memory, rivalry, and decision, this Sunday’s Derby promises another significant chapter in the history between the clubs.

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