Palmeiras right-back steps up recovery as leaders prepare for Atlético-MG | OneFootball

Palmeiras returned to work on Thursday morning at the Academia de Futebol, a day after a 3-1 win at Coritiba. According to Nosso Palestra, they top the table on 44 points, their best first-half tally in the points era, surpassing 39 in 2025.

Abel Ferreira’s side now turn to Atlético-MG on Sunday 26 at 19:30, at Nubank Parque, to open the second round.

Players who featured for more than 45 minutes in Curitiba followed a recovery programme in the gym and recovery and neuroscience rooms. The remainder worked on the pitch in technical and opposed drills.

Right-back Agustín Giay took another step in his comeback from a right ankle sprain, completing field work with the Health and Performance unit. Forward Vitor Roque, in physical transition, and Felipe Anderson, absent against Coritiba with a left thigh oedema, trained fully with the group.

The win also brought a debut for centre-back Alexander Barboza, while 18-year-old Heittor replaced Ramón Sosa in stoppage time for his first senior appearance. At the club since 2018 and a graduate of every youth level, he described delight mixed with nerves when called to come on.

Since 2025 Heittor has operated as a mobile centre-forward, tallying 13 goals and three assists in 19 Sub-20 games this season. A winner at Sub-20 in 2025, Sub-17 in 2023 and Paulista Sub-15 in 2022, he became the 52nd Cria da Academia to debut for the first team since 2020, and highlighted the support of senior team-mates.

Source: Nosso Palestra