Abel Ferreira handed defensive boost for Palmeiras v Internacional | OneFootball

Palmeiras continued preparations for Internacional on Sunday 9 at 16:00 at Nubank Parque, the 22nd round of the Brasileiro. Abel Ferreira has a defensive boost, with Alexander Barboza back in full training after a foot trauma.

According to Nosso Palestra, Friday's session at the Academia de Futebol focused on build-up play, passing, crosses and finishing. The leaders have 47 points from 21 matches, a 74.6% points return, their best season in the points era.

Barboza trained normally after being rested against Fortaleza. Captain Gustavo Gómez continued his recovery from a right thigh injury, working on the pitch with the club's health and performance staff.

Lucas Evangelista has made 35 consecutive appearances, his longest run since joining, ahead of Murilo on 15. He said he is delighted to be involved regularly and that playing every match is the aim for any player.

Palmeiras are unbeaten in four against Internacional, with three wins in a row, and Evangelista feels home support could be decisive. He expects the backing at Nubank Parque to help them push for a positive result.

Despite losing the second leg to Fortaleza, Palmeiras advanced to the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals. Evangelista framed the setback as a warning to treat every game like a final, noting some team-mates were rested and that they aim to bring extra energy and focus on Sunday.

Source: Nosso Palestra

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