Analysis: Corinthians struggle but are rewarded for their persistence | OneFootball

Corinthians did not play well, but defeated Portuguesa on penalties last Sunday at Canindé, securing a spot in the semifinals of the Paulista Championship. Despite a poor performance, the team didn’t throw in the towel, relied on another decisive performance from Hugo Souza, and was rewarded with the qualification.

The first half of the match was all Portuguesa. Clearly worn out by a string of games, Timão posed little threat to the opponent’s goal and struggled defensively. Unsurprisingly, goalkeeper Hugo Souza saved a penalty in the first half. However, it did little good, as Zé Vitor opened the scoring for Lusa minutes later.

The result seemed set. Coach Dorival Júnior tried, made changes, but the team seemed to lack the strength to react. Until, in stoppage time of the second half, Vitinho received a pass from Matheuzinho and fired a rocket to level the score.

At that moment, everything changed and the weight of the jersey showed. Not even Garro’s missed penalty shook Corinthians. The team knew Hugo Souza would deliver between the posts. And that’s what happened. The goalkeeper saved two penalties and put Timão into the next round.

Corinthians didn’t deserve to qualify, but football isn’t always fair. It’s a warning that, if they want to reach the final, the team will need to play better football.

Dorival will have quite a challenge this week: managing the energy of an already tired squad for two important matches. And, who knows, succeeding in both cases, just as they did this week.

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On to the semis

With their spot secured, Corinthians will face Novorizontino in the Paulistão semifinal. The match is scheduled for next weekend and will be decided in a single game, hosted by the team from the interior of São Paulo. The detailed schedule, with dates, times, and locations, will be released by the FPF this Monday.

Corinthians’ next match

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