Analysis: ‘Palmeiras patch things up, but must go all the way’ | OneFootball

Palmeiras eliminated Cerro Porteño, advanced to the quarterfinals of the Copa Libertadores, and put an end to their worst run of the year. In the short term, Abel Ferreira’s team solved something that could have negatively affected the rest of the season, but their performances need to improve if they want to stay in contention until the end in all three competitions.

The Sheriff, as always

Palmeiras rely on Gustavo Gómez not only to lead a defense that has been going through some instability, but also to deliver in attack. Palmeiras’ set pieces, responsible for 23% of the team’s goals this year, were decisive in securing qualification. The captain was the best player on the pitch, fully deserving the praise.

Murilo, Murilo…

Playing as a right-back, the center-back had another poor match. Lacking confidence, number 26 left spaces open, especially in the first half, and needed Allan’s help to contain the Paraguayan side’s attacks. On the ball, he made plenty of passing mistakes.

Barboza, Barboza…

Like Murilo, the defender who recently arrived at Palmeiras has been inconsistent. Back from a foot injury, Barboza also struggled and made mistakes in aerial balls, one of his main strengths.

Best match since returning

Vitor Roque still has not scored since returning from ankle surgery, but he played his best match since recovering. In a game that suited him, number 9 battled hard, got the better of physical one-on-one situations, and showed signs of improvement, which is important for rebuilding his confidence.

Upcoming matches

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