Analysis: ‘Rudderless Palmeiras lose before Libertadores decider’ | OneFootball

Palmeiras changed its formation, but not its attitude in the comeback defeat to Fluminense at the Maracanã. Their cushion at the top of the Brazilian Championship could come to an end if Flamengo beat Mirassol this Sunday (16), away from home.

Individual mistakes

Even after taking the lead twice, Palmeiras were unable to protect their advantage because of individual mistakes. Murilo was beaten in two aerial plays, first by Hulk and then by Cano. The veterans got the better of him with the No. 7’s goal in the first half and then with Serna’s strike after the ball hit the post. On the third goal, Felipe Anderson, who had only recently come on, could only watch as Guga crossed, Martinelli flicked it on, and Cano sealed Palmeiras’ defeat. In the press conference, Abel Ferreira did not mention names, but made it clear what each player’s role was in those plays.

What about Vitor Roque?

Abel Ferreira once again started Flaco López and Vitor Roque together. The Argentine provided the assist for Mauricio, but the No. 9 once again struggled. Just as had happened at Nubank Parque, Vitor was below par and also lost the ball in the move that led to the first goal by the Rio side.

Negative run

Palmeiras have now gone four straight matches without a win this season. There have been two defeats and two draws, and the team now heads into Wednesday’s (19) clash against Cerro Porteño under pressure. The worst run since Abel’s arrival came between October and November 2025, with six matches. On that occasion, Verdão lost both the Brasileirão and the Copa Libertadores.

Upcoming matches

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