Champion in 1991, Paulo Sérgio shows Corinthians the way to Supercopa glory | OneFootball

Corinthians will decide the title of the Supercopa do Brasil this Sunday, against Flamengo. The match kicks off at 4 p.m. (Brasília time) on the Mané Garrincha pitch, in Brasília. Champion in 1991, former striker Paulo Sérgio pointed out the paths for Timão to win their second title.

That year, Corinthians earned the right to compete for the trophy after winning the Brazilian championship the previous year. Flamengo, in turn, was the champion of the Copa do Brasil in 1990. The São Paulo team came out on top and won the match 1-0, with a goal from Neto.

(Photo: Acervo/Gazeta Press)

In an exclusive interview with Gazeta Esportiva, Paulo Sérgio recalled the match and revealed that he was marked by having played as a starter in that game.

At the time, the Supercopa did not draw crowds. The 1991 final brought less than three thousand people to the stadium. Paulo Sérgio believes that the increase in prize money has helped the trophy gain importance over the past few years.

“I see the Supercopa as an important championship, which marks something significant in the context of two teams that were champions of major tournaments. At the time, it wasn’t so publicized. But for us athletes, the important thing was always to think about the legacy we would leave. Years later, people are still talking about that title. Today, without a doubt, the amounts involved in these competitions help teams prioritize this title,” said the former player.

See also:  All the news from Gazeta Esportiva Gazeta Esportiva’s YouTube Channel Follow Gazeta Esportiva on Instagram 

Who is the favorite?

Paulo Sérgio sees Flamengo as the favorite for the title, but believes Corinthians can surprise. The former striker explained what Timão needs to do to get closer to the trophy.

“Flamengo is the favorite, but Corinthians can surprise. It’s a single match, and Corinthians have a great chance to win this title after so many years,” he said.

“One fundamental thing is the midfield. When Corinthians play compactly, with marking on the flanks, it’s very important. I believe the main thing is to have opportunities and turn them into goals,” he added.

Paquetá’s impact

The return of Lucas Paquetá has made Flamengo fans even more confident about the title. However, Paulo Sérgio does not see the midfielder’s arrival as a major concern for Corinthians. Now officially registered, the player could make his re-debut for the Rio team this Sunday.

“I don’t think so [does Paquetá’s arrival have an impact?]. Paquetá is already known by Flamengo’s players, he’s known in the Brazilian scene. He’s a good player, but nothing that could shake the structure of a big team like Corinthians,” he concluded.

The Supercopa do Brasil began in 1990, but ceased to exist already in 1992. The trophy was only brought back in 2020. Since then, Flamengo has participated in five of the six editions and won three. Corinthians, meanwhile, will compete for the trophy again for the first time since 1991.

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