João Pedro Tchoca could start for Corinthians for first time in almost six months | OneFootball

João Pedro Tchoca could return to Corinthians’ starting XI on Sunday, ending almost six months without a start.

Corinthians face Chapecoense at Neo Química Arena at 19:30 in the 26th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro. According to Meu Timao, it could be his first start under Fernando Diniz.

Tchoca last started on 19 March in a 0-0 draw with Chapecoense at Arena Condá in the first round. At the time Dorival Júnior was in charge and had given him four further starts that season.

He underwent surgery for an inguinal hernia in May. Since then he has played twice, both off the bench, in the defeat to Cruzeiro and in the progression past Rosario Central in August.

On Sunday he has a strong chance to start. Gabriel Paulista is suspended after a third yellow card, André Ramalho is still recovering from labyrinthitis, and Raniele, previously used in defence, is also suspended.

Tchoca is among the options to partner Gustavo Henrique. The 22-year-old has made seven appearances for Corinthians in 2026, five as a starter.

Across those five starts, Corinthians recorded two wins, two draws and one defeat, scoring five and conceding four. Tchoca has also scored once this season.

Source: Meu Timao

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