Murilo set to captain Palmeiras v LDU, Piquerez still doubtful | OneFootball

Palmeiras will have an important change in on-field leadership for the decisive clash against LDU this Wednesday (16) at 7 p.m. (Brasília time) at Estadio Rodrigo Paz Delgado in Quito. Gustavo Gómez, the team’s main captain, is suspended, and Murilo has emerged as the favorite to wear the armband in the match that will decide a spot in the CONMEBOL Libertadores semifinal.

The choice follows the captaincy hierarchy Palmeiras has used throughout 2026. Gómez has worn the armband the most this season, with 44 matches as captain. Murilo comes right behind with six, while Piquerez captained the team on three occasions and Marcelo Lomba once.

With Gómez out, Murilo appears to be the most natural option to lead the team in Quito. The center-back has also been an important part of the defensive system and scored one of the goals in the 2-0 win over São Paulo in the Brazilian Championship last Saturday (12).

Piquerez trains in Quito and raises hopes

The main doubt for the match remains Piquerez. The left-back suffered a heavy challenge from Osorio during the derby against São Paulo and had to be substituted at halftime. Tests carried out afterward ruled out a fracture in his left ankle, but the player is still being monitored by the Health and Performance Department.

This Monday (14), Piquerez did not take part normally in the morning training session at Academia de Futebol, instead remaining indoors for treatment. After the trip to Ecuador, however, the Uruguayan took to the field in the team’s first training session in Quito, held at Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa, and began preparation work alongside the squad.

His presence on the field is positive news for Abel Ferreira, but it does not mean Piquerez has been confirmed for the match. The full-back will continue to be assessed until kickoff. If he is not fit, Arthur appears as the main alternative to fill the role.

Gómez’s absence and Piquerez’s situation make the defense one of Palmeiras’ main areas of concern for the decider. Verdão arrive in Ecuador with the 1-0 advantage earned in the first leg at Nubank Parque and need only a draw to secure qualification.

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