Neo Química Arena could see Corinthians' biggest non-derby crowd in 2026 | OneFootball

Corinthians should have a virtually full Neo Química Arena on Thursday night (6), when they host Internacional for the second leg of the Copa do Brasil round of 16. The expectation is that the match will draw more than 43,000 paying fans, which could represent the club’s biggest crowd in matches not involving state derby rivals during the 2026 season.

As of Thursday morning, around 42,000 tickets had already been sold. Throughout the day, Corinthians released a new limited batch of tickets for the West stand, following the cancellation of reservations and purchases whose payment was not confirmed within the deadline set by the club.

Photo: Bruno Texeira

If the projection is confirmed, the clash against Internacional will surpass Timão’s main attendance marks in matches without capacity restrictions aside from derbies. Currently, the best figure belongs to the 3-0 win over Remo in the Brazilian Championship, which brought 43,623 paying fans to Neo Química Arena. Right behind it is the 2-0 victory over Peñarol in the Conmebol Libertadores, with 43,456 paying fans.

Another factor contributing to the expectation of a new record is the expansion of the stadium’s capacity. After changes made during the break in the schedule, the South stand no longer has seats. With the adjustments now fully completed, the capacity of the area increased from 7,406 to 9,083 fans, boosting Neo Química Arena’s attendance potential.

In addition to the expectation of packed stands, the atmosphere will also be marked by the support of the organized supporters’ groups. Before the match, Gaviões da Fiel will carry out the traditional welcome for the team bus upon its arrival at the stadium. During the 90 minutes, the main supporter groups will also promote a joint action to unify the chants and cheer on the team throughout the entire decider.

On the pitch, Corinthians will have a complicated mission. After the 2-0 defeat at Beira-Rio, the team needs to win by two goals to take the battle for qualification to a penalty shootout. A victory by three or more goals guarantees direct qualification for the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals.

Largest crowds at Neo Química Arena in 2026 (paying attendance)

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