Palmeiras complete preparations for Cerro Porteño Libertadores decider | OneFootball

Palmeiras completed their final workout on Tuesday ahead of Wednesday’s decisive Libertadores last-16 second leg against Cerro Porteño, kicking off at 19:00 at the Nueva Olla in Asunción.

According to Nosso Palestra, the morning session at the Academia de Futebol featured tactical work after a pre-training video briefing. Abel Ferreira then led drills to reinforce key elements of the game plan, before focusing on offensive and defensive set pieces.

Right-back Khellven trained fully again, boosting Ferreira’s options for the tie. Forward Paulinho remained apart as he continues rehab on a right thigh injury under the club’s medical and performance staff.

Alexander Barboza, a 2024 Libertadores winner, said the team must take onto the pitch what they have rehearsed and warned of a hostile setting in Asunción. He noted Cerro are a major club with fervent backing, so Palmeiras’ desire has to be stronger.

After the 1-1 first leg at the Nubank Parque, Palmeiras need a win in normal time to reach the quarter-finals. Another draw would take the tie to penalties.

The club are the only side to reach the knockouts in each of the past 10 editions and are contesting the last 16 for the 19th time, a Brazilian record. Progress would mark a 14th quarter-final and move them clear of São Paulo for most last-eight appearances by a Brazilian club.

Source: Nosso Palestra

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”