Palmeiras target final step before FIFA break in three-trophy pursuit | OneFootball

Palmeiras, the only Brazilian side still chasing three trophies, seek a final target before the international break, visiting Grêmio on Sunday.

They trail Flamengo by one point and can return to the summit if they win at Arena do Grêmio at 11:00 Brasília time and Flamengo do not beat Bragantino at 18:30 in the Maracanã, according to Globo.com.

Abel Ferreira’s side have not prioritised any competition and are expected to field a full-strength team again. They are into the Copa do Brasil semi-finals against Vasco and the Libertadores last four after eliminating LDU, setting up a tie with Fluminense.

Goalkeeper Carlos Miguel said qualification was hard-earned, the altitude added to the challenge, and a Libertadores semi-final carries huge importance for the squad and club.

Palmeiras now face almost 20 days without a match, with Bahia next on 8 October at Nubank Parque. The pause will be key to recovering players not on international duty.

Piquerez, Giay, Flaco López and Arias will play friendlies during the window. Gustavo Gómez, Sosa and Mauricio are still awaiting Paraguay’s squad announcement.

If they beat Grêmio, Palmeiras will enter the pause at least one point off top spot and alive in both knockouts. Carlos Miguel said they expect a very tough away game and must be mentally prepared for a positive result.

Abel Ferreira will not be on the bench after an STJD punishment, and Murilo is suspended. Gustavo Gómez returns after missing the LDU tie.

Source: Globo.com

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