Corinthians hold first tactical session as they gear up to face Botafogo | OneFootball

The Corinthians continued preparations for the match against Botafogo, valid for the 36th round of the Brazilian Championship. On Thursday morning, the alvinegro squad held the third training session, the first tactical one, aiming at the confrontation.

The Timão still has two more preparatory activities for the clash. The match kicks off this Sunday at 4 pm (Brasília time), at the Neo Química Arena, in São Paulo (SP).

How was the training?

The alvinegro squad started the day with strength training in the gym. After warming up on the field, coach Dorival Júnior led a strategic tactical exercise on a reduced field in four blocks. The coaching staff took the opportunity to work on game situations and instruct the players.

Absences, doubts, and returns

For the duel, Corinthians will have one confirmed absence. It is the midfielder José Martinez, who was sent off in the defeat to Cruzeiro and will need to serve a suspension. Memphis Depay, who also did not train with the squad this Thursday, continues treatment for a bone edema in his left knee and is also expected to be out.

On the other hand, Timão has three main doubts for facing Botafogo. Goalkeeper Hugo Souza and midfielder Maycon are in the physical transition phase and may strengthen the team if they are fit to do so.

Matheus Bidu had been experiencing pain in his right knee but also has chances to be available this Sunday. According to Gazeta Esportiva, the left-back trained normally with his teammates and is hopeful of reinforcing the team.

Standings situation

Corinthians is coming off a tough defeat to Cruzeiro and no longer has a chance to enter the top seven of the Brasileirão. However, the team is trying to stay among the top eight to keep alive the dream of competing in the Libertadores in 2026. Timão is in tenth place on the table, with 45 points.

Upcoming Corinthians matches

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