Khellven: Palmeiras not at their best, urges focus vs Capivariano | OneFootball

The Palmeiras has evolved throughout the season, but it is still "far from ideal." Right-back Khellven pointed to the team's progress but still sees room for improvement. He is expected to remain among Abel Ferreira's starters for the single quarter-final match of the Campeonato Paulista, which takes place this Saturday against Capivariano.

"Despite the short preparation time, we have been getting into the rhythm and getting more in sync. I think we are assimilating the information Abel gives us well, and with each game, we are improving. Of course, we are still far from our ideal, but we try to improve with each game. We are doing well in the Brasileiro too, now the knockout stage of the Paulista begins, and we will be extra attentive against Capivariano," said the right-back.

Khellven called for extra attention for the knockout game. Capivariano advanced to the quarter-finals for the first time in history, securing the spot in the last round with a victory over Botafogo-SP and a goal at the end of the match.

"Knockout game... The name says it all, it's always very difficult. Capivariano is a very good and qualified team. We have to be fully attentive and continue doing what we are doing. With each game, we are improving, and we have to put our ideas into practice and try to win. In all our games in Barueri, the fans have been amazing, singing and supporting us. Their support is very important, and on Saturday, we expect the same," he continued.

Khellven takes the lead over Giay and starts the year as a starter

Khellven joined Palmeiras in mid-2025 and has been establishing himself as a starter. After being hindered by a foot injury, he started the year among the "ideal team" players and has already played eight games and scored one goal. The number 12 still projects an improvement in his performance.

"I am very happy. I think I am not yet at my best level, I know I can improve a lot and I have to improve. To wear this jersey, we have to always be at a high level, and that's what I've been trying to do. I am dedicating myself a lot in training to have even more confidence in the games and continue playing well," he analyzed.

Palmeiras' Situation

Palmeiras advanced to the quarter-finals of the Paulista two rounds in advance. In their last commitment of the first phase, Verdão drew 1-1 with Guarani in Barueri, with a goal by Flaco López, securing the overall second place.

With the second-best campaign, the team led by Abel Ferreira won five, drew one, and lost two games. The team's top scorer is Flaco López, with four goals scored. Palmeiras is heading into its 16th consecutive quarter-final decision and is trying to maintain its unbeaten streak this season, which currently stands at four games.

Next Palmeiras Game

Game: Palmeiras vs. Capivariano Competition: Campeonato Paulista (Quarter-finals) Date and Time: February 21, 2026 (Saturday), at 8:30 PM (Brasília time) Location: Arena Crefisa Barueri, in Barueri (SP)

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