São Paulo v Palmeiras: top-two clash shapes early Brasileirão lead | OneFootball

São Paulo face Palmeiras in the Brasileirão on Sunday, 22 March 2026 in São Paulo, with first playing second and the early lead on the line.

São Paulo and Palmeiras are level on points near the summit, and recent meetings have tilted towards the visitors, who won 2-1 in the Paulista semi finals on 1 March after a 3-1 victory in January.

Tricolor Paulista have three wins from their past five, including away at RB Bragantino. Verdão arrive in strong form with five wins in their last six, most recently beating Botafogo.

Soberano are without forwards Lucas Moura, Paulo Sérgio and Ryan Francisco. Porco list Joaquin Piquerez and Paulinho as injured, trimming options at full back and up front.

Soberano's defence has conceded only four times in seven league games, including just one goal at home, while Verdão have scored 16 in seven. This could hinge on Tricolor Paulista's compact back line against Porco's punch in attack, with the hosts likely to prioritise control and the visitors set to lean on their scoring rhythm.

A home win could take Tricolor Paulista top. An away victory would keep Porco clear at the summit, while a draw would maintain the current order in the title race.