Corinthians ready for São Paulo, midfielder stresses game's importance | OneFootball

Corinthians now turn their attention to the Brazilian Championship after securing early qualification for the Copa Libertadores round of 16. This Sunday (10), Timão host São Paulo Futebol Clube at 6:30 p.m. (Brasília time) at Neo Química Arena, in the 15th round of the national competition.

In 17th place with 15 points, the black-and-white side see the Majestoso as an opportunity to climb the table and earn their fourth win in the national tournament. Midfielder Breno Bidon highlighted the importance of the clash in front of the Corinthians fans.

Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Ag. Corinthians

“We are very happy with our qualification in the CONMEBOL Libertadores, but we know how important this derby at home is, especially with our fans close to us. It will be a very important match for us to move up the table. I believe we are very well prepared. We have worked hard to come away with the win,” said the player.

Preparations for the match were wrapped up on the morning of this Saturday (09) at CT Dr. Joaquim Grava. Before the on-field activities, the squad took part in a tactical instruction video session in the Flexform Briefing Room and carried out activation work in the gym.

Under head coach Fernando Diniz, the players took part in two tactical exercises focused on different game situations. The coach also used the session to fine-tune set plays ahead of the derby against their tricolor rivals.

In addition to being without André, head coach Fernando Diniz will also be missing midfielder Allan, who is suspended due to yellow-card accumulation.

The Sport Club Corinthians Paulista medical department still has a long list of players recovering from injuries. Center-back João Pedro Tchoca underwent surgery to correct an inguinal hernia, while Charles is being treated for an injury to his right heel. Forward Memphis Depay is in the physical transition stage after a right thigh injury.

Also sidelined are defensive midfielder Vitinho, with pain in his right hip; youngster Kayke, recovering from surgery after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee; and Hugo Farias, who is recovering from surgery on the lateral meniscus of his right knee.

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