Palmeiras heads into final decisive run before the World Cup | OneFootball

Palmeiras begin the final stretch before the break for the World Cup facing a rare scenario this season: a run with only one short trip in 11 days and three home matches.

After weeks marked by long trips between the Libertadores, the Brasileirão, and the Copa do Brasil, Abel Ferreira’s side is now trying to turn the more comfortable schedule into a sporting advantage and head into the break on a high.

Qualification for the Copa do Brasil round of 16, confirmed with a 7-1 aggregate win over Jacuipense, represented the first objective achieved before the recess. Now, the focus is on securing first place in Libertadores Group F and maintaining their lead at the top of the Brasileirão.

A run that could define the mood before the break

The final four fixtures before the World Cup will be decisive for Palmeiras’ atmosphere during the period without matches.

Even after advancing in the Copa do Brasil, Verdão come under pressure after three straight slip-ups in the Brazilian Championship. Draws against Santos, Remo, and Cruzeiro reduced their lead at the top.

Right now, Palmeiras have 35 points from 16 matches, while Flamengo are on 31, albeit with a game in hand. The direct clash between the two, scheduled for Saturday (23) at 9 p.m. at the Maracanã Stadium, could completely change the battle for top spot.

In addition to the decisive clash against the Rio-based side, Palmeiras will also face Chapecoense in the Brasileirão before the break.

The Libertadores also comes into play

Before the clash against Flamengo, Palmeiras host Cerro Porteño this Wednesday (20) at Allianz Parque in the Libertadores.

Verdão lead Group F with eight points, but qualification is still under threat from nearby rivals Cerro, who have seven, and Sporting Cristal, who have six. In the final round, the São Paulo side will face Junior Barranquilla, again in São Paulo.

Three home games and only one trip

After the long air-travel marathon of recent weeks, Palmeiras will have only one trip during this decisive period: the journey to Rio de Janeiro to face Flamengo.

The remaining fixtures will all be in São Paulo, a scenario seen internally as important for recovering physically and strengthening their performances at home.

See Palmeiras’ matches before the World Cup break:

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