Memphis’s flashpoints and big wins shape Corinthians clashes with Palmeiras | OneFootball

Memphis Depay is set to be central to Corinthians’ latest meeting with Palmeiras on Sunday at 20:30 Brasília time in the seventh round of the Campeonato Paulista group stage. According to Globo.com, the Dutch forward carries a strong record in the derby.

Since joining, he has played eight derbies against Palmeiras, winning four, drawing three and losing one, a 62% return. He has one goal and two assists in those games.

His biggest impacts came in 2025 knockouts, when Corinthians won both the Paulista final and the Copa do Brasil last 16. In the state decider, he crossed for Yuri Alberto to score the first-leg winner at Allianz Parque. Days later, his late act of standing on the ball became the defining image of the title-clinching match that ended Corinthians’ wait for silverware.

Months on, the sides met again in the cup, and in a tight first leg in Itaquera he headed the winner. Afterwards he said every game against Palmeiras feels like a final for Corinthians, especially at home, and that they need to win.

His only defeat to Palmeiras came in April last year in the first round of the Brasileiro at Arena Barueri. He drew attention by deliberately kicking the ball out from kick-off, later explained as a ploy to press the defence from a throw-in. In the same match he flexed his arm muscles towards Bruno Fuchs after winning a duel, which irritated Palmeiras and brought sustained boos.

For this weekend’s derby, head coach Dorival Júnior has set a tailored programme for Memphis and other starters. Beyond the rivalry, victory could seal Corinthians’ early qualification for the Paulista knockouts.

Source: Globo.com