Santos seek to move UCV tie to Neo Química Arena, await Corinthians approval | OneFootball

Santos are racing to move the home leg of their Copa Sul-Americana play-off against Universidad Central, set for Tuesday 28, to the Neo Química Arena. According to Diario Do Peixe, the club have asked Corinthians to release the stadium.

The board want the game closer to their São Paulo fanbase and to lift gate receipts. A bigger venue in the capital could draw more supporters.

Before approaching Corinthians, Santos considered the Mercado Livre Arena Pacaembu, but it is unavailable due to a Jorge & Mateus show. They then looked at Morumbis and the Neo Química Arena, with the latter now the priority.

Time is the main hurdle. With only days left, Santos need a swift reply to organise logistics and ticketing, and Corinthians have not responded. Corinthians are also due to host Athletico-PR in the Brasileiro on 30 July.

Santos have already staged games at the Neo Química Arena this season, drawing 0-0 with Red Bull Bragantino in January and losing 3-0 to Coritiba in May.

On the pitch, Cuca’s side lead 4-1 from the first leg in Venezuela. They can lose by up to two goals and still progress, while a three-goal defeat would take it to penalties. The winners face Macará of Ecuador in the last 16 and earn about R$ 3 million.

Source: Diario Do Peixe