Showdown at Neo Química Arena: Corinthians vs Vasco in Crucial Brasileirão Clash

Corinthians and Vasco da Gama are set to face off this Sunday at 16:00 Brasília time, as they compete in the 35th round of the 2024 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. The match will take place at the Neo Química Arena in São Paulo. Despite a challenging season, Corinthians have recently revived their fortunes, moving into ninth place after a series of consecutive victories.

This revitalized form has pushed them away from relegation fears to become contenders for a spot in the next Conmebol Libertadores tournament. The upcoming match against Vasco is critical, with just a single point currently separating the two clubs in the league standings.

In contrast, Vasco finds themselves in a downturn, having suffered three consecutive defeats that have jeopardized their own aspirations for the Libertadores. They were recently overtaken by Corinthians following a 1-0 defeat to Internacional, placing them in the 11th position with 43 points. Vasco’s performance has been lackluster, with only two wins in the last 14 games.

Corinthians will be without two pivotal players for this fixture. Memphis Depay is suspended, and Yuri Alberto is sidelined due to a muscle injury. These absences are expected to weaken the team’s offensive capabilities, which have been pivotal in their recent winning streak.

Furthermore, defender Félix Torres is unavailable after sustaining a significant thigh muscle injury during the FIFA international break. However, there is positive news for coach Ramón Díaz as Romero and José Martínez return from international duty, bolstering the squad.

Vasco’s coach, Rafael Paiva, who is contending with limited preparation time following a defeat to Internacional, might not implement extensive changes. Nonetheless, the midfield will see a shift, as Mateus Carvalho is suspended. Hugo Moura is anticipated to fill the vacant position.

The probable starting lineup for Corinthians includes Hugo Souza, Matheuzinho, Félix Torres, Cacá, Matheus Bidu, Raniele, José Martínez, André Carrillo, Rodrigo Garro, Talles Magno, and Yuri Romero. In contrast, Vasco is likely to field Léo Jardim, Paulo Henrique, João Victor, Léo, Lucas Piton, Hugo Moura, Payet, Coutinho, Emerson Rodríguez, Maxime Domingues, and Vegetti.

The match will be broadcast live across Brazil via TV Globo, with specific regional exclusions, and also on the Premiere pay-per-view channel. Supporters can follow the game in real-time on the ge website.