The air in São Paulo crackles with anticipation as Palmeiras prepares for one of Brazilian football`s most storied rivalries: the “Choque-Rei” against São Paulo. Set for Sunday at the iconic Morumbis, this clash in the Campeonato Brasileiro is more than just a game; it`s a test of mettle, strategy, and squad depth for the Verdão.
Intense Training Under Abel Ferreira`s Watchful Eye
Under the meticulous guidance of coach Abel Ferreira, Palmeiras` players have been immersed in rigorous training sessions at the Academia de Futebol. The focus remains sharp, with technical drills emphasizing ball possession and defensive marking, culminating in attack-versus-defense scenarios in the final third of the pitch. Every pass, every tackle, every tactical movement is being honed to perfection, a testament to Ferreira`s demanding, yet ultimately successful, philosophy.
Injury Woes: Evangelista Undergoes Surgery, Khellven Doubtful
However, the road to derby day is rarely without its bumps. The squad faces immediate challenges with key players sidelined. Midfielder Lucas Evangelista has commenced his recovery treatment following surgery on his right thigh. The procedure was necessary to correct a tendon injury sustained during a recent match against Bahia, marking him out of contention for the foreseeable future. His absence leaves a tactical void that Ferreira`s staff must meticulously address.
Adding to the medical bulletin, right-back Khellven continues to recover from a foot trauma picked up during the clash against River Plate-ARG. Having already missed the last two fixtures, his participation in the impending derby remains in doubt. His potential absence could force a reshuffle in Palmeiras` defensive lineup, potentially paving the way for Giay to step in, or prompting a tactical adjustment from the bench.
Aníbal Moreno`s Argentine Dream: A Double-Edged Sword
Amidst the immediate concerns, there`s also news that swells the chest with pride: midfielder Aníbal Moreno, wearing the number 5 jersey, has received his first-ever call-up to the Argentina national team. This prestigious invitation will see him join the squad for friendly matches in the United States this October against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. Moreno`s journey through Argentina`s youth ranks—from U18 to U23, including a South American U20 title and Pan American Games gold in 2019—culminates in this senior team recognition. It’s a remarkable achievement for the player, celebrated by the club, even if it presents a scheduling conundrum.
“I am very happy for the national team call-up, it`s the first time in my career. It will be an enormous pleasure for me to be with these great players, a great national team, the last world and American champions,” Moreno shared with understandable enthusiasm. “It will be a privilege to be with them, and now it`s about doing great work, giving my best here at Palmeiras. We are very focused on the game we have against São Paulo for the Brasileirão because, just like in the Libertadores, we are in the fight.”
Moreno will find a familiar face in the Argentina camp: fellow Palmeiras forward Flaco López. The sight of two Verdão players representing the world champions is a point of pride, yet it also highlights the delicate balance modern football clubs must strike between player prestige and squad availability, especially during critical league fixtures. For Palmeiras, this means managing without two key figures during a packed schedule, a true test of its renowned squad depth and adaptability. One might even suggest that international football’s insatiable calendar offers clubs both immense pride and frequent tactical headaches, all in a single elegant package.
Probable Lineup and Tactical Outlook
Considering the current circumstances, a probable lineup for Palmeiras against São Paulo could feature:
Weverton; Giay (or Khellven if fit), Gustavo Gómez, Murilo and Piquerez; Aníbal Moreno, Andreas Pereira, Raphael Veiga and Felipe Anderson; Flaco López and Vitor Roque.
The inclusion of Moreno is contingent on his availability post-international duty, and Khellven`s status remains a game-time decision. Abel Ferreira will undoubtedly be weighing his options carefully, aiming to field a team capable of dominating the midfield and exploiting São Paulo`s weaknesses while shoring up any defensive gaps.
The Derby Awaits
As the clock ticks down to Sunday, Palmeiras finds itself in a characteristic position: prepared, yet challenged. The “Choque-Rei” is always a fiercely contested affair, and with significant absences balanced by the soaring spirits of international recognition, this edition promises to be another memorable chapter in Brazilian football. For fans and analysts alike, it`s a spectacle not to be missed.
