Corinthians-SP vs Athletico Paranaense

Building on a First-Leg Advantage

Let’s get to the facts. Corinthians has already completed half the job, and they did it away from home. A 1-0 victory in Curitiba is more than just a scoreline; it’s a tactically astute advantage that they now only need to solidify at home. The game now shifts to the Neo Química Arena, and this is a crucial factor.

Neo Química Arena: A Fortress

The home stadium for ‘Timão’ is a genuine fortress, especially in matches against this particular opponent. Athletico Paranaense has never, in its history, won at this ground. Ten matches, five losses, five draws. This isn’t coincidence; it’s a clear pattern.

Key Returns and Attacking Boost

Furthermore, the Corinthians squad receives a massive boost. Memphis Depay has returned, fresh off becoming the all-time leading scorer for the Netherlands national team. On top of that, forward Yuri Alberto has recovered from surgery in record time. Both are ready to play, which means the team’s attacking power increases exponentially.

Facing a Tougher Challenge from Série B

Athletico is currently playing in Série B. Yes, they have a winning streak in their division, but the level of opposition there is entirely different. Playing against an elite team, away from home, in a decisive cup match – that’s a completely different story.

Managerial Absence and Disciplinary Issues

Their problems are compounded by personnel losses and disciplinary sanctions. Head coach Odair Hellmann was sent off in the first leg and will be managing the team from the stands. In such a crucial match, the absence of the coach on the sidelines is a huge disadvantage. His assistant will lead the team, which introduces an element of uncertainty into the visitors’ actions.

Historical Playoff Struggles

Historically, Athletico simply doesn’t perform well against Corinthians in the playoffs. They have never advanced past this opponent in cup confrontations. Moreover, statistics show that ‘Furacão’ has never, in its history, come back from a first-leg defeat in the quarter-finals of the Copa do Brasil. Too many factors are stacked against them.