Corinthians face Buenos Aires do-or-die with star trio in doubt | OneFootball

As Corinthians prepare for a decisive Copa Sudamericana meeting with Huracán in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, manager Dorival Júnior could be without three key players: Yuri Alberto, Memphis, and Rodrigo Garro. The trio's fitness concerns come just as the club faces a must-win scenario to keep their continental ambitions alive.

Yuri Alberto’s status is perhaps the most urgent. The striker sustained an apparent muscular contracture late in the goalless draw against Atlético-MG, leaving the field without putting weight on his right foot. Dorival confirmed that initial medical assessments point to a contracture, but more definitive news will depend on forthcoming medical exams. The coach emphasized the need for caution to avoid exacerbating the injury, hinting that a decision on Yuri’s availability may come down to the wire.

Both Memphis and Rodrigo Garro were in Belo Horizonte with the squad but did not feature against Atlético. Memphis has been sidelined for four consecutive matches since suffering a ligament injury in his right ankle; his last appearance came in the 2-1 loss to Mirassol. Garro, meanwhile, has not played since the Campeonato Paulista final, continuing to recover from patellar tendinopathy. His rehabilitation included a stint in Spain and he is now reportedly entering the final stage of his recovery process.

Dorival addressed the situation post-match, stressing the importance of not rushing any player's return: "We have to be patient so their conditions don't worsen. We need to ensure they're ready and can help—even if not for 90 minutes, but for however long they're on the pitch. We have to trust those we select, and whoever steps in has our confidence."

The wider stakes for Corinthians are clear. The side currently sits second in Group C with eight points—three behind leaders Huracán, who also boast a far superior goal difference (8 versus 1). To leapfrog Huracán and secure direct passage to the round of 16, Corinthians would need to win by a minimum four-goal margin. A less emphatic victory would send them into the playoff round.

With such fine margins in play, the potential absence of three regular starters is a significant setback. As of now, Garro and Memphis are nearing a return but remain uncertain, while Yuri Alberto’s participation will hinge on his response to treatment.

Corinthians' challenge is not just clinical but also mathematical. Only a comprehensive win in Buenos Aires guarantees progression, raising the stakes for both the squad and Dorival’s selection.

Source: UOL