Corinthians face make-or-break night amid injury crisis | OneFootball

Corinthians travel to Buenos Aires on Tuesday night for a pivotal Copa Sudamericana fixture against Huracán, with both qualification hopes and squad depth under considerable strain. Kick-off at Estádio Tomás Adolfo Ducó is set for 21:30 (Brasília), in what will be the final group-stage matchday for both sides.

Manager Dorival Júnior’s preparations have been complicated by a wave of injury concerns. Most pressing is the loss of striker Yuri Alberto, sidelined after sustaining a lower back fracture during Corinthians’ recent draw with Atlético-MG. The injury—confirmed as a fracture in the lumbar spine—will keep him off the field for several weeks. Memphis and Rodrigo Garro also remain doubtful. Memphis has missed several matches following a right ankle ligament injury and has yet to return to full training, while Garro is recovering from patellar tendinopathy and has not featured since the Paulista final, despite progressing in his rehab.

Dorival acknowledged the delicate state of his squad following Saturday’s league draw, which saw Corinthians field a mix of reserves and regulars. “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 coach stressed.

On the pitch, Corinthians’ challenge is not just physical but also mathematical. The team enters the contest trailing Huracán in Group C, with eight points to the Argentines’ eleven. The group leaders also enjoy a significant goal difference advantage (eight, compared to Corinthians’ one). To leapfrog into first place—and secure automatic progression to the round of 16—the Brazilians need a four-goal victory or better. Any lesser win would mean a playoff round assignment.

Amid the stakes, Corinthians’ probable lineup features Hugo Souza in goal along with a back line of Matheuzinho, André Ramalho, Cacá, and Angileri. In midfield, Maycon and Raniele (or José Martínez) provide stability, flanked by Carrillo and Igor Coronado. Romero and Héctor Hernández—or possibly Memphis if declared fit—are set to lead the line.

Compounding matters, the team continues to operate against the backdrop of administrative turmoil. Off-field uncertainty, including impeachment proceedings and sponsorship controversies, persists. Nonetheless, staff insist these issues are being kept from the players as the season reaches this critical juncture.

Tuesday presents both a daunting and decisive task: overcoming group leaders, managing key absences, and delivering under pressure in one of South America’s more testing environments.

Source: UOL