Corinthians back in training on Wednesday as FIFA break begins | OneFootball

The Corinthians squad will have two days off after the 1-1 draw in the derby against Palmeiras this Sunday at Neo Química Arena, for the Brazilian Championship. The players will report back on Wednesday to begin the training period during the FIFA break.

Starting Wednesday, coach Dorival Júnior will have seven days of preparation at CT Dr. Joaquim Grava until the team’s next commitment this season. On the following Wednesday, the 10th, Timão will host Athletico-PR in Itaquera for the second leg of the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals. The match kicks off at 9:30 p.m. (Brasília time).

Logistics concerns

The logistics involving players called up to their respective national teams is a concern for Corinthians ahead of the decisive clash against Furacão. As reported by Gazeta Esportiva, the club is expected to charter a flight to bring back goalkeeper Hugo Souza, who will be in Bolivia on the eve of the match, serving the Brazilian national team.

In addition to Hugo, José Martínez (Venezuela), Félix Torres (Ecuador), and Romero (Paraguay) will also be playing for their countries a day before the match. Timão is still evaluating each case but promises to make every effort to ensure everyone is available to Dorival.

The situation of striker Memphis Depay is the most relaxed. Called up by the Netherlands, the player will play his last match on Sunday. Therefore, there is enough time for him to return to Brazil and be available for Corinthians.

Raniele, meanwhile, will be evaluated by the medical department. The midfielder felt pain in his thigh during last Sunday’s Derby and is expected to undergo tests to determine the severity of the problem. He missed the first leg against Athletico-PR due to suspension and could reinforce Timão in the return match.

Quarterfinal scenarios

With the 1-0 win in the first leg in Curitiba, Corinthians only needs a draw in the second meeting to advance to the Copa do Brasil semifinals. If they lose by one goal, the match will go to penalties. A defeat by two or more goals eliminates Timão.

The winner of the match will face either Cruzeiro or Atlético-MG in the next round of the tournament. In the first leg, Raposa beat their rival 2-0 away from home and will now decide the spot at Mineirão.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.