Corinthians edge tense derby as rivals spiral deeper | OneFootball

Corinthians overcame notable absences to secure a narrow 1-0 win over Santos at Neo Química Arena, a result that pushes them up the Brasileirão table and deepens Santos’ struggles near the relegation zone.

Playing without key creative forces Memphis and Rodrigo Garro, Corinthians initially struggled to assert themselves and found their possession ineffective—described by coach Dorival Júnior as “false possession” that failed to create danger. It was Santos who looked more threatening early on, missing two clear opportunities through Zé Ivaldo’s near-post header and Barreal’s wayward finish. Igor Coronado, counted on for ingenuity in the absence of regular starters, had little influence with the exception of a well-struck free kick that forced a save from Gabriel Brazão.

Dorival made tactical changes at the interval, shifting Carrillo inside and pushing Martínez and Bidon into more central roles. The intention was to generate presence between the lines and increase connections in the final third—a move that paid off in the second half. Corinthians began to dominate field position, increasing both tempo and purposeful possession.

The breakthrough arrived in the 66th minute. José Martínez delivered a precise cross from the right, and Yuri Alberto rose highest, nodding the ball beyond Brazão’s outstretched arm and into the net. There was a lengthy suspense as VAR checked if the ball fully crossed the line. Once confirmed, the celebration was finally unleashed among the 46,535 fans in attendance—exclusively Corinthians supporters.

Yuri Alberto thought he added another late on, only for the goal to be ruled out after VAR found an earlier foul by Félix Torres. In a lighthearted post-match comment, the striker joked, “It’s a shame that one didn’t count, but it goes in the DVD anyway. Grateful to reach this mark here.” The goal brings his total at the Arena to 44, a club record.

The contest grew heated in the closing stages. Santos’ Escobar received a second yellow for dissent after a tussle with Martínez, leaving the visitors to finish with ten men and little chance to respond. The result leaves Santos with just five points from nine games as they languish in 19th place, while Corinthians climb to eighth and continue adapting under Dorival, whose team is still evolving personnel and structure.

Looking ahead, Corinthians will host Novorizontino in the Copa do Brasil, holding a 1-0 aggregate advantage. Santos’s next fixture is away to CRB, needing to improve after another disjointed display. Off the pitch, Neymar—still injured—remained absent from the match, with his attention temporarily focused on other commitments outside the club.

Source: Globo, UOL