City rivalry reignites: Copa do Brasil delivers dream tie | OneFootball

Corinthians are set for another chapter of the classic city rivalry in this year’s Copa do Brasil, drawing Palmeiras in the round of 16 after Monday’s open-draw at CBF’s Rio de Janeiro headquarters. The showdown headlines a slate of eight ties, featuring six other all-Serie A pairings and both legs scheduled for the weeks of July 30 and August 6—shortly after the FIFA Club World Cup concludes.

The draw, conducted without seeding or restrictions, means Corinthians will host the opening match before the tie moves across town for the decider at Allianz Parque. It marks a return of the Dérbi to the national knockout stage, offering a potential spark for Dorival Júnior’s side, who have spent much of the season wrestling with inconsistency and attacking struggles.

This year’s format mirrors previous editions: two-legged affairs throughout, with fresh draws to determine quarter-final paths once this stage concludes. Advancement to the quarter-finals promises a financial boost of R$4.7 million, with potential prizes only increasing across the latter stages—the eventual champion could collect bonuses upwards of R$100 million depending on their campaign’s length.

Corinthians, one of the nine clubs entering this year’s competition directly in the third round, booked their passage amid a turbulent league campaign and growing injury list. Dorival’s team have found defensive solidity but frequently let frustration mount in front of goal, with recent matches foreshadowing the challenge of breaking down a Palmeiras side known for their organization and counter-attacking threat.

Twelve of the last sixteen teams in the competition are from the first division, with a smattering of outsiders: second-tier Athletico-PR and CRB, plus third-tier newcomers CSA and Retrô-PE. Around the city, São Paulo will square off against Athletico-PR, while reigning champions Flamengo start their title defense in a rematch of last year’s final against Atlético-MG.

Expect squad rotation and fitness management to play a key role for Corinthians, as the tie falls at the height of the Brasileiro grind and amidst ongoing efforts to streamline the squad. Progress would bring both a welcome confidence boost and crucial funding.

The full list of round of 16 fixtures includes São Paulo v Athletico-PR, Atlético-MG v Flamengo, Retrô-PE v Bahia, Fluminense v Internacional, CRB v Cruzeiro, CSA v Vasco, Corinthians v Palmeiras, and Botafogo v Red Bull Bragantino. The path to silverware is treacherous, but a Dérbi at this stage ensures high-stakes drama and little margin for error.

Source: UOL