Palmeiras won against Portuguesa 2-0 in a delayed 5th-round Paulista Championship game, securing the league’s lead.
Flaco López and Gabriel Menino scored the goals. López now ties with Dellatorre as the leading scorer.
This victory keeps Palmeiras undefeated, with 24 points, moving ahead of Santos in Group B.
Ponte Preta and Água Santa are also vying for a spot in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, with 7 points, Portuguesa risks dropping out despite being second in Group A.
Early in the match, Palmeiras fans felt worried when Maceió sprinted past Piquerez but lost control, allowing goalkeeper Weverton to claim the ball.
Palmeiras then tried to score through Endrick, but Thomazella saved it.
A free-kick by Eduardo Diniz nearly slipped through Weverton’s grasp at 25 minutes, but he managed to clear it.
Raphael Veiga’s free-kick was another key moment but got stopped.
The game had its moments of dispute. Portuguesa argued over a missed penalty call against Murilo.
Later, Victor Andrade got a red card for a foul on Luan, which VAR decided.
Playing with an extra man, Palmeiras quickly scored. Caio Paulista set up López to head the ball in at 22 minutes.
Patrick missed a big chance in the last moments due to Weverton’s error.
Then, Menino increased the lead with a direct shot. Weverton later prevented a goal, keeping Portuguesa scoreless.
League Standings:
– Portuguesa is second in Group A with 7 points.
– Palmeiras leads Group B with 24 points.
Next Games:
– Portuguesa plays Mirassol at home on March 2nd and Novorizontino away on March 10th.
– Palmeiras faces São Paulo away on March 3rd and Botafogo at home on March 10th.
This summary highlights the importance of each match in the standings and what these outcomes mean for the teams involved, especially in terms of advancing to the next stages or facing relegation.
Every goal, decision, and game can significantly impact the teams’ futures in the championship.