In his first game at the helm, Ramón Diaz guided Corinthians to a dramatic 2-1 turnaround against Criciúma.
The Tuesday night clash at Neo Química Arena marked the 17th round of Brazil’s premier football competition.
This contest was not just about the three points; it featured the debut of Hugo Souza and Alex Santana, who helped the team snap a two-match losing streak.
Criciúma drew first blood with Claudinho scoring late in the first half. Yet, Corinthians struck back after the break.
Goals from Ángel Romero and Cacá shifted the momentum and secured a crucial victory.
This win leaves Corinthians still in the relegation zone—17th place—with 15 points. Criciúma, slightly better off, remains 14th with 17 points.
Corinthians next faces Bahia, and Criciúma meets Flamengo. Both matches are set for the weekend.
The game opened with Corinthians asserting dominance, yet Criciúma’s Barreto nearly scored 13 minutes in, only to be denied by goalkeeper Hugo Souza.
Corinthians responded at the 20-minute mark, with Cacá heading dangerously from Rodrigo Garro’s cross.
Continuing the pressure, Romero found Yuri Alberto at 29 minutes, but his shot was saved. Hugo tried his luck from distance four minutes later, but again Criciúma’s keeper stood firm.
Despite Corinthians’ efforts, Criciúma took the lead at 40 minutes, a shot from Claudinho deflecting off Cacá. Corinthians nearly equalized with a Garro free-kick three minutes later, but to no avail.
Ramón Diaz Sparks Corinthian Revival with Key Win in Brazilian League
The tables turned quickly after halftime. Corinthians leveled the score at nine minutes when Romero capitalized on a precise cross from Hugo.
Seven minutes later, Cacá headed home the winning goal, exploiting a cross from Igor Coronado.
With the lead, Corinthians adopted a conservative approach, focusing on defense while Criciúma, although controlling possession, failed to penetrate their opponent’s stout defense.
This match illustrates the unpredictable nature of the Brazilian Championship, where every game can dramatically influence the league standings.
For Corinthians, under Diaz’s leadership, this comeback might just be the spark needed to escape relegation troubles.