Palmeiras ran out 4-0 winners at home against Corinthians on Monday. Raphael Veiga and Luiz Adriano both scored a brace, one in each half to guide the team to a convincing victory.
Palmeiras completely dominated the match right from the very first minute, even under the thunderstorm. Timão got the first chance through Jemerson after the defender forced a great save from Weverton following a Gustavo Mosquito free kick.
Verdão eventually got in the lead in the 34th minute after Willian got past Gabriel and placed the ball into Raphael Veiga’s path, allowing the midfielder to score. Luiz Adriano almost doubled the goal advantage minutes later but Fagner prevented the goal from entering.
Following a counter attack situation in the 45th minute, Zé Rafael freed Willian who later tipped Luiz Adriano to make it 2-0. The goal was flagged offside, but upon review by the VAR, the goal was later reinstated.
After the break, Mancini made two changes to his side and brought in Léo Natel and Ramiro in place of Mateus Vital and Cantillo. The changes had no significant effect on the game, as Verdão soon extended their goal advantage three minute into the second half through Raphael Veiga who pounced on Luiz Adriano’s loose ball to make it 3-0.
Luiz Adriano made it 4 nil following a counter, pushing the ball past a rushing Cassio into the back of the net.
Corinthians had their whole night summed up when Gabriel got his matching orders for hitting Danilo with his arm in the 77th minute, ending the game with full disappointment.
Palmeiras, who are already in Libertadores da América and the Brazil Cup finals, will be hoping to add the Brasileirão to their honours this season. They are only six points below current leaders São Paulo FC.
