In a thrilling encounter that electrified Allianz Parque, Palmeiras came from behind to defeat Red Bull Bragantino 3–2, solidifying their position at the top of the Brasileirão Série A standings. The victory marks Palmeiras’ third straight league win and reflects a team growing in rhythm and confidence as the season heats up.
With this result, the defending champions remain unbeaten in their last seven matches and now lead the league with a four-point gap over the second-place team.
First-Half Frustration and Defensive Errors
Palmeiras started the match with high pressure but struggled to break down Bragantino’s organized back line. The visitors took advantage of a miscommunication in the 17th minute, with Vitinho finishing off a fast counterattack to put Bragantino ahead.
In the 35th minute, a defensive lapse allowed Eduardo Sasha to double the lead for Bragantino, stunning the home crowd into silence.
Coach Abel Ferreira was visibly agitated on the sidelines, urging his team to raise their intensity and composure.
A Second-Half Transformation
After halftime, Palmeiras returned with a different energy. The midfield trio of Zé Rafael, Richard Ríos, and Raphael Veiga began controlling possession and pressing higher up the pitch.
Key Moments:
- Raphael Veiga converted a penalty in the 53rd minute after a handball in the box.
- Substitute Endrick leveled the score in the 71st with a stunning individual run and powerful finish.
- In the 88th minute, Mayke delivered a perfect cross that was headed in by Murilo, sealing the comeback and sending the crowd into raptures.
Abel Ferreira’s substitutions and tactical switches were decisive, once again showcasing his game management prowess.
Tactical Highlights
Palmeiras shifted from their initial 4-2-3-1 to a more aggressive 4-3-3 after halftime, allowing:
- More freedom for Veiga to roam between the lines
- Overlapping fullbacks to stretch Bragantino’s defense
- Improved pressing coordination to recover the ball quickly
The result emphasized the team’s depth and resilience, as all three goals were the result of smart positional play and fresh legs off the bench.
Player of the Match: Endrick
The 18-year-old striker continues to prove why he’s considered one of Brazil’s most promising talents. His goal was his fourth of the season and came at a critical juncture.
Endrick’s pace, dribbling, and confidence are growing with every match, and European scouts were once again present in the stands.
After the game, he commented:
“We never stopped believing. This team knows how to fight. I’m proud to help keep us at the top.”
Standings and What’s Next
With this win, Palmeiras sits at 28 points, four ahead of Flamengo and Atlético-MG. They are on track for another strong title run, thanks to:
- One of the best defensive records in the league
- The highest possession and pass-completion rates
- Key players hitting form at the right time
Next, they will travel to face Internacional, another top-six side, in what could be a defining fixture before the Copa Libertadores resumes.
Conclusion: Champions Behaving Like Champions
Palmeiras’ comeback against Bragantino wasn’t just about goals — it was about mentality, leadership, and belief. With coach Abel Ferreira at the helm and young stars stepping up, the Verdão looks more and more like the team to beat in 2025.