Palmeiras go into their home match against Bahia three points behind league leaders Flamengo. With a derby against Corinthians and a Copa Libertadores fixture also coming up, coach Abel Ferreira must manage the squad’s workload.
Flamengo visit Santos. Even if Flamengo lose and Palmeiras win, the teams would be level on points, but the leaders would remain top because they have one more victory.
Bahia are well placed in the table and are pursuing direct qualification for next year’s Copa Libertadores. After a period of stagnation, the team has improved. Commentator Bruno Rodrigues said Bahia had recovered and was playing better, making the match a difficult test for Palmeiras.
After facing Bahia, Palmeiras are due to play local rivals Corinthians on Sunday, Oct. 11, followed by a Copa Libertadores fixture. Coach Abel Ferreira will have to manage fatigue among the squad, including six or seven players who recently played for national teams during the FIFA international window. Supporters’ group Mancha Verde posted videos urging the club not to rest players for the derby. That underscores tensions between the group and the coaching staff.
Rodrigues said small margins could decide the title in the closing stretch. An extra win or goal difference could prove decisive.