Palmeiras Secures Seventh Consecutive Paulistão Final Appearance with 2-1 Victory Over São Paulo

Palmeiras defeated São Paulo 2-1 at Arena Crefisa Barueri, securing their place in the Campeonato Paulista final for the seventh consecutive year – the sixth under the leadership of coach Abel Ferreira. Goals from Maurício and Flaco López propelled the Verdão to victory in a match marked by refereeing controversies.

Match Highlights

Palmeiras dominated the early stages, pressing high and taking the lead in just seven minutes. Maurício scored after a well-built play involving the entire offensive sector, with an assist from Vitor Roque. São Paulo struggled to gain possession as Palmeiras continued to press effectively.

Flaco López extended Palmeiras’ lead with a goal in a play that as well involved controversy regarding a potential foul and yellow card discrepancy. Andreas took a low shot, Piquerez crossed, and López scored between two defenders.

São Paulo managed to pull one back through a penalty converted by Calleri, awarded after a contested challenge in the box. However, despite increased possession, they were unable to discover an equalizer.

Refereeing Controversies

The match was marred by several controversial decisions from referee Daiane Caroline Muniz dos Santos. São Paulo players protested a potential handball by Gustavo Gómez, while a yellow card was initially issued to the wrong player before being corrected. The penalty awarded to São Paulo was also a point of contention.

Final Details

Palmeiras will face Novorizontino in the final, with the first leg taking place on March 4th and the second leg on March 8th, 2026. Novorizontino, who eliminated Corinthians in the other semi-final, will host the first leg due to having finished the first phase of the tournament ahead of Palmeiras.

Key Stats

• Palmeiras Goals: Maurício (7′), Flaco López
• São Paulo Goal: Calleri (penalty)
• Venue: Arena Crefisa Barueri

This victory reaffirms Palmeiras’ dominance in the Campeonato Paulista, setting the stage for a highly anticipated final against Novorizontino.