Brazilian Cup Defines Semifinalists with Classics and Neymar's Return

The definition of the Brazilian Cup semifinalists moves the national football scene this week with decisive matches for the quarterfinals. Fans are looking for information about the matches that will define who continues in the dispute for the title of the national tournament. Among the highlights are tied state classics and Santos' attempt to come back against Palmeiras.

Paulista Classic Decides Spot at Vila Belmiro

Santos faces Palmeiras this Wednesday (2), at 21:30 (Brasília time), at Vila Belmiro, with the tough mission of overturning a three-goal disadvantage. In the first leg, Abel Ferreira's team won 3-0 at Nubank Parque. To take the decision to penalties, the white-and-black team needs a victory with a three-goal difference. To advance directly in regular time, the Santos team needs to win by at least a four-goal difference. Any victory by one or two goals, a draw, or a defeat eliminates Santos. The Vila Belmiro team arrives emboldened by a 1-0 victory against Corinthians in Itaquera, in the Brazilian Championship, which was the club's first classic victory in the 2026 season.

Neymar's Return to the Santos Starting Lineup

For the decisive match, coach Cuca will have Neymar's return. The number 10 shirt did not participate in the first match because he does not like to play on synthetic grass, but he is confirmed to start among the starters at Vila Belmiro. Santos spared its main athletes for two days of training and recovery to take to the field with full strength. A probable Santos has: Gabriel Brazão; Igor Vinicius, Lucas Veríssimo, Luan Peres, and Escobar; Arão, Oliva, Bontempo, and Barreal; Gabigol and Neymar. The losses are Gustavinho, with pains in his left thigh, and Gabriel Menino, who remains out.

Mineiro Confrontation Has a Tie in the First Leg

Another major highlight of the quarterfinals return leg is the Minas Gerais classic. Atlético-MG and Cruzeiro face each other this Tuesday (1st), at 21:00 (Brasília time), at Arena MRV. In the first confrontation, played at Mineirão, the teams drew 1-1, which leaves the dispute totally open for the return match. Whoever wins guarantees a spot in the semifinal, while a new draw takes the decision to penalties.

Gaúcho Classic and Duel in Salvador Define Classified

The quarterfinals round also features the Porto Alegre classic. Grêmio receives Internacional on Thursday (3), at 20:00 (Brasília time), after a goalless draw in the first confrontation. In the only duel that does not excite rivals from the same state, Vasco visits Vitória at Barradão, in Salvador, this Wednesday (2), at 21:30 (Brasília time). The Rio team defends the advantage of the draw after winning the first game 1-0 at São Januário.

With information from GE, Folha de S.Paulo.