Palmeiras qualified for the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals on Wednesday despite suffering a 3-2 defeat against Fortaleza at Arena Pantanal. Abel Ferreira's team advanced 5-3 on aggregate to reach the top eight after having built a three-goal advantage with a 3-0 victory in the first leg.
Fortaleza took the lead twice during the match, with Palmeiras equalizing on both occasions before the Ceará club scored the winning goal late in the game. Paulo Autuori's side opened the scoring at 33 minutes in the first half when Miritello received the ball outside the penalty area, set up his shot, and struck into the top corner beyond goalkeeper Carlos Miguel.
Palmeiras drew level at 40 minutes after Felipe Anderson made an impressive run down the right, beat three Fortaleza defenders, and delivered a precise assist for Flaco López to finish into the net. Fortaleza restored their lead at 44 minutes when Maílton received a deep pass on the right and crossed into the area. Carlos Miguel attempted to clear, but the ball struck Murilo and deflected off Rodriguinho into the goal. Palmeiras players claimed there was a foul on Flaco López at the start of the play, but VAR did not call the referee for a review.
Second Half Goals and Substitutions
Both teams returned for the second half without changes, but substitution began at nine minutes when Arias replaced Riquelme Filipi. Ferreira brought on Andréas Pereira and Ramón Sosa for Lucas Evangelista and Vitor Roque. After missing several chances, Palmeiras equalized at 15 minutes when Andréas Pereira delivered a corner kick and Murilo headed firmly past goalkeeper João Ricardo.
Palmeiras remained the better side but did not force the game further. Autuori brought on Paulo Baya, Neris, Vitinho, Ryan, and Lucas Emanoel for Fortaleza. At 42 minutes, Maílton took a corner kick and Lucas Emanoel jumped unmarked to head past Carlos Miguel for the victory.
Quarterfinal Draw Details
The draw for the quarterfinals of the Copa do Brasil will take place next Tuesday, August 11, at 11:00 a.m. Brasília time at the CBF headquarters in Rio de Janeiro.
