Analysis The numbers behind the result
Palmeiras dominate numerically as Sao Paulo unravel with red card
The 2-0 scoreline was a fair reflection of Palmeiras' dominance, with their xG likely far exceeding Sao Paulo's given the visitors managed just 2 shots on target from 8 attempts. Palmeiras controlled 58% possession and created 19 shots (7 on target), exploiting their numerical advantage after Luis Osorio's 39th-minute red card. Their 9 corners to Sao Paulo's 6 further underlined territorial superiority.
Murilo Cerqueira Paim broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time (45+1'), capitalising on Sao Paulo's disorganisation, before Vitor Roque doubled the lead early in the second half (50') assisted by Khellven. Sao Paulo's defensive approach — evidenced by just 4 shots inside the box — became unsustainable after the dismissal, with Palmeiras' 12 shots inside the box showing their penetrative edge. The key stat: Sao Paulo's 42% possession was the lowest in their last 5 away league games, as Palmeiras squeezed them out tactically after the red card.