Corinthians vs Rosario – News and Probable Lineups

After a quarter of a century, Corinthians will once again face Rosario Central in the knockout stage of the 2026 Copa Libertadores at Neo Quimica Arena this Friday.

The first leg resulted in a 0-0 draw at the Gigante de Arroyito in Rosario, meaning a victory for Timao would carry them into the quarter-finals for the first time in four years.

Match overview

Corinthians were defeated 2-1 by Cruzeiro at Neo Quimica Arena in round 23 of the Brasileiro, occurring just four days prior to this crucial Libertadores fixture at the same location.

Bruno Rodrigues opened the scoring for Cruzeiro in the 36th minute, Gustavo Henrique equalized early in the second half, but Wanderson netted in the 82nd minute to clinch the win for the visitors.

This loss saw Timao drop to ninth place in the table with 32 points, tied with Atletico Mineiro in eighth and Bragantino in seventh.

The focus now shifts to the Libertadores. The first leg in Rosario ended without any goals, as Corinthians failed to pose a significant threat, managing only five shots with one on target and zero corners. Their most promising opportunity came from a Matheus Bidu header that struck the crossbar.

For the second leg, Fernando Diniz will need to discover the attacking options that were lacking both in Rosario and during the match against Cruzeiro. To progress, Corinthians must secure a win.

In the 2026 season, Corinthians’ home performance has been inconsistent: they have recorded five wins, three draws, and four losses across 12 league matches. The defeat to Cruzeiro marked their fourth loss at Neo Quimica Arena this season.

On the other hand, Los Canallas head to Sao Paulo exuding confidence, spearheaded by Angel Di Maria. The experienced Argentine, who previously played for Real Madrid, PSG, and Manchester United, is central to the team’s attack and orchestrated play in the first leg, during which Rosario held control for significant periods but failed to convert their chances.

Teaming up with Enzo Copetti and Jaminton Campaz, Di Maria creates a forward line capable of posing threats on the road.

Rosario Central currently sits fourth in the Liga Profesional Argentina with 38 points from 21 matches (11 wins, five draws, five losses). They recently secured a 1-0 victory against Barracas Central in their last outing. Notably, their away form (six wins, two draws, three losses) surpasses Corinthians’ home record.

Jorge Almiron’s team is built on a solid defensive foundation. They have conceded merely 19 goals over 21 league games and managed to hold out for a 0-0 draw in the first leg. Rosario Central does not require a win in Sao Paulo; a draw with no goals would take the tie to extra time, a situation that would favor their structured approach and Di Maria’s experience.

This suggests another close affair. Corinthians have the return of Memphis Depay, which is a positive, although he may lack match sharpness. Rosario Central possess Di Maria, disciplined organization, and a better away form than Corinthians’ home record. Should the first leg’s performance be replicated, this tie could potentially extend into extra time and even penalties.

Team News

A significant update is the return of Memphis Depay. The Dutch forward renewed his contract on Monday after weeks of discussions, returned to training on Tuesday, and may find himself on the bench on Thursday.

The number 10 has not featured in almost sixty days (his last outing was with the Países Baixos at the World Cup on June 25), and he is anticipated to play between thirty to 45 minutes if registered in time.

Yuri Alberto remains sidelined with a thigh injury, along with Andre, Zakaria Labyad (ACL), Vitinho, and Kayke (both knees requiring surgery). Allan Souza is suspended after being sent off in the first leg.

Gabriel Paulista, who departed early in the match against Cruzeiro, is a significant fitness concern in defense. Andre Ramalho is also facing fitness issues. If both are unavailable, 22-year-old Tchoca might pair with Gustavo Henrique.

Rosario Central have just one confirmed absence: winger Franco Cervi, who is recovering from a tendon injury. Otherwise, they are at full strength.

Enzo Copetti and Angel Di Maria, however, must proceed with caution. Both are one yellow card away from suspension, which could impact their participation if Rosario Central advances.

Memphis Depay, in conversation with Corinthians TV, shared his eagerness regarding his return to the pitch and his desire to contribute to the team’s future challenges.

Corinthians probable starting XI:

Souza; Matheuzinho, Henrique, Tchoca, Bidu; Raniele, Carrillo, Bidon; Garro; Raul, Cesar

Rosario Central probable starting XI:

Ledesma; Coronel, Ovando, Avila, Sandez; Ibarra, Pizarro; Cantizano, Di Maria, Campaz; Copetti

The forecast suggests another closely matched game, with both teams aiming for qualification. Nonetheless, it is likely that at least one goal will be scored by each side, in contrast to the lack of goals in the first leg.

Corinthians are expected to leverage their home advantage to take an early lead, though Rosario Central might respond in the second half—a period where they have netted four of their last ten goals between the 76th and 90th minutes. Itaquera is projected to experience a tense atmosphere, with Hugo Souza potentially stepping up as the hero.