Palmeiras defeats Sporting Cristal and ends the Libertadores group stage
Verdão awaits draw to find out opponent in the round of 16 of the competition
Palmeiras beat Sporting Cristal 6-0 on Wednesday night (28), in the sixth and final round of the group stage of the Copa Libertadores. Estêvão, on a farewell night, Flaco López (twice), Raphael Veiga, Paulinho and Facundo Torres scored the goals for Verdão, which continues with a 100% success rate in the competition .
Having qualified, the team led by Abel Ferreira now awaits the draw held by Conmebol to find out their opponent in the round of 16. The Peruvians are in last place and have no place in the South American.
How was the game?
Palmeiras had a devastating first half at Allianz Parque. Already qualified, Verdão dominated their rivals and had no trouble opening up an advantage on the scoreboard. Estêvão, in a farewell mood, was the star of the show.
Before the ball rolled, the striker received tributes from president Leila Pereira and youth coordinator João Paulo Sampaio. Applauded by the fans, he responded on the field — with a great goal and by creating plays.
In the 31st minute, Estêvão received a great pass from Aníbal Moreno, ran freely down the wing, invaded the area and kicked a cross, leaving no chance for the opposing goalkeeper. Next, it was Flaco López’s turn to shine. First, the center forward scored the second goal for Verdão with a chip. Minutes later, he took advantage of a low cross from Mauricio to shake the net again and score the third for Palmeiras, who faced no resistance.
Three turns, six ends. Palmeiras’ dominance continued in the final 45 minutes, with the Peruvian team completely lost on the field.
Raphael Veiga scored the fourth goal with a free kick. Paulinho then scored the first goal, after an assist from Allan. Facundo Torres came off the bench and scored the sixth, closing the score for Alviverde, one of the main favorites to win the competition.
