Three-time CONMEBOL Libertadores champion São Paulo begins its campaign in this year’s edition on Thursday (April 4), facing Talleres at 8 p.m. ET (9 p.m. Brasília time) at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba, Argentina. The match is part of Group B of the continental competition.
After a promising start with a Supercopa do Brasil win over Palmeiras, the Tricolor’s performance has dipped, and the team is under pressure after being knocked out of the São Paulo State Championship quarterfinals by Novorizontino at home.
Facing questions from part of the fan base, coach Thiago Carpini should have his full squad available for the game in Argentina. The only doubt is striker Jonathan Calleri, who hasn’t played in almost a month due to a right leg injury. André Silva is the immediate replacement for the No. 9.
Talleres, meanwhile, comes in on a roll, riding a seven-game unbeaten streak. In second place in Group A of the Argentine league, Walter Ribonetto’s team has six wins, four draws and two losses. Last Saturday (March 30), it beat Vélez Sarsfield 1-0.
Probable lineups for Talleres vs. São Paulo:
Talleres: Herrera; Navarro, Rodríguez, Catalán and Benavídez; Ortegoza, Portilla and Portillo; Bota, Girotti and Sosa.
São Paulo: Rafael; Rafinha, Arboleda, Diego Costa and Welington; Pablo Maia, Alisson, Wellington Rato, James Rodríguez and Lucas; André Silva (or Calleri).
In Brazil, Talleres vs. São Paulo will stream on Paramount+ starting at 9 p.m. Brasília time (8 p.m. ET).
São Paulo’s upcoming games:
- Talleres (A): Apr. 4, 8 p.m. ET – CONMEBOL Libertadores
- Cobresal (H): Apr. 10, 8:30 p.m. ET – CONMEBOL Libertadores
- Fortaleza (H): Apr. 13, time TBD – Brasileirão
