Corinthians failed to win their fourth group stage match in the Copa Sudamericana on Tuesday night. Against América de Cali from Colombia, Memphis Depay opened the scoring, but the match ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw. A result that does little to help Corinthians.
It was a bittersweet night at the Neo Química Arena as Corinthians were held to a 1-1 draw by América de Cali in their fourth group stage match of the Copa Sudamericana.
Despite a brilliant goal by Memphis Depay his first for the club in international competition the result puts the Brazilian side in a difficult position heading into the final stretch of the group phase.
From the opening whistle, Corinthians looked determined to take control of the match, with Memphis among the most involved players on the pitch. The Dutch international nearly provided an assist in the early stages and was active in combining with teammates in the final third. Then, in the 20th minute, his moment arrived. Surrounded by two América de Cali defenders and just under 20 meters from goal, Memphis unleashed a powerful strike that curled into the bottom left corner of the net. It was a stunning finish and a personal milestone his first goal for Corinthians in a continental competition.
The home crowd erupted, sensing that their team had taken a vital step toward qualification. But the celebration was short-lived. Just after halftime, América de Cali struck back. Sebastián Navarro capitalized on a defensive lapse, finding space in the box to slot the ball past the Corinthians goalkeeper and bring the visitors level. Despite late pressure from the Brazilian side, they were unable to reclaim the lead, and the match ended in a frustrating 1-1 draw.
The result has major implications for Group C. Corinthians, with five points from four matches, remain in third place. América de Cali, with six points from four games, now hold the second spot. Argentine side Huracán sit at the top of the group with seven points from just three matches and a strong goal difference, making them the current favorites to advance. Racing Club from Uruguay, meanwhile, sit at the bottom of the table with zero points and virtually no chance of progressing.
The current format of the Copa Sudamericana allows only the group winners to advance directly to the round of 16. The second-placed teams from each group must compete in a preliminary knockout round against the third-placed teams dropping down from the Copa Libertadores. As things stand, Corinthians are not in position to reach either stage, meaning their fate is now hanging by a thread.
To make matters more challenging, Corinthians will play both of their remaining group matches away from home. First, they face Racing in Uruguay a match they must win. Then comes a decisive clash with group leaders Huracán in Argentina, which could determine not just second place, but possibly the top spot if results go their way. But playing away in South America is notoriously tough, and the margin for error has now disappeared.
Adding to the challenge is the recent managerial transition. Dorival Júnior, who only recently took over as head coach, is still in the process of implementing his tactical ideas and building chemistry within the squad. While there have been some encouraging signs particularly in the fluid attacking play defensive inconsistencies remain a concern, as evidenced by the equalizer conceded against América de Cali.
For Memphis, however, the evening may mark a turning point. After a somewhat quiet start to his Corinthians career, the former Barcelona and Lyon forward appears to be finding his rhythm. His sharp movement, confidence on the ball, and long-range precision were on full display. With two must-win games coming up, Memphis could play a key role in determining the club’s fate on the continental stage.
Corinthians fans are left with mixed emotions: pride in Memphis’s performance and flashes of attacking quality, but frustration over the lost opportunity to win at home something that could prove decisive in such a competitive and unforgiving tournament.
The path ahead is clear: Corinthians must win both remaining matches to keep their Sudamericana hopes alive. With pressure mounting and the stakes rising, every game is now a final. And with Memphis stepping up at the right time, there’s still a chance for redemption but no more room for error.
