Corinthians and São Paulo Gear Up for Heated Paulistão Clash Amid Turmoil

Corinthians and São Paulo are set to face each other on January 18, 2026, at 16:00 at Neo Química Arena in a key Paulistão 2026 match. The rivalry is intensified by ongoing political and institutional crises affecting both clubs. São Paulo is reeling from the recent impeachment of president Julio Casares, with player Luciano highlighting the necessity of a victory to boost morale amid the turmoil. Corinthians, despite recent victories, confront its own institutional challenges, including financial misconduct investigations, and is motivated by the need to recover from a heavy 3-0 defeat to Red Bull Bragantino.

Coach Dorival Júnior of Corinthians plans to field a strong lineup, introducing a surprising attacking duo with Kayke and Yuri Alberto. However, injuries sideline Memphis Depay and Rodrigo Garro. São Paulo’s coach Hernán Crespo welcomes back Maik from suspension and returns Luciano to the starting squad, alongside new recruits Marcos Antônio and Alan Franco, although the team struggles with a congested list of injured players.

This match carries added significance considering São Paulo's recent recuperation from a loss to Mirassol with a win over São Bernardo, albeit in front of a modest crowd. Corinthians seeks to redeem themselves after the recent defeat and present a more competitive front. Fans are eagerly awaiting this high-stakes encounter, which will air on TNT and HBO Max. The match officials include referee João Vitor Gobi, with VAR supervised by Adriano de Assis Miranda.