Ceará beat Palmeiras 2-1 at home on Sunday afternoon to win their second consecutive game on the bounce.
Lima’s early strike and a first half penalty from Vinicius sealed the home side’s victory over Verdão, whose only goal came from Gabriel Veron in the 33rd minute.
The game started with an early chance from Palmeiras in the 5th minute when Lucas Lima sent his effort over the bar after a cross from Gustavo Scarpa.
Against the run of play, Ceará took a stronghold of the game and opened the scoring. Lima robbed the ball off Scarpa who slipped while trying to control a pass, and scored in the 10th minute.
Palmeiras, who were still in control after a goal down, had another opportunity to draw level. This time around, Gabriel Veron wasn’t able to keep his shot down following a rebound.
Ceará were more effective in front of goal even as Verdão kept on applying pressure and creating more chances to equalize.
However, in the 29th minute, the hosts added to their advantage through a penalty spot kick. Vinicius converted the penalty after Patrick de Paula fouled Léo Chú who was already through on goal in the 18-yard box.
Minutes later, Palmeiras replied and drew one back to get into the game. Gabriel Veron got the ball past De Oliveira, after a wonderful assist from Lucas Lima cross in the 33rd minute.
After the break, Palmeiras continued to pressurize the hosts. They had several chances to draw level and perhaps even get the win but they were a little unlucky in front of goal. The only decent opportunity they had to score came from Gustavo Gómez who almost scored before he was signalled for offside.
Eduardo got sent off after receiving two yellow cards late in the second half for dissent. He got booked from the bench and would miss Ceará’s next fixture against Athletico-PR on Sunday.
Palmeiras have a big week ahead. They will take on Vasco in the Brasilerao on Wednesday before a big clash against Santos in the Libertadores final on Saturday.
