Palmeiras and Flamengo draw 0-0 at Pacaembu.
Even with Kleber on the field, Palmeiras couldn't manage more than a draw against Flamengo at home.
In a technically weak game, Palmeiras and Flamengo drew 0-0 on Wednesday night at Pacaembu Stadium, in the 10th round of the Brazilian Championship. For the Palmeiras fans, who filled the stadium, the best news of the match was the inclusion of striker Kléber in the starting lineup, which confirms his stay at the club.
Until now, Palmeiras had a 100% winning record at home in the Brasileirão. Now, with the draw at home, they reach 19 points and are in fourth place. Flamengo remains undefeated in the championship, but, with 20 points, dropped from second to third position this round – overtaken by São Paulo.
Wednesday's match brought an end to a saga at Palmeiras. Kléber finally returned to play and completed seven matches in the Brasileirão, ending any chance of him being traded. He had even received an offer from Flamengo itself, which had created turmoil at Palmeiras in recent days.
In total, Kléber missed three games for the team, against Atlético-GO, América-MG, and Santos. Initially, he was sidelined due to pain in his left thigh. However, even after being cleared by the doctors, he refused to play in the São Paulo derby – claiming he still had an injury.
During this period, Kléber publicly complained about the Palmeiras board, tried to negotiate a salary increase to remain at the club, and even missed a training session. But the turmoil ended on Wednesday night when the Palmeiras striker and captain took to the field and played.
GAME - Kléber, as always, fought hard for the ball. On the other side, Ronaldinho Gaúcho tried to make some nice plays, but without escaping the marking. The first half, however, had no great attractions. Both teams made many mistakes and were more concerned with defense.
Flamengo's best chance in the first half came in the 18th minute, when Thiago Neves made a good play and shot across goal, but Marcos made a precise save. On Palmeiras' side, Thiago Heleno took a long-range free kick in the 32nd minute, and the ball grazed the post, startling goalkeeper Felipe.
In the second half, goal-scoring opportunities were even scarcer than in the first. Both teams lacked creativity, struggling to break through the defense. The coaches, Luiz Felipe Scolari and Vanderlei Luxemburgo, did make changes in attack, but they didn't have much effect.
Flamengo had a good chance to score in the 34th minute when Ronaldinho Gaúcho took a free kick just outside the penalty area, forcing a difficult save from Marcos. Palmeiras also only threatened from set pieces. In the 40th minute, Marcos Assunção had his opportunity, but goalkeeper Felipe managed to make the save.