Palmeiras finally broke through in the 2026 Copa Libertadores, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory over Peru's Sporting Cristal this Thursday in a match full of tension and late drama.

The game unfolded as a classic case of attack versus defense, with Palmeiras dominating possession and pinning Sporting Cristal in their own half for large stretches. Despite the constant pressure, it was center-back Murilo who broke the deadlock, powering home a header from a clever short-corner routine.

Sporting Cristal's response was pure quality. Against the run of play, Juan Gonzalez unleashed a stunning first-time volley from outside the box that left the Allianz Parque crowd stunned and leveled the score. The equalizer visibly rattled Abel Ferreira's side, who began to rush their play as frustration grew in the stands.

Just as it seemed the points would be shared, Palmeiras found a winner from the penalty spot. After a VAR review confirmed a foul on Arthur, striker Flaco López kept his cool to convert, delivering a crucial three points. The drama wasn't over, however, as goalkeeper Carlos Miguel preserved the win with a miraculous late save from point-blank range, ensuring Palmeiras's Libertadores campaign is now firmly up and running.