In a strategic move that prioritized the bigger picture, São Paulo fielded a heavily rotated squad—featuring several promising Cotia academy graduates—for their Copa Sudamericana clash against O'Higgins at El Teniente this Thursday. With one eye on the grueling season ahead and the highly anticipated Majestoso derby, the Tricolor showed depth and resilience.

The match, part of Group C's fourth round, ended in a hard-fought 0-0 draw. Despite O'Higgins threatening in the second half, São Paulo's defense held firm, extending their impressive run of not conceding a single goal in the tournament so far. This result keeps them perched atop the group with eight points, now just two home games away from securing first place—and a direct ticket to the round of 16.

The first half was a tactical stalemate, with neither side managing a shot on target. O'Higgins pressed but struggled to capitalize on São Paulo's occasional lapses, while the visitors lacked sharpness in the final third, particularly from Ferreirinha. The second half brought more drama: Sarrafiore rattled the crossbar within seconds, and Leiva hit the post, forcing goalkeeper Carlos Coronel into a crucial save. After weathering the early storm, São Paulo regrouped and threatened through Tapia.

Coach Roger wisely rested key players, using only three expected starters against Corinthians—Danielzinho, Artur, and Sabino. The performance was far from vintage, but the result kept São Paulo in control of their destiny. Meanwhile, O'Higgins moved to seven points, staying second, while Millonarios reignited their campaign with a 4-2 win over eliminated Boston River, also reaching seven points.

With two home matches at MorumBIS—against Millonarios on May 19 and Boston River on May 26—São Paulo has the perfect opportunity to seal group victory. For a team that's yet to concede a goal, the foundation is solid. Now it's about finishing the job in style.