Grêmio FBPA: The Journey in Série A 2025 with 12th Place

Grêmio Foot-Ball Porto Alegrense, affectionately known as the Tricolor Gaúcho, is one of Brazil’s most storied football clubs. Founded in 1903 in Porto Alegre, the club boasts a rich history, including three Copa Libertadores titles and a Club World Cup. In the 2025 Brazilian Championship Série A season, Grêmio sits in 12th place after 13 rounds with 16 points, according to recent reports from sports portals like Sofascore and Globo Esporte. This article explores Grêmio’s journey in the current season, the challenges faced, key players, and prospects for the remainder of the championship, with a detailed look at what this position means for the club and its fans.

History and Legacy of Grêmio

A Club of Tradition

Grêmio Foot-Ball Porto Alegrense was founded on September 15, 1903, by Cândido Dias da Silva and 32 others, many of whom were German immigrants in Porto Alegre. Since then, the club has established itself as a powerhouse in Brazilian and South American football. Its colors—blue, black, and white—and the motto “with Grêmio wherever Grêmio is” reflect the passion of a fanbase that supports the team unconditionally, as celebrated in the club’s anthem.

Grêmio’s trophy cabinet is impressive: 43 Campeonato Gaúcho titles, 2 Brazilian Série A Championships, 5 Copa do Brasil titles, 1 Supercopa do Brasil, 1 Copa Sul, and internationally, 3 Copa Libertadores, 2 Recopa Sudamericana titles, and the 1983 Club World Cup, won 2-1 against Hamburger SV. These achievements place Grêmio alongside giants like São Paulo, Santos, Palmeiras, and Flamengo in terms of Libertadores titles.

The Arena do Grêmio

Since 2013, Grêmio has played home matches at the Arena do Grêmio, a modern stadium with a capacity of 60,540, one of the largest and most advanced in South America. Before that, the club called the Estádio Olímpico Monumental home, where it set a record attendance of 98,421 in 1981 against Ponte Preta. The Arena do Grêmio symbolizes the club’s growth and is a stage where the passionate Grêmio fanbase makes a significant impact.

Performance in Série A 2025

Current Standing: 12th Place

In the 2025 season, Grêmio holds 12th place in the Brazilian Série A with 16 points after 13 rounds, as reported by sources like Sofascore and recent X posts. The team’s record includes 3 wins, 7 draws, and 3 losses, with 21 goals scored and 18 conceded, resulting in a positive goal difference of 3. Despite sitting mid-table, the campaign has been deemed below expectations for a club of Grêmio’s stature and structure, especially after finishing as runners-up in Série A 2023, securing a spot in the 2024 Copa Libertadores.

Analysis of Results

Grêmio has had moments of brilliance but also faced challenges. A recent 4-1 loss to Cruzeiro in the 13th round served as a “reality check” for the team, as noted by the X profile O Bairrista. This defeat exposed defensive vulnerabilities and the need for tactical adjustments. On the other hand, the team showed resilience in matches like the 1-1 draw against Fluminense, proving its ability to compete against direct rivals.

Home performances have been a strength, with 3 wins, 3 draws, and just 1 loss at the Arena do Grêmio, earning 12 points. Away from home, however, the team struggles, with only 4 points (no wins, 4 draws, 2 losses). These stats suggest that the support of the home crowd is a key advantage, but Grêmio must improve its away form to climb the table.

Key Matches and Moments

Notable games this season include a victory over EC Vitória in the 18th round, as reported by Transfermarkt. Additionally, the upcoming match against Red Bull Bragantino on May 10, 2025, at the Arena do Grêmio is seen as an opportunity to regain momentum, especially with the return of captain Pedro Geromel, who was sidelined for nearly 10 months due to injuries.

Squad and Standouts

Leadership of Renato Gaúcho

Under the guidance of Renato Portaluppi, known as Renato Gaúcho, Grêmio maintains a playing style that blends attacking intensity with defensive solidity. Renato, a club legend as both a player and coach, led Grêmio to the 2017 Libertadores title and the 2024 Gaúcho Championship heptacampeonato. His leadership is crucial in motivating the squad and fans, even during tough times.

Key Players

Grêmio’s 2025 squad features a mix of experienced veterans and promising youngsters. Standout players include:

• Martin Braithwaite (Forward): The Danish striker has been a key figure in attack, bringing international experience and a knack for scoring.
• Mathias Villasanti (Midfielder): The Paraguayan is the engine of the midfield, with vision and the ability to both score and create plays.
• Franco Cristaldo (Midfielder): A key playmaker, Cristaldo contributes with assists and decisive goals.
• Walter Kannemann (Defender): The Argentine is a leader in defense, known for his tenacity and connection with the fans.
• Pedro Geromel (Defender): The captain, back from injuries, brings experience and stability to the backline.
• Tiago Volpi (Goalkeeper): A new signing, Volpi has stood out with crucial saves.

Young talents like Gabriel Mec and Alysson show promise, while players like Cristian Pavón and Alexander Aravena add speed and creativity to the attack.

Signings and Departures

Grêmio invested in reinforcements for 2025, with a squad valued at €98.10 million, according to Transfermarkt. Additions like Tiago Volpi and Francis Amuzu bolstered the team, but departures and injuries have posed challenges. While financial management is more stable than during the 2004 crisis that led to relegation to Série B, the club must balance investment with results.

Challenges and Criticism

Inconsistency in the Season

The 12th-place position reflects Grêmio’s inconsistency in 2025. Despite flashes of quality football, the team has struggled with draws in winnable games and unexpected losses, like the thrashing by Cruzeiro. Fans, such as X user @matheus_s92, have voiced frustration, describing the season as “terrible” and suggesting the team might finish 12th without advancing in cup competitions.

Rivalry with Internacional

The rivalry with Internacional, known as the Gre-Nal, is one of the fiercest in world football. In 2025, Internacional is 13th with 14 points, just two behind Grêmio. This close proximity in the standings heightens the pressure for Grêmio to outperform their rivals, especially in head-to-head clashes, which are pivotal for the fanbase.

Fan Expectations

With over 8 million supporters in Brazil and approximately 148,613 club members, according to Transfermarkt, Grêmio has one of the country’s most passionate fanbases. Expectations are always high, especially after strong campaigns like the 2023 Série A runner-up finish and the 2024 Gaúcho heptacampeonato. The current position, while not disastrous, has led to demands for better results, particularly in continental competitions like the Copa Sudamericana, where Grêmio will face Alianza Lima on July 17, 2025.

Prospects for the Rest of the Season

Goals in the Brasileirão

With 25 rounds remaining, Grêmio has a chance to climb the Série A table. The team could target a top-six finish for a 2026 Copa Libertadores spot or at least a top-12 position for the Copa Sudamericana. Defensive consistency and attacking efficiency will be critical, as will the recovery of key players and the integration of new signings.

Copa Sudamericana and Gauchão

Beyond the Brasileirão, Grêmio is competing in the Copa Sudamericana, with a key match against Alianza Lima upcoming. A strong run in the continental tournament could boost team and fan confidence. In the Campeonato Gaúcho, Grêmio is favored to pursue an eighth consecutive title in 2026, capitalizing on recent state dominance.

The Power of the Fans

The Grêmio fanbase, known for its loyalty, will be a deciding factor. The vibrant atmosphere at the Arena do Grêmio can propel the team in crucial matches. GrêmioTV, the club’s official YouTube channel, has strengthened fan engagement with live broadcasts, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive features, bringing supporters closer to the club’s daily life.

Conclusion

Grêmio’s 12th-place position in Série A 2025, with 16 points after 13 rounds, reflects a season of ups and downs. Despite results below expectations, the club has a talented squad, an experienced coaching staff, and a passionate fanbase that can make a difference in the remaining rounds. With tactical adjustments, the return of key players like Geromel, and the support of a packed Arena, Grêmio has the potential to climb the table and compete for bigger goals. The Tricolor Gaúcho’s history is marked by resilience, and 2025 could be another chapter of overcoming challenges and achieving success for the Immortal.

Brazilian Championship Série A 2025: The Passion of Brazilian Football

The Brazilian Championship Série A, affectionately known as Brasileirão, is Brazil’s premier football competition, bringing together the country’s top clubs in an electrifying contest that captivates millions of fans. In 2025, the 70th edition of the tournament, officially named Brasileirão Betano 2025 due to sponsorship, promises another season filled with excitement, historic rivalries, and unforgettable moments. This article explores the history, format, highlights, and expectations for Brasileirão 2025, with details on the clubs, players, and the cultural significance of the championship.

History of Brasileirão Série A

Origins and Evolution

The Brazilian Championship was officially established in 1971, but its roots trace back to the Taça Brasil (1959–1968) and the Roberto Gomes Pedrosa Tournament (1967–1970), which were retroactively recognized by the CBF in 2010 as equivalent to the Brasileirão. Over the years, the tournament has undergone several changes in format, number of participants, and rules. Until 2002, it often featured knockout stages or a mix of group phases and finals. Since 2003, the points-based system has been adopted, bringing greater consistency and balance to the competition.

Memorable Moments

The Brasileirão has been the stage for countless iconic moments. In 1999, a scandal involving the irregular registration of São Paulo’s player Sandro Hiroshi led to the annulment of matches, altering results and resulting in Gama’s relegation. Another landmark was the 2000 João Havelange Cup, an atypical edition organized by the Clube dos 13 due to legal disputes with the CBF, with Vasco da Gama claiming the title.

Since the points-based system, the championship has seen major achievements, such as Corinthians’ four titles (2005, 2011, 2015, 2017) and Palmeiras’ four (2016, 2018, 2022, 2023), alongside dominant runs by São Paulo (2006–2008) and Flamengo (2009, 2019, 2020). Botafogo, the 2024 champion, enters 2025 as the defending titleholder after a historic campaign that also included winning the Copa Libertadores.

Format of Brasileirão 2025

Points-Based System

The Brasileirão Série A 2025 retains the points-based format, with 20 clubs competing over 38 rounds in a double round-robin system. Each team faces all opponents twice, once at home and once away. The club with the most points at the end of the season is crowned Brazilian champion. The system is praised for its fairness, rewarding consistency, though some fans miss the thrill of knockout stages.

Qualification and Relegation

The top six teams qualify for the 2026 Copa Libertadores, while the next six (7th to 12th) secure spots in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana. The bottom four teams are relegated to Série B 2026, replaced by the top four from Série B 2025. Additionally, the Brasileirão champion qualifies for the 2026 Supercopa do Brasil, facing the Copa do Brasil winner.

VAR and Refereeing

Since 2019, VAR (Video Assistant Referee) has been used in all 380 matches, with technology costs covered by the CBF. While it improves decision accuracy, VAR often sparks controversies among fans and clubs, especially in subjective calls.

Participating Clubs in 2025

The Brasileirão 2025 features 20 teams, including the top 16 from the previous season and four promoted from Série B 2024. A notable highlight is the debut of Mirassol, competing in the top tier for the first time. Confirmed clubs include giants such as:

• Botafogo: The reigning champion, strengthened by their 2024 Libertadores title.
• Palmeiras: Record holder with 12 titles, led by coach Abel Ferreira.
• Flamengo: Seven-time champions, known for their passionate fanbase and star-studded squad.
• Corinthians: Also a seven-time champion, aiming for a comeback in 2025 under Tite’s potential return.
• São Paulo, Santos, Fluminense, Cruzeiro, Atlético-MG, among others.

Notably, Athletico Paranaense was relegated in 2024, marking the first time since 1990 that Paraná has no representatives in Série A.

Highlights and Expectations for 2025

Title Favorites

Botafogo enters as a favorite, buoyed by their 2024 success and a strong squad. Palmeiras, with their consistency and solid structure, is another top contender. Flamengo, Atlético-MG, and Corinthians are also in the conversation, depending on signings and technical performance. Mirassol, though a newcomer, could surprise as an underdog, much like Cuiabá did in their 2021 debut.

Rivalries and Clássicos

The Brasileirão is renowned for its regional clássicos, which ignite fans and define key moments of the season. Some of the most anticipated matchups in 2025 include:

• Dérbi Paulista: Palmeiras vs. Corinthians, scheduled for the 3rd round.
• Clássico dos Milhões: Flamengo vs. Vasco, a historic Rio de Janeiro battle.
• Clássico Mineiro: Atlético-MG vs. Cruzeiro, with intense rivalry.
• Choque-Rei: São Paulo vs. Palmeiras, always fiercely contested.

Players to Watch

The Brasileirão 2025 will feature major Brazilian football stars and some foreign talents. Key players include:

• Fábio: Fluminense’s goalkeeper, the record holder for most Brasileirão appearances with over 600 matches.
• Vegetti: Vasco’s striker, who shone in their victory over Santos in the 2025 opener.
• Calleri: São Paulo’s top scorer, despite missing a penalty against Sport.
• Foreign players, particularly Argentines and Uruguayans (about 9.4% of Série A athletes), will also be crucial, especially for clubs like Flamengo and Palmeiras.

The Cultural Importance of Brasileirão

National Passion

The Brasileirão transcends sport, reflecting Brazilian culture. In a diverse and vast country, football unites fans across regions, social classes, and ages. Each match is a celebration, with packed stadiums, passionate chants, and rivalries spanning generations. In 2024, the championship recorded the second-highest average attendance in its history, with about 16,337 fans per game, showcasing its enduring appeal.

Economic Impact

The Brasileirão is a financial powerhouse, with an estimated valuation exceeding US$1.43 billion and annual revenue surpassing US$1.24 billion in 2013. Sponsors like Betano and exclusive broadcasts on Premiere underscore the championship’s economic significance, generating jobs and boosting tourism in host cities.

Stadiums and Infrastructure

Brasileirão stadiums are true football temples. In 2016, the Sisbrace system rated arenas like Maracanã, Arena Corinthians, Mineirão, and Allianz Parque with the maximum five-ball score. Beyond matches, many stadiums offer experiences like shops, restaurants, and even tattoo studios, becoming commercial hubs.

Challenges and Controversies

Refereeing and VAR

Refereeing remains a contentious issue. In 2024, the CBF sacked Wilson Seneme, head of refereeing, after criticism from clubs, and formed an international committee to overhaul the sector. Cases like the 2013 controversy, where Fluminense was spared relegation due to punishments to Flamengo and Portuguesa, highlight how judicial and sporting decisions can impact the championship.

Financial Inequality

The creation of LIBRA (Brazilian Football League) and Liga Forte Futebol (LFF) in 2022 exposed divisions among clubs. LIBRA, backed by clubs like Flamengo, Palmeiras, and Corinthians, seeks a fairer distribution of TV revenue, while LFF, supported by Fluminense and Fortaleza, proposes an alternative model. These debates could shape the Brasileirão’s future from 2025, with the end of the Globo contract.

Fun Facts About Brasileirão 2025

• Mirassol’s Debut: The São Paulo interior club is a major novelty, only the fifth team to debut in Série A since 2003.
• Current Trophy: Since 2014, the Brasileirão trophy, gold-plated and weighing 15 kg, is awarded to the champion, replacing the 1993 model.
• Fábio’s Record: Fluminense’s goalkeeper holds the record for most matches in the championship’s history, surpassing Rogério Ceni.
• Champion Clubs: Palmeiras leads with 12 titles, followed by Corinthians and Flamengo with seven each.

Conclusion

The Brazilian Championship Série A 2025 promises to be another season of glory, rivalries, and stories etched in fans’ memories. With a consolidated format, traditional clubs, and emerging talents, the tournament remains the heart of Brazilian football, uniting passion, culture, and competition. Whether cheering from the stands or watching on Premiere, the Brasileirão is more than a championship—it’s a celebration of Brazilian identity. Bring on the 38 rounds of pure excitement!

History of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista

Sport Club Corinthians Paulista, affectionately known as “Timão” or “Coringão,” is one of Brazil’s most iconic and beloved clubs. Founded on September 1, 1910, in São Paulo’s Tatuapé neighborhood, Corinthians is a multi-sport club primarily renowned for its professional football team, but also for its significance in other sports and its massive fanbase, exceeding 30 million supporters. This article delves into the rich history, achievements, culture, and impact of Corinthians, celebrating its over-a-century-long legacy.

Origins and Foundation

A People’s Club

Sport Club Corinthians Paulista was born from a democratic ideal: to be a team of the people, for the people, and by the people. Founded by five anarcho-syndicalist workers from the Bom Retiro neighborhood—Joaquim Ambrósio, Antônio Pereira, Rafael Perrone, Anselmo Corrêa, and Carlos Silva—the club was inspired by the Corinthian Football Club, an English team touring Brazil at the time. On September 1, 1910, at 8:30 p.m., at the corner of José Paulino and Cônego Martins streets, Corinthians was officially established, with a mission to represent São Paulo’s working class in a sports scene dominated by elitist clubs.

The First Match and the Motto “This One Will Last”

Corinthians’ first match took place on September 10, 1910, against União Lapa Futebol Clube, resulting in a 1-0 loss. Four days later, the club secured its first victory, defeating Estrela Polar 2-0. During this period, São Paulo saw the rise and fall of many amateur clubs. At Corinthians’ first training session, a banner was displayed beside the field with the phrase “Esse Vai Durar” (“This One Will Last”), symbolizing the founders’ confidence in the club’s longevity. This prophecy proved true, as Corinthians not only survived but became one of Brazil’s greatest clubs.

Early Titles and Consolidation

Entry into the Paulista League

In 1913, Corinthians earned the right to compete in the Campeonato Paulista after winning two qualifying matches against Minas Gerais and FC São Paulo. The club’s official debut in the competition was on April 20, 1913, against Germânia, resulting in a 3-1 loss. Despite a challenging start with three losses and a draw in subsequent matches, the first victory came on September 7, a 2-0 win over Germânia.

The First Paulista Title

The 1914 season marked Corinthians’ first major achievement: the Campeonato Paulista title, won undefeated with 10 victories in 10 matches, scoring 37 goals and conceding only 9. The tournament’s top scorer was Neco, with 12 goals, and the team featured players like Aristides, Fúlvio, Casemiro González, Police, Bianco, César Nunes, Américo, Peres, Amílcar, Apparício, and Neco himself. This title established Corinthians as an emerging force in São Paulo football.

Dominance in the 1920s and 1930s

The 1920s were a period of consolidation for Corinthians. In 1922, the year of Brazil’s Independence Centenary, the club began a run of three consecutive Paulista titles (1922, 1923, and 1924), marking the start of its hegemony in the competition. After defeating América, the Rio de Janeiro champions, Corinthians solidified its status as one of Brazil’s top clubs, in an era when São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro dominated Brazilian football. Another three-title streak came between 1928 and 1930, reinforcing Corinthians’ supremacy.

A standout figure of this era was striker Teleco, known as “The King of Comebacks.” Between 1935 and 1941, he was the Paulista Championship’s top scorer in five editions, scoring 251 goals in 246 matches, an impressive record that cemented him as one of the club’s greatest idols.

Challenges and Resilience

The Drought of the 1950s and 1960s

From 1954 to 1977, Corinthians endured a long period without major titles, one of the most challenging phases in its history. During the 1960s, the lack of trophies led the fanbase to find strength in faith, adopting Saint George, the “Warrior Saint,” as the club’s patron. In the early 1960s, Corinthians built the Saint George Chapel at its Parque São Jorge headquarters, reinforcing its identity and resilience. In 1969, following the tragic deaths of players Lidu and Eduardo, their funeral at the chapel further strengthened the bond between fans and the saint.

The End of the Drought

The title drought ended in 1977 when Corinthians won the Campeonato Paulista after 23 years, defeating Ponte Preta. This victory was an emotional milestone for the fanbase, which filled the Morumbi Stadium in one of the greatest displays of support in the club’s history. The triumph marked Corinthians’ return to the top of São Paulo football and reignited the passion of its supporters.

National and International Achievements

National Titles

Corinthians is one of Brazil’s most successful clubs, with 11 national titles, including seven Brazilian Championships (1990, 1998, 1999, 2005, 2011, 2015, and 2017), three Copa do Brasil titles (1995, 2002, and 2009), and one Supercopa do Brasil (1991). The 2005 Brasileirão title, despite controversies surrounding the annulment of 11 matches due to a betting scandal, was a highlight, led by players like Tevez and Nilmar.

International Glory

Corinthians has also shone on the international stage. In 2000, the club won the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup, held in Brazil, as the host nation’s representative. The feat was repeated in 2012, when Corinthians defeated Chelsea 1-0 in Japan, after winning the Copa Libertadores undefeated earlier that year. The 2012 Libertadores campaign, culminating in a victory over Boca Juniors, was historic, making Corinthians the ninth Brazilian club to lift the trophy. Additionally, the club won the Recopa Sudamericana in 2013.

Corinthians’ Home: Parque São Jorge and Neo Química Arena

Parque São Jorge: The Fazendinha

Corinthians’ social headquarters, located in the Parque São Jorge in Tatuapé, is a historic and cultural landmark. Known as “Fazendinha,” the 162,000-square-meter complex hosts over 40 sports, including Brazil’s largest aquatic facility, multi-sport gyms, courts, restaurants, and a memorial showcasing the club’s rich history. Since 1929, Parque São Jorge has been the administrative and social heart of Corinthians, serving as a gathering place for fans and members.

Neo Química Arena: The Modern Temple

Since 2014, Corinthians has played its home matches at the Neo Química Arena, also known as “Itaquerão” or “Fielzão.” Built for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the stadium has a capacity of 49,205 and hosted the tournament’s opening match. With a final cost of nearly 1.2 billion reais, the arena faced criticism for labor conditions during construction and a 420-million-reais tax exemption granted by São Paulo’s city government. Nevertheless, the Neo Química Arena has become a modern symbol of the club, attracting an average of 32,308 paying spectators per match and generating over 234 million reais in revenue.

The Fiel Fanbase

A Nation of 33 Million

With over 33 million supporters, Corinthians is Brazil’s second-most popular club, behind only Flamengo. The “Fiel Torcida” (Faithful Fanbase) is renowned for its unwavering passion, filling stadiums and supporting the team through thick and thin. In 2012, approximately 35,000 fans traveled to Japan to cheer for Corinthians in the Club World Cup final, showcasing the global strength of its fanbase.

The Fiel Torcedor Program

The Fiel Torcedor program offers exclusive benefits, such as priority ticket purchases and discounts for matches. Special categories, including children under 11, seniors over 60, and people with disabilities, receive discounted or free entry, reinforcing the club’s commitment to inclusion. The Parque São Jorge headquarters, located at Rua São Jorge, 777, also houses a service desk for members.

Historic Rivalries

Corinthians has historic rivalries that electrify Brazilian football. The Derby Paulista against Palmeiras is considered one of the world’s greatest classics, marked by intense and fiercely contested matches. The Clássico Majestoso against São Paulo and the Clássico Alvinegro against Santos also ignite passions and divide families. These rivalries, deeply rooted in São Paulo’s football culture, are a core part of Corinthians’ identity.

Cultural and Social Impact

The Democracia Corinthiana

In the 1980s, under the leadership of players like Sócrates and Wladimir, Corinthians experienced a unique moment with the Democracia Corinthiana. During Brazil’s military regime, the club adopted a collective decision-making model involving players, coaching staff, and management, symbolizing resistance and freedom. This movement not only brought titles, such as the 1982 and 1983 Paulista Championships, but also established Corinthians as a club committed to democratic values.

Inclusion and Social Responsibility

Corinthians stands out for its inclusion initiatives. The club employs over 40 professionals with diverse limitations, such as Marcello Eloy, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder and works at the youth academy’s training center. Campaigns like Novembro Azul, focused on prostate cancer awareness, underscore the club’s commitment to social responsibility.

Corinthians Today

Management and Sponsorships

In 2025, Corinthians is led by president Augusto Melo, who took office in January 2023. The club secured a record-breaking 370-million-reais, three-year master sponsorship deal with Vai de Bet, the largest of its kind in Brazilian football history. Partnerships with brands like Banco Bmg, ALE Combustíveis, and UniCesumar bolster the club’s marketing efforts, which also extend to sports like futsal and basketball.

Youth Academy

Corinthians’ youth academy is one of Brazil’s most successful, with 10 Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior titles, one Brazilian Under-20 Championship, and one Copa do Brasil Under-17. The youth categories, ranging from under-11 to under-23, compete in state and national tournaments, developing talents who often progress to the senior team.

Conclusion

Sport Club Corinthians Paulista is more than a football club; it is an institution representing the passion, struggle, and resilience of the Brazilian people. Since its founding in 1910 in Tatuapé, Corinthians has built a history filled with achievements, challenges, and triumphs. With a loyal fanbase, an iconic headquarters at Parque São Jorge, and a modern stadium in the Neo Química Arena, the Timão continues to inspire millions of supporters and write new chapters in its glorious journey. As the club’s anthem proclaims: “Hail Corinthians, the champion of champions, forever in our hearts.”