Estevão of Palmeiras: The Star of the 2025 Copa do Brasil
At just 18, Estevão of Palmeiras is captivating audiences in the 2025 Copa do Brasil, cementing his status as the tournament’s standout player with stellar performances in the third phase, held on May 21–22, 2025. With goals, assists, and decisive plays, the young winger is Brazil’s brightest football prospect, already signed by Chelsea for €61.5 million (R$357 million). In this article, we explore Estevão’s journey, his impact on the Copa do Brasil, key statistics, and why he’s the tournament’s top star so far. Follow the complete 2025 Copa do Brasil table to see how Palmeiras is contending for the title!
Who is Estevão?
Born in Franca, São Paulo, on April 24, 2007, Estevão Willian Almeida de Oliveira Gonçalves is only 18 but already a rising star. Nicknamed “Messinho” for his exceptional ball skills, he debuted for Palmeiras’ senior team in 2023 at age 16 and swiftly became a regular starter. In 2024, he finished as the Brazilian Série A’s second-top scorer with 13 goals and 9 assists, earning the Young Player award and the prestigious Bola de Ouro as its youngest-ever winner. His call-up to the Brazilian national team in September 2024, at 17 years and 135 days, made him the fifth-youngest player to represent the Seleção.
Standing at 1.76m, Estevão shines as a right winger, combining dribbling, speed, and precise finishing—qualities that make him a standout in the 2025 Copa do Brasil. His transfer to Chelsea, scheduled for July 2025 after the Club World Cup, reflects his €55 million market value.
Estevão in the 2025 Copa do Brasil
In the 2025 Copa do Brasil, Estevão has been Palmeiras’ leading light, particularly in the third phase. In the second leg against Ceará on May 22, 2025, at Allianz Parque, he scored twice in a 3–0 win, ensuring Palmeiras’ advancement to the round of 16. His first goal came after a penalty save by Ceará’s goalkeeper Fernando Miguel, with Estevão capitalizing on the rebound in the 21st minute of the second half. Three minutes later, he received a pass from Lucas Evangelista, weaved through defenders, and fired a shot into the top corner—a spectacular goal that ignited the crowd.
Earlier, in the first leg against Botafogo-SP on May 2, 2024, Estevão scored a dramatic last-minute winner in a 2–1 victory, preventing a home draw for Palmeiras. His performances show remarkable consistency, with 2 goals and 2 assists in 4 matches so far, based on projected data.
Estevão’s Statistics in the 2025 Copa do Brasil
Here are Estevão’s stats in the 2025 Copa do Brasil up to the third phase:
| Player | Team | Matches | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estevão | Palmeiras | 4 | 2 | 2 | 320 |
Source: Projections based on data up to May 22, 2025.
Why Estevão is the Star of the 2025 Copa do Brasil
Estevão stands out for several reasons, making him the tournament’s brightest star so far:
- Clutch Performances: His goals against Ceará and Botafogo-SP were critical to Palmeiras’ progression, demonstrating composure in high-pressure moments.
- Versatility: Operating as a right winger or attacking midfielder, Estevão disrupts defenses with dribbles, precise passes, and clinical finishes, as showcased in his stunning goal against Ceará.
- Young Prodigy: At 18, he’s drawing comparisons to Neymar, with coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo praising him as an “extraordinary talent” who could excel in midfield.
- Fan Connection: After the Ceará victory, Estevão’s emotional remarks about his upcoming departure from Allianz Parque deepened his bond with Palmeiras supporters.
Context of the 2025 Copa do Brasil
The 2025 Copa do Brasil, which began on February 18, features 92 clubs in a knockout format, with the third phase introducing powerhouses like Palmeiras and Flamengo. Offering a record R$77,175,000 prize for the champion and a spot in the 2026 Copa Libertadores, the tournament is highly competitive. The third phase in May 2025 produced notable results, such as Bahia’s 4–0 rout of Paysandu and Fortaleza’s 1–1 draw with Retrô-PE, but Palmeiras, led by Estevão, stood out for their consistency. The upcoming round of 16 (July 29–31 and August 5–7) promises further challenges, with Estevão as a pivotal player.
For more details, check our 2025 Copa do Brasil table and the list of top players.
Comparison with Other Stars
Estevão isn’t the only standout in the 2025 Copa do Brasil. Players like Everaldo (Bahia, 3 goals) and Ganso (Fluminense, 3 assists) are also making waves. However, Estevão’s youth and immediate impact set him apart. In 2024, Pablo Vegetti (Vasco) topped the tournament’s scoring chart with 7 goals, and Estevão, with 2 goals so far, is a strong contender to match that feat in later rounds. Compared to Neymar in 2009, Estevão outperformed him in the 2024 Série A (13 goals vs. Neymar’s 10), signaling his potential to become Brazil’s next great star.
Estevão’s Farewell to Palmeiras and Chelsea Future
Estevão is counting down to his departure from Palmeiras after the Club World Cup in July 2025, when he’ll join Chelsea. After the Ceará match, he became emotional discussing his farewell to Allianz Parque, where he’ll play only one more game (against Sporting Cristal in the Copa Libertadores). “I’m living unforgettable days, but I’ll miss this incredible fanbase,” he told Amazon. At Chelsea, Estevão faces the challenge of breaking into the Premier League, following Brazilians like Andrey Santos, who have yet to fully establish themselves at the club.
Prospects for the Round of 16
With Palmeiras advancing to the round of 16, Estevão is the team’s biggest hope for securing a fifth Copa do Brasil title (1998, 2012, 2015, 2020). The draw, expected before July 29, will determine their next opponent. Estevão’s ability to deliver in crucial matches, as seen against Ceará, suggests he’ll continue to shine. Follow the round of 16 table for updates.
How to Follow Estevão and the Copa do Brasil
Stay updated on Estevão’s journey:
- Watch Palmeiras matches on Globo, SporTV, or Premiere.
- Visit the CBF website for official schedules.
- Explore our analyses, including the history of the Copa do Brasil, Retrô-PE’s surprise run, and ticket guide.
Join the Fandom!
Estevão of Palmeiras is carving his name into the 2025 Copa do Brasil’s history. Will he become the tournament’s top scorer or defining star? Bookmark this page for updates and share on social media. Comment with your prediction: Can Estevão lead Palmeiras to the title? Cheer and join the excitement!
