The Dutch forward struck the winning goal in the 63rd minute, finishing off a sweeping team move after an assist from Yuri Alberto, who had earlier opened the scoring in the 18th minute. The strike crowned a commanding performance from the Sao Paulo side in the second leg of the final at the iconic Maracana.

Vasco da Gama briefly reignited the contest when Nuno Moreira headed home, piling late pressure on Corinthians, but Memphis' goal ultimately proved decisive. The first leg, played in Sao Paulo, had ended goalless, leaving everything to be decided in Rio de Janeiro.

This triumph marks Corinthians’ first Copa do Brasil title since 2009 and their second trophy of the season, following success in the Campeonato Paulista. It also secures a vital return to South America's elite competition after a difficult league campaign.

Despite spending much of the Brasileirao in the lower mid-table, Corinthians finished 13th with 47 points, narrowly avoiding relegation. The Copa do Brasil victory not only restores prestige but also delivers a significant financial windfall, with prize money approaching 100 million Brazilian reais, alongside the lucrative rewards of qualifying for the Libertadores.

For Memphis Depay, it is his second trophy with Timao and a statement moment in a season that ends with silverware, continental football and renewed optimism at Corinthians.

Nuno Moreira

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