In a Copa Sudamericana 2023 semifinal clash, Corinthians will host Fortaleza at the Neo Química Arena, aiming to reach the continental final for the first time in this competition for both clubs. The stage is set for a high-stakes duel between two Brazilian teams, each eager to punch a ticket to the championship decider and showcase their continental pedigree on a big stage in São Paulo.
The Corinthians side, nicknamed the Timão, earned their spot in the semifinals by riding out a dramatic quarterfinal tie with Estudiantes, ultimately prevailing 3-2 on penalties after a late equalizer kept the tie alive. Carlos Gilberto Nascimento Silva delivered the decisive moment in the shootout, and the squad is steered by manager Vanderlei Luxemburgo, who brings a wealth of top-flight experience and a history of success in Brazilian football to the bench during this pivotal run.
On the other side, Fortaleza, known as Tricolor do Pici, advanced by defeating América Mineiro 5-2 on aggregate in the round of eight, with Guilherme Augusto Vieira dos Santos chipping in three goals across the series. The team is guided by head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, who is entering just his third campaign in continental competition and looking to translate domestic form into success on South American soil. Fortaleza has demonstrated resilience and an attacking mindset that could test Corinthians’ defenses in the decisive moments of two-leg ties, including the upcoming away leg in Brazil.
Copa Sudamericana 2023: when does it start, advertisements and match schedule
CORINTHIANS VS FORTALEZA: START DATE AND TIME
The opening leg of this semifinal is scheduled to unfold at the Neo Química Arena, with kickoff timing confirmed to fit the standard Brazilian evening slot, providing fans with a prime showcase under anticipated stadium atmosphere. The return fixture will be arranged in Fortaleza, where the hosts will seek to leverage their home conditions and the energy of their supporters to push for a momentous final berth. Both clubs understand that the aggregate result over the two legs will determine who advances to the final, making every goal and clean sheet crucial in the championship pursuit.
HOW TO WATCH CORINTHIANS VS FORTALEZA ONLINE: CHANNELS AND TRANSMISSIONS
Fans across Canada and the United States can follow the semifinals through network partners and streaming services offering South American competition coverage. The broadcast will feature expert analysis, live commentary, and in-depth pre and post-match discussions that help viewers understand tactical nuances, lineup decisions, and the significance of the match within the broader Copa Sudamericana ecosystem. As the teams line up, viewers will be treated to a clash of styles: Corinthians camped on solid, organized defense and quick counterattacks, while Fortaleza brings pace in wide areas and a direct approach in the final third. This contrast should make for a compelling narrative across the two legs.
For those watching online, streaming platforms with regional rights in North America are expected to provide multiple viewing options, including live streams with add-on features such as multi-angle replays and tactical overlays. Viewers should verify local listings for exact channel names and stream availability in their country, along with any regional blackout rules that may apply to international fans.
FROM FACE TO FACE: THE LAST 5 MATCHES
Recent meetings between Corinthians and Fortaleza have offered a snapshot of how the sides match up in this competition. Corinthians tends to rely on compact defensive structure, disciplined work rate, and the occasional decisive surge to break the deadlock. Fortaleza, meanwhile, has shown adaptability and a willingness to press high and stretch play across the wings, creating chances from wide areas and set pieces. In the most recent encounters, both teams demonstrated clinical finishing in decisive moments, underscoring the importance of concentration and resilience across the full 90 minutes of play. The outcome of these fixtures will be watched closely when the teams lock horns again in the semifinals, with tactical adjustments likely to shape the balance of power in the two-legged tie.
COURSE
CORINTHIANS
Corinthians enter the semifinal phase with a clear objective: advance to the final and add another continental title to their storied history. The squad blends seasoned veterans with promising young players, creating a balance between experience and pace on the pitch. The tactical plan emphasizes solid defense, quick transitions, and efficient use of the flanks to stretch Fortaleza’s back line. Manager Vanderlei Luxemburgo has built a cohesive unit that can adapt to different match tempos and pressure scenarios, which will be vital in two-legged knockout football.
POWER
The Fortaleza setup is built around a dynamic frontline, intelligent pressing, and quick counterattacks that can exploit space behind opposing lines. The team’s fitness levels and teamwork are assets that can tilt the fixture’s momentum in the late stages of each leg. With a coach who has prior experience guiding teams through continental campaigns, Fortaleza aims to translate domestic momentum into a strong continental run, challenging Corinthians with organized pressing and bursts of pace from wide areas.