Corinthians will face Argentina’s Racing Club this Thursday in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana semifinals, placing its hopes on Dutchman Memphis Depay, the main offensive weapon for the Brazilian side.

The struggling Corinthians will face a Racing team riding high after a memorable comeback against Athletico Paranaense in the quarterfinals.

(VIDEO) Deyverson’s Amazing Brace in Libertadores Semifinal Against River Plate

Despite their strong campaign in the Sudamericana, with seven wins, one draw, and two losses, Corinthians has had a disappointing season in the Brazilian Championship, spending much of the season in the relegation zone. Additionally, their recent elimination in the Copa do Brasil semifinals at the hands of Flamengo has taken a toll on team morale, making the Sudamericana their main focus.

Corinthians hopes to maintain their unbeaten streak of seven home matches against Argentine teams. In the Sudamericana, they have always drawn against Racing, but Argentine coach Ramón Díaz aims to change that trend and take the advantage into the return leg at the Cilindro in Avellaneda.

Atlético Mineiro Thrashes River Plate in Libertadores Semifinal

Alongside Depay, a former player for Atlético de Madrid and Manchester United, Corinthians’ coach may field Talles Magno, Pedro Raúl, and Yuri Alberto in the starting eleven to strengthen the attack. However, Matheuzinho is a doubt after receiving six stitches following a kick in the match against Flamengo. Maycon, Ruan Oliveira, Ecuadorian Diego Palacios, and Ryan will also be unavailable due to injuries.

Racing, led by Gustavo Costas, will aim to secure an away advantage in São Paulo ahead of the return leg in Avellaneda. The Argentine team's offensive hopes rest on Adrián Martínez, the top scorer in the Sudamericana with nine goals in ten matches.

Marco Di Cesare and Gabriel Rojas are doubtful, while Colombian Roger Martínez will miss the match after sustaining an injury during his national team’s World Cup qualifier against Bolivia.