Seedorf’s Corinthians debut ends in heartbreaking late defeat

Clarence Seedorf endured a disappointing debut as Corinthians head coach, suffering a dramatic 3-2 defeat against Vasco da Gama in the 32nd round of the Brazilian Serie A.

Appointed two weeks ago to replace Fernando Diniz, the former AC Milan midfielder returned to club management after several years away from the dugout. His first match, however, ended in frustration despite Corinthians’ promising second-half response.

Vasco took the lead through right-back Puma Rodríguez in the 35th minute. Corinthians turned the contest around after the break, with Gustavo Henrique equalising in the 50th minute before Matheus Bidu put the visitors ahead seven minutes later.

The hosts refused to surrender. Substitute Marino Hinestroza levelled in the 88th minute before completing the comeback with another strike two minutes later, capitalising on a counterattack assisted by David.

The defeat leaves Corinthians 17th, two points below safety, with five matches remaining and their winless run stretching back to August 9.