SE Palmeiras have claimed the Otten Innovation Cup 2026. Over an impressive tournament weekend, the Brazilians dropped points only once and crowned themselves champions in the final at the expense of hosts PSV: 1-2.
Palmeiras' rise was convincing from the outset. In the opening round of Group A, Adelaide United were swept aside 0-3. The second round brought the only points dropped in the entire tournament: a 1-1 draw against Manchester United. That setback was amply offset on Saturday with a commanding 1-3 victory away at PSV in the closing group match — a result that would prove decisive in hindsight, against the very opponent they would meet again in the final a day later.
As group winners, Palmeiras qualified for the crossover semi-final for places one through four. There they proved just too strong for AS Monaco, winning 0-1 — a narrow but effective victory that paved the way to the title decider.
In the final against PSV, Palmeiras took the lead through Vinicius Martins de Lima (0-1), before an own goal by Tije Vos doubled the margin. PSV fought their way back to 1-2 with a converted penalty from Liam Van Nistelrooij and, in the closing stages, even had an extra man following the red card shown to Vinicius Martins de Lima. Yet the Brazilian defence held firm. Referee Dave Steenis brought proceedings to a close at 1-2.
With four wins and one draw from five matches, Palmeiras were deserving winners of the 2026 edition. Twice they got the better of PSV along the way — in the group stage and when it mattered most. The trophy heads to Brazil.