Inter nacional just punched their ticket to the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals, keeping their dream of a second title alive, even after a nail-biting 2-1 loss to Corinthians in the second leg at Neo Química Arena. Despite Timão’s win on Thursday, Colorado’s 2-0 victory in the first leg meant they secured their spot in the next round with a 3-2 aggregate score. What a ride!
A Pure Battle: How Corinthians Fought Back at Neo Química Arena
Man, that entire first half was an absolute grind, a classic “attack versus defense” showdown. Corinthians, or Timão as we know them, were all over Inter, dominating the attack and controlling possession. But what was their game plan? Crosses, baby, crosses! They hammered ten balls into the box, trying to link up with center-forward Pedro Raul. And you know what? It actually worked! Right at the end of the first half, Rodrigo Garro sent a free kick screaming into the area. Gustavo Henrique got his head on it, Matheus Cunha made the save, but Henrique was right there to pounce on his own rebound and put Corinthians on the board.
After the break, though, Internacional found their stride. Alan Patrick delivered a killer assist, setting up Bernabei who unleashed a left-footed strike that flew just under the crossbar. Hugo Souza had absolutely zero chance. Game on!
Timão Pushed Hard, But Colorado Held Firm
With the score tied and the clock ticking, Corinthians knew they needed two goals in just over 30 minutes to turn the tide. So what did they do? They doubled down on their strategy: more crosses! And it paid off again! Left-back Matheus Bidu whipped in a cross from the left side, and Pedro Raul appeared at the far post to tuck it away. Hope was definitely restored for the Fiel Torcida. Talk about a late surge! In the final minutes, Matheuzinho got a first-time strike from the edge of the box, and you wouldn’t believe it, he hit Matheus Cunha’s left post. So close to a complete comeback, but it wasn’t enough. Internacional held on to their aggregate lead. They really battled through that one.
With qualification now locked in, Internacional is waiting for the CBF draw, which is set for next Tuesday, August 11, at 11 a.m. (Brasília time). That’s when we’ll find out who they face in the quarterfinals. Before that, though, Colorado has a date with Palmeiras this coming Sunday, August 9, at Nubank Parque in the Brasileirão. Corinthians, meanwhile, are now fully focused on the Brasileirão, where they’re currently sitting in ninth place with 29 points, and they’ll face RB Bragantino next Sunday for the 22nd round. Get ready for that draw, because Internacional is still in this thing!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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