Author: Vishwajit Sawant
Reports from other 1/8 Copa Brasil matches
The quarter-finals will feature Bahia, Palmeiras, Grêmio, América MG, Corinthians, Atlético Paranaense, São Paulo and Flamengo.
São Paulo stunned by Sport, ends unbeaten run but advances in Copa do Brasil drama
São Paulo’s unbeaten run against Sport at the Morumbi Stadium came to an end with a historic victory for the underdogs.
Despite going 2-0 down in the first leg and occupying ninth place in Serie B, Sport stunned São Paulo with a 3-1 victory, ending the Tricolor’s 13-match unbeaten run, 12 of them under coach Dorival Júnior. Despite suffering this surprising setback, São Paulo managed to advance to the quarter-finals of the Copa do Brasil by winning the match 5-3 on penalties.
The game was expected to be easy for São Paulo, given the advantage they had gained in the first leg. However, the team struggled to convert possession into meaningful chances. Michel Araújo scored a fine goal in the 26th minute, assisted by Luciano, to put São Paulo ahead.
But Sport analyzed the Tricolor’s game plan and took advantage of defensive errors, scoring three goals. Alisson Cassiano equalized the match in the 44th minute. After the break, defender Sabino scored twice from corner kicks. Sabino gave Sport the lead in the 52nd minute and scored another goal in the 90th minute, taking the teams to a penalty shootout.
Despite Luciano Juba missing the penalty, São Paulo emerged victorious. Although the result may have little impact on Sport’s position in the competition, it broke Dorival’s unbeaten run and raises doubts about São Paulo’s future performance.
In the match, São Paulo played a fluid and relaxed style, without worrying about the pressure of the result. Although they faltered against Sport, the team’s qualification for the quarter-finals of the Copa do Brasil gives them a morale boost for the upcoming games.
Flamengo extends seven-year record with Copa do Brasil win over Fluminense
In a much-anticipated clash at the Maracanã, Flamengo came out victorious against Fluminense 2-0, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the Copa do Brasil.
After a goalless draw in the first leg, both teams were determined to win. Fluminense started strongly, pressuring Flamengo and creating chances, with Germán Cano coming close to scoring. However, against the run of play, Flamengo opened the scoring when Fabrício Bruno headed the ball to Uruguayan midfielder Arrascaeta, who calmly slotted past the goalkeeper to give the hosts the lead. The goal in the 33rd minute gave Flamengo the peace of mind they needed to maintain their lead.
In the second half, Flamengo dominated the action, with Gerson and Everton Cebolinha coming close to extending their lead. Finally, in the last few minutes, Gabriel Barbosa (90’+1) sealed the victory, ensuring Flamengo’s qualification for the quarter-finals. The result not only brings financial rewards for Flamengo, but also puts an end to a curse of seven years without reaching the quarter-finals of the Copa do Brasil, boosting the team’s reputation and confidence.