Author: Vishwajit Sawant
Atlético-MG beat São Paulo 2-0 in Morumbi
Atlético-MG snapped a ten-game winless streak (5 draws and 5 defeats) with a decisive 2-0 victory over São Paulo at Morumbi on Sunday afternoon. The goals came from Hulk (4 mins), who ended his four-game scoreless streak with a brilliant free-kick early in the game, and Pavón, who scored a penalty in the 21st minute after Patrick was fouled in the box. The win was also significant as it marked coach Felipão’s first victory in charge of Galo after nine games in charge. In a post-match press conference, Felipão praised the team’s consistent effort and solid performance throughout the match.
Vegetti’s debut goal ended Vasco’s drought and secured a 1-0 win over Grêmio
After a long dry spell, Vasco finally tasted victory and broke their goal drought at São Januário, beating Grêmio 1-0 on matchday 18 of the Brasileirão. The hero of the match was Argentinian striker Vegetti, who made his debut for Cruz-Maltino and scored the winning goal. Note that, since mid-April, this is only Vasco’s second win in the last 16 games. In four months, the club has lost 11 times and drawn three. This win not only ended Vasco’s six-game losing streak at home, but also lifted them out of the relegation zone with 12 points. This is Vasco’s first glory under Ramon Diaz. Meanwhile, Gremio, currently in 4th place with 31 points, made valiant efforts to equalize in the thrilling final moments of the game, but couldn’t break through Vasco’s resilient defense.
Cruzeiro and Botafogo draw 0-0
The long-awaited match between Cruzeiro and Botafogo in the 18th round of the Brasileirão ended in a goalless draw at the Mineirão. The league leaders didn’t show a championship game. In 90 minutes, Botafogo had just two shots on goal (only one of which hit the target). For comparison’s sake, Cruzeiro had 13 shots (4 on goal). Despite Cruzeiro’s relentless pressure and attempts to break through Botafogo’s defense, solid performances from Adryelson and goalkeeper Lucas Perri thwarted their efforts.
Perhaps it was a strategy on Bruno Lage’s part, as Botafogo are top of the league, 13 points clear of second place. And now it was more important for the coach to prepare for the second leg of the round of 16 in the Copa Sudamericana. Remember that, after a 2-1 home win, the team is expecting a trip to Paraguay to face Guarini. The best striker in the league, Tikinho Soares, will definitely be absent for this match. He twisted his left knee and was substituted in the first half. After an MRI scan, it will be possible to tell how serious the 32-year-old striker’s injury is. The recovery period can take from several weeks to six months. Mathias Segovia also suffered a knee injury. On the other hand, midfielder Rai and striker Luis Enrique have returned to the team (he hasn’t played since July 26, when he injured his shoulder in the match against Santos).
Cuiabá surprise Flamengo with dominant 3-0 win
Flamengo suffered a surprising 3-0 defeat to Cuiabá in a very tight match at the Arena Pantanal on Sunday (6), in the 18th round of the Brazilian Championship. Cuiabá’s Dourado was in command of the game, showing total control of the action and creating numerous chances. Although the first half remained goalless, Cuiabá’s strategy of relentless pressure on Flamengo paid off at the start of the second half, with a goal scored after just 30 seconds. The home side continued their offensive dominance, scoring two more goals, while Flamengo struggled to find their rhythm and pass efficiently. The victory marked Cuiabá’s first ever triumph over Flamengo. In fact, in their last six games, Cuiabá have won five times (with one draw). The team is now three points behind second place. As for Flamengo, they lost for the first time since June 23. After losing to Bragantino, the club (in three tournaments) had 8 wins and three draws.
Bragantino wins crucial 1-0 victory over Coritiba and secures fifth place
Bragantino beat Coritiba 1-0 at the Couto Pereira Stadium, solidifying their position near the top of the Brazilian Championship table. Sorriso’s well-taken goal proved decisive, as the São Paulo side made masterly use of possession and quick transitions to overcome their opponents. Braga’s defensive resilience, anchored by goalkeeper Cleiton, prevented Coritiba from scoring, despite their desperate attempts to equalize. In the 62nd minute, Marcelino Moreno scored a goal that was disallowed for offside.
Bahia secure convincing 3-1 win over América-MG
Bahia produced a dominant performance to secure a convincing 3-1 win against América-MG at the Arena Fonte Nova in the 18th round of the Brazilian Championship. The game began with intense pressure from Bahia, with Ratão and Camilo Cándido leading the attack. The breakthrough came 25 minutes into the first half, when Camilo Cándido’s deft cross found Everaldo, who finished brilliantly to open the scoring. América-MG responded quickly in the second half with a header from Mastriani, but Bahia wasted no time regaining the lead with a fine goal from Cauly. The situation got worse for América-MG when Burgos received a red card, leaving the team with 10 players. Bahia took advantage, with Rafael Ratão and Cauly securing a convincing victory. The result lifted Bahia out of the relegation zone, up to 16th place with 18 points, while América-MG remained bottom with 10 points.