Atlético Mineiro has advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 Copa do Brasil.
They faced a setback before the match even began, losing a key player, and fell behind after Kaio Jorge scored first. However, they made a strong comeback after gaining a numerical advantage on the field.
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Known for their resilience, Galo showcased their talent and determination, with Fred playing a pivotal role in securing a 2-1 victory over their rivals on Tuesday night, September 1, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
The match concluded in front of a crowd of 42,992 at Arena MRV, marking the largest attendance of the year.
Catch the highlights below.
Ruan vs. Kaio Jorge: A Rivalry Continues
The inclusion of Cruzeiro’s No. 19 forced Atlético’s defender to be substituted in the first leg.
Kaio Jorge faced repercussions from the STJD but only received a warning.
Ruan, meanwhile, refused to shake hands with his adversary during the pre-match introduction.
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Their encounter didn’t last long, as Ruan had to exit the match after just 15 minutes due to a clash with his “nemesis.”
This loss was compounded by an earlier issue, as Maycon strained himself during warm-ups and was unable to participate.
Opportunities and Kaio Jorge’s Impact
The first significant chance of an intense opening half fell to Bernard after Matheus Pereira’s blunder in midfield.
However, Otávio denied him.
Cruzeiro responded with an attempt from Matheus Pereira.
Kaio Jorge then made headlines again after winning a penalty against Vitão, who had replaced Ruan.
Despite being on a five-match goal drought, Kaio Jorge scored confidently from the spot, leaving Everson no chance (30′). It marked his seventh career goal against Atlético.
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Galo ramped up the pressure until the halftime break but struggled with their finishing.
Bernard saw another golden opportunity slip away.
🟥 Cruzeiro Reduced to Ten Men
Atlético returned for the second half with renewed energy, keeping their rivals on the back foot.
Villalba, already on a yellow card, received a second yellow and was sent off for a foul on Cuello (15′).
Artur Jorge subsequently substituted three key players: Matheus Pereira, Gerson (who requested to be replaced), and Kaio Jorge.
On the other side, birthday boy Eduardo Domínguez brought in Minda and Victor Hugo to bolster Atlético’s attacking efforts.
A Stunning Comeback 🐓
With increased pressure from the black-and-white team, Cruzeiro struggled to counter effectively.
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While Fred had been quiet throughout the match, he sprung into action when he linked up with Scarpa to assist Victor Hugo, who equalized the score (77′).
Raposa tried to hold on, but they couldn’t generate any potent attacks.
Nor could they withstand Atlético’s momentum.
In another play involving Victor Hugo, Fred scored the decisive goal to complete the comeback (86′), solidifying the team’s control of the game prior to the red card.
What’s Next? ❓
Atlético will meet either Grêmio or Internacional in the next round, with the second leg scheduled for Thursday (3) after a goalless draw at Beira-Rio.
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What’s certain is that Galo has secured R$9 million in prize money.
They will play again on Saturday (5), currently sitting in eighth place in the Brasileirão as they prepare to visit São Paulo (11th).
Meanwhile, Raposa (6th) will host Athletico (3rd) on Sunday (6).
For Cabuloso, only the Brazilian Championship remains.
Featured photo: Pedro Souza / Atlético
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.