Grêmio completed an outstanding seven-day run by beating Atlético-MG 2-0 on Sunday in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil semifinal. The result gives the team a significant advantage in the tie and allows it to dream of reaching the final and earning a place in the Libertadores, ambitions that had seemed distant recently.
The win over Atlético-MG followed victories against Coritiba on Monday and Athletico on Thursday. Across the three matches, Grêmio scored five goals and conceded none, recording its first three-match winning streak of the season.
The turnaround has been closely linked to coach Renato Portaluppi, who introduced a more secure system with three center-backs. His work also helped bring improved performances from several players, while goalkeeper Weverton continued the decisive displays he has produced since joining the club at the beginning of the year.
The match against Atlético-MG illustrated the progress made under Renato. A team previously focused mainly on avoiding trouble produced a competitive performance against an opponent involved in the top level of Brazilian football and preparing for the Copa Sudamericana final.
Players who had struggled under Luís Castro also returned to form. Carlos Vinicius and Noriega scored, while João Pedro and Balbuena regained prominence after being left out and placed among the players available for transfer under the previous staff. Right-back João Pedro delivered one of his best performances, reminiscent of his 2023 level, and provided the assist for Noriega’s goal.
Grêmio’s victory was built on efficiency. The team scored with its first shot in the opening half and doubled the lead with its first attempt after the break. Atlético-MG had more possession and took more shots, but Grêmio defended firmly and was never seriously threatened. The visitors’ most dangerous opportunity came when Vitor Hugo headed against the crossbar in the 48th minute of the second half.
Despite the consistent reaction, Grêmio has not yet secured its position in the Brasileirão. A draw against Flamengo on Wednesday would deliver a point that even the most optimistic projections had not included in the fight to escape the relegation zone. A positive result would also give the team additional confidence before facing Atlético-MG again on Saturday in the Copa do Brasil.
Sources: Globo Esporte.