In a commanding display, São Paulo defeated Internacional 3-0 at the iconic Vila Belmiro stadium in a match that was part of the 37th round of the Brasileirao. The scoring opened at the 20th minute when Sabino showcased his skills by converting a precise header, giving his team the lead. Just before the halftime whistle, Maik doubled the advantage for São Paulo with a well-executed play. Luciano capped off the victory in the second half, netting the third goal in the 47th minute, further sealing Internacional’s fate.
Sabino emerged as the standout player of the match, not only contributing to the scoreline but also solidifying the defense. São Paulo’s goalkeeper, Rafael, was crucial in maintaining the clean sheet, making four impressive saves throughout the encounter.
Damián Bobadilla also had a notable performance, exhibiting skill by nutmegging his marker just nine minutes into the game.
The head coach, Hernán Crespo, opted for a 3-5-2 formation featuring Rafael in goal; with Rafael Tolói, Alan Franco, and Sabino forming the defensive line; Maik, Luiz Gustavo, Marcos Antônio, Ferreira, and Damián Bobadilla in midfield; while Luciano and Gonzalo Tapia led the attack.
On the other hand, Internacional, managed by Abel Braga, lined up in a defensive 5-4-1, with Sergio Rochet guarding the net, supported by defenders Braian Aguirre, Gabriel Mercado, Vitão, Juninho, and Alexandro Bernabei. The midfield was composed of Bruno Gomes, Thiago Maia, Alan Rodríguez, and Alan Patrick, with Vitinho as the lone forward.
The match was officiated by referee Bruno Arleu de Araujo.
Following this victory, São Paulo is set to face Vitória away in their next match, while Internacional will host RB Bragantino at home. With this win, São Paulo moves up to 51 points, now sitting in eighth place, whereas Internacional remains in 18th with 41 points in the tournament.
Substitutions for São Paulo
32’ 1T – Alan Franco out for Robert Arboleda
71’ 2T – Damián Bobadilla out for Alisson
80’ 2T – Luciano for Pedro Ferreira, Ferreira for Pablo Maia, and Marcos Antônio out for Lucca Marques
Yellow Card for São Paulo:
16’ 2T Damián Bobadilla (Repeated fouls)
Substitutions for Internacional
45’ 2T – Juninho out for Rafael Santos Borré
66’ 2T – Alan Rodríguez out for Ricardo Mathias
78’ 2T – Thiago Maia out for Richard
82’ 2T – Alan Patrick out for Bruno Tabata and Vitinho out for Bruno Henrique
Yellow Cards for Internacional:
20’ 2T Gabriel Mercado (Unsporting behavior) and 48’ 2T Vitão (Unsporting behavior)