Atlético Mineiro showcased their home advantage by defeating Athletico Paranaense 2-1 in a gripping encounter at the Arena MRV. The hosts took an early lead when Victor Hugo found the net just 5 minutes into the match. Midway through the second half, Gustavo Scarpa doubled their advantage with a well-placed shot in the 79th minute. However, Athletico Paranaense managed to pull one back through Julimar, who scored with a header in the 86th minute, although there was not enough time to level the game.
Victor Hugo was undoubtedly the standout player, contributing significantly with his early goal, while Gustavo Scarpa’s performance, capped by his goal, was also critical for the victory.
Atlético Mineiro’s coach, Eduardo Domínguez, fielded a 4-4-2 formation featuring Éverson as the goalkeeper; a defensive line comprising Natanael, Ruan Tressoldi, Vitor Hugo, and Renan Lodi; a midfield quartet of Reinier, Alan Franco, Tomás Pérez, and Victor Hugo; along with forwards Hulk and Tomás Cuello.
On the other hand, Athletico Paranaense, guided by coach Odair Hellmann, opted for a 5-3-2 setup, with Santos between the posts; a backline consisting of Arthur Dias, Léo Derik, Gastón Benavídez, Felipe Aguirre, and Lucas Esquivel; Luiz Gustavo, Jádson, and Dudu Kogitzki managing the midfield; and Stiven Mendoza paired with Kevin Viveros in attack.
Referee Matheus Delgado Candançan officiated the match, ensuring a fair contest throughout.
Looking ahead, Atlético Mineiro will face Santos in their next fixture, while Athletico Paranaense is set to host Chapecoense. Following this result, Atlético Mineiro currently holds 14 points, placing them in 8th position, whereas Athletico Paranaense remains in 5th with 16 points.
Substitutions for Atlético Mineiro
69’ 2H – Tomás Cuello for Dudu, Tomás Pérez for Mamady Cissé 70’ 2H – Reinier for Bernard 76’ 2H – Victor Hugo for Gustavo Scarpa 84’ 2H – Hulk for Mateo Cassierra
Substitutions for Athletico Paranaense
45’ 2H – Dudu Kogitzki for João Cruz, Jádson for Juan Portilla, Stiven Mendoza for Julimar 74’ 2H – Léo Derik for Leozinho 88’ 2H – Luiz Gustavo for Bruninho
Yellow Card for Athletico Paranaense:
19’ 1H – Felipe Aguirre