Internacional eliminated Corinthians from the Copa do Brasil on Thursday despite losing 2-1 in the second leg at Neo Quimica Arena. The result ended the defending champions' bid to win back-to-back tournament titles. Internacional advanced to the quarterfinals with a 3-2 victory on aggregate, having won the first leg 2-0 at Beira-Rio.
Corinthians manager Fernando Diniz saw his side dominate control in the first half while pushing into the attacking zone. The home team gave Internacional little space but found it difficult to create clear scoring opportunities. Corinthians focused heavily on aerial passes aimed at striker Pedro Raul during the opening half.
First Half Lead and VAR Review
Corinthians opened the scoring in the 42nd minute after Garro delivered a free kick into the penalty area. Defender Gustavo Henrique directed a header toward goal, which goalkeeper Matheus Cunha saved before Gustavo Henrique turned in the rebound with his left leg. Video assistant referee officials reviewed the play because Gabriel Paulista was in an offside position and attempted to header the ball, but video referees confirmed the goal after ruling he did not interfere.
Internacional equalized 13 minutes into the second half following a long kick downfield. Alan Patrick controlled the ball, turned past Gabriel Paulista, and passed sideways to Bernabei. Bernabei struck a powerful left-footed shot that hit the crossbar and bounced into the net.
Late Goals and Tactical Changes
Diniz responded by substituting André and Gabriel Paulista for Lingard and Allan, while Internacional had previously introduced Allex for Carbonero. Corinthians went back ahead in the 24th minute of the second half when Garro collected the ball in midfield and found Matheus Bidu. The fullback delivered a cross that Pedro Raul headed into the net.
Internacional coach Paulo Pezzolano then modified his lineup, bringing on Alerrandro and Juninho to replace Alan Patrick and Bruno Henrique. Diniz made further tactical changes by sending on Matheus Pereira, Carrillo, and Dieguinho as Corinthians pushed for another goal to force a penalty shootout. Matheuzinho struck the post for Corinthians in the 40th minute, but Internacional held on to secure aggregate progression.
Quarterfinal Draw Schedule
The draw for the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals will take place on Tuesday, August 11, at 11 a.m. Brasilia time. The Brazilian Football Confederation will host the event at its headquarters in Rio de Janeiro.
