Gremio’s hopes of climbing to the top of Group D in the Copa Sudamericana were dashed on Tuesday after a 1-1 draw against Godoy Cruz in Porto Alegre. Despite taking an early lead, the Brazilian side couldn’t maintain their advantage against a composed and efficient Argentine team.

Godoy Cruz Leaves Arena do Gremio Unscathed

Just five minutes into the game, Joao Pedro, the defender for the Tricolor, stunned the crowd with a spectacular goal. Finding space on the edge of the box, he unleashed a powerful shot that lobbed over goalkeeper Franco Petroli and nestled into the top right corner. A goal worthy of any highlight reel.

However, Godoy Cruz quickly responded. In the 29th minute, a counterattack exposed Tiago Volpi’s weakness in goal. After a shot from Facundo Altamira was only partially cleared, 19-year-old striker Santino Andino pounced on the rebound and calmly slotted it past the goalkeeper, whose hands couldn’t stop the shot.

The draw keeps Godoy Cruz at the top of the group with 11 points from a possible 15, while Gremio trails behind with 9. Far behind in the standings are Atlético Grau with 2 points and Sportivo Luqueño with just one, both nearly out of contention.

The team coached by Esteban Solari achieved its goal of not losing on Brazilian soil in this key group-stage match. If the Argentinians manage to beat Grau at home in the final round, they’ll secure a direct ticket to the round of 16—avoiding the playoff that awaits the second-placed teams.

The group will be decided on May 28, with both matches played simultaneously: Godoy Cruz will host Peru’s Atlético Grau, and Gremio will face Sportivo Luqueño at home. Everything is still up for grabs, but the team from Mendoza took a big step forward with this result in Brazil.