Atlético Mineiro came out determined to dominate the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana semifinals—and they did just that with a brilliant first half against Independiente del Valle. The Brazilian side showed their class at home, controlling the first 45 minutes and heading into halftime with a 2–0 lead that puts them firmly on course for the final.

Two Stunning Goals and an Offensive Showcase

The match began with high intensity, and although goalkeeper Guido Villar stood out early—making a spectacular save reminiscent of Gordon Banks’ legendary stop against Pelé—Atlético Mineiro’s superiority was clear. Felipão’s team pressed high, suffocated their opponents’ buildup, and were rewarded for their persistence in the 36th minute.

After a poor clearance from the Ecuadorian defense, the home side’s pressure paid off: Dudu recovered the ball and set up Guilherme Arana, who fired home with power to open the scoring, leaving Guido Villar with no chance this time.

The second goal came soon after in a play that perfectly captured the Galo’s attacking strength. Once again, Dudu was at the heart of it—carrying the ball from midfield and threading a sublime pass to Bernard, who delicately chipped the keeper to make it 2–0. The crowd erupted, sensing that their team was closing in on a spot in the final.

Independiente del Valle Fight On But Can’t Find Answers

The Ecuadorian side, led by Spanish coach Javier Rabanal, arrived in Brazil hoping to reach yet another continental final after lifting the trophy in 2019 and 2022. However, Atlético Mineiro’s relentless pressure and the visitors’ costly errors in possession left them struggling to stay in the game.

Rabanal had pinned hopes on the return of defender Mateo Carabajal, but the absences of Andy Velasco and Juan Cazares were felt. Neither Junior Sornoza nor Michael Hoyos managed to connect effectively in attack, while the defensive line was overwhelmed by the Brazilians’ pace and precision.

With the score 2–0 at halftime, Independiente del Valle can only hope for a second-half comeback, though the outlook appears bleak. Atlético Mineiro, solid, fast, and ruthless, look determined to return to a continental final and reaffirm their place as one of South America’s true football powerhouses.