Talles Magno Leads Corinthians to Victory Over Bragantino
Corinthians, not considered favorites, won 1-2 away to fellow Brazilian side Bragantino in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16.
Giovane opened the scoring in the 6th minute, and Thales Magno doubled Corinthians' lead in the 13th minute. Bragantino's lone goal came after the break, with Helinho finding the net.
Managed by Argentine Ramón Díaz, Corinthians took advantage of the opportunities given by a motivated but defensively weak Bragantino.
In the first half, Corinthians were more offensive, with Thales Magno leading the attack alongside Pedro Raul, who nearly extended the lead on two occasions. The duo played a role in the first goal, but Giovane’s quick reflexes on a rebound after a Fabricio block ensured the ball went in.
Bragantino responded with counterattacks, and the strategy continued in the second half, which was dominated by Bragantino. Despite persistent pressure, it wasn’t until the 55th minute that Helinho scored, capitalizing on a scramble in the area to reduce the deficit.
Although Bragantino pushed hard and kept the visitors under pressure, they ran out of time to equalize. Now, they face the challenge of winning at the Arena Corinthians to advance.
With the result, Corinthians only need a draw at home in the return leg next week in São Paulo to move on to the quarter-finals.
