Corinthians was eliminated from the Copa do Brasil by Internacional after a 2-1 victory at the Neo Química Arena, exiting the tournament on a 3-2 aggregate score. According to match reports, the result sparked sharp criticism from club icon Neto on the “Rádio Craque Neto,” who took aim at the team’s tactical setup and individual execution following the Round of 16 exit.
Tactical Choices Under Scrutiny After Aggregate Defeat
Internacional advanced in the Copa do Brasil despite dropping the second leg in São Paulo, having built a decisive advantage in the initial fixture. According to Neto’s post-match broadcast, the tactical deployment utilized during the tie left the squad vulnerable. Neto specifically questioned the deployment of four midfielders—Raniele, Matheus Pereira, Carrillo, and André—while noting that manager Fernando Diniz delayed replacing Rodrigo Garro. “Perder para um time ruim desse é inacreditável,” Neto stated on his radio program, criticizing the collective performance over the two legs.
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Match Breakdown at Neo Química Arena
The home side controlled the tempo throughout the opening half, heavily utilizing the left flank through Kaio César to pressure the Colorado defense. That sustained pressure yielded an opener in the 42nd minute. According to match accounts, Rodrigo Garro delivered a free-kick that forced a save from Matheus Cunha, allowing Gustavo Henrique to hammer home the rebound.
Internacional adjusted at halftime, ceding possession to exploit counter-attacking opportunities. The strategy paid off in the 13th minute of the second half when Alan Patrick unlocked the defense with a pass to Bernabei, who struck a powerful shot past goalkeeper Hugo Souza to equalize. The strike shifted momentum, granting the visitors defensive stability.
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Late Push Falls Short of Aggregated Goal
Corinthians briefly restored hope in the 24th minute of the second half. Matheus Bidu delivered a cross from the left wing, and Pedro Raul rose at the far post to head past the Internacional goalkeeper, making it 2-1 on the night.
Despite the late goal from Pedro Raul, the side could not find the third strike required to level the aggregate scoreline. Neto highlighted this limitation on air, pointing out that defensive lapses—including the goal conceded by Hugo Souza—ultimately proved decisive against a disciplined visiting side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final aggregate score between Corinthians and Internacional?
Internacional won 3-2 on aggregate, advancing to the next round of the Copa do Brasil despite losing the second leg 2-1.
Who scored the goals for Corinthians in the second leg?
Gustavo Henrique and Pedro Raul scored the goals for Corinthians at the Neo Química Arena.
Who scored for Internacional in this match?
Bernabei scored for Internacional in the second half, assisted by Alan Patrick.
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