The Steel Tricolor were looking the better side earlier on into the game, creating more chances and setting up Ronaldo’s goal. He scored beautifully from outside the box area 25 yards out.
After Bahia’s first goal, the tempo of their games slowed down, allowing Botafogo to grow into the game. Belo created chances of their own with Mario and Lohan, but the Steel Tricolor shot stopper Anderson appeared well when called to action.
Roger Machado’s team regained control towards the end of the first stage of action.
Bahia continued to dominate the game and extended their advantage on the back of the break, when the fullback Clayson found Rodriguinho with a cross to the area that just needed an easy tap in to the bottom of the net to put away the goal, making it 2 nil.
The Steel Tricolor wanted more after going two goals up and didn’t slow down the pace and intensity of their game. Despite being dominant in the game, Botafogo pulled one back.
Fred took a dangerous free-kick that hit the crossbar, but was put away by Rodrigo Andrade after a rebound with a header to put them back into the game making it 2-1.
After the goal, Belo began to push forward for an equalizer. They eventually got their wish when Kevin put in a wonderful goal, however, it was ruled out by the referee for impediment.
The game was put to rest by Fernandão whose goal scored from an offside position was awarded by the referee, making the score line 3-1.
With this result, Bahia will face Confiança in the semi-finals of Nordestão, who eliminated Santa Cruz on penalties in their best campaign in history.
