With two second-half goals, América-MG defeated Santos 2-0 in the opener for the ninth round of the Brazilian Championship on Saturday night at Independência. Just 10 minutes into the second half, Joao Paulo scored, and Carlos Alberto added a late goal before the final whistle. Coelho goalkeeper Matheus Cavichioli put up a man of the match performance to keep Pexie from scoring and keep a clean sheet in the process.
The game got off to a fast start. After Felipe Jonatan’s breakaway after only two minutes, Santos had a wonderful chance to score. However, his efforts were rebuffed. Peixe sought to keep the opponent isolated in their defence by using high markers and pressing and it worked perfectly. They made it difficult for Coelho to attack and get any chances to score.
In the 18th minute, Marcos Guilherme came close to scoring, but goalie Matheus Cavichioli saved his shot, after that he also saved Felipe Jonatan’s attempt and Lucas Braga’s freekick.
In the second half, America was more aggressive than in the first. The hosts, however, took the lead in the 55th minute when Joao Paulo attempted a cross to a teammate in the goal area, but the ball swerved into the net, making it 1-0. After falling behind by one goal, Fernando Diniz responded by inserting Carlos Sánchez into the game in place of Felipe Jonatan. The visitors’ game improved as a result of the move, and Camacho hit a strong shot from outside the area, forcing Cavichioli to make another key stop.
After several additional substitutions made by both coaches to alter the outcome of the match, Alberto Carlos’ arrival in the 88th minute was on point as he put the frosting on the cake and closed out the game, making it 2-0. It took the forward six minutes to add his name to the score sheet.
Santos will return to action on Tuesday when they face Athletico at Vila Belmiro. América-MG will visit Fortaleza on Wednesday.
