As expected, the game started out open. The first clear chance came from América, with Felipe Azevedo, who forced a good save from Marcelo Lomba in the 9th minute. Right in the sequence, Geovane took a chance from outside and posed a lot of danger to Inter. It wasn’t long until the ball did go in with a header from Rodolfo in the 12th minute to leave Inter trailing.
Colorado needed to get out more. There were some balls hanging around the American area, but no clear chance.
The greatest danger was in Marcos Guilherme’s finish at the entrance to the area. America came close to extending their lead with a drop on the counterattack but Geovane’s pass ended up cut by Cuesta.
The second half saw Inter going out guns blazing in search of an equalizer but it was not to be their day. Abel Braga started his seventh spell at Internacional on Wednesday night. With the tough mission of replacing Coudet, who left for Celta de Vigo, the multi-champion coach was unable to debut on the right foot. Even playing at home, Internacional struggled to produce and also to mark América-MG.
América and Inter will duel again next Wednesday at Independência. Coelho plays for a draw to advance to the semifinal. To continue in the competition, Colorado has to win by at least two goals. Any Rio Grande do Sul victory by difference of one goal will see the game eventually decided by penalties.
