Ceará defeated Atlético-MG 2-1 in the sixth round of the Brazilian Championship on Thursday night at Arena Castelo.
Vozo outplayed the visitors in the first half and scored early with Lima. Galo regained control of the game after the break and, thanks to Gabriel’s goal, pulled the score level at the hour mark. Lacerda, on the other hand, was able to secure all three points for the hosts with a late winner in the 96th minute.
The first half was highlighted by a duel between Lima and Galo goalkeeper Everson. After Everson failed to clear the ball efficiently, the midfielder gave the home side the lead in the third minute with a long-range effort.
Following that, the Ceará midfielder had two wonderful scoring chances, but the goalkeeper was up to the challenge, redeeming himself from his earlier error. Atlético-MG, on the other hand, failed to trouble Vinicius, allowing Vozo to have all the fun and create more goal scoring opportunities.
After the break, Atlético-MG took a different strategy, creating more chances than in the first half, with Keno and Hulk coming close to scoring on two occasions in the early stages of the second half.
Guto Ferreira’s team, on the other hand, were disorganized and unable to create a viable goal-scoring opportunity, almost conceding on several occasions.
Gabriel, however, equalized in the 61st minute after appearing unmarked in the 18-yard box following a Corner kick.
Gabriel Lacerda then scored the game-winning goal in extra time to give the hosts three points.
Atlético-MG will face Santos away from home in the seventh round on Sunday, while, Ceará will face Sao Paulo at home on the same day.
