Grêmio claimed a crucial 1-0 victory over São Paulo in Porto Alegre for the semifinal of the Copa do Brasil.
Diego Souza scored the only goal of the match which proved to be the match winner on the occasion.
The goal came against the run of play in the 63rd minute when São Paulo missed two big chances of their own through Brenner and Luciano. The former São Paulo player was sure to kiss the Grêmio badge during celebrations in what would have angered the Tricolor faithful.
It was a game where São Paulo dominated the game with more possession and chances created but their indecisiveness in front of goal cost them the match.
On the other hand, Grêmio were happy to sit back and contain their opponents and prevent themselves from conceding a goal. In a game where Grêmio had few chances, they put it to good use and converted via Diego Souza with their best chance.
Grêmio held on for the win and can now look ahead of the second leg with much optimism.
The second-leg will hold next Wednesday in Morumbi and Grêmio only need a draw to advance to the final. São Paulo must win by two unreplied goals if they are to stand a chance. The winner between Palmeiras and América-MG will face whoever qualifies between Grêmio and São Paulo for the finals.
For the Brazilian Championship, league leaders São Paulo travel to Maracanã to take on Fluminense on Saturday while Grêmio welcomes Atlético-GO to Porto Alegre the next day.
