Brazilian side Atlético Mineiro (Atlético-MG) clinched a hard-fought victory over Colombia’s Atlético Bucaramanga, winning 3-1 on penalties after a 1-0 defeat in regular time. The result sees Galo qualify for the Round of 16 in the 2025 Copa Sudamericana.
Match Recap: Drama in Belo Horizonte
Despite holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, Atlético-MG faced a tough evening at home. A goal by Mena just before half-time leveled the aggregate score, putting pressure on the Brazilians in front of their home crowd at the Arena MRV.
Galo missed several clear chances through stars like Hulk and Dudu, and the tension was heightened by ongoing off-field controversies, including unpaid salaries and player unrest.
Fans Protest Amid Salary Dispute
The mood turned sour as fans directed chants and insults at players like Gustavo Scarpa and Rony, labeling them “mercenaries” amid salary-related legal battles. The emotional strain was visible on and off the pitch, adding intensity to an already high-stakes clash.
Penalty Shootout: Atlético-MG Hold Their Nerve
With the aggregate score tied at 1-1, the game was decided via a penalty shootout. Here’s how the shootout went:
Atlético-MG Penalty Takers:
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Hulk
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Gabriel Menino
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Everson
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Scarpa
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Bernard
Atlético Bucaramanga Penalty Takers:
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Diego Chavez
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Henao
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Mena
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Zarate
Final Score (Penalties): Atlético-MG 3 – 1 Bucaramanga
What’s Next for Atlético-MG?
With the win, Atlético Mineiro now advance to the last 16, where they will face Argentina’s Godoy Cruz. Galo will also return to Brasileirão action this Sunday, July 27, in a crucial away clash against Flamengo at the legendary Maracanã Stadium.
Team Form & Stats
Atlético Mineiro – Last 6 (All Competitions):
Draw | Win | Win | Loss | Win | Loss
Bucaramanga – Last 6 (All Competitions):
Win | Draw | Win | Win | Draw | Loss
Key Players
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Hulk (Atlético-MG): Continues to deliver under pressure, scoring a key penalty.
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Luciano Pons (Bucaramanga): The Colombian club’s top scorer in the tournament but failed to find the net in this match.
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Everson (Atlético-MG): Goalkeeper scored his penalty and saved crucial shots.
Watch Highlights & Reactions
Full-time scenes from Arena MRV: “GALO NAS OITAVAS!” — Fans and players celebrated despite a week full of tension and off-pitch drama.