The stats don’t lie and help you understand the story of each game. In Atlético-MG x Corinthians, the 2-0 victory was a reflection of dominant play by Galo in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil round of 16 in Mineirão. Having 75% possession meant the team took little risk, and built the win on Paulinho’s feet.

Midfielder Edenilson left the game, after entering the home stretch, saying it was cheap for Timão. Didn’t overdo it. Paulinho himself, between the first and the second goal, had a great chance with a header on Pavón’s fine cross. The Argentinian is even a protagonist of the moment of Atlético.

Chaco repeated the formation that won the Internacional at the Brazilian Nationals, by the same scoreline, with a logical change: Hulk in place of Vargas. The start of the game was very focused on the right side of the attack, with Pavón being Fábio Santos’ nightmare.

Luxa told the conference that it was a thought strategy to stay behind, hold the score and stay alive for Game 2. It worked in the first half, with Atlético struggling to create clear goalscoring chances. However, crossovers have entered the final stage.

Goalkeeper Everson had only one more complicated intervention in the game, and in a bid in which he was flagged offside. Atlético effectively neutralized leaks from Róger Guedes on Mariano, and Yuri Alberto between defenders Nathan Silva and Jemerson. Rubens stood out in tackles, as well as Paulinho’s second goal, as a butler.

It is also interesting to note a clear evolution in the games of Matías Zaracho, who took on another role in Coudet’s scheme, and is the driving force behind a midfielder who was always biting in the attacking field, recovering fastballs, with Battaglia heading him into the area, much closer to the offensive halfpipe than the pitch itself.

That’s three straight wins and defensive solidity. Not conceding goals is fundamental. And last year teaches that. Still in the round of 16, and against Flamengo in 2022, Atlético had a great game in the first leg, but conceded a goal at the end (2×1), being eliminated at the Maracanã. There will be 14 days until the return match at the NeoQuímica Arena. Vanderlei Luxemburgo’s Corinthians did not win, are in crisis and will have the public in their favor.