Atlético Mineiro defeated Santos 2-0 in the Sudamericana quarter-finals on Tuesday evening. The Brazilian side controlled the first half with two early goals before seeing Santos' chances nullified. The result puts them in pole position to advance in the competition.
Willian Arão opened the scoring at the 31-minute mark. Gabriel Barbosa appeared to equalise moments later, but the goal was confirmed offside by VAR. Arão restored the lead at 33 minutes, capitalising on a defensive error. Christian Oliva added a third for Santos at 68 minutes, though the goal was subsequently disallowed.
Atlético Mineiro dominated possession with 58 per cent of the ball. Santos registered more shots on target—seven compared to three—but converted only a fraction of their opportunities. Atlético's accuracy sat at 33 per cent while Santos managed 50 per cent, yet the visitors could not find the net.
The home side made several changes in the second half. Angelo Preciado and Bernard came on together at 59 minutes, followed by Thaciano at 63. Christian Oliva was replaced at 83 minutes, while Santos brought on Kevin Castaño and Mateo Cassierra in the 79th minute.
Atlético Mineiro sit top of the Sudamericana table with ten points from six matches. Santos are second with seven points from the same number of games. The quarter-final tie remains alive for the visitors despite the heavy defeat.