Leonardo Jardim’s Cruzeiro succumbed in the semi-finals of the Brazilian Cup and then in the most painful way possible. He wasted a lead in the 90 minutes, another on penalties and ended up dying on the beach.
After being surprised by Corinthians in the 1st leg (0-1 defeat), this time Leonardo Jardim’s team wanted to surprise. In a balanced first half, but in which Corinthinas only shot at 45′, Cruzeiro created an ascendant that resulted in the first of two goals from Keny Arroyo (40′) – a great header after Christian’s cross.
Five minutes into the 2nd half and in a quick counterattack, Kaio Jorge, Brasileirão’s top scorer, was not selfish and offered the goal to the 19-year-old, who put Cruzeiro ahead in the tie.
Corinthians, led by former Brazilian coach Dorival Júnior, restored equality in the tie at 55′. Matheus Bidu took advantage of a mistake by Cássio and only had to pull over. Bidu, who, eight minutes later, hit the post with a bicycle kick!
With nerves on edge, qualification for the final was decided on penalties.
Former Sporting player Matheus Pereira beat Hugo Souza first, in a duel between two former Chaves players. Soon after, Cássio saved Yuri Alberto’s shot. No one else failed, even Gabriel Barbosa, who played unsuccessfully for Benfica in 2016/17, and only entered the field for penalties, scored weakly and was saved by Hugo Souza. Gustavo Henrique tied the series 4-4.
Another defense from Hugo Souza followed (Walace failed) and Breno Bidon, with the qualification on his feet, did what he Gabigol was unable to do so and takes Corinthians to the Cup final, where they will play the winner of the tie between Vasco da Gama and Fluminense. Nuno Moreira’s team won the 1st leg 2-1 and the 2nd will take place this Sunday.
