The Athletico-PR and the Corinthians had a busy first half in the Arena of the Baixada, in Curitiba, for the second delayed round of the The home team created two clear opportunities early on, but struggled with a lack of precision.
Little by little, Corinthians balanced its actions and took advantage of an error in the opponent’s ball. In a play worked on the right, Matheuzinho crossed just right, the defense partially cleared it and Rodrigo Garro dominated with style before releasing a shot placed with his left leg. The ball died in the Santos goalkeeper’s corner, with no chance of defense, opening the scoring for Timão in the 21st minute.
Athletico responded with intensity. In a dispute inside the area, Viveros was brought down by Gustavo Henrique and Matheus Bidu, which led referee Rodrigo José Pereira of Lima to award a penalty. During the charge, Julimar tried to move the goalkeeper Hugo Souza, but he exaggerated the touch and sent the ball out, wasting the chance to equalize the score.
First half of many emotions at Baixada
The game took on the shape of a fierce rivalry after the goal conceded. Viveros asked for Gabriel Paulista’s expulsion after claiming to have been slapped in the face in an aerial dispute. Minutos later,
Hard fouls marked the initial stage. Ambas the teams demonstrated aggression when fighting for the ball, which resulted in yellow cards and arguments with the referee. Corinthians managed the minimum advantage, while Athletico sought a draw with quick exchanges of passes in midfield.
Red-black pressure at the beginning
Furacão came out with momentum from the opening whistle. The team from Paraná bet on speed on the sides to trap Timão. Viveros was the main coordinator of the offensive plays, creating an imbalance in the Corinthians defense.
Two dangerous shots came in the first minutes. The Athletico attack exploited spaces left by the opposing defensive line, which struggled to contain the quick attacks.
Garro goal changes panorama
Corinthians waited for the right moment to counterattack. Após the cross from Matheuzinho, the ball fell to Garro. The Argentine midfielder dominated with ease and, from the edge of the area, hit a precise shot into the top left corner.
Garro’s finish was decisive. Goalkeeper The goal came at a time when Athletico seemed to control the actions.
Controversies and complaints in the field
The discussions heated up after the controversial fouls. Viveros fell on the pitch asking for a red card for Gabriel Paulista. Then, Gustavo Henrique pointed to the injured ankle after contact with Viveros.
The referee maintained control, issuing warnings. The teams returned to focus on the game, but the atmosphere remained tense until halftime.
Tactical balance and few submissions
The midfield was the scene of intense disputes. Corinthians prioritized defensive compaction to neutralize Furacão’s attacks. Athletico tried to impose its rhythm with possession of the ball, but found it difficult to break through the block.
The teams created few clear chances other than those mentioned. The game was truncated at times, with many interruptions due to fouls.
Interval with Corinthians in advantage
The first half ended with a score of 0-1 for Corinthians. Garro’s goal gave Timão the lead, despite initial pressure from Athletico. The game continues into the second half with everything open at Arena at Baixada.
Athletico-PR looks for a reaction to seek a draw. Corinthians tries to manage the advantage and explore counterattacks. The match remains in progress, with the teams in the dressing room for tactical adjustments.
