Grêmio vs. Godoy Cruz: A Look Back at the 2017 Libertadores Encounter
The 2017 Copa Libertadores saw a captivating Round of 16 clash between Brazilian giants Grêmio and Argentinian side Godoy Cruz. Grêmio, boasting a rich history in the competition, entered the tie as strong favorites, while Godoy Cruz, from Mendoza, aimed to upset the established order.
The first leg, played in Mendoza, Argentina, at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas, ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Grêmio. Ramiro Benetti scored the crucial away goal, providing Grêmio with a significant advantage heading into the second leg at their home ground, the Arena do Grêmio in Porto Alegre.
The return leg in Brazil was a more dominant performance from the Tricolor Gaúcho. Grêmio secured a 2-1 victory, sealing their place in the quarterfinals with a 3-1 aggregate score. Fernando Fernández gave Godoy Cruz a glimmer of hope with an early goal, but Grêmio quickly responded with goals from Pedro Rocha and Everton Sousa Soares, extinguishing any chance of a comeback.
Grêmio’s superior quality and experience were evident throughout the tie. Their squad, featuring players like Luan, Arthur Melo, and Marcelo Grohe, proved too strong for Godoy Cruz. Renato Portaluppi, Grêmio’s manager, successfully navigated the tactical challenges posed by the Argentinian side, ensuring his team’s progression in the tournament.
For Godoy Cruz, despite the defeat, reaching the Round of 16 was a significant achievement. They displayed resilience and determination throughout their Libertadores campaign, showcasing the growing strength of Argentinian football beyond the traditional powerhouses. The tie against Grêmio provided valuable experience for the club and its players on the continental stage.
Ultimately, Grêmio’s journey in the 2017 Libertadores culminated in a glorious triumph. They went on to defeat Lanús in the final, lifting the trophy for the third time in their history. The victory against Godoy Cruz proved to be a crucial step in their successful campaign, highlighting their ambition and capabilities.
The Grêmio vs. Godoy Cruz clash remains a memorable encounter for fans of both clubs. While Grêmio celebrated their advancement and eventual title win, Godoy Cruz gained invaluable experience and the respect of the continent for their spirited performance.