The 2017 Copa Libertadores round of 16 clash between Grêmio of Brazil and Godoy Cruz of Argentina is a fixture remembered for Grêmio’s dominant performance and eventual advancement. The first leg, played in Mendoza, Argentina, ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Grêmio, giving them a crucial away goal and a slight advantage heading back to Porto Alegre.
Godoy Cruz, a team with a smaller pedigree compared to the Brazilian giants, put up a spirited fight in the first leg, utilizing their home advantage and the fervent support of their fans. However, their defensive organization was eventually breached by Grêmio’s Luan, whose goal proved to be the difference. While the Argentinian side displayed determination and tactical discipline, they lacked the attacking firepower to truly threaten Grêmio’s experienced defense.
The second leg in Porto Alegre was a different story altogether. Grêmio, playing in front of their passionate home crowd at the Arena do Grêmio, unleashed their full potential. They controlled the game from the outset, dictating the tempo and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Godoy Cruz struggled to cope with Grêmio’s relentless pressure and fluid attacking movements.
The final scoreline of 2-1 in favor of Grêmio in the second leg reflected their dominance. While the score might suggest a closer encounter, Grêmio were in complete command for the majority of the match. Their goals were a testament to their attacking prowess and tactical superiority. The victory sealed a comfortable 3-1 aggregate win, propelling them into the quarterfinals of the Copa Libertadores.
Key players for Grêmio in this tie included Luan, whose goal in the first leg was pivotal, and Arthur Melo, the young midfielder who controlled the midfield with his vision and passing ability. The experience of players like Geromel in defense also proved crucial in nullifying Godoy Cruz’s attacking threats.
For Godoy Cruz, the tie represented a valuable experience against a top South American side. While they were ultimately outclassed, they gained exposure on the continental stage and demonstrated their competitiveness. The team’s resilience and tactical discipline were commendable, even in defeat.
Grêmio’s victory over Godoy Cruz was a significant step in their successful 2017 Copa Libertadores campaign. It showcased their ambition and quality, setting the stage for a memorable run to the title. The tie highlighted Grêmio’s strengths: a solid defense, a creative midfield, and a potent attack, all orchestrated by the experienced manager Renato Portaluppi. The games against Godoy Cruz served as a crucial building block for their eventual triumph, solidifying their belief and momentum in the tournament.