Grêmio Advances to Copa do Brasil Final After Draw with Atlético-MG
Grêmio secured their place in the 2026 Copa do Brasil final after a 1–1 draw with Atlético-MG at the packed Arena MRV on Saturday, November 7, clinching a 3–1 aggregate victory.
The Tricolor Gaúcho now awaits the winner of the Palmeiras vs. Vasco match for the final showdown, scheduled for December 6 at the Estádio Mané Garrincha in Brasília.
In addition to reaching the cup final, Grêmio automatically qualified for the 2027 CONMEBOL Libertadores, as the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) rules grant both finalists entry into this prestigious tournament. The champions will head directly to the group stage, while the runners-up will enter the preliminary knockout rounds.
Currently, Grêmio finds itself in a tough relegation battle in the Brasileirão, positioned third from the bottom (18th) with 37 points. Despite this struggle, the team aims for its sixth Copa do Brasil title, having previously won in 1989, 1994, 1997, 2001, and 2016, alongside seeking a fourth Libertadores triumph, following their wins in 1983, 1995, and 2017. Coach Renato Portaluppi, who led the team to their most recent domestic and international victories, was also at the helm during their first Libertadores title in 1983.
Reaching the final significantly benefits Grêmio’s finances, assuring the club an additional R$34 million for being the runners-up, which could increase to R$78 million should they clinch the title.
The Match Highlights
With a 2–0 lead from the first leg, Grêmio entered the match with a favorable position. They could even afford to lose by a single goal to advance. Atlético-MG set the pace early, scoring after 25 minutes when Renan Lodi fired a powerful shot from outside the box.
However, Grêmio equalized just before halftime, with Carlos Vinícius heading in a cross from Noriega to level the score and bolster their confidence.
In the second half, Grêmio maintained a solid defense, with goalkeeper Weverton facing minimal threats. The challenging weather conditions in Belo Horizonte, which nearly knocked out the lights at Arena MRV twice, further complicated the match for Atlético-MG, accompanied by a late red card for their center-back Vitão.
What’s Next
Grêmio now awaits their final opponent, which will be determined from the matchup between Palmeiras and Vasco. Palmeiras leads the tie after winning the first leg 1–0 and only needs a draw in their return leg to advance. Vasco must achieve a two-goal victory to progress, while a one-goal win would lead to penalties.
Grêmio’s next match will not occur until November 18, when they take on Bahia in Porto Alegre during Matchweek 35 of the Brasileirão. Atlético-MG’s next outing is on November 14 against Mirassol as part of the same match week.
