Atlético Mineiro Hosts Independiente del Valle in Sudamericana Semifinal Showdown

Belo Horizonte, Brazil — Atlético Mineiro will host Independiente del Valle in a crucial Copa Sudamericana semifinal match on Tuesday, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

The Brazilian team, led by coach Jorge Sampaoli, aims to secure a spot in the final after a dramatic equalizer from Dudu in added time during the first meeting in Quito last week.

Independiente del Valle scored first with a penalty from Junior Sornoza but could not maintain their lead, allowing Dudu to level the match. Coach Sampaoli recognized the challenge ahead, stating, “We need to put on an extremely balanced game because the opponent is the absolute leader of Ecuadorian football.”

Mineiro is determined to win the Sudamericana, a title they have never claimed before. Their best previous performance was reaching the quarterfinals in 2010.

With a 13th place position in the Brazilian championship, Mineiro seeks redemption through this tournament as it offers a route to the Copa Libertadores 2026. The pressure is on as they have received the first goal in three of their last four matches.

On the opposite side, Independiente del Valle relishes the opportunity to play under pressure, having shown resilience in their previous rounds. They are confident about their chances, with their coach, Javier Rabanal, asserting, “We will play tit for tat. We will challenge for possession to find paths to goal.”

The two teams have contrasting styles: Mineiro relies on home advantage, while Independiente del Valle is known for its strategic discipline and effective counter-attacking.

As the teams prepare for an intense showdown, both are aware that the winner will advance to face the victor of the Lanús versus Universidad de Chile matchup in the final set for November 22 in Asunción.