
Gazeta Esportiva.com
·22 October 2025
Atlético-MG player ratings: Hulk and Dudu shine in Ecuador

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Yahoo sportsGazeta Esportiva.com
·22 October 2025
Atlético-MG relied on the experience of Hulk and the efficiency of Dudu to avoid an away defeat in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana semifinal, against Independiente del Valle from Ecuador. Both only came on in the second half, but were decisive in changing the team's offensive rhythm and securing a 1-1 draw, keeping Galo strong in the fight for a spot in the continental final.
While Hulk took on the role of playmaker and delivered the assist for the goal, with key passes and creative playmaking, Dudu showed his goal-scoring instinct and was the author of the equalizer, capping off an immediately impactful performance. Together, the two led the black-and-white team's comeback on a night of resilience.
Coming on in the second half, Dudu was efficient for Atlético-MG in the match by scoring the equalizing goal against Independiente del Valle. The striker showed high technical efficiency and was decisive in the final stretch of the game.
In just 16 actions with the ball, Dudu had a 100% pass completion rate (12/12), all accurate — 8 in the attacking half and 4 in the defensive half. He was also lethal in finishing, with 3 shots, 1 on target, and the goal that secured a positive result for Galo.
In addition, he completed 1 dribble in 1 attempt, contributed to 2 ball recoveries, and won 1 ground duel, showing good intensity and efficiency in his short time on the pitch.
Even without scoring, Hulk – who also started the match on the bench – was important in the offensive build-up for Atlético-MG against Independiente del Valle. The number 7 was directly involved in Atlético's goal by providing an assist and creating a great chance, showing good game awareness even with few touches on the ball.
In 13 ball involvements, Hulk had 100% pass accuracy (5/5) and maintained good precision in the opponent's half (71%). He also stood out with 3 key passes and 1 accurate cross.
Physically, he suffered 2 fouls, won 2 out of 3 ground duels, and lost possession 5 times. Although he did not attempt any shots, he showed efficiency in movement and vision, being one of the orchestrators of the black-and-white attack in the away comeback.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.
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