Athletico Paranaense edge Internacional on opening day | OneFootball

Match in Five Sentences: Internacional lost 1-0 to Athletico Paranaense. Stiven Mendoza struck in the ninth minute with a right-footed finish after Kevin Viveros's assist. Inter thought they had levelled, but after a VAR check Félix Torres's effort was ruled out for handball (79.). Colorado controlled the game with 71.3% possession and sustained pressure, yet Santos kept them out with smart saves. Furacão host Santos next in the league, while Colorado visit Flamengo.

Player of the Match: Stiven Mendoza decided it with the only goal and added to his threat with two key passes and four possession wins.

Stat of the Match: Santos produced five saves, the platform for Athletico-PR's clean sheet.

Three Things We Learned: Inter forced 13 corners, underlining how much territory they enjoyed. VAR denied Colorado a second half equaliser for handball, a pivotal swing late on. Athletico-PR managed just six attempts with two on target, but 35 clearances showed how effectively they protected their lead.