Atlético grab late equaliser, keep Copa Sul-Americana hopes alive | OneFootball

Atlético achieved an important result away from home on Wednesday night (21st). Playing at Banco Guayaquil Stadium in Quito, Galo drew 1-1 with Independiente del Valle in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana semifinals. The Atlético goal was scored by Dudu, already in stoppage time of the second half, ensuring that Jorge Sampaoli’s team returns to Belo Horizonte with a good chance of advancing.

The match was marked by controversial refereeing and moments of alternating dominance. The Ecuadorian team opened the scoring just 10 minutes in, after a penalty awarded by the referee—confirmed with the help of VAR—following an incident between Ruan and Patrik Mercado. Sornoza took the penalty with style, into the top corner, leaving Everson with no chance.

Trailing on the scoreboard, Atlético grew into the game and began to press. Scarpa was the main offensive highlight in the first half, threatening twice: with a dangerous free kick that went just wide of the post, and with a shot from outside the box, saved by Villar. On the rebound, Rony was unable to finish well.

Del Valle, in turn, exploited aerial balls and almost extended their lead with a header from Spinelli in the 30th minute. Before halftime, Bernard squandered a good chance to equalize by shooting wide on a quick counterattack.

In the second half, Jorge Sampaoli made offensive changes as the minutes went by, bringing on Dudu, Hulk, and Biel, leaving the team extremely attacking, though unbalanced. The team started to take more risks and left spaces, allowing Del Valle to create some dangerous chances, though they were not effective in finishing.

Galo persisted until the end and was rewarded in stoppage time. After a good exchange of passes with Hulk, Dudu appeared free in the box to slot home and tie the game: 1-1. The result keeps Atlético alive in the fight for a spot in the Sudamericana final, which will be decided next week at Arena MRV.

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