Atlético-MG Secures Copa do Brasil Second Phase Spot with Late Goals

On Tuesday, Atlético-MG overcame a tough challenge to defeat Tocantinópolis 2-0 at Estádio João Ribeiro, advancing to the second phase of the Copa do Brasil.

Hulk and Rony scored decisive late goals, with Rony marking his first goal for Atlético-MG since joining from Palmeiras. The victory sets Atlético-MG up for a second-phase clash against either Independência-AC or Manaus-AM, who will face off on Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, Tocantinópolis exits the competition after falling short in their effort to upset the visitors. Atlético-MG will return to action on Saturday in the second leg of the Campeonato Mineiro semifinal against Tombense.

The match will take place at Arena do Jacaré at 4:30 PM (Brasília time), with Atlético holding a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Tocantinópolis, on the other hand, will face Capital de Palmas away on Saturday evening in the fourth round of the Tocantinense.

The match against Tocantinópolis proved challenging for Atlético-MG despite their dominance in possession. A lackluster first half saw few clear opportunities for either side.

Atlético Secures Late Victory Against Tocantinópolis

In the second half, Atlético brought on their star player Hulk to add firepower, but Tocantinópolis remained focused on defense. Rony missed a golden opportunity in the 63rd minute when he failed to capitalize on a free shot inside the box, hitting goalkeeper Jeferson instead.

Despite controlling possession and relying on Gustavo Scarpa’s long-range efforts, Atlético struggled to break through. The breakthrough came in the 86th minute when Rony was fouled by Mangun inside the box.

Without VAR, referee Marcelo de Lima Henrique awarded a penalty, which Hulk converted with precision into the top left corner. In stoppage time, Hulk created another chance with a skillful run down the right flank.

His cross found Caio Paulista, who set up Rony for an easy tap-in to seal the victory in the 92nd minute. The late goals highlighted Atlético’s persistence and secured their place in the next round of Brazil’s premier knockout competition.