Atlético Mineiro secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ceará in a thrilling Brazilian Cup encounter on April 24, 2026, at the Arena MRV in Belo Horizonte. The match, which kicked off at 06:00 local time, saw the home side edge past a resilient Ceará team to advance in the competition, maintaining their strong domestic cup form.

Match Overview

Galo dominated possession early, pressing high and creating chances through their dynamic attacking trio. The opening goal came in the 23rd minute when Hulk capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting home from close range after a slick corner routine. Ceará responded with discipline, equalizing just before halftime through Vina, who curled a stunning free-kick past Everson from 25 yards out.

Key Moments

• 23' Goal: Hulk reacts quickest to a loose ball after a scramble in the box, poking home with his left foot.
• 42' Goal: Vina’s free-kick bends over the wall and nestles into the top corner, bringing Ceará level.
• 68' Goal: Paulinho latches onto a through-ball from Zaracho, rounding the goalkeeper and tapping into an empty net for the winner.
• 84' Red Card: Ceará’s Nery Bareiro receives a second yellow for a late challenge on Battaglia.

Tactical Story

Atletico's manager deployed a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on width and quick transitions. Ceará, in a compact 4-4-2, aimed to frustrate and counter. The home side's persistence paid off in the second half as they exploited numerical advantage after Ceará's sending-off. Galo's midfield trio of Battaglia, Zaracho, and Igor Gomes controlled the tempo, completing 82% of their passes in the final third.

Standout Players

• Paulinho (Atlético Mineiro): Scored the decisive goal and created three chances, earning man-of-the-match honors.
• Vina (Ceará): A constant threat on the break, his set-piece brilliance kept his side in the contest.
• Everson (Atlético Mineiro): Made five crucial saves, including a stoppage-time denial of Marcos Victor that preserved the lead.

Season and Cup Impact

This victory advances Atlético Mineiro to the quarter-finals of the Brazilian Cup, keeping alive their hopes of a domestic double after a strong Serie A campaign. Ceará exits the competition but can take heart from a spirited performance against a top-tier opponent. Galo's next opponent will be determined in the upcoming draw, while they remain third in the league standings.