Analysis The numbers behind the result
Atletico Paranaense's clinical edge justifies narrow possession deficit
Atletico Paranaense's 2-0 victory was deserved, with their superior shot quality (2.92 xG vs Internacional's 1.15) reflecting greater efficiency in converting chances. Despite ceding 54% possession, they outshot Internacional 14 to 13, with 11 attempts inside the box demonstrating penetrative attacking play. Leozinho's opener (45+1') and Viveros' strike (60') — both from close range — capitalised on high-value opportunities, while Internacional's 5 blocked shots and lower xG highlighted their struggle to break down a compact defence.
Tactically, Atletico's 3-4-2-1 formation allowed them to absorb pressure and counter effectively, with Viveros (1 goal, 1 assist) and Leozinho (1 goal) proving decisive. Internacional's higher corner count (7 vs 3) and marginally better pass accuracy (77% vs 80%) failed to translate into clear chances, with only 3 of their 13 shots testing the goalkeeper. Atletico's defensive discipline — conceding just 0.07 goals prevented — sealed a clean sheet despite Internacional's territorial advantage.
The defining stat was Atletico's 2.92 xG, nearly triple Internacional's output, underlining their ruthless edge in the final third.