Analysis The numbers behind the result
Gremio dominate possession but fluff chances in draw
The 1-1 draw between Gremio and Internacional was a fair reflection of the balance of play, as Gremio's superior possession (67%) was offset by Internacional's slightly higher total shots (14 vs 12) and better shot efficiency. Gremio's higher expected goals (1.48 vs 0.8) suggests they created better chances but failed to convert them clinically. Internacional took the lead in the 33rd minute through Vitinho, assisted by Alerrandro, capitalising on their proactive attacking play despite lower possession.
Gremio's persistence paid off in the 73rd minute when Wallace Gomes da Silva Santos equalised. However, their 12 total shots yielded only 3 on target, highlighting their inefficiency in front of goal. Internacional's defensive discipline, evidenced by 26 fouls and 3 yellow cards, disrupted Gremio's rhythm and limited their ability to dominate fully in the final third. Both sides were evenly matched in shots on target (3 each), but Internacional's ability to score from fewer high-quality chances proved decisive in securing a point.
The key stat explaining the outcome is Gremio's inability to convert their 1.48 xG into more than one goal, while Internacional maximised their 0.8 xG efficiently. Despite Gremio's control of the game, their wastefulness in front of goal ensured a share of the spoils.