In an exciting conclusion to the semifinals of the 2025 Copa Sudamericana, Atlético Mineiro and Lanús are set to determine the finalists. Both teams are poised to compete as they return to their home venues, having endured tense first-leg matches.
Semifinal Recap
On a remarkable night in Quito, Atlético Mineiro secured a crucial 1-1 draw against Independiente del Valle. A last-minute goal from Dudu, set up by Hulk, salvaged the tie for the Brazilian team. They now prepare for a decisive match at home in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday.
Lanús, the 2013 champions, faced Universidad de Chile in a thrilling encounter where they initially led 2-0 at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago. However, they allowed the Chilean team to equalize, finishing 2-2 thanks to goals from Lucas Di Yorio and a penalty from Charles Aránguiz in added time. The return match will take place at the Ciudad de Lanús stadium on Thursday.
Upcoming Matches
- Atlético Mineiro vs. Independiente del Valle – Tuesday in Belo Horizonte
- Lanús vs. Universidad de Chile – Thursday in Buenos Aires
The winners of these matches will book their place in the Copa Sudamericana final in Asunción on November 22. The trophy comes with an added incentive, as the champion will qualify for the group stage of the 2026 Copa Libertadores and the 2026 Recopa Sudamericana.
Team Insights
Atlético Mineiro is currently navigating a challenging season in the Brazilian league. They sit 13th with only five points separating them from the relegation zone. This situation has intensified their focus on the Copa Sudamericana as a means to secure a prestigious title and a berth in next year’s Copa Libertadores. Historically, Mineiro has never progressed past the semifinals in this tournament, with their best performance dating back to 2010.
In contrast, Lanús aims to quickly recover their momentum after failing to close out their first-leg match. Coach Mauricio Pellegrino acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match but expressed confidence in the support of their home fans.
Key Players and Performances
- Dudu (Atlético Mineiro) – Last-minute equalizer in Quito
- Hulk (Atlético Mineiro) – Key assist for the goal
- Rodrigo Castillo (Lanús) – Scored twice in the first leg
- Charles Aránguiz (Universidad de Chile) – Converted a crucial late penalty
For Universidad de Chile, the penalty save by their captain emphasized their resolve, despite the disappointing draw. Meanwhile, Independiente del Valle, known for their resilience in the tournament, enters the second leg with confidence despite the away goal conceded.
With the final match approaching, fans from both Atlético Mineiro and Lanús are eager to see if their teams can advance. The upcoming games promise to deliver dramatic football and a chance for glory in the 2025 Copa Sudamericana.
