Santos will host Atlético-MG in the first leg of their Copa Sudamericana quarter-final clash this Wednesday at 19:00 (Brasília time) at Vila Belmiro.
The highly anticipated encounter marks the first time these two Brazilian giants have met in a CONMEBOL club competition, according to gol.conmebol.com.
Team Form and Tournament Stakes
Santos enter the match recovering from elimination in the Copa do Brasil. They secured a recent away victory against Internacional in the Brasileirão, which has given them some breathing room from the relegation zone. With more comfort in the national league, Santos are expected to intensify their focus on the Copa Sudamericana, as it represents their only remaining chance for a title this year and an opportunity to qualify for next year’s Conmebol Libertadores.
Atlético-MG recently experienced their first defeat after more than 100 days unbeaten. Despite a stumble in the Brasileirão, they are enjoying a strong run in cup competitions, having reached the semi-finals of the Copa do Brasil and having eliminated RB Bragantino in the Copa Sudamericana’s round of 16. Their primary objective is to return to the Libertadores after a two-year absence from the continent’s top club competition, as reported by ge.
Confirmed Line-ups and Player Absences
According to UOL, Santos manager Cuca has confirmed his starting XI. New signing Rodinei, who recently arrived after rescinding his contract with Olympiacos, will make his debut at left-back, replacing Igor Vinícius. Thaciano will start in attack alongside Gabigol, chosen over Caballero.
- Santos XI: Gabriel Brazão; Rodinei, Willian Arão, Luan Peres, Escobar; Christian Oliva, Gustavo Henrique, Gabriel Bontempo, Rollheiser; Gabigol, Thaciano.
Key absences for Santos include Neymar, who is injured, along with Lucas Veríssimo and Barreal also sidelined with injuries. Rony is unavailable due to suspension.
For Atlético-MG, manager Eduardo Domínguez has also named his starting line-up:
- Atlético-MG XI: Gabriel Delfim; Preciado, Lyanco, Vitor Hugo, Renan Lodi; Alan Franco, Kevin Castaño, Maycon, Bernard, Fred; Cassierra.
Atlético-MG will be without Cuello, who is suspended, and Everson, Ruan Tressoldi, Léo Duarte, Tomás Pérez, and Thiago Borbas due to injury.
Match Officials and Broadcast Information
The match will be overseen by an arbitration team from Venezuela, led by referee Alexis Herrera. He will be assisted by Antoni Garcia and Paolo Garcia. The fourth official will be Augusto Aragon from Ecuador, with Carlo Orbe, also from Ecuador, serving as the VAR.
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN and Disney+. Real-time coverage will also be available via ge.
Historical Context
This match holds particular significance as it is the first time Santos will face a fellow Brazilian team in the Copa Sudamericana quarter-finals. The encounter also marks a special reunion for Santos manager Cuca, who previously led Atlético-MG to a Libertadores title in 2013.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Santos vs Atlético-MG Copa Sudamericana match?
The first leg of the quarter-final is scheduled for Wednesday, 9 September, at 19:00 Brasília time (23:00 BST).
Which key players are unavailable for Santos?
Santos will be without Neymar, Lucas Veríssimo, and Barreal due to injury, while Rony is suspended for the match.
Where can I watch the Santos vs Atlético-MG match?
The match will be broadcast live on ESPN and Disney+, with real-time updates also available via ge.
What is the significance of the Copa Sudamericana for these clubs?
For Santos, it represents their only remaining chance for a title this year and a path back to the Conmebol Libertadores. Atlético-MG are aiming to return to the Libertadores after a two-year absence.
