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Originally, the two would have met in the finals, but a new rule instituted by CONMEBOL forces them to meet now in order to prevent another all-Brazilian final. In 2005, São Paulo compatriots beat Atlético-PR, while in 2006 they were denied a repeat by Internacional.
Unlike the previous two rounds, where Grêmio had the luxury of playing the second leg at home, the Tricolor will host the first game. This puts added pressure to obtain a good result so the berth won’t be left for the second game, especially considering Grêmio’s road record in this Libertadores: the Tricolor has accrued four losses against only one win.
The question tonight is whether Grêmio can maintain the Olímpico mystique. The Tricolor has not allowed a goal at home the entire competition but will be facing the tournament’s top offense. A determining factor will be whether or not Tcheco is able to play. The team captain, who left early in the win over Defensor after pulling his thigh, scored the first goal in the Tricolor’s victories over the Uruguayans and São Paulo. Whether or not he plays will be a game time decision.
Although undefeated in Libertadores Cup play, Santos has shown signs of vulnerability. After cruising to a perfect 6-0 record in the group stage, Santos struggled against its playoff opponents. In the Round of 16, Venezuelans Caracas led 2-0 at Vila Belmiro before Santos came back for a 3-2 win. In the quarterfinals, the Fish trailed América’s reserve team 1-0 at halftime before rallying for a 2-1 victory.
One factor playing in Grêmio’s favor is that no undefeated team has ever made it to the finals. The last club to reach the semifinals unbeaten – América in 2002 – suffered its first loss, 2-0 in the first leg, and was eliminated.
Libertadores Cup Semifinals - Game 1
Kickoff: 5:45 pm (PST)
Local: Olímpico Stadium, Porto Alegre (BRA)