Estudiantes Silences São Paulo and Eliminates Corinthians in Dramatic Finish

Estudiantes is through to the Copa Libertadores semifinals after surviving a tense night in São Paulo. Alexis Castro struck in the 86th minute to score the only goal of the match, while Memphis Depay missed a penalty with virtually the final kick that could have completely changed the story.

After a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Argentina, everything was still up for grabs at the Neo Química Arena, but the fear of making a costly mistake dictated much of the match.

Corinthians initially controlled possession, while Estudiantes waited for opportunities to attack on the counter. However, clear chances were almost nonexistent during a first half dominated by caution.

The Timão’s first dangerous opportunity did not arrive until the 35th minute, when André Carrillo tried his luck from long range and his deflected shot went just wide of the Argentine side’s goal.

Estudiantes Grows Into the Game and Alexis Castro Silences São Paulo

The Pincha began to show more ambition after the break. Joaquín Tobio Burgos had a headed opportunity in the 53rd minute, although his effort went well wide of Hugo Souza’s goal.

For several minutes, Estudiantes even managed to take control of possession away from the Brazilian side. After the hydration break, Corinthians responded, pushed higher up the field and began playing much closer to Fernando Muslera’s penalty area.

Just when the tie appeared to be heading toward a penalty shootout, the decisive blow arrived.

In the 86th minute, Alexis Castro connected with a spectacular volley that left Hugo Souza with no chance. Complete silence at the Neo Química Arena. Estudiantes was only minutes away from the semifinals.

Memphis Depay Goes From Potential Hero to Villain

The drama still had one final chapter.

Alexis Castro came close to putting the game away in the 91st minute, but Hugo Souza responded with an excellent save.

Then came the opportunity Corinthians had been waiting for.

In the 90+6th minute, a handball inside the box sent the referee to the VAR monitor. After reviewing the play, he awarded a penalty to the Timão.

Memphis Depay picked up the ball.

He had the opportunity to tie the game, keep Corinthians alive and send the series to a penalty shootout.

But the Dutchman sent his effort over the crossbar.

There was no time for anything else.

From having the chance to become the hero to carrying the weight of the most painful moment of the night. Memphis Depay failed to convert, and Estudiantes celebrated a dramatic place in the Copa Libertadores semifinals in São Paulo.