Palmeiras came out determined to make history at the Allianz Parque, and in just 45 minutes, they achieved what many thought impossible: breathing new life into a tie that seemed lost. With an exhibition of intensity, relentless pressing, and unwavering belief, Abel Ferreira’s side scored twice in the first half and left LDU Quito reeling, as the Verdão dream of a comeback that could go down as one of the greatest in Copa Libertadores history.

A Furious Start at the Allianz Parque

The night began in a charged, electrifying atmosphere. The stadium was a sea of green, smoke, and chants long before kickoff. The fans responded to their coach’s call for “a magical night,” and the players delivered with an overwhelming display of energy and courage.

The first breakthrough came in the 20th minute, when Ramón Sosa opened the scoring with a flawless header off a pinpoint cross from Allan Elias. The goal ignited the stands and unleashed a furious attacking spell from the Verdão, who pinned the Ecuadorian side deep into their own half with relentless pressure.

Palmeiras could have extended their lead even earlier. In the 35th minute, Vitor Roque had a golden chance after a lightning-fast counterattack. The striker found himself one-on-one with goalkeeper Guido Villar, with two teammates ready for a tap-in, but he chose to shoot with his right foot. His effort was heroically blocked by Richard Mina, who saved LDU from conceding again—at least for a few more minutes.

Bruno Fuchs Strikes Just Before Halftime

As the first half drew to a close, Palmeiras found the crucial second goal that sent the Allianz Parque into delirium. In the 45+5 minute, Bruno Fuchs capitalized on a well-rehearsed set piece after a free kick. Vitor Roque nodded the ball down inside the box, and following a poor clearance by the Ecuadorian defense, Fuchs was perfectly positioned to slot it home for 2-0 just before the break.

The goal was a hammer blow for LDU Quito, who had arrived in Brazil with a three-goal advantage after their 3-0 victory in the first leg. Yet the dominance of the Brazilian side was absolute, as the visitors could barely withstand the relentless onslaught of a team playing with heart and conviction.

Everything to Play for in the Second Half

Palmeiras closed out a dream first half, cutting the deficit and leaving everything open for the second period. With a 2-0 scoreline that reignited the stands and filled the fans with hope, Abel Ferreira’s men showed that their fighting spirit remains unshaken.

The mission is still a difficult one, but the Verdão have already taken the first big step toward an epic comeback and a place in the Copa Libertadores final, where the winner of Racing vs. Flamengo awaits. At the Allianz Parque, hope has returned, and the dream of a historic miracle is still alive.