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Is Bernard's goal against Santos the fastest in Copa Sudamericana history?
Atlético Mineiro needed to overturn a 2-0 first-leg defeat to Neymar's Santos at Vila Belmiro, and Bernard electrified the Mineirão almost immediately after kickoff. The Brazilian scored between the 17th and 18th second, but was it enough to become the fastest goal in Copa Sudamericana history?
The answer is no, although Bernard did score the fastest goal of this year's tournament.
The play started with a poor defensive touch from Santos. Mineiro immediately recovered possession and Bernard found himself inside the box. Despite slipping during the move, he managed to finish and put the ball into the net before 20 seconds had elapsed.
What is the fastest goal in Copa Sudamericana history?
The record still belongs to Brandon Palacios, who needed just 11 seconds to score for Binacional against César Vallejo in 2023.
Among the fastest goals in the competition are:
- Brandon Palacios: 11 seconds, Binacional vs. César Vallejo (2023).
- Carlos Bueno: 14 seconds, Peñarol vs. Danubio (2004).
- Evelio Hernández: 16 seconds, Deportivo Anzoátegui vs. Deportivo Quito (2011).
- Cuqui Márquez: 17 seconds, Belgrano vs. Lanús (2015).
- Miller Bolaños: 18 seconds, Emelec vs. São Paulo (2014).
Bernard's strike therefore came extremely close to joining the fastest goals in tournament history, depending on the exact official timing.
Gabigol strikes as Santos regains aggregate lead
Bernard's lightning-fast opener was only the beginning of a dramatic second leg.
Reinier scored twice, in the 20th and 41st minutes, while Santos pulled one back through a Lyanco own goal in the 28th minute.
Atlético Mineiro moved 3-1 ahead on the night and tied the aggregate score at 3-3, but Santos responded.
Gabigol scored the Peixe's second goal at the Mineirão to restore Santos' advantage, putting his team 4-3 ahead on aggregate in the battle for a place in the Copa Sudamericana semifinals.
