I thought this was a much better match than the first one from a neutral perspective. Gremio looked very good at the back and made the most of their counterattacks, both goals were top quality finishes. I didn't pay attention the possession stats that showed during half-time and didn't see any listed during full time, but it seemed to me that Lanus controlled possession. They just couldn't do much with the ball in the final third and Gremio were deadly during 2/3 of their really good chances. That Luan miss at the end was surprising.
Gremio and River were the two top sides for me going into the knockout round. River emerged from a much tougher group on paper but that loss in Bolivia was certainly a sign that perhaps all was not right with them. But Gremio remained solid throughout and were clearly deserving champions. Lanus fans should certainly be proud of this side. I think they played some good football at times and they were well prepared for this second leg; they just made bad mistakes at two points that cost them the game and the tie.
Gremio and River were the two top sides for me going into the knockout round. River emerged from a much tougher group on paper but that loss in Bolivia was certainly a sign that perhaps all was not right with them. But Gremio remained solid throughout and were clearly deserving champions. Lanus fans should certainly be proud of this side. I think they played some good football at times and they were well prepared for this second leg; they just made bad mistakes at two points that cost them the game and the tie.
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