Santos were the first to secure their place in the semi-finals, beating a stubborn Audax-SP side 4-3 on penalties. Audax had been ahead for much of the ninety minutes, following an early goal from striker Caio. However, in trying to sit back and protect their lead, they were clawed back as Santos scored through forward Givanildo. The game went to penalties and, thanks to three saves from keeper Gabriel, Santos advance to the semi-finals.
At that stage, they will meet fellow Paulista giants Palmeiras, who overcame Brasileiro champions Cruzeiro 4-2 in the game of the round. Having twice seen their lead pegged back in the first-half, Palmeiras added two more on the hour mark to secure a hard-earned win with midfielder Edilson prominent.
Goiás shocked São Paulo in the first of Sunday’s two games to secure their place in the semi-finals, scoring a 92nd minute equaliser to send the game to penalties. Following a 2-2 draw, it was midfielder Mirrai who erred from the spot for São Paulo to see Goiás continue to the next stage.
Bahia will be their opponent as the North-Eastern side continued their fine form with a 4-1 victory over Grêmio. Rayllan gave the Baiano side the lead, before Fabian pulled Grêmio level. Three goals in the final twenty minutes, though, sent Bahia through and they will now face Goiás on Wednesday for a place in the final.
