2-0: Pikachu, hero of an electric Fortaleza that is in the final of the Sudamericana

Strengtha Brazilian team led by Argentine coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, qualified this Tuesday for the final of South American Cupthe first international decision in its 105-year history, after being removed Corinthians with a 2-0 victory.

Forwards Yago Pikachu and Tinga sealed the game as soon as the second half began at the expense of an opponent weakened by a disappointing season and the recent sacking of coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo.

Fortaleza will play in the final on October 28 in the Uruguayan resort of Punta del Este with the best of the other semifinal series set for Wednesday between Argentine Defensa y Justicia and Liga de Quito. The Ecuadorian team won 3-0 in the first leg.

Fortaleza dominated the first half and caused trouble with three direct shots on goal and eleven corner kicks. Pikachu, one of Fortaleza’s main scorers, had one of the clearest scoring chances in the 36th minute, but goalkeeper Cássio neutralized it.

The tie was broken early in the second half, in the 51st minute, when Pikachu received a pass from Lucero and sent the ball into the back of the net. Although Corinthians continued to attack, in the 57th minute Tinga almost sealed the game with a goal that sent the Fortaleza fans in the stands into a frenzy.

Mano Menezes, Luxembourg’s replacement on the Corinthians bench, used his substitutes to bolster the attack with the introduction of Wesley and midfielder Giuliano, but failed to threaten the opposition, who were deeply entrenched in their area.

Fortaleza, ninth in the Brazilian league standings, has had the numbers in its favor, with six consecutive home victories, just four losses this season, and a coach, Vojvoda, who has led the team for two and a half year.

The Corinthians have had to row against the tide in a difficult season, with sixteen defeats, eight games without a win, and the recent relief of Luxembourg.