Cristian Pavón's Free-Kick Sends Grêmio to Copa do Brasil Quarter-Finals

Grêmio advanced to the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals on 5 August 2026 with a 1-0 second-leg victory over Mirassol at Arena do Grêmio in Porto Alegre. Cristian Pavón scored the decisive goal from a free-kick in the 36th minute of the first half, securing progression after the first leg ended 1-1. The result ended Grêmio's five-game winless streak and eased immediate pressure on manager Luís Castro, who had faced intense scrutiny following poor recent form.

Pavón, deputizing for the injured Tete, delivered a performance that sparked significant reaction from the home crowd. The Argentine winger had faced criticism from supporters during the match but silenced doubters with his decisive strike. Grêmio's defense, led by centre-back Wallace, held firm despite Mirassol's persistent second-half pressure, which included 10 shot attempts. The match was marked by a controversial disallowed goal for Mirassol in the second half, when André Luís's assist to Bruno Santos was ruled out for a handball offense. VAR confirmed referee Davi De Oliveira Lacerda's decision to annul the goal.

The victory provides Grêmio with a financial reward of 4 million Brazilian reals and a quarter-final berth to be determined by draw. Mirassol, competing simultaneously in the Brazilian Championship and Copa Libertadores, made their historic first appearance in the Copa do Brasil round of 16 after eliminating Red Bull Bragantino in the previous phase. The São Paulo club faced additional absences with goalkeeper Walter sidelined by injury, replaced by Alex Muralha.