Copa Sudamericana: Palmeiras 1 Goias 2

Goias reached the Copa Sudamericana final courtesy of a 2-1 win over fellow Brazilian club Palmeiras on Wednesday.

Ernando grabbed a late winner for the visitors, who lost their home semi-final leg 1-0 last week but advance by virtue of the away goals rule.

Goias’ qualification to the final of South America’s premier club competition was a remarkable achievement for the club given they were relegated from the Brazilian Serie A last weekend.

On-loan Toulouse attacker Luan put Palmeiras into the lead in the 34th minute, but his strike was cancelled out by Carlos Alberto’s header in first-half injury time.

Palmeiras fought furiously to protect their advantage in the second half, but Goias defender Ernando stunned the Sao Paolo crowd with his first goal of the tournament in the 83rd minute.

Goias will either face defending champions LDU Quito or Argentinean club Independiente in the final, depending on the outcome of Thursday’s second leg.

Quito triumphed 3-2 in their home leg one week ago.