Atlético Mineiro recovered from that humiliating defeat in Bolivia to finish second with nine points, narrowly edging Internacional on goal difference. The Brazilian club responded with crucial victories in the second half of the group stage, including a huge 4–1 home win over Internacional and a dramatic 3–2 victory against The Strongest in Belo Horizonte. Those results ultimately secured their place in the knockout playoff round.
Internacional will look back at missed opportunities after finishing third with seven points. The group opened brilliantly for Inter with a thrilling 4–3 win over Atlético Mineiro, but inconsistent defensive performances prevented them from maintaining momentum. Despite earning a valuable victory over Botafogo on the final matchday, they fell just short of qualification.
Botafogo endured a frustrating campaign and ended bottom with five points, though the standings do not fully reflect how competitive they were throughout the tournament. The Rio club drew twice and lost several close matches, including a narrow 2–1 defeat to Internacional and a dramatic 4–2 loss away to The Strongest in La Paz.
Final Group C Standings
- The Strongest (BOL) – 13 pts
- Atlético Mineiro (BRA) – 9 pts
- Internacional (BRA) – 7 pts
- Botafogo (BRA) – 5 pts
The Strongest now move into the Round of 16 as one of the most dangerous home sides left in the competition, while Atlético Mineiro continue their continental journey in the knockout playoffs. The all-Brazilian clashes throughout the group created some of the most entertaining matches of the Sudamericana so far.
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