The defense of the state title began with a flourish at the Beira-Rio on Sunday evening as Internacional overcame an early wonder-goal to defeat Novo Hamburgo 2–1. While the Colorado fielded an “alternative” side filled with youth prospects and rotation players, they displayed veteran-level composure to snatch a victory in the closing minutes of their 2026 season debut.
Match recap
Novo Hamburgo stunned the home crowd just seven minutes into the match. Following a long throw-in into the box, Allison produced a moment of pure magic, connecting with a spectacular bicycle kick that flew into the top corner, leaving Internacional goalkeeper Anthoni with no chance. It was a goal-of-the-season contender delivered in the very first hour of the new campaign.
Internacional struggled to find their rhythm in the first half but emerged from the interval with renewed intensity. The equalizer finally arrived in the 60th minute when a dangerous cross from Alisson (the Inter fullback, not the scorer) was deflected into his own net by Novo Hamburgo defender João Marcus. With the scores level, Inter pushed for the winner, which finally arrived in the 86th minute. Diego Coser received a pass on the right wing, cut inside, and unleashed a low, driven shot that took a slight deflection and nestled into the far corner, sending the Beira-Rio into a frenzy.
Benítez’s performance
Alan Benítez provided the necessary veteran leadership for a backline that featured several teenagers. Occupying his familiar right-back role, Benítez was a constant outlet for the young Colorado side, balancing his defensive duties with frequent forays into the attacking third.
- Iron-man shift: Benítez played the full 90 minutes, serving as a vital defensive anchor while the youth-heavy midfield pushed forward in search of the equalizer.
- Veteran composure: In a match that started with a shock deficit, Benítez was instrumental in keeping the backline organized, particularly during Novo Hamburgo’s physical attempts to double their lead in the first half.
- Attacking outlet: He frequently overlapped with Gustavo Prado, providing width and several dangerous crosses into the box that forced Novo Hamburgo’s Omar into a series of difficult claims.
- Defensive grit: Benítez recorded a game-high four successful tackles, effectively shutting down his flank for the duration of the second half as Inter committed more bodies forward.
Stats
- Minutes played: 90
- Tackles won: 4
- Interceptions: 2
- Crosses completed: 3
- Pass accuracy: 88%
The victory puts Internacional at the top of Group A as they begin their quest for back-to-back state championships. For the former Loon, today’s performance was a perfect start to 2026, proving he remains a trusted and reliable piece of the defensive puzzle in Porto Alegre regardless of who is alongside him in the lineup. Inter will look to build on this momentum when they visit Monsoon FC on Thursday, Jan. 15.
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