Benítez logs first-half shift in Internacional’s narrow Gaucho defeat
Alan Benítez featured for Internacional on Sunday afternoon, contributing to a controlled first-half display before the Colorado eventually succumbed to a 2-1 comeback defeat against Ypiranga RS. In a challenging away fixture at the Estádio Olímpico Colosso da Lagoa, the former Minnesota United defender helped his side to an early lead, though a resurgent home side turned the tide in the second period of the Campeonato Gaúcho clash.
Match recap
Internacional entered the matchday three encounter with confidence, looking to maintain their perfect start to the state tournament. The visitors took control early and found the back of the net in the first half through a clinical finish from Rafael Santos Borré, who capitalized on a defensive lapse from the hosts. Inter went into the tunnel with a 1-0 lead, seemingly in control of the pace and possession.
However, the second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum. Ypiranga, buoyed by their home supporters, increased the pressure and found an equalizer midway through the half. As Internacional pushed for a winner, they were caught on a quick transition in the closing stages, allowing the “Canarinho” to secure the winner and hand the Porto Alegre giants their first loss of the 2026 Gaucho campaign.
Benítez’s performance
Alan Benítez started the match at right-back, reprising the energetic role Minnesota fans remember from his time in MLS. During his 46 minutes on the pitch, Benítez was active in supporting the attack, frequently overlapping to provide width and delivering a couple of dangerous crosses into the box. Defensively, he was solid in his individual duels, helping to keep Ypiranga’s left-wing threats quiet during the first 45 minutes.
He was substituted at the start of the second half as part of a tactical adjustment by the coaching staff to bring on more offensive presence in the midfield. Despite the team’s eventual result, Benítez’s performance in the opening half showed his continued importance to the Internacional rotation as they navigate the congested early-season schedule.
Stats
- Minutes played: 46
- Pass accuracy: 84%
- Tackles won: 2
- Interceptions: 1
- Crosses attempted: 3
What’s next
Benítez and Internacional will look to bounce back quickly as they return to Porto Alegre for a home fixture against Avenida this Wednesday, Jan. 21. With the Gaucho tournament moving at a fast pace, securing three points at the Beira-Rio will be crucial for the Colorado to climb back toward the top of the standings.
