On February 8, 2025, the renowned clash between Grêmio and Internacional played out at the Arena do Grêmio, known as Gre-Nal 444, ended with both teams sharing the spoils at 1-1. This match was part of the sixth round of the Campeonato Gaúcho, featuring two traditional rivals who faced each other with pride on the line.
The evening began with high expectations. Grêmio, coming off their first defeat of the season, aimed to regain momentum on their home turf. Meanwhile, Internacional sought to maintain their impressive unbeaten streak, having not lost to their fierce rivals for the last five encounters before this match.
The first half showed lots of energy but yielded no goals. Right from the kick-off, Grêmio’s Martin Braithwaite could have opened the scoring with his header, but it went just over the bar. Internacional quickly retaliated, with Wesley coming close on several occasions, including one audacious attempt where he grazed the post.
Midway through the first half, the match took a dramatic turn. The assistant coach of Internacional, Roberto Ribas, was shown the red card for dissent, which led to head coach Roger Machado also being sent off due to league regulations. This moment briefly halted the game, with the tension palpable as players and officials alike sorted the situation. Following the suspension of both coaches, the game resumed but lacked the same intensity.
By the start of the second half, both teams regrouped, and Grêmio appeared with renewed focus. The turning point came when Cristiano Cristaldo's free-kick deflected off Wanderson’s arm, prompting the referee to award Grêmio a penalty kick. Braithwaite confidently converted the chance, startling the crowd with his precise strike, putting Grêmio 1-0 up.
Just two minutes later, the momentum shifted back to Internacional when Alan Patrick delivered a textbook corner kick. The ball was met by Fernando, who headed it home, equalizing the match at 1-1. This goal marked another chapter in the storied rivalry, as both teams showcased their skill under pressure.
With the score even, the game intensified, but neither side could establish dominance. Substitutions by both teams led to less fluidity as the match entered its final stages. Grêmio had opportunities to reclaim the lead, but the team struggled to convert any more chances, and the game concluded with both sides settling for the draw.
Post-match reviews highlighted the evenly matched play. The statistics reflected the balance of the game: Grêmio held 56% possession to Internacional's 44%, and both teams made six shots on goal. With no team pushing decisively for extra points, the tactical nature of the match became clear.
This draw left Grêmio leading Group A with 11 points, and Internacional atop Group B with 14 points. Despite no victory, it was clear both coaches would assess their strategies as they prepare for the next matches. Grêmio will face Pelotas next, establishing the stakes for their next encounter after slipping up at home. Meanwhile, Internacional, oozing confidence, will take on São Luiz, with the pressure to continue their unbeaten streak.
Gre-Nal 444 proved once again why it is one of Brazil's most celebrated rivalries. Not only did the match showcase exceptional talents on the field, but it also demonstrated the intense atmosphere encapsulating these encounters, where everything is at stake. Fans and players alike are left eagerly anticipating the next face-off, as the competition continues to heat up heading toward the climax of the Campeonato Gaúcho season.