Amuzu scores late to end Grêmio’s winless run

Belgian-Ghanaian forward Francis Amuzu came off the bench to score a dramatic late winner as Grêmio edged past Deportivo Riestra 1–0 in the Copa Sudamericana.

Introduced at half-time, Amuzu provided energy and urgency to Grêmio’s attack, repeatedly stretching the opposition defence with his pace and direct running.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 87th minute. After sustained pressure, José Enamorado threaded a precise pass into the penalty area, which Amuzu met with composure, finishing from close range past goalkeeper Ignacio Arce.

Grêmio’s victory was widely seen as deserved, having dominated proceedings throughout. The Brazilian side registered 17 shots compared to Riestra’s three and controlled possession for long periods, pinning their opponents deep inside their own half.

Deportivo Riestra offered little in attack and failed to register a single shot on target. Grêmio’s defence, led by Fabián Balbuena and Viery, ensured goalkeeper Gabriel Grandohad a largely uneventful evening.

The result ends Grêmio’s five-match winless run in all competitions and provides a timely boost in Group F of the Copa Sudamericana. Attention now turns to domestic action, with a Serie A fixture against Cruzeiro scheduled for Saturday, 18 April 2026.