Leandro Damião's latest performance against Internacional.
## Leandro Damião's Latest Performance Against Internacional: A Masterclass in Strikercraft
When the fixtures came out, everyone circled the Série A clash between **Athletico Paranaense (APR) and Internacional (Colorado)** – not just for pride of Paraná vs. Rio Grande do Sul, but specifically to see how club legend **Leandro Damião** would fare against his former team. Now playing for APR himself, the stage was set for an emotional showdown, and the veteran striker did not disappoint. His performance on matchday wasn’t merely solid; it was transformative, single-handedly dictating the tempo and outcome against a traditionally tough opponent.
From the first whistle at Arena da Baixada, Damião was a constant nuisance. He dropped deep to retrieve balls, linking midfield with attack through intelligent hold-up play and precise touches. This unselfish work rate created space for teammates like Vitor Roque while also drawing fouls in dangerous areas – including one yellow card challenge he forced near the edge of the box. But his true impact came in the penalty area itself. Twice he ghosted past static defenders to meet crosses: his powered header early in the second half broke deadlock after expert anticipation near the far post,Primeira Liga Hotspots completely wrongfooting helpless goalkeeper Rochet. Then, exhibiting predatory instinct honed over decades, he intercepted a loose backpass moments later, rounding Rochet calmly before slotting into an empty net for brace number two.
Beyond goalscoring brilliance, Damião controlled aerial duels (winning over 80%), held up play under pressure, and showed remarkable stamina covering every blade of grass. Fans sang his name loudest when substituted late on – exhausted applause echoing around the stadium. Manager Felipão praised his "leadership energy," highlighting how he lifted teammates physically *and* mentally against high-intensity opposition. For Colorado’s players used to facing him from afar as an adversary? They learned firsthand why their ex-star remains lethal up front. It wasn't revenge; it was a lesson in finisher’s artistry from one of Brazil’s most respected targets.
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