Grêmio beats Cascavel 2‑1 in friendly as coach backs Gabriel Mec as playmaker

Grêmio defeated the reserves of Cascavel 2–1 in a friendly held at the Estádio Olímpico Regional in Cascavel, Paraná, on June 27‑28, 2026. Carlos Vinícius scored both goals for the visitors while Willian netted for Cascavel.

Coach Luís Castro downplayed the result, saying “O resultado de 2 a 1 é o que menos interessa,” and emphasized preparation for the second half of the season. He confirmed his tactical preference for Gabriel Mec in a central, attacking midfield role, warning that the player's continued inclusion depends on performance. Castro also noted the physical issues of Braithwaite and Villasanti, who missed the match, and hinted at possible midfield reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window.

The Tricolor’s next friendlies are scheduled against Chapecoense in Sinop and Cruzeiro in Brasília, where they will continue to test squad depth and tactics.