Gremio 1-1 Flamengo: Pepe salvages draw for hosts in Libertadores semi-final first leg

Gremio's hopes of reaching the final remain alive thanks to Pepe's late equaliser against Flamengo in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinal tie.

Pepe celebrates scoring for Gremio against Flamengo.

Pepe equalised with two minutes remaining as Gremio drew 1-1 at home to Flamengo in the opening leg of its Copa Libertadores semifinal tie.

Gremio avoided defeat in Porto Alegre, where the host snatched a draw thanks to substitute Pepe's 88th-minute equaliser on Wednesday.

Flamengo was superior for large spells in the all-Brazilian affair at Arena do Gremio – Jorge Jesus' visitor seeing three goals ruled out by VAR.

Read: River Plate draws first blood in Copa Libertadores semis

Bruno Henrique did give Flamengo the lead in the 69th minute after rising highest to head past Gremio goalkeeper Paulo Victor at his near post.

However, Pepe came off the bench to rescue Gremio during the closing stages midweek.

Everton fizzed a powerful effort across the six-yard box and team-mate Pepe was on hand to score with his thigh.

Flamengo will host the return leg in Rio de Janeiro on October 23.