On Saturday afternoon, May 4, 2025, América-RN triumphed over Central-PE with a score of 2-1 in a thrilling encounter of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série D, Group A3. The match took place at the Estádio Lacerdão in Caruaru, Pernambuco, marking América-RN's second consecutive victory in the competition.
The game kicked off with Central-PE aiming to control possession and apply pressure on América-RN's defense. However, both teams struggled to create clear scoring opportunities in the first half. Central had a promising chance at the 24-minute mark when Diego Aragão attempted an acrobatic bicycle kick, but América's goalkeeper, Rennan Bragança, made a spectacular save.
As the first half progressed, América-RN found their rhythm. In a pivotal moment, Ferreira opened the scoring for the visitors at the 30-minute mark. After a failed clearance from Central's defense, Ferreira seized the rebound and fired a powerful shot into the net. This goal came from América's first real threat, showcasing their efficiency despite a lack of chances earlier in the match.
After the halftime break, Central-PE returned with renewed vigor. Just four minutes into the second half, Augusto Potiguar equalized with a beautifully struck free kick that soared past the wall and into the top corner, leaving Bragança with no chance to save it. The home crowd erupted in celebration as Central leveled the score at 1-1.
However, the joy was short-lived for Central. América-RN quickly responded to the equalizer, regaining the lead at the 66-minute mark. Salatiel, who had come on as a substitute, scored with a well-placed shot after receiving a precise pass from Dudu. The ball deflected off a defender before finding the back of the net, restoring América's advantage at 2-1.
Despite trailing, Central-PE continued to push for another equalizer. The match intensified when América-RN's Hebert received two yellow cards in quick succession, resulting in his expulsion just minutes after Salatiel's goal. With América down to ten men, Central seized the opportunity to increase their attacking efforts.
In the closing minutes, Central nearly found an equalizer. Erivelton's long-range shot tested Bragança, who made another crucial save to keep América ahead. The game remained competitive, with both teams exchanging chances, but neither could find the back of the net again. Central's last opportunity came in injury time when Thony's header from a corner kick sailed over the bar.
The final whistle blew, sealing a 2-1 victory for América-RN, who now sit atop Group A3 with seven points from three matches. This victory also marked the first defeat for Central in this year's Série D, leaving them in fourth place with four points.
After the match, América-RN's head coach, Moacir Júnior, praised his team's resilience, stating, "We showed great character to bounce back after conceding the equalizer. Every match in this league is tough, and I'm proud of how the players responded today." Meanwhile, Central's coach, Leandro Sena, expressed disappointment but remained optimistic, saying, "We played well and created chances, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal. We'll learn from this and come back stronger in our next match."
Looking ahead, Central will face Santa Cruz de Natal on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Nazarenão stadium in Goianinha, while América-RN will take on the same opponent on Monday, May 12, 2025, at the Estádio do Arruda. Both teams are eager to continue their campaigns in the Série D, with Central seeking redemption and América aiming to maintain their winning momentum.
The match attracted an attendance of 2,648 fans, generating a revenue of R$ 61,675. The officiating crew, led by referee Bruno Monteiro Cunha from Paraíba, ensured a fair contest despite the heated moments on the field.
With this victory, América-RN has solidified its status as a contender in the Série D, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and adapt to challenging situations. As the competition progresses, all eyes will be on the Mecão to see if they can continue their unbeaten streak and challenge for promotion.
