The ASA football team has made its mark once again by advancing to the final of the Campeonato Alagoano 2025, following a dramatic match against CSA on Saturday, February 22, at the Rei Pelé Stadium in Maceió. Despite losing 1-0 during the regular match, ASA triumphed 3-2 in the penalty shootout, led by the stellar performance of goalkeeper Matheus Vinícius.
The match began with high stakes for both teams, as CSA aimed to overturn a previous 1-0 defeat from the first leg match. The crowd was electrified, with CSA seeking to capitalize on their home advantage. The first half was marked by tension and fierce competition but ended without goals, as both teams struggled to convert opportunities.
The breakthrough came shortly after halftime, when Robinho, who entered as a substitute for CSA, scored at the 13th minute, leveling the aggregate score at one goal each. The moment significantly boosted CSA's morale, but ASA's resilience shone through as they held firm under pressure, even after suffering injuries to their key players.
Despite CSA's dominance during the majority of the game, with more possession and attempts on goal, they could not secure the win needed to avoid penalties. The deadlock resulted from both teams’ inability to capitalize on opportunities, with CSA narrowly missing several chances to seal the match. One notable moment occurred when Guilherme Cachoeira failed to convert what appeared to be a simple shot on goal.
With the score tied at 1-1 on aggregate, the match proceeded to penalties. Here, Matheus Vinícius was the standout player. He initiated the shootout by saving the opening penalty from CSA's Cachoeira, putting ASA on the offensive. Juan Xavier successfully converted ASA’s first penalty, placing the team at 1-0.
The pressure ramped up as CSA’s Tiago Marques stepped up next, only to see his shot also saved by Vinícius. ASA maintained their advantage with Otávio's successful conversion. The drama continued as Gustavinho's attempt for the CSA was also thwarted by Vinícius, securing ASA’s place in their fourth consecutive final.
This remarkable victory not only showcased Matheus Vinícius' skills but also highlighted ASA's tactical discipline and teamwork, which proved pivotal throughout the game. The penalty shootout concluded with ASA triumphing 3-2, with successful conversions from Juan Xavier, Otávio, and Fabrício Bigode.
Following the match's conclusion, ASA celebrated eagerly, knowing they would soon compete for the championship title, with their opponent yet to be decided. The final will feature either Penedense, who now face CRB, or CRB themselves after both teams battle it out on Sunday at the Alfredo Leahy Stadium. The winner will need to overcome the 2-0 aggregate deficit from the first leg to meet ASA.
Scheduled for March 8 or 9 and the 15 or 16, the finals promise excitement as ASA gears up for another chance to clinch the championship. The Federação Alagoana de Futebol is expected to confirm the precise dates and times shortly.
Despite their success, ASA's players and coaching staff are not allowing complacency to slip in, focusing instead on the work remaining to secure victory. Meanwhile, CSA looks to regroup and focus on upcoming matches, including their clash against Náutico for the Copa do Nordeste.
With anticipation building for the upcoming final, football fans across Alagoas are ready to witness more thrilling encounters as the state championship reaches its climax.