Avaí Hosts Chapecoense In Thrilling Catarinense Final Showdown

Avaí and Chapecoense face off this Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 16:30 (Brasília time) in the Ressacada stadium for the final of the Campeonato Catarinense. With both teams having drawn the first match 2-2, Avaí holds the edge since they only need a draw to clinch the title.

This matchup has garnered significant attention as it pits two long-standing rivals against each other with a trophy on the line. Avaí will look to capture their 19th title, which would make them the most successful club in the history of the tournament, exceeding their rival Figueirense, who has also won 18 times. Meanwhile, Chapecoense is aiming for their eighth title, having not won since 2021.

The first match in this final was held in Xanxerê due to renovations at Chapecoense's Arena Condá, and it featured multiple lead changes. Chapecoense's Mário Sérgio opened the scoring in the first moments of the game, but Avaí quickly responded through a goal from Mário Sérgio Valério a few minutes later. Chapecoense regained the lead with Marcinho's goal before halftime, but Avaí's Mário Sérgio struck again in the second half to level the match.

As both teams prepare for this decisive clash, Avaí has experienced a rollercoaster of form leading up to the final. They enter the match without a win in their last five games, having drawn a few matches and been eliminated in the quarterfinals and semifinals on penalties. Despite these struggles, they finished the first phase of the competition in a favorable position which grants them the crucial advantage.

On the other hand, Chapecoense comes into the final riding a ten-match unbeaten streak, though they have drawn eight of those matches—showing their defensive strength but also highlighting a need for more clinical finishing. During the playoffs, they defeated Brusque and Joinville to earn their place in the championship match.

Regarding team lineups, Avaí's coach Enderson Moreira is expected to make a couple of changes from the previous match. The notable return of Quaresma to the left-back position is anticipated after he missed the semifinal match due to injury. Young star Thayllon will be stepping in for Barreto in the starting XI, reflecting a commitment to showcasing the upcoming talent.

For Chapecoense, there are questions about the fitness of right-back Maílton, who is doubtful after sustaining an injury. If he cannot play, Jhonnathan is expected to take his place. The Chapecoense squad boasts several capable players, including their top scorer, Mário Sérgio, who has netted seven goals this season, making him critical to their attacking strategy.

The atmosphere at the Ressacada is expected to be electric, with tickets sold out well ahead of the match, indicating full support from both sets of fans. In a recent capacity check, the stadium can hold up to 17,800 spectators, and it’s anticipated that the environment will foster a thrilling spectacle.

Fans can catch the game live on NSC TV and FCF TV on YouTube, ensuring every supporter has a chance to witness the action unfold.

In summary, the stakes are high for both Avaí and Chapecoense as they prepare to battle not just for a title, but for history. This showdown is set to highlight the rivalry between the two clubs, and determine who will emerge victorious in the 2025 Campeonato Catarinense final.

As excitement builds and preparations are made, the question remains: who will hold the trophy aloft at the end of an intense afternoon of football?