Caxias do Sul is set to host the first leg of the semifinals of the Gauchão Championship this Saturday, February 22, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 16h30 at the historic Estádio Centenário. The match will see local favorites Caxias square off against the formidable Internacional.
Under the leadership of coach Luizinho Vieira, Caxias finished the group stage as the top second-placed team, maintaining momentum with four undefeated matches, comprising two wins and two draws. They are eager to exploit their home field advantage and are particularly motivated after successfully eliminating Internacional at this same stage of the competition last year.
The Caxias squad's objectives are immensely high. They hope to replicate their 2023 performance when they ousted the highly regarded Internacional from the semifinals, eventually advancing to the finals. With the support of their passionate fan base, the team believes they can surprise the Inter once more.
On the other side, Internacional, coached by Roger Machado, concluded the group stage with the best record, amassing 20 points out of 24 possible, and remains the only unbeaten team of the tournament. They are determined to maintain their undefeated streak as they aim for victory to secure their place in the final—a title they have not won since 2015, as they try to break their rivals Grêmio's dominance.
Despite their strong position, Internacional faces challenges with missing key players due to injuries, which could impact their performance. Notably, Ryan Borré, Wesley, and Alan Patrick are unavailable for selection, forcing the team to adjust their game strategy.
The excitement surrounding this matchup is palpable, as it taps deep roots within the historic rivalry between these two clubs. The local atmosphere is expected to be electric, with fans of Caxias ready to cheer on their team, hoping for another victory over their archrival.
For fans wanting to catch the action live, the match will be broadcasted on various platforms. Local viewers can tune in on RBS TV, with nationwide coverage available through the Premiere channel. The game will also be featured on SporTV 2, ensuring fans across Brazil can join the excitement. Online updates will be available through CNN Esportes' real-time commentary.
The match promises to be filled with action as Caxias seeks to bolster their home advantage against the high-flying Internacional. This encounter is set against the backdrop of fierce competition, with both teams aiming for glory and eager to etch their names deep within the annals of Brazilian football history.
Expected squad line-ups for the pivotal encounter show Caxias likely starting with Victor Golas; Thiago Ennes (Ronei), Alisson, Lucas Cunha, and Kelvyn; Vini Guedes, Lorran (Mantuan), and Tomas Bastos; Calyson, Gabriel Lima, and Richard. Meanwhile, Internacional will likely field Anthoni; Aguirre, Vitão, Victor Gabriel, and Bernabei; Fernando, Bruno Henrique, Wanderson, Vitinho, and Carbonero; Valencia.
With all eyes on the Centenário Stadium this Saturday, will Caxias continue their ferocious form at home, or will Internacional stand steadfast as the tournament's relentless juggernaut? The outcome could very well shape their seasons and add another memorable chapter to their storied rivalry.