FC Cascavel is set to take on América-MG this Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the Olímpico Regional stadium located in Cascavel, Paraná, at 19h (local time). This game, part of the first phase of the Copa do Brasil, promises to be packed with excitement as both teams face unique stakes.
Recently eliminated from the Campeonato Paranaense after suffering a disappointing 3-1 loss to Rio Branco, FC Cascavel has had 11 days to regroup and prepare for this clash. The team has seen significant changes, especially after the departure of its previous coach, Silvinho Canuto. He was replaced by Tcheco, who is determined to turn the tide for the Aurinegro Serpente. Tcheco boasts prior success with the Copa do Brasil, having previously guided his teams to victory against formidable opponents.
“We understand the challenges posed by América-MG, but we believe we can surprise them,” said coach Tcheco, reflecting the spirit of ambition within the team. FC Cascavel's recent struggles have made them underdogs, but their home advantage and Tcheco's tactical expertise may play pivotal roles on the field.
Meanwhile, América-MG, also known as the Coelho, enters the match with renewed confidence, coming off a semi-final victory over local rivals Cruzeiro to secure their spot in the Campeonato Mineiro finals. With aspirations high, the team aims to establish its dominance against Cascavel.
The stakes are particularly high for both clubs. A win for América-MG secures their advancement to the next stage of the Copa do Brasil and brings with it the tasty lure of R$ 1.3 million as the prize money. For FC Cascavel, not only is advancement integral for their financial stability—bringing R$ 830 thousand—but also to maintain relevance within the competitive calendar.
The upcoming match will be broadcast live on Sportv, GlobePlay, and Premiere. Fans can access the action through these platforms. Particularly, GlobePlay offers its streaming service without the need for credit card registration, which could prompt more viewers to catch the game live.
On the field, expected lineups show both teams have indicated tactical strengths. FC Cascavel could line up with Jean Carlos; Serafini, Miguel Alcântara, Geovane, and Bruno Dip; Thiago Lopes, Nikollas Sena, and Felipe Martins; Robinho, João Pedro, and Josiel. Tcheco is invoking faith from his players, adapting the lineup to address the losses of key players Schutz and Rodrigo Alves.
On the other hand, América-MG's lineup may feature Matheus Mendes; Júlio, Ricardo Silva, Lucão, and Marlon; Kauã Diniz, Cauan Barros, and Benítez; Fabinho, Figueiredo, and Renato Marques—indicative of their intent to establish early control of the game.
FC Cascavel's aspirations do hinge on both tactical nuance and the psychological boost of competing against a higher-tier team. “This is our opportunity to shine on the national stage, to show we deserve to be here,” added Tcheco, referencing the significance of Copa do Brasil's reputation.
Analysts are weighing in with odds showing América-MG as the favorites, but not by much. According to sources, Cascavel holds about 32.5% chance for victory, which indicates the potential for an upset. The odds of a draw are pegged at 38%, emphasizing the competitive nature of this fixture.
Finally, both ends of the spectrum are aligned for what could be determined by penalties should the match end deadlocked. The structure also indicates resilience as Cascavel sets its eyes on future competitions such as the Série D, notwithstanding their Copa do Brasil ambitions.
This significant matchup should be one worth tuning in for, as calculated dynamics and fervent ambitions will converge on the pitch this Wednesday night.