In a highly anticipated clash, two of Brazil's most traditional football clubs, Coritiba and Vila Nova, are set to face off this Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 16:00 at the Estádio Couto Pereira. This match marks the opening round of the Série B of the Campeonato Brasileiro 2025 and promises to deliver excitement as both teams vie for crucial early points in the season.
The game will be broadcast live on RedeTV and the YouTube channel Desimpedidos, with coverage starting at 15:00. Fans can also catch the action on AM 550, FM 79.3, and through the Banda B app, ensuring that supporters have multiple ways to follow their teams.
Coritiba, known as Coxa, is looking to kick off their campaign on a positive note after a disappointing season in 2024, which saw them relegated from Série A. The team has set its sights on a swift return to the top tier, and this match is crucial for building momentum. Having been eliminated early from both the Copa do Brasil and the Paranaense this year, the pressure is on Coach Mozart to deliver a strong performance.
In terms of squad changes, Coritiba will be without three key players: Geovane Meurer, who is set to leave for Maringá, Éberth, who is recovering from an injury, and goalkeeper Pedro Morisco, who is also sidelined. Stepping into the goal will be Pedro Rangel, who is eager to make an impact in his first start of the season. Additionally, Bruno Melo returns to bolster the defense, adding experience and stability to the backline.
The expected lineup for Coritiba includes: Pedro Rangel; Alex Silva, Maicon, Bruno Melo, and Zeca; Machado, Sebastián Gómez, and Josué; Lucas Ronier, Dellatorre, and Gustavo Coutinho. Coach Mozart's strategy will likely focus on solidifying their defense while also capitalizing on offensive opportunities.
On the other side, Vila Nova arrives at this match with a wave of confidence after clinching the Campeonato Goiano title, their first since 2005. The team, managed by Rafael Lacerda, is determined to secure promotion to Série A after narrowly missing out in the last two editions of Série B. Lacerda expressed his belief in the team’s readiness, stating, “The team is prepared for this challenge against a difficult opponent.”
Despite facing some injury setbacks, Vila Nova will lean on the core group that brought home the state championship. Their expected lineup features: Halls; Elias, Bernardo Schappo, Tiago, and Willian Formiga; João Vieira, Igor Henrique; Jean Mota, Diego Torres, Júnior Todinho; and Bruno Mendes. With a blend of youthful energy and seasoned players, Vila Nova aims to make a strong statement in their opening match.
The officiating team for this exciting encounter includes referee Lucas Canetto Bellote from São Paulo, with assistants Daniel Luis Marques and Leandro Aires Cossette also from São Paulo. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will be Thiago Duarte Peixoto, ensuring that the match is adjudicated fairly and accurately.
As the match approaches, anticipation builds among fans and players alike. Coritiba aims to reclaim its status in Brazilian football, while Vila Nova seeks to build on their recent successes. The stakes are high, and both teams are eager to start the season with a victory.
With the backdrop of a passionate fan base and the historical significance of this rivalry, the match promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Will Coritiba rise to the occasion and secure a vital win, or can Vila Nova carry their championship momentum into the new season? One thing is for sure: all eyes will be on Estádio Couto Pereira this Saturday as these two teams battle it out on the pitch.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the excitement is palpable. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, as the atmosphere is expected to be electric, with both sets of supporters eager to see their teams shine. This match not only represents the beginning of a new chapter for both clubs but also serves as a reminder of the rich history and tradition of Brazilian football.
In summary, the clash between Coritiba and Vila Nova is set to be an unforgettable encounter. With both teams eager to make their mark in the Série B, fans can expect a fiercely contested match filled with skill, determination, and the spirit of competition. Tune in to catch all the action as these two giants of Brazilian football go head-to-head in what promises to be a thrilling opener to the season.
