As the sun sets on a promising Monday evening, Novorizontino and Criciúma Esporte Clube are set to clash in a crucial match of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série B. Scheduled for April 21, 2025, at 19h (Brasília time), the game will unfold at the Estádio Doutor Jorge Ismael de Biasi in Novo Horizonte, São Paulo. Both teams come into this match with distinct motivations, making it a must-watch for fans.
Novorizontino, coached by Umberto Louzer, has had a decent start to the season, currently sitting in 12th place with five points from three matches. Their record includes one victory—a narrow 1-0 win against Volta Redonda—and two draws against Avaí and Coritiba. The team is still unbeaten, but they face a challenge tonight as they will be missing key players. Both Patrick Brey and Dantas are sidelined due to suspensions following their expulsions in the previous match against Coritiba, which ended in a goalless draw.
On the other hand, Criciúma is looking to build on their recent momentum after securing their first victory of the season with an impressive 4-0 win over Athletic Club. This victory has infused the team with confidence, and they are eager to capitalize on that energy as they seek to improve their position in the standings. Currently, they sit in 15th place with three points, having suffered defeats in their opening two matches against Operário and Athletico. Coach Zé Ricardo will be without defender Jonathan, who is injured, and they will also be cautious about the fitness of Gabriel Novaes, who is a doubt for the game after sustaining a foot injury in the last match.
Historically, the matchup between these two teams favors Novorizontino, who has not only won four of the six encounters but has also remained unbeaten against Criciúma at home. With one draw and one win for Criciúma, the stakes are high as the Tigre look to break the trend and secure their first victory in Novo Horizonte.
The teams have announced their probable lineups for the match. For Novorizontino, the expected starters include Airton in goal, supported by a defense consisting of Rafael Donato, César Martins, and Patrick. The midfield will feature Rodrigo Soares, Luís Oyama, Jean Irmer, and Léo Tocantins, while the attacking line will comprise Waguininho, Robson, and Matheus Frizzo. Meanwhile, Criciúma is likely to field Kauã as goalkeeper, with a backline of Léo Alaba (Marcinho), Rodrigo, Luciano Castán, and Marcelo Hermes. The midfield will include Matheus Trindade, Juninho (Hudson), and Morelli, while the forwards will consist of Diego Gonçalves, Werik Popó, and either Gabriel Novaes or Jonatha Robert.
As the match approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The game will be broadcast live on Disney+ and ESPN, ensuring that supporters can follow every moment of the action. This match not only holds significance for the points on the table but also for the pride of both clubs. With Novorizontino looking to maintain their unbeaten streak and Criciúma aiming to turn their season around, the atmosphere is sure to be electric.
Both coaches have expressed their thoughts ahead of the clash. Louzer emphasized the importance of maintaining composure despite the absences, stating, "We have prepared well, and the players stepping in are ready to give their all. We aim to continue our unbeaten run and climb the table." Zé Ricardo, on the other hand, acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic, saying, "This is a crucial match for us. We need to build on our last performance and show that we can compete at this level. Every point counts in this league, and we are ready to fight for it."
As the players take to the pitch, the stakes could not be higher. Fans will be watching closely to see if Criciúma can finally secure a win in Novo Horizonte or if Novorizontino will continue to assert their dominance in this rivalry. With everything on the line, tonight’s match promises to be an exciting chapter in the ongoing saga of the Série B Campeonato Brasileiro.
Stay tuned as we bring you live updates and analysis throughout the match!
