High Stakes as CSA Takes on ASA in Alagoano Semifinal
On Saturday, February 22, 2025, CSA and ASA will face off at Estádio Rei Pelé for the return leg of the Campeonato Alagoano semifinal, with kick-off scheduled for 4 p.m. The pressure is on for CSA as they seek to overturn the 1-0 deficit from the first leg, where ASA claimed victory, earning them the advantage of advancing with just a draw.
CSA last reached the finals of the Alagoano Championship in 2021 and is eager to end their three-year absence from the decisive match. To secure their place, CSA must claim victory by a minimum margin of two goals, which would eliminate the need for penalties. Conversely, ASA needs only to draw to guarantee their spot, putting them one step closer to their fourth consecutive final appearance.
The teams have prepared extensively, with CSA's coach Higo Magalhães likely to maintain the lineup from their recent 2-0 win over Boavista. This includes attacking players Guilherme Cachoeira and Igor Bahia, who will be key to CSA’s ambitions as they press for goals right from the start. Defensively, CSA will have to tighten up, especially considering they have faced difficulties this season, including previous losses.
The ASA team enters this highly anticipated match after experiencing elimination from the Copa do Brasil at the hands of Atlético-GO, where they lost in penalties following a draw. Coach Ranielle Ribeiro is optimistic about his team's chances and will look for significant contributions from their defensive unit, known for its resilience as they have conceded only one goal throughout the tournament. The uncertainty lies mainly in the status of forward Thiago Alagoano, who missed the last match but is expected to participate this time.
Beyond the match's tactical nuances, attention has been directed toward ensuring safety for the large crowd expected to attend. A security meeting was held at the stadium on February 21 to establish operational guidelines. It was decreed unauthorized items include bamboo flag poles, umbrellas, helmets, pets (except for guide dogs), and confetti, among others. These measures aim to create a secure atmosphere for both teams and supporters alike.
For those unable to attend the match, the broadcast will be available live on NN Play (YouTube) and TV Pajuçara (Record). A significant turnout is anticipated, as fans rally behind CSA hoping to witness their team make history by advancing to the finals.
Historically, the showdown between CSA and ASA has been closely contested, with ASA holding the advantage of having won four out of eleven total matchups over the years. The stakes couldn't be higher as the two sides prepare to battle not just for victory but for pride and the chance to compete for the championship trophy. With CSA still holding strong at home this year with no losses, they will draw strength from their fans, fully aware of the importance of this match.
CSA: Georgemy; Cedric, Betão, Wanderson, Enzo; Camacho, Gustavo Nicola, Vander, Brayann; Guilherme Cachoeira, Igor Bahia.
ASA: Matheus Vinicius; Paulinho, Cristian Lucca, Zulu, Charles; Fabrício, Tubiri, Sammuel; Keliton, Thiago Alagoano (Zé Artur), Júnior Viçosa.
With the referee set as Márcio dos Santos Oliveira, alongside his assistants, the matchday atmosphere at Estádio Rei Pelé will be electric as fans from both sides gear up for what promises to be one of the most thrilling encounters of the Alagoano season.