As the Brazilian Série B heats up, the stage is set for an exciting clash between Cuiabá and Operário Ferroviário this Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 18h30 at the Arena Pantanal. This match marks the seventh round of the championship and promises to deliver thrilling football as both teams vie for crucial points.
Cuiabá comes into this match sitting comfortably in fourth place with 12 points, having secured three victories so far. Their latest outing resulted in a 1-1 draw against CRB, where Max scored the equalizer for the Dourado after Breno Herculano opened the scoring for CRB. The team has shown resilience, especially in home games, where they have previously triumphed over Athletico and Ferroviária, along with a draw against Avaí. Coach Guto Ferreira will be pleased to welcome back midfielder Denilson, who returns from suspension and is expected to take the place of Patrick de Lucca in the starting lineup.
On the other hand, Operário, known as the Fantasma, is looking to build on their recent success after breaking a five-game winless streak with a gritty 1-0 victory over América-MG. Gabriel Boschilia scored the only goal of the match just six minutes in, giving the team a much-needed boost. However, the Fantasma currently sits in 14th place with only seven points, and they are keen to climb the standings. Coach Bruno Pivetti faces challenges with injuries and suspensions, notably losing right-back Thales Oleques and Diogo Mateus due to injuries, while Rodrigo Rodrigues is suspended. To counter these issues, Pivetti plans to improvise by placing Zuluaga in the full-back position and moving Neto Paraíba up into the midfield.
The historical context adds another layer of intrigue to this match. In their previous encounters, Cuiabá has claimed three victories, while Operário has won twice, with three matches ending in draws. A memorable highlight in their rivalry was the 2018 Série C Championship final, where Operário triumphed over Cuiabá, thanks to a decisive goal from Bruno Batata. This context will surely fuel the competitive spirit on the pitch as both teams aim to assert their dominance.
As anticipation builds, fans are eager to pack the Arena Pantanal. Tickets are available through the Facepass website and at Dourado stores located in the Estação and Pantanal shopping centers in Cuiabá-MT. Prices vary by sector, with the Setor Prata offering tickets at R$ 10 for half-price and R$ 20 for full-price, while the Setor Ouro is priced at R$ 50 for half and R$ 100 for full. For those looking for a premium experience, the Camarote Dourado offers tickets at R$ 269 for half-price and R$ 300 for full. The Setor Visitante for Operário fans is priced similarly to the Prata sector.
Fans unable to attend the match can catch all the action live on ESPN and Disney+ Premium, ensuring that the passionate support for both teams will resonate beyond the stadium. The excitement surrounding this matchup reflects the broader narrative of the Série B, where every point counts towards the ultimate goal of promotion.
As the teams prepare for kickoff, the stakes are high. Cuiabá will be looking to solidify their position in the playoff spots, while Operário aims to prove that their recent victory was no fluke. The match is set to be officiated by referee Jefferson Ferreira de Moraes, with assistance from Leone Carvalho Rocha and Hugo Savio Xavier Correa, and VAR oversight from Elmo Alves Resende Cunha.
With both teams having something significant to play for, fans can expect a fiercely contested match filled with drama, skill, and determination. Will Cuiabá maintain their push for the top or will Operário continue their resurgence? The answer will unfold on the pitch this Sunday.
