Dourados Atlético Clube (DAC) faced disappointment on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, as they were knocked out of the Copa do Brasil after losing 2-0 to Caxias do Sul at the Estádio Douradão. The match marked DAC's debut in national tournaments, making the stakes particularly high for the team and its supporters.
The game started on equal footing, with both teams showing moments of promise. DAC had early chances, including a close attempt from Léo Júnior just two minutes in, but the initial momentum was soon contained by Caxias, who began to dominate the midfield with their quick passing.
Despite DAC's solid efforts, the first half concluded without goals. It wasn't until the second half, at the 19-minute mark, when the breakthrough came for Caxias. A foul by DAC's defense led to a penalty, which Tomas Bastos converted with precision, sending the ball to the right side of the net.
With the advantage, Caxias shifted to controlling the game, effectively stifling DAC's attempts to counterattack. The final blow arrived during stoppage time when Bastos scored again, sealing the victory and confirming DAC's elimination from the competition.
Now, the Caxias team awaits their next challenge as they advance to the next round, going up against either Águia de Marabá or Fluminense, who are set to square off later. Meanwhile, DAC's focus will shift back to the local league, where they are currently preparing to face Aquidauanense this Sunday.
The match attracted notable support, with at least one thousand local fans attending, which has been seen as rare for mid-week games. Nevertheless, official figures on attendance and revenue were not released by the organizing committee.
Adding to the regional woes, another team from Mato Grosso do Sul, Operário, also faced elimination after losing 1-0 to Criciúma on the same day. Their defeat underscored the tough nature of this year's Copa do Brasil for teams from the region, leaving DAC and Operário to concentrate on local competitions.
DAC’s participation came after they secured their spot as vice-champions of the Sul-mato-grossense league last year. This preliminary experience on the national stage will be invaluable as they continue to build and strengthen their squad.
DAC will have another chance to find their footing when they return to league action this weekend. They have been performing commendably, holding second place with 16 points and will aim to reclaim their momentum following this national exit.
Fans are hopeful for a rebound performance against Aquidauanense, who currently sits at the bottom of the league standings. This will be another opportunity for DAC to demonstrate their growth and resilience after this Copa do Brasil setback.
Overall, DAC's inaugural appearance in the Copa do Brasil showcased the potential of the club and provided valuable experience, which they hope to capitalize on moving forward.