FC Cascavel has made history by defeating América-MG 1-0, securing advancement to the second phase of the Copa do Brasil during the match held at the Estádio Olímpico Regional on February 26, 2025. The standout moment came when Lucas Serafini scored the only goal of the match just before halftime, showcasing the Serpente's resilience and home-field advantage.
With the stadium echoing with the cheers of 1,715 supporters, Cascavel entered the match with renewed vigor, especially after their recent exit from the Paranaense championship earlier this year. The team's coach, Tcheco, employed strategic changes, including shifting Serafini to the defense and adjusting player positions to strengthen their control over the game. This tactical maneuvering proved effective, as the players exhibited improved possession and composure.
Initially, the match saw both teams probing each other. América-MG, regarded as the favorite due to its status as the finalist of the Campeonato Mineiro, held more possession but lacked effectiveness near the goal. The turning point came during the 31st minute when Felipe Martins executed a corner kick. After Geovane's header attempted to redirect the ball, Serafini capitalized on the resulting loose ball, finishing with precision to put Cascavel on the scoreboard.
Following the goal, the visitors from América persisted, making substitutions to bolster their offensive tactics. Despite their efforts, they struggled against Cascavel's determined and organized defense. Goalkeeper Jean Carlos saw minimal action due to the solid backing from his defense, and the only close call for Cascavel occurred when Serafini cleared a potential equalizer off the line.
The second half saw Cascavel not only defend their lead but actively seek to extend it. João Pedro had multiple opportunities, firing three times from the edge of the area, but each time the shots were either marginally off-target or saved by América's keeper Matheus Mendes. Robinho also made several potentially dangerous strikes, proving the team's offensive intent.
Despite América-MG's insistence to stage late attacks, including set pieces taken by Benítez, they couldn't penetrate Cascavel's resilient defense, which showcased significant improvement from their previous outings. "We know we can make history," Robinho commented after the game, reflecting the team's confidence moving forward.
This victory not only marks Cascavel's third time reaching the second phase of the Copa do Brasil but also secures them R$ 2.83 million from their participation and successful advancement. The team will now prepare to face Aparecidense-GO, who advanced past Votuporanguense via penalties, with expectations high for their continued success in the tournament.
While América-MG exits with R$ 1.3 million from their campaign, they will now need to refocus on their goals for the upcoming season of the Campeonato Mineiro. The stark realization of the challenges they faced against the well-structured Cascavel squad should provide lessons for the management and players as they regroup. The Copa do Brasil continues to be unpredictable, and as FC Cascavel looks forward to their next challenge, they’ve proven they can compete at high levels, turning their focus from past disappointments to future success.