Fluminense Begins Journey Toward Copa Do Brasil Title With Match Against Águia De Marabá
On February 26, 2025, Fluminense kicks off its quest for the Copa do Brasil title against Águia de Marabá at Mangueirão stadium, seeking to clinch the championship for the second consecutive year.
The match is set to begin at 19:30 (Brasilia time) and has heightened importance as the winner will face either Dourados or Caxias in the next round. Unlike previous years, ties do not favor the visiting teams; if Fluminense and Águia end the game tied, the match will be decided through penalties.
Águia de Marabá has opted to host the match at Mangueirão rather than its home city of Marabá due to the latter's stadium not meeting the standards set by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). This will mark the second meeting between the two clubs within the Copa do Brasil, with their previous encounter dating back to 2009, when Fluminense advanced past Águia after first losing 2-1, then winning 3-0 at home.
Águia de Marabá recently eliminated América-MG to earn their spot against Fluminense, and the team is coming off strong performances, as evidenced by their fifth-place standing in the Campeonato Paraense.
Coach Silvio Criciúma is expected to field his best squad for the match, including key players like Axel, Bruno Limão, and Doda, aiming for solid performance against the formidable Tricolor.
On the other hand, Fluminense has had some key absences, particularly Thiago Silva, who is focused on maintaining his fitness for the semifinals of the Campeonato Carioca against Volta Redonda. Other players, such as Ganso and Renato Augusto, are sidelined due to injuries. Coach Mano Menezes is likely to employ a mixed team, drawing from recent transformations to fortify the lineup.
The predicted starting eleven for the Fluminense includes goalkeeper Fábio and defenders Guga, Ignácio, and Freytes, along with midfielders Otávio and Martinelli, and forwards Riquelme, Canobbio, and Cano, who is expected to be key for Fluminense's attacking strategies.
The match is highly anticipated as Fluminense has historically had the upper hand over Águia de Marabá. Fluminense's strong form, showcased by defeating Bangu 3-2 for the Campeonato Carioca semifinals, positions them as favorites to overcome the Águia.
Recent form between the teams indicates competitiveness, with Fluminense intent on securing another Copa do Brasil title after winning it previously.
For fans wishing to catch the action, the match is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, marking the importance and visibility of the event as both clubs strive to advance.
Fluminense has had significant historical success, aiming to extend its legacy by persisting forward without the usual home game advantage. With the backdrop of camaraderie and fan support, both teams are geared up for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in Copa do Brasil history.