Juventude faces Grêmio today, March 1, 2025, at 16:30 (BRT), at the Alfredo Jaconi Stadium, located in Caxias do Sul. This match marks the return leg of the semifinals for the Campeonato Gaúcho, and both teams are ramping up for this pivotal clash.
The stakes are high for Juventude, as they must overcome the 2-1 deficit from the first leg held at Grêmio's home stadium. For Juventude to progress to the finals, they need to win by at least two goals. A win by one goal would lead to penalties, making this showdown even more dramatic and pivotal for the players and their fans.
Coach Fábio Matias acknowledged the team's challenging situation after being eliminated from the Copa do Brasil recently, admitting, "O jogo de volta tem essa carga dramática para nós, precisamos ganhar de no mínimo dois gols." This pressure to perform has galvanized the Juventude squad, which is determined to deliver on home turf.
Matias is expected to make tactical substitutions based on recent performances, particularly after some disappointing outings. Marcos Paulo could be replaced by Alan Ruschel on the left flank, and Jean Carlos is set to enter the midfield lineup instead of Mandaca, bringing fresh energy and creativity to the team's ball movement. The probable lineup for Juventude includes Gustavo, Ewerthon, Abner, and Adriano Martins, alongside Giraldo, Jadson, and Batalla, who is likely to be upfront targeting Grêmio's goal.
On the other side, Grêmio arrives at the match with confidence. Under coach Gustavo Quinteros, they are poised and focused on securing their spot for the final, hoping to clinch their eighth state title. Quinteros stated, "Estamos focados e preparados para garantir nossa vaga na final," which reflects the team's commitment and readiness to meet Juventude's challenge head-on.
Despite facing some injury setbacks, including the absence of Amuzu due to muscular discomfort, the core Grêmio squad remains formidable. The starting eleven should see the likes of Tiago Volpi, João Pedro, Jemerson, and Braithwaite, who was effective as seen during the first leg where he was influential on offense with his ability to create opportunities. Grêmio's previous victory has strengthened their belief and strategy for this match.
Fans are expected to fill the stands at Alfredo Jaconi, creating an electric atmosphere. The fervor of youth and the weight of expectation will be palpable as Juventude seeks to turn the tide against their arch-rivals. The stakes couldn't be higher—Juventude's ambition to overcome past disappointments and Grêmio's pursuit of continued dominance sets the stage for what promises to be thrilling football.
Viewers can catch the live broadcast of this much-anticipated matchup through major networks like RBS TV, Sportv, and Premiere, ensuring widespread access to follow the action as it unravels at Caxias do Sul.
This match for the Campeonato Gaúcho semifinal isn't just about reaching the final; it's about pride, rivalry, and the opportunity to emerge victorious, making every play, every kick, every goal critically significant. Be prepared for intensity, tactics, and perhaps, unforgettable moments as Juventude takes on Grêmio.