Nacional de Patos and Treze are set to face off this Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 16:30 at the Estádio José Cavalcanti for the 9th round of the Campeonato Paraibano Unipê 2025. This match is not just another game on the schedule; it holds the potential to decide which team advances to the semifinals and which team faces the threat of relegation to the second division of the state.
Both teams have clear objectives for this clash—Nacional de Patos, also known as Naça, is determined to solidify its place in the elite level of Paraíba football, whereas Treze aims to secure its spot within the top four of the competition, known as the G-4.
Recently, Nacional de Patos enjoyed a pivotal 3-1 victory against Auto Esporte-PB, which propelled them out of the relegation zone. Following this win, they find themselves needing just one more victory to guarantee their place in the first division. Positioned currently at 7th on the league table with 9 points, the Canário do Sertão understands the stakes. A defeat could send them tumbling back down, depending on the outcomes of other matches, particularly those involving Pombal or Macaco Autino.
On the other side, Treze has been striving for consistency, coming off of a lackluster 0-0 draw with Sousa. With aspirations to reach the semifinals of this competition, Treze knows they hold their destiny within their own hands. A simple win against Nacional de Patos would secure their position within the G-4, affirming their status as one of the formidable teams during this championship run. Currently occupying the 3rd spot with 15 points, the Galo must also watch for other teams like Campinense and Serra Branca, needing those competitors to falter should they not emerge victorious themselves.
Head coaches from both teams, Marcelinho Paraíba of Naça and Marcelo Martelotte of Treze, are strategically preparing their squads for this high-stakes match. For Nacional de Patos, key player Laécio returns after serving his suspension. Conversely, they might be without defender Yuri who remains injured. The expected lineup for Nacional includes Eduardo, Ítallo, Andrezinho, Kaio, and Caíque across their defense; with Gean, Luiz Felipe, and Kevin anchoring the midfield, they will look to Robinho, Vitor Alagoano, and Daniel Alagoano up front to convert opportunities.
Treze is also bolstering their ranks with the return of defender Tiago Barbosa from suspension. Other potential reinforcements include Renan Diniz and Wandson, both of whom have recovered from injuries. Following recent signings, forward Gustavo Schutz, who was signed just days before, will also be eligible to participate. Their anticipated lineup features Igor Rayan; Van, Marcelo Sousa, Gomes, and Arthurzinho; with Juninho, Lincoln, Dione, and Pedro Rodrigues supporting Luã Lúcio and Rafael Ibiapino at the point of attack.
Officiated by Afro Rocha with assistance from Gleydson Francisco and Esdras Marques, this match has garnered significant local attention. Fans can catch the live broadcast exclusively on the pay-per-view channel of Jornal da Paraíba, ensuring they won't miss any of the action. The game promises not just to be key for standings, but also for local pride as both clubs attempt to assert their dominance and secure their desired outcomes.
This Saturday not only marks another chapter of competition within the Campeonato Paraibano but also establishes both teams' determination as they battle the pressures unique to the sports environment. With every point on the line, both Nacional de Patos and Treze will likely deliver unforgettable performances, engaging fans until the final whistle.