The stage is set for an enticing clash this Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 21h30 (Brasília time) as Sousa faces off against Fortaleza in the 6th round of the Copa do Nordeste at the Estádio Marizão in Sousa, Paraíba. The stakes couldn't be higher for either team.
Sousa, unfortunately, finds itself in dire straits, currently sitting at the bottom of Group A with just three points from five matches, recording only one win and four losses. Having drawn 1-1 against Serra Branca in the final of the Campeonato Paraibano, they managed to clinch the title on penalties, but their league performance has been dismal, showing no wins in their last eight matches in the Copa do Nordeste. The last victory came months ago against Nacional de Patos, and if Sousa does not secure a win on Wednesday, they will likely be eliminated from the tournament.
Meanwhile, Fortaleza, known as the Leão do Pici, comes into the match with hopes to rebound after recently suffering a setback against their arch-rivals, Ceará, losing 0-1 in the first leg of the Campeonato Cearense final. The defeat snapped a three-match unbeaten streak against Ferroviário, during which they delivered an impressive 4-0 win. Now sitting third in Group A with nine points, Fortaleza has the opportunity to secure their spot in the quarterfinals with a victory over Sousa.
The history between the two teams favors Fortaleza, which has maintained a perfect record of three wins against Sousa in previous encounters, including a commanding 5-0 victory in their last match in 2022. In fact, every time these two have faced off in the Copa do Nordeste, Fortaleza's football prowess has shone through.
Coach Paulo Foiani of Sousa is expected to field a lineup despite the pressure, with Bruno Fuso likely taking the goalkeeper position and a four-man defense including Welisson, Marcelo Duarte, João Rafael, and Jackson. The midfield will include Hebert Cristian, Ciro Henrique, and Patrik Dias, while Elielton, Dhonata, and Bruno Matos are expected to provide the attacking flair.
Fortaleza, managed by Juan Pablo Vojvoda, is expected to stick to a strong formation. Brenno will guard the goal, supported by Eros Mancuso, Gustavo Mancha, Titi, and Felipe Jonatan in defense. The midfield will likely feature Pedro Augusto, Pol Fernández, and Zé Welison, while Yago Pikachu, Moisés, and Renato Kayzer will lead the offensive drive for the team.
Furthermore, both teams are trying to balance their commitments, as Sousa is focusing on recovering from a tough period, whereas Fortaleza also has its sights set on the upcoming Campeonato Cearense finals. Hence, there may be some strategic decisions by both coaches when it comes to player management.
In terms of statistics, Sousa has struggled significantly lately, unable to win in their last eight outings, including four defeats and four draws. Despite a victorious campaign in the Campeonato Paraibano, their league form has deteriorated sharply. On the other hand, Fortaleza has seen a mixed bag of results recently, but is still deemed the stronger side based on its current form and past performances against Sousa.
The match will be broadcast live via SBT and Premiere 2, allowing fans to witness what promises to be an exhilarating encounter. Expect intense plays, strategic battles, and passionate support from both fanbases.
As Sousa desperately fights to keep its hopes alive in the Copa do Nordeste, and Fortaleza seeks to regain its confidence, attention will be focused on how each team adapts to the pressing demands of this high-stakes match.
