The grand final of the Parazão Banpará 2025 kicked off on Wednesday, May 7, at 21:00 local time at the Mangueirão Stadium, featuring the highly anticipated classic showdown between Remo and Paysandu. This encounter marks the 777th meeting in their storied rivalry, drawing over 50,000 passionate fans to the stands, eager to witness the latest chapter of the Re-Pa.
The match was broadcast live across Brazil by TV Cultura do Pará in partnership with TV Brasil, with coverage beginning an hour prior to kickoff at 20:00, featuring the program “Meio de Campo.” Miro Sanova, president of Cultura Rede de Comunicação, expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, “Today we have the first game of the final of the Parazão, and on Sunday, the second. We managed a great partnership with TV Brasil. Together with TV Cultura do Pará, we will broadcast live across Brazil. This shows the affection of the State Government for Pará football.”
In terms of current form, the stakes are high. Paysandu, the most successful team in the state with 50 titles, is seeking a third consecutive championship but is struggling, having not won in their last nine games and currently sitting in penultimate place in the Brazilian Série B. Meanwhile, Remo is aiming for their 48th state title and is enjoying a strong season, currently occupying the third position in Série B with an impressive eight-game unbeaten streak in 2025.
The two teams faced off in the 2024 Parazão final, where Paysandu emerged victorious with a 2-0 win in the first leg and a 1-1 draw in the second leg. This season, their only prior meeting ended in a 1-1 draw during the seventh round of the state championship, adding another layer of intensity to this already heated rivalry.
As the first half unfolded, Remo quickly established dominance on the field. Janderson opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a well-placed shot following a low cross from Sávio. Just 12 minutes later, Klaus extended the lead with a powerful header from a corner, putting Paysandu under significant pressure.
The atmosphere in the Mangueirão was electric, with the Remo supporters, known as the Fenômeno Azul, creating a vibrant backdrop of chants and cheers. Despite the early setback, the Paysandu fans, part of the Fiel Bicolor, continued to rally behind their team, hoping for a comeback.
Throughout the first half, the match was marked by intense action and physical play, resulting in three yellow cards being handed out. Giovanni Pavani and Reynaldo from Remo, along with Ramón Martínez from Paysandu, were cautioned for their aggressive play as the rivalry's fiery nature unfolded on the pitch.
Remo's tactical approach was evident as they pressed Paysandu from the start, utilizing their speed on the flanks with players like Sávio and Edílson. This strategy paid off as they capitalized on their chances effectively, while Paysandu struggled to find their rhythm and connect plays. Despite their efforts, including attempts from Rossi and Nicolas, the bicolor team found themselves thwarted by Remo's solid defense, led by Klaus.
As the first half drew to a close, Paysandu began to push harder for a goal. Rossi, one of their most active players, created two significant opportunities, including a powerful shot that narrowly missed the post. Additionally, a free kick taken by Rossi was met with a strong header from Nicolas, but Remo's goalkeeper Marcelo Rangel was equal to the task, making a crucial save.
The second half promises to be just as thrilling, with Remo holding a 2-0 advantage but knowing that Paysandu will not go down without a fight. The introduction of Jorge Benítez in place of Borasi indicated Paysandu's intent to increase their offensive presence. Both teams are aware that this first leg of the final could set the tone for the return match scheduled for Sunday, May 11, at 17:00, also at the Mangueirão.
The historical context of the Re-Pa rivalry adds another layer of excitement to the match. With over 775 matches played between the two clubs, it is considered one of the most frequently contested derbies in the world. Remo currently leads the all-time series with 125 victories compared to Paysandu's 110, alongside 124 draws. In terms of goals, Remo has scored 426, while Paysandu has netted 410.
As the teams prepare for the second half, the pressure is on both sides. Remo will aim to maintain their aggressive strategy, looking for a third goal to potentially seal the win, while Paysandu will need to regroup and find a way to penetrate Remo's defense. The tactical battle will continue to unfold as each team seeks to capitalize on their strengths and exploit their opponent's weaknesses.
With the stakes this high and the rivalry this intense, fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to the first leg of the Parazão final. The crowd's energy, the players' determination, and the history of the Re-Pa rivalry all combine to make this an unforgettable event in Brazilian football.
