Rio Branco-ES faces Novorizontino on February 27, 2025, at 20:00 (Brasilia time) at the Estadio Kleber Andrade, Cariacica, marking their debut meeting. This match is part of the first phase of the 2025 Copa do Brasil, where the stakes are high: the winner will advance to the next round, and in case of a tie, the match will go to penalties.
Rio Branco-ES, under the guidance of coach Rodrigo Fonseca, approaches this clash with cautious optimism. The team has shown significant improvement, recently going undefeated with three wins and one draw since Fonseca took over. The latest match saw their reserves play, allowing the first team to prepare, ensuring they come rested. Rio Branco enters the match bolstered by new signings such as Cayo Tenório, Romarinho, and Braga, which adds depth to their squad. The probable lineup includes André Luiz; Cayo Tenório (or Lucas Daros), Gustavo Carbonieri, Darlan, and Théo Kruger; Bruno Silva, Júnior Dindê, and Felipe Pará; Maranhão, Matheus Costa, and Diego Fernandes.
Despite the advantage of playing at home, Rio Branco is viewed as the underdog. Their recent record at home has been mixed, with three wins, four draws, and three losses over the last ten home matches. This underdog status puts pressure on them to defend well and capitalize on any opportunities to score.
On the other side, Novorizontino arrives eager to build on their recent successes. They have secured their place in the knockout round of the Paulistão, demonstrating solid form. Under coach Eduardo Baptista, the team is known for its tactical flexibility and strong attacking play. They are considered favorites by sportsbooks due to their consistent performances both at home and away. The expected formation for Novorizontino consists of Airton; Dantas, Rafael Donato, and Patrick; Waguininho, Luís Oyama, Jean Irmer, Marlon, and Léo Tocantins; Pablo Dyego and Airton Moisés.
This match is particularly significant for both clubs, as it serves as their first encounter. The lack of previous head-to-head records between them adds to the unpredictability of the game. Both coaches have strategically prepared their squads, emphasizing the importance of early dominance to avoid being forced to penalties, where luck plays as much a role as skill.
The Copa do Brasil operates under knockout rules without return legs; this adds extra importance to every moment of play. A victory not only means progression but also brings with it the financial incentive of R$ 1 million for the winner, which can be pivotal for the budgets of clubs like Rio Branco-ES.
Tickets for the match have been selling fast, with over 4,000 already sold. Prices are accessible, at R$ 20 for full admission and R$ 10 for half-price tickets, making it easier for fans to support their teams.
Fans can watch the match live on GE.Globo, with real-time updates available on platforms like CNN Esportes, ensuring comprehensive coverage of this exciting encounter.
With both teams eager for success, the game promises to be fierce and thrilling. Will Rio Branco manage to upset the odds against the higher-ranked Novorizontino, or will the latter confirm their status as favorites and secure passage to the next round? The outcome awaits as the whistle blows!