SÃO LUÍS - Sampaio Corrêa, the biggest champion in Maranhão with 37 titles, is set to face Imperatriz on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 19h at the Castelão stadium in São Luís. The stakes are high as Sampaio aims to reach its fifth final in the last six years, while Imperatriz is eager to return to a final for the first time in five years. This semifinal clash is the second leg of the Campeonato Maranhense, with Sampaio holding a crucial advantage after winning the first leg 2-1 at Frei Epifânio stadium.
In preparation for this pivotal match, Sampaio Corrêa concluded its final adjustments on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The team engaged in a tactical session at CT José Carlos Macieira, emphasizing defensive organization and set-piece plays. Coach Gerson Gusmão underscored the seriousness with which the squad is approaching the match, stating, “We know we have a small advantage, but that doesn’t give us the right to relax. On the contrary, it’s a game that demands maximum attention. Imperatriz is coming strong, they need the result, and we need to enter focused, with intensity and intelligence.”
As the match approaches, Sampaio is expected to welcome back several key players who were rested during their recent Série D match. Defensive stalwarts Ray and Eduardo are anticipated to return, while coach Gusmão faces a decision between Fábio Aguiar or Wesley to pair with Eduardo in central defense. Additionally, Abraão is poised to step in for the suspended Thiago Rosa at left-back. The midfield will see the return of Jair and Anderson Recife, while Nádson is set to reclaim his starting position in attack. The only uncertainty lies between Rodolfo and Alan Stence, with Stence recovering from an ankle sprain. A likely lineup for Sampaio includes: Alan Costa; Ray, Eduardo, Wesley (or Fábio Aguiar), and Abraão; Cavi, Anderson Recife, and Jair; Nádson, Alan Stence (or Rodolfo), and Martías Vérdum (with Thuiaginho or Adriano).
On the other side, Imperatriz will have fewer changes to their lineup. Under the guidance of coach Jheimy Carvalho, who replaced Júnior Amorim earlier this season, the team looks to regain momentum after a dip in form. Carvalho will make one defensive change due to the suspension of Felipe Almeida, with André Penalva stepping in. Rony, who was rested during the Série D, will also rejoin the defense. There’s a possibility of Fabrício returning at right-back as well. The likely formation for Imperatriz is: Redson; Fabrício (or Xinayder), Ronny, André Penalva, and Carlos Henrique; Jefferson Prill, Gleidson, and Felipe Macena; Papel, PH, and Café.
The referee for the match is Wallas Martins Lopes, assisted by Antônio Adriano de Oliveira and Elson Araújo da Silva. Fans eager to witness the action can purchase tickets at the official Sampaio store located at Hide Park (Cohafuma) or at the Castelão ticket office. With the backdrop of a passionate fanbase and the stakes at an all-time high, this semifinal clash promises to be an exhilarating encounter.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, both teams are aware of the importance of this match. For Sampaio, a victory would not only solidify their position as a dominant force in Maranhão football but also keep their hopes alive for another title. For Imperatriz, the chance to reclaim glory and reach the final after a five-year absence adds to the pressure. The atmosphere at the Castelão is expected to be electric as fans rally behind their teams, making it a true spectacle of local football.
In the earlier stages of the season, Sampaio Corrêa had a turbulent start, cycling through three different coaches before settling on Gusmão. However, the team has shown signs of improvement under his leadership. Meanwhile, Imperatriz began the year with promising performances but has struggled in recent weeks, leading to a coaching change. This adds an intriguing layer to the match as both teams seek to find their rhythm and capitalize on the moment.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the anticipation is palpable. Will Sampaio Corrêa maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the final, or can Imperatriz pull off a stunning upset to return to the championship stage? The answer lies just moments away as these two storied clubs clash for the right to compete for the 2025 Campeonato Maranhense title.
