As the seventh round of the Campeonato Brasileiro unfolds, São Paulo FC is set to host Fortaleza at the iconic MorumBIS stadium on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 21h30 (Brasília time). The Tricolor Paulista, currently enjoying a resurgence with three victories in their last four matches, is eager to maintain their momentum in the league.
Under the guidance of coach Luis Zubeldía, São Paulo has climbed to the tenth position in the standings, boasting eight points. They are one of only two teams yet to suffer a defeat in this year’s Série A, alongside Flamengo, although their record includes five draws and just one win. A victory against Fortaleza could propel them temporarily to fourth place, a significant boost as they aim for a stronger position in the league.
Despite their recent success, São Paulo faces a challenge as they have not managed to defeat Fortaleza since 2020, making this matchup particularly intriguing. The team from Ceará comes into this game struggling, having not won since the first round of the competition. Currently sitting in 15th place with only six points, Fortaleza is perilously close to the relegation zone and will be looking to turn their fortunes around.
The match promises to be a test of willpower and strategy, especially considering the absences affecting both squads. São Paulo will be without key players such as Pablo Maia, Oscar, Luiz Gustavo, Calleri, Henrique Carmo, Igor Vinícius, and Arboleda. Additionally, Enzo Díaz and Marcos Antônio are serving suspensions. Coach Zubeldía has indicated that Lucas, Ferreirinha, and Alan Franco are uncertain for the match, adding to the team’s challenges.
In light of these injuries, the expected lineup for São Paulo is as follows: Rafael in goal; a defensive line of Cédric, Ruan, Ferraresi (with Sabino as an option), and Wendell; a midfield trio of Alisson, Bobadilla, and Matheus Alves; and a forward line featuring Lucas Ferreira, Luciano, and André Silva.
On the other side, Fortaleza, managed by Juan Pablo Vojvoda, will also contend with significant absences. The team will miss Brítez, Moisés, Tinga, and Diogo Barbosa due to injuries, alongside Titi, who is suspended. The probable lineup for Fortaleza includes João Ricardo as the goalkeeper; a defense comprising Mancuso, Kuscevic, Gustavo Mancha, and Bruno Pacheco; a midfield featuring Pol Fernández, Rossetto, and Martínez; with Marinho, Breno Lopes, and Lucero leading the attack.
This clash between São Paulo and Fortaleza is set to be broadcast live on Premiere, allowing fans to follow the action as it unfolds. The match officials for this encounter will be led by referee Wagner do Nascimento Magalhaes, with Bruno Boschilia and Daniel de Oliveira Alves Pereira as assistant referees. Yuri Elino Ferreira da Cruz will serve as the fourth official, while Marco Aurelio Augusto Fazekas Ferreira will oversee VAR duties.
As the teams prepare to face off, the stakes are high for both sides. São Paulo seeks to solidify their position in the upper tier of the league, while Fortaleza aims to break free from their winless streak. With both teams bringing their unique challenges and strengths to the field, fans can expect an exciting match filled with intensity and drama.
In the lead-up to the match, Zubeldía expressed confidence in his team's ability to perform despite the setbacks. "We’ve been working hard to adapt to the situation, and the players are ready to give their all on the pitch," he stated. Meanwhile, Vojvoda remains optimistic about his squad’s potential to pull off an upset. "Every game is an opportunity, and we are determined to fight for every point available," he commented.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, anticipation builds among supporters of both clubs. Will São Paulo continue their strong run and secure a much-needed victory, or can Fortaleza rise to the occasion and claim their first win in weeks? Only time will tell as these two teams clash in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
