São Paulo is set to face off against Novorizontino tonight, March 3, 2025, at 20:00 (Brasília Time) during the quarterfinals of the Campeonato Paulista 2025. The match will take place at the iconic Morumbi Stadium, where thousands are expected to witness this thrilling encounter.
Both teams have differing trajectories leading up to this match. São Paulo, led by coach Luis Zubeldía, topped Group C with 19 points, thanks to five victories and four draws, but not without its struggles. After enduring a frustrating five-match winless streak, they found their footing again with a convincing 3-1 win over São Bernardo, which recharged their confidence.
On the other hand, Novorizontino, under Eduardo Baptista's guidance, has been bubbling with momentum. The team enters the Morumbi with three consecutive wins, including their triumph over Botafogo-SP by 2-1, highlighting their strong form. They've showcased resilience and attacking prowess, which could pose challenges for the Tricolor.
This matchup also carries the undertone of revenge for São Paulo. Last year, they were knocked out by Novorizontino at the same stage in the same stadium, where the teams played to a 1-1 draw, and the Tigre clinched victory via penalties. That loss is likely to fuel São Paulo's determination to advance this time.
The expected line-ups for the match provide insights on both teams' strategies. São Paulo’s probable starters include Rafael; Alan Franco, Arboleda, and Sabino; Cédric, Alisson, Marcos Antônio, Oscar, and Wendell; Lucas and Calleri. Meanwhile, for Novorizontino, players such as Airton; Dantas, Rafael Donato, and Patrick are slated to defend, supported by Waguininho, Jean Irmer, Luís Oyama, Matheus Frizzo, and Reverson, with Airton Moisés and Pablo Dyego up front.
For fans wanting to catch the action live, the match will be broadcasted on TNT (cable) and available for streaming via Max. Tickets for the match have sold remarkably well, with over 49,000 already purchased, and there is anticipation for around 55,000 attendees tonight at the Morumbi.
With so much on the line, this competition between São Paulo and Novorizontino promises to be exciting, embodying the spirit of knockout football. Each team has its ambitions, and as they take to the field, supporters can expect high stakes and perhaps the return of memories from their dramatic encounter last year. The road to the semifinals begins here, and the adrenaline is palpable for fans and players alike!