São Paulo will face Novorizontino tonight at 20h (Brasília time), at Morumbi Stadium, as they clash for the quarterfinals of the Campeonato Paulista 2025. This single-elimination match promises to be thrilling, with both teams vying for the chance to advance to the semifinals.
São Paulo enters the match with significant momentum after breaking through a rough patch with a commanding 3-1 victory over São Bernardo. This win not only boosted their morale but also secured their spot as the top team of Group C with 19 points. Despite facing pressure and concerns of a potential managerial shakeup, the Tricolor has shown resilience by recovering from five games without a win.
On the other hand, Novorizontino arrives motivated and confident. The team has enjoyed a three-game winning streak, all achieved with compelling comebacks. They recently qualified for the next round of the Copa do Brasil for the first time, following a 3-1 victory against Rio Branco-ES midweek. This accomplishment, coupled with their strong performance leading up to this match, has cemented the Tigre’s formidable reputation, particularly after they eliminated São Paulo last year during the same stage.
Head coach Luis Zubeldía faces exciting tactical dilemmas. He may opt for the three-center-back formation which proved effective against tough opponents, including Palmeiras. With key players like Alisson expected to return to the lineup and Pablo Maia sidelined with injuries, adaptability will be key for São Paulo. The expected lineup for tonight includes Rafael; Alan Franco, Arboleda, and Sabino at the back; Cédric, Alisson, Marcos Antônio, Oscar, and Wendell forming the midfield; with Lucas and Calleri up front.
Eduardo Baptista, the manager of Novorizontino, will also need to deploy strategic decisions. Adapting to the strengths of the rival, he may introduce attacking players on the flanks, making the most of their pace and skills. Notably, the absence of Adriano Bispo due to suspension will affect their strategy, but the possible return of defender Patrick could bolster their defense. Their predicted lineup features Airton; Dantas, Rafael Donato, and Patrick; Waguininho, Jean Irmer, Luís Oyama, Matheus Frizzo, and Reverson; with Airton Moisés and Pablo Dyego leading the attack.
This matchup carries additional weight due to last year’s quarterfinal encounter where Novorizontino eliminated São Paulo after a 1-1 draw, winning the penalties. Fans of both teams are eager to see how this rivalry plays out on the field, especially considering the potential for another nail-biting finish. With both squads demonstrating solid form and tactical capabilities, the match is set to be a highlight of the Paulistão season.
Viewers can catch the live action on TNT and via streaming on Max, as well as through real-time updates on CNN Esportes. The stakes have never been higher, and the excitement surrounding the Morumbi Stadium is palpable as fans prepare for the clash of titans.
With the tournament’s knockout stage upon us, every moment will count, and the drive to reach the semifinals will intensify the rivalry. Fans hope for thrilling plays, strategic battles, and perhaps another dramatic finish, just as history has often repeated itself with São Paulo and Novorizontino clashing on the pitch.