Sousa and Botafogo-PB are set to face off this Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 16:30 local time, at the Estádio Marizão, Sousa. This thrilling confrontation is part of the 9th round of the Campeonato Paraibano Unipê 2025.
For Sousa, the stakes are not as high; the team has already clinched their spot for the semifinals and secured the top spot with 20 points through six victories and two draws, marking them the only undefeated team of the season. The team's impressive run is highlighted by having conceded just one goal throughout the championship. This Saturday, they look to maintain their invincibility before moving on to the midweek clash against Red Bull Bragantino for the Copa do Brasil.
On the other side, Botafogo-PB approaches the match with pressing concerns. Currently sitting at second place with 16 points, they have five wins, one draw, and two losses. The Alvinegro da Estrela Vermelha needs at least one point from this match to cement their own progression to the semifinals, and can achieve this objective even with a draw.
The backdrop to the match adds to the intrigue; last season, Sousa triumphed over Botafogo-PB to secure the Paraibano title, and this match marks yet another chapter of their fierce rivalry. Historical results indicate the stakes are noteworthy—of the 104 matches between these teams, Sousa has managed 27 wins, Botafogo-PB 50, and the remaining 27 ended as draws. Recent encounters have shown both teams finishing with marked competitiveness, with their last three matches ending without decisive victories.
Game preparations are underway, with Sousa’s coach Paulo Foiani likely to retain the starting eleven from the previous game, barring injuries to those unable to participate. Both Diego Viana and Jackson remain sidelined due to health issues, and Iranilson is facing suspension.
Botafogo-PB's coach João Burse will potentially field the same group which bested Picuiense 3-0. A notable change includes the return of Igor Ribeiro from suspension, who will replace Mateus Rodrigues on the left flank. New signings Diego Ferreira and JP Iseppe are expected to be integrated as well, enhancing the squad’s depth for this decisive encounter.
The game will be officiated by referee Romário Medeiros, accompanied by assistants Wlademir Cunha Mendes and Pacceli Thiago de Vasconcelos, with Douglas Magno de Melo Pereira serving as the fourth official. Fans can catch the live action on television and through various online platforms.
While Sousa aims to wrap up their excellent season on home turf, Botafogo-PB is determined to secure their playoff spot and stave off uncertainty. Both coaches have expressed the importance of this fixture for their sides, with all eyes on them as they battle not just for points but also for pride and historical bragging rights.
Expect discussions to revolve around performance expectations, team dynamics, and strategic choices as this match promises to be riveting, with both sides having much to prove. The outcome of Sousa versus Botafogo-PB will undoubtedly reverberate as the championship progresses, making it not just another game, but a significant chapter in Paraibano football history.