On April 2, 2025, the excitement in Pernambuco reaches a fever pitch as Sport and Retrô clash in the final of the Campeonato Pernambucano. The match is set to kick off at 21h30 (Brasília time) at the iconic Estádio da Ilha do Retiro in Recife, where the stakes couldn’t be higher. With Sport coming off a thrilling 3-2 victory in the first leg at the Arena de Pernambuco, they now have the advantage of playing at home, needing only a draw to secure their 45th state title.
Sport, coached by Pepa, is on the hunt for a third consecutive championship, a feat they last accomplished between 2006 and 2010. However, the team faces some internal challenges; Igor Cariús is sidelined due to concussion protocols, and Dalbert is still recovering from a calf injury. Despite these setbacks, the team is riding high from their recent performances, including a goalless draw against São Paulo in their Campeonato Brasileiro opener.
On the other side, Retrô is eager to claim their first state title since their establishment in 2014. The Fênix de Camaragibe needs to win by at least two goals to lift the trophy outright. If they manage a one-goal victory, the match will be decided by penalties. The team has shown resilience, having eliminated Maguary in the semifinals with two wins of 2-1, and they are determined to upset the odds at the Ilha do Retiro.
As the match approaches, the atmosphere is electric, with over 24,000 tickets sold, creating a vibrant home crowd that promises to support Sport fervently. The fans are optimistic, seeing this as a chance to solidify Sport’s dominance in Pernambuco football. The anticipation is palpable, with both teams having made significant preparations for this decisive encounter.
Sport's lineup is expected to feature Caíque França in goal, with a defense comprising Hereda, João Silva, Antônio Carlos, and Chico. The midfield will include Rivera, Sérgio Oliveira, and Lucas Lima, while the attacking trio consists of Chrystian Barletta, Pablo, and Lenny Lobato. Pablo, in particular, is a player to watch, boasting a remarkable record of 48 career goals in the Brasileirão, and he is expected to lead the charge for Sport.
Retrô will counter with their own strong lineup, featuring Fabian Volpi in goal, supported by Gedeílson, Rayan Ribeiro, Claudinho, and Luiz Henrique in defense. The midfield will see Richard Franco, Júnior Fialho, Fabinho, and Radsley working to create opportunities, while the attack will be spearheaded by Maycon Douglas and Fernandinho, with Franklin Mascote as a key player to watch, having been the top scorer for Retrô this season.
The match will be broadcast live on TV Globo for viewers across Pernambuco, with coverage starting at 19h. For those unable to watch on television, Canal GOAT will provide a free online streaming option via YouTube, ensuring fans nationwide can follow the action. Local radio stations, such as Rádio Jornal, will also deliver live commentary, capturing every moment of this historic final.
As the teams finalize their strategies, the weather in Recife is forecasted to be partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 28°C, ideal conditions for an exhilarating match. The referee for the evening will be Bruno Arleu de Araújo, who will be supported by his assistants, Victor Hugo Imazu dos Santos and Leila Naiara Moreira da Cruz, with VAR overseen by Daniel Nobre Bins. The officiating crew’s experience will be crucial in managing what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
Analysts have pointed to Sport as the favorite, with betting odds of 1.74 for a win, compared to Retrô’s 5.10, and 3.36 for a draw. Historically, Sport has had the upper hand in their encounters, winning four of the last six matchups. However, Retrô has shown they are capable of surprises, as evidenced by their stunning 4-0 victory over Porto earlier in the tournament.
The rivalry between these two teams has intensified over the years, with memorable encounters, including last year’s final where Sport emerged victorious. Now, Retrô aims to rewrite that narrative and secure their first championship title. The energy surrounding the match is not just about the trophy; it is about pride, history, and the passionate supporters who will fill the stands.
The stage is set for an unforgettable night of football, with both teams prepared to leave everything on the pitch. As the sun sets over Recife, fans will gather, chants will echo, and the excitement will build. Will Sport secure their legacy as the kings of Pernambuco, or will Retrô rise to the occasion and etch their name in history? Only time will tell as the final whistle approaches.
With the championship on the line, the players understand the weight of this match. Sport's experience and home advantage will be tested against Retrô's youthful ambition and desire for glory. As kickoff draws near, the anticipation is almost unbearable, and all eyes will be on the Ilha do Retiro as these two teams battle for the coveted title.
In the end, regardless of the outcome, this final promises to be a celebration of football in Pernambuco, showcasing the talent, passion, and determination of both clubs. The journey to this moment has been long and arduous, but tonight, it all comes down to 90 minutes on the pitch. Fans, players, and coaches alike will hold their breath as the drama unfolds in what is sure to be a thrilling conclusion to the Campeonato Pernambucano 2025.
