The highly anticipated final of the Campeonato Pernambucano 2025 took place on April 2, 2025, as Sport Recife faced off against Retrô Futebol Clube at the iconic Estádio Ilha do Retiro in Recife. Kickoff was set for 21h30 (Brasília time), and the stakes were high for both teams. Sport Recife, known as the Leão da Ilha, was vying for its 45th state title and needed only a draw to secure the championship after winning the first leg 3-2 at the Arena de Pernambuco. Meanwhile, Retrô, dubbed the Fênix, aimed for its first-ever state title since its establishment in 2016, requiring a win by at least two goals to claim victory outright, or a one-goal win to force penalties.
As the match approached, excitement buzzed in the air, with approximately 20,000 fans expected to fill the stands of Ilha do Retiro. The atmosphere promised to be electric, with passionate supporters ready to cheer their teams to glory. The match was broadcast live on TV Globo for the state of Pernambuco and streamed on Canal GOAT on YouTube, ensuring fans could follow the action from various platforms.
Sport Recife entered the match with a solid track record in the tournament, having shown resilience and skill throughout the season. However, they faced some challenges in their lineup. Key players Igor Cariús, who was following concussion protocols, and Dalbert, recovering from a calf injury, were unavailable. Additionally, Rodrigo Atencio was sidelined due to a fracture in his left toe. Despite these absences, head coach Pepa was confident in the experience of his squad, which included standout players like goalkeeper Caíque França, João Silva, and Lucas Lima.
On the other side, Retrô was looking to capitalize on their momentum from the first leg, where they had displayed remarkable determination by coming back from a 2-0 deficit to make the final score 3-2. Under the guidance of interim coach Wires Souza, the team maintained a consistent lineup with players such as goalkeeper Fabian Volpi and forward Fernandinho looking to make an impact. The team’s strategy hinged on their ability to respond under pressure, having demonstrated this quality in their previous encounters.
The match was officiated by Paulo César Zanovelli da Silva, a FIFA referee from Minas Gerais, with Bruno Boschilia and Fernanda Nandrea Gomes assisting. The VAR was managed by Tiago Nascimento from Pernambuco, ensuring a fair and well-regulated match.
As the game kicked off, both teams displayed their tactical setups. Sport, with the advantage of needing only a draw, opted for a more defensive approach, while Retrô pushed forward aggressively, seeking the goals they needed to turn the tide in their favor. The tension was palpable, as each attack from Retrô was met with a resolute Sport defense, determined to hold onto their slim lead.
Throughout the first half, the intensity of the match did not wane. Retrô's players, driven by the desire to create history, pressed forward, testing Sport's defense and goalkeeper Caíque França. Meanwhile, Sport looked to counterattack, relying on the speed and skill of their forwards. The first half ended with no goals, leaving fans on the edge of their seats as both teams retreated for halftime.
As the second half commenced, the urgency for Retrô became even more pronounced. They needed to find the net to keep their hopes alive. The tactical adjustments made by Wires Souza became evident as the team pushed harder, creating several scoring opportunities. However, Sport's defense, anchored by João Silva and Antonio Carlos, held firm, thwarting attempts and maintaining their composure under pressure.
With each passing minute, the stakes grew higher. Retrô needed at least two goals to clinch the title outright, while Sport was keen to protect their lead and secure their third consecutive championship. The crowd roared with every near miss and celebrated every defensive stop, creating an electrifying atmosphere that only a final could inspire.
As the clock ticked down, Retrô's desperation led to riskier plays, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks from Sport. The final minutes saw both teams exchanging chances, with the possibility of a dramatic conclusion looming. Would Retrô manage to pull off a stunning upset, or would Sport hold on to claim their title?
In the closing moments of the match, the tension reached a fever pitch. Retrô's last-ditch efforts to score were met with fierce resistance from Sport, who were determined to not let their lead slip away. The final whistle blew, signaling the end of the match and the culmination of a thrilling final.
Sport Recife emerged victorious, securing their 45th state title and completing a remarkable feat of winning the Campeonato Pernambucano for the third consecutive year. The players celebrated on the pitch, acknowledging the support of their fans who had filled the stands, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
For Retrô, despite the disappointment of not clinching their first title, the team showcased their potential and competitiveness, promising a bright future ahead. The match highlighted the growth of the club since its foundation and set the stage for future challenges.
The final of the Campeonato Pernambucano 2025 will be remembered not only for the thrilling football but also for the passionate display of sportsmanship and the vibrant atmosphere created by the fans. As both teams reflect on the season, they will undoubtedly look forward to what lies ahead, with Sport aiming to continue their dominance and Retrô striving to break through to new heights.
