Tombense and Atlético-MG will square off this Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 19:00 local time (Brasília), at the Arena do Jacaré in Sete Lagoas, for the second leg of the Campeonato Mineiro semifinals. The stakes are high as Tombense seeks to overturn the 2-0 deficit from the first match, where Atlético-MG dominated and is now positioned as the favorite to advance to the final.
The match promises to be thrilling, with Tombense needing to win by three or more goals for direct advancement, or by two goals to force penalty shootouts. This season, Tombense has shown resilience by finishing at the top of the group stage, and they will be determined to deliver strong performances at home.
On the other hand, Atlético-MG arrives with significant confidence, buoyed by their historic performance as they attempt to secure their 19th consecutive championship final. The team, led by head coach Cuca, is known for its formidable defense, having conceded only two goals throughout the tournament. This includes their recent six-game stretch without allowing any goals, which has become the hallmark of their gameplay.
Probable lineups signify both teams' strategies heading onto the pitch. Tombense's anticipated lineup includes Matheus; Júlio Henrique, Roger Carvalho, Rony Fernandes, and Dudu Mandai; João Vítor, Fabrício Dias, and Pedro Oliveira; with Jefferson Renan, João Pedro, and Douglas Coutinho. Meanwhile, Atlético-MG is likely to field Everson; Natanael, Lyanco, Junior Alonso, Guilherme Arana; Alan Franco, Gabriel Menino, Gustavo Scarpa, and Rubens; with Hulk and Rony leading the attack.
The tactical approach will be pivotal for Tombense; head coach Raul Cabral faces the challenge of crafting strategies to breach Atlético's stronghold. Their recent performances reflect improvement, with the team coming off three consecutive wins before their first leg loss. Their resilience will be tested, as they strive to make history by defeating the state's best defense.
For Atlético-MG, the focus remains on maintaining composure, knowing they can afford to lose by one goal and still qualify. They are coming off solid recent victories, including their 2-0 win over Tocantinópolis, which also serves as momentum going forward. The team’s attacking dynamics, featuring star player Hulk, who scored both goals in the previous match against Tombense, will be integral as they aim for another successful outing.
Today’s match not only holds significant importance for both clubs but will also attract considerable fan attention. The stakes are heightened with both players and fans alike aware of the historical weight such matches carry. For Tombense, hopes are pinned on crafting the upset of the season against their more seasoned rivals, setting the stage for possible heroics under the pressure.
Expectations are soaring as Kick-off approaches, and with the match set to be broadcasted live on Premiere, anticipation runs high for what could become one of the most memorable moments of the Campeonato Mineiro season.
Both teams come with distinct narratives; for Tombense, it’s the chance to defy odds and etch their names in the championship history. For Atlético-MG, it’s the quest to reinforce their dominance and pride as they march toward yet another title. Fans can expect nothing short of intense football and thrilling moments at the Arena do Jacaré.
The match is set for 19:00 (local time), and the excitement of potentially witnessing football history will undoubtedly be felt throughout Sete Lagoas. Every touch, every shot, and every defensive play counts as Tombense needs every advantage at home to pull off the upset. Can they do it? Or will Atlético-MG's experience and tactical superiority shine through?