On February 11, 2025, the long-standing rivalry between Vila Nova and Goiatuba will once again take center stage, as the two teams clash at the Estádio Olímpico Pedro Ludovico Teixeira, starting at 19:30 GMT. This match marks the 91st encounter between them, with Vila Nova boasting the upper hand historically.
The teams have squared off 90 times to date, with Vila Nova claiming 48 victories against Goiatuba's 21, along with 21 matches ending in draws. The Tigrão, as Vila Nova is affectionately known, last faced Goiatuba at this very stadium, winning 2-0, thanks to goals from Bruno Matias and Alesson. For their part, Goiatuba’s last win dates back to 2006, reflecting the current dynamics of this rivalry.
Currently, Vila Nova sits second on the Campeonato Goiano table, with 17 points, trailing Anápolis only on goal difference. They've just secured their place in the tournament's knockout phase with their latest victory over Abecat, and the team is eager to reclaim the top spot with another win.
On the other side, Goiatuba finds itself at the bottom of the standings with only six points. Despite starting the season with promise following their surprising victory over Goiás, the team has struggled significantly since then, suffering seven matches without another win, including a recent 3-0 loss to Jataiense.
Coach Rafael Lacerda of Vila Nova is ready to take full advantage of their home ground, though he faces challenges with injuries affecting his squad. The probable lineup includes Kozlinski, Lucas Sena, Walisson Maia, Pagnussat, and Formiga. They will be supported by João Vieira, Igor Henrique, and Diego Torres in midfield, along with Emerson Urso, Gabriel Poveda, and Vinícius Paiva leading the attack.
Conversely, Goiatuba's manager Augusto Fassina faces immense pressure as he continues to search for their second win of the season. His expected team selection features João Vitor, Fagner, Reginaldo, Milanez, and Lucas Straub on defense, supported by Menezes, André Mensalão, Bebel, and Gean Correia up front, with Bernardo and Tiago spearheading the attack.
The match is more than just points on the board; it symbolizes hope for Goiatuba to escape relegation, whereas Vila Nova vies for dominance and stability at the top of the league. With rain forecasted for the day of the match, conditions could play a significant role, adding another layer of unpredictability to this high-stakes encounter.
Arbitration for the match is set under the supervision of referee Jefferson Ferreira, assisted by Leone Carvalho and Márcio Marques, with Lee Harrison overseeing VAR. This will be the first time this season the two sides meet. Vila Nova enters with momentum but must heed the desperation of their opponents, who will likely adopt a more aggressive stance to avoid another defeat.
Fans are expected to fill the stands, bolstered by Vila Nova’s impressive home performance this season. Tickets are already available through authorized outlets, with favorable pricing structures aimed to fill the stadium to its estimated capacity of 8,000. Live coverage will be broadcast on Televisão Brasil Central (TBC), with additional streaming options and real-time updates available via social media.
This clash of the titans is not one to be missed, as it offers not only the thrill of competition but also the rich history and narratives between two of Goiania's proudest football clubs.