Introduction – Coritiba x Botafogo-SP
Coritiba vs. Botafogo-SP: On the evening of October 3, 2025, in front of their home crowd at Couto Pereira Stadium, Coritiba defeated Botafogo-SP 2-0 and regained the lead in the 2025 Série B. The victory was cemented in the first half, with goals from Gustavo Coutinho and Iury Castilho, and with the opponent’s red card.
This victory represents more than just three points: it’s a breather for Coxa, who had been struggling at home, and strengthens their favoritism in such a tight championship. For Botafogo-SP, the defeat exacerbates their crisis at a crucial moment.
Furthermore, the crowd turned out in good numbers—approximately 16,551—in a volatile climate, demonstrating that the fans believed in the comeback until the end. The club won despite what it calls “psychological pressure” at home, reversing the negative moments of the last few rounds.
Before the Game – atmosphere, rivalry and need for reaction
Coritiba arrived under pressure. The team had suffered recent slip-ups at home and needed to show strength against an opponent in poor form, but urgently needed to escape the relegation zone. Coach Mozart emphasized that it would be a game of “mental toughness” and that the team must remain focused from the opening minutes.
On the visiting side, Botafogo-SP was fighting to escape 18th place. They had a six-game winless streak, and any slip-up could worsen their situation. The club knew they would face a hostile environment and would need to defend with organization and exploit potential counterattacks.
Historically, the Coritiba-Botafogo-SP matchup is evenly matched. According to H2H statistics, of the 44 duels, Coritiba won 21, Botafogo-SP won 11, and there were 12 draws—an average of 2 goals per match. This shows that the clashes are generally close and with attacking variation.
Coritiba x Botafogo-SP: The Game – moves, tension and definition
First Half – dominance, goals and expulsion
Coritiba started the match with an aggressive pace. In the 15th minute, Iury Castilho crossed from the left, and Gustavo Coutinho headed home a powerful header to open the scoring, giving Coxa the lead. Shortly after, the team maintained pressure and continued attacking exchanges—relying on quick transitions and passes between the lines.
In the 36th minute, Coritiba extended their lead: full-back Bruno Melo unleashed a shot from outside the box, and Iury Castilho appeared on the rebound to deflect it in and score the second goal. The play highlighted the attackers’ collective effort and movement.
In the 41st minute, the decisive play occurred: defender Edson elbowed Coutinho, was sent off after a VAR review, and reacted by slapping Zeca in the face, causing chaos on the field. The sending-off completely changed the landscape, leaving Botafogo-SP with 10 men.
With a two-goal lead and numerical superiority, Coritiba went into halftime with authority. Botafogo-SP could barely break out of its own half and relied on isolated plays.
Second Half – control, momentum and security
With the advantage, Coritiba played calmly. They relied on passing, sped up the pace, and sought controlled space. The understaffed opponent tried to react, but with little consistency.
Coxa had moments of pressure: Bruno Melo tested a cross and hit the crossbar, showing they could still increase the score. The team had nine shots in the second half, despite already being comfortable with the result.
In the final minutes, Botafogo-SP practically gave up. Coritiba managed well: defensive compactness, quick exits, and safe ball circulation. The score remained 2-0 until the final whistle.
Statistics – Coritiba x Botafogo-SP
| Statistic | Coritiba | Botafogo-SP |
|---|---|---|
| Final score | 2 | 0 |
| Total completions | 25 | 3 |
| Finishes on target | 5 | 1 |
| Ball possession | 63% | 37% |
| Complete passes | 610 | 345 |
| Pass accuracy | 86% | 78% |
| Corners | 5 | 4 |
| Fouls committed | 13 | 15 |
| Yellow cards | 1 | 2 |
| Red cards | 0 | 1 (Edson) |
| Paying public | 16,551 | — |
| Income | R$ 290,775.00 | — |
The numbers reflect Coritiba’s dominance: more possession, more shots and a lot of control over both offensive and defensive actions.
Detailed Tactical Analysis – Coritiba x Botafogo-SP
Coritiba stood out for their well-organized defensive structure and efficient use of the flanks. Zeca and Bruno Melo frequently advanced forward, generating superiority in the flanks. The compact midfield meant Botafogo-SP couldn’t penetrate smoothly.
Up front, Iury Castilho and Gustavo Coutinho’s movement was efficient: they alternated between providing a strong presence and infiltrating, confusing the marking. When Coutinho headed the ball, Castilho was there to rebound it—showing his ability to read the game.
Botafogo-SP tried to close down and exploit long balls, but lacked an organized offensive presence. The lack of depth hindered them, and with 10 men, they were unable to press effectively.
Individual Highlights
- Gustavo Coutinho : scored with a header, increased his presence in the box and was decisive in the first goal.
- Iury Castilho : in addition to scoring the deflection in the second goal, he was a surprise and tireless element.
- Bruno Melo : was consistent in his runs, delivered crosses and demanded the opposing defense.
- Zeca : participated in the confusion surrounding the expulsion, but showed balance in several defensive plays.
History of the Confrontation and Context
In head-to-head matches, Coritiba has the advantage, winning 21 of 44 matches, compared to Botafogo-SP’s 11 and drawing 12. They average 2 goals per match (both teams combined).
This season, Coritiba has conceded one of the fewest goals. Their defense is considered a benchmark in Serie B. The club is experiencing a period where victories are essential to consolidate promotion.
Upcoming Commitments
- Coritiba : hosts Atlético-GO at Couto Pereira, looking to maintain its lead and extend its advantage.
- Botafogo-SP : travels to face Paysandu in Ribeirão Preto in a life-or-death match to avoid relegation.
Conclusion – Coritiba x Botafogo-SP
Coritiba vs. Botafogo-SP was an example of how preparation, game awareness, and emotional control make all the difference. Coxa was technically superior, capitalized on opportunities, and managed their numerical advantage. Botafogo-SP succumbed to psychological and tactical blows.
With this, Coritiba reaffirms its status as favorite for promotion, while Botafogo-SP remains on high alert.
FAQs – Coritiba x Botafogo-SP
Who scored the match’s goals?
Gustavo Coutinho scored the first, and Iury Castilho deflected the ball to score the second.
Was there a red card in the game?
Yes: Botafogo-SP defender Edson was sent off after elbowing Gustavo Coutinho and subsequently slapping Zeca in the face.
What was the Serie B lead like after the game?
Coritiba retook the lead with 53 points, opening up a six-point lead over those outside the top four.
What’s the best defense in the competition so far?
Coritiba has the most efficient defense in Serie B, conceding only 19 goals so far this match.
Who are the strikers who broke the deadlock?
Gustavo Coutinho and Iury Castilho, who hadn’t scored in several rounds, found the net again.
What are Coritiba and Botafogo-SP’s next matches?
Coritiba faces Atlético-GO at Couto Pereira Stadium. Botafogo-SP faces Paysandu in Ribeirão Preto.
