Copa do Brasil 2025
The Copa do Brasil 2025, officially named the Copa Betano do Brasil, is the 37th edition of Brazil’s most democratic football tournament. Featuring 92 clubs from all 26 states and the Federal District, the competition, which began on February 18, 2025, brings excitement, surprises, and unique stories. In this article, we explore the fascinating facts of the Copa do Brasil 2025, from standout moments in the third round (May 21–22, 2025) to historical records that have made the tournament a cornerstone of Brazilian sports. To follow the full schedule, check out our Copa do Brasil 2025 Schedule Guide.
Why Is the Copa do Brasil So Special?
Since its inception in 1989, the Copa do Brasil has stood out for giving teams from all divisions a platform, enabling epic clashes between giants like Flamengo and Palmeiras and smaller clubs like Retrô-PE and Aparecidense-GO. Its knockout format, inspired by competitions like England’s FA Cup, ensures thrilling matches and unforgettable upsets. In 2025, the tournament offers a record-breaking prize of over R$101 million to the champion, plus a spot in the 2026 Copa Libertadores, further elevating its significance. Below, discover the facts that make the Copa do Brasil 2025 truly unique!
Fascinating Facts of the Copa do Brasil 2025
The 2025 edition has already kicked off with memorable moments. Here are some fascinating facts based on the third-round matches and the tournament’s context:
- Heroic Draw by Retrô-PE: In the third round, Retrô-PE, a Pernambuco club, held Fortaleza-CE to a 1–1 draw on May 22, 2025, showcasing the strength of smaller teams. This result reinforces the Copa do Brasil’s reputation as the tournament of underdogs.
- Bahia’s Thrashing: Bahia secured a 4–0 victory over Paysandu-PA in the third round, cementing their status as favorites to advance to the round of 16 (July 29–31). The match was one of the most-watched of the round, earning widespread media coverage.
- New Rules Debut: In 2025, the CBF introduced penalty shootouts for tied matches in the first round, eliminating the advantage for bigger teams. This change has sparked debates among fans and could lead to more surprises in upcoming rounds.
- Record Participation: With 92 clubs, the Copa do Brasil 2025 maintains its inclusive format, with spots allocated through state and regional championships, such as the Copa do Nordeste and Copa Verde. Teams like Olaria-RJ and Concórdia-SC represent the tournament’s diversity.
- Adjusted Prize Money: The CBF increased prize money by 5% based on the IPCA, ensuring R$1,543,500 for Série A clubs in the first round and over R$101 million for the champion, up from R$93 million in 2024, won by Flamengo.
Third-Round Highlights: May 22, 2025
To provide context for these facts, here’s a table with the results of the third round (return legs), which defined the 2025 edition:
| Match | Date | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortaleza-CE vs. Retrô-PE | 05/22/2025 | 7:00 PM | 1–1 |
| Aparecidense-GO vs. Fluminense-RJ | 05/22/2025 | 7:30 PM | 1–4 |
| Bahia-BA vs. Paysandu-PA | 05/22/2025 | 7:30 PM | 4–0 |
| Palmeiras-SP vs. Ceará-CE | 05/22/2025 | 8:00 PM | 3–0 |
| Maringá-PR vs. Atlético-MG | 05/22/2025 | 8:00 PM | 0–2 |
Source: Data based on CBF information up to May 22, 2025. See more in our complete schedule.
Historical Records of the Copa do Brasil
The Copa do Brasil is filled with impressive records that have shaped its over 35-year history. Here are some of the most notable:
- Most Titles: Cruzeiro leads with 6 titles (1993, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2017, 2018), followed by Grêmio and Flamengo, each with 5. Flamengo won the 2024 title, tying Grêmio.
- Top Scorer: Fred, former Fluminense and Cruzeiro striker, is the all-time leading scorer with 37 goals in 56 matches. In 2005, he scored 14 goals in a single edition, a record that stands today. Romário, with 36 goals, is second.
- Biggest Win: Atlético-MG holds the record for the largest victory, an 11–0 thrashing of Caiçara-PI in 1991, with 5 goals by Gerson.
- Most Matches Played: Zinho and Carlos Miguel share the record for 71 appearances in the competition, showcasing their longevity.
- Undefeated Champions: Six teams won the Copa do Brasil without a loss: Grêmio (1989, 1994, 1997), Cruzeiro (2000, 2003), Corinthians (1995), Criciúma (1991), Flamengo (1990), and Palmeiras (2012).
- First Goal: Alcindo Sartori of Flamengo scored the tournament’s first-ever goal on July 19, 1989, against Paysandu.
Memorable Stories from the Tournament
The Copa do Brasil is renowned for its underdog stories and historic moments. Here are some that have defined the tournament:
- Santo André 2004: The São Paulo team defeated Flamengo in the final, one of the biggest upsets in history, claiming the title as an underdog.
- Sport 2008: Sport Recife became the first club outside the Southeast and South regions to win the competition, a milestone for the Northeast.
- Juventude 1999: The Rio Grande do Sul team won the Copa do Brasil but was relegated in the Brasileirão the same year, a rare feat.
- Roger Machado, the Record Holder: The former player won 4 titles (3 with Grêmio, 1 with Fluminense), making him the individual with the most victories.
How the Copa do Brasil 2025 Is Transforming Brazilian Football
Beyond its fascinating facts and records, the Copa do Brasil 2025 is driving significant changes. The new penalty shootout rule in the first round further democratizes the tournament, giving smaller clubs, like Retrô-PE, which stunned in the third round, a fighting chance. The record prize money also attracts investment, with clubs like Palmeiras and Fluminense bolstering their squads to chase the title. The tournament remains a platform for young talents, such as Estevão of Palmeiras, who shone with a goal and an assist against Ceará on May 22, 2025.
How to Follow the Copa do Brasil 2025
To stay updated on every detail:
- Check out the complete Copa do Brasil 2025 schedule on our site.
- Visit the official CBF website for updates.
- Watch matches on Globo, SporTV, or Premiere.
- Follow the round of 16 (July 29–31 and August 5–7) in our round of 16 schedule.
Stay Tuned and Get Involved!
The Copa do Brasil 2025 is just getting started, with new fascinating facts emerging each round. Bookmark this page to stay updated on the latest facts and records. Share on social media and leave your predictions in the comments: who will be the biggest underdog of 2025? Will Flamengo defend their title? Or will a smaller team, like Retrô-PE, pull off a shock? Join the fanbase and embrace the thrill of the knockout stage!
