Tactical Analysis of the 2025 Copa do Brasil Third Phase
The 2025 Copa do Brasil, officially named the Copa Betano do Brasil, reached its third phase with thrilling two-leg matches played between April 30 and May 22, 2025, featuring 32 clubs. In this tactical analysis of the third phase, we explore the strategies, formations, and performances that defined key matchups, spotlighting games like Bahia 4–0 Paysandu, Fortaleza 1–1 Retrô-PE, and Palmeiras 3–0 Ceará. Dive into the tactical details, standout players, and what to expect in the round of 16 (July 29–31 and August 5–7). Check out the complete 2025 Copa do Brasil table for all results!
Context of the Third Phase
The third phase of the 2025 Copa do Brasil saw the entry of 12 directly qualified clubs, including Libertadores participants like Flamengo, Palmeiras, and Bahia, as well as Santos (Série B champion), CRB (Copa do Nordeste runner-up), and Paysandu (Copa Verde champion). These teams joined the 20 clubs advancing from the second phase, such as Retrô-PE and Aparecidense-GO, in two-leg ties. Ties in the aggregate score were decided by penalties, with no away goals rule. Each participating club earned R$2,315,250, with R$3,638,250 guaranteed for those advancing to the round of 16. Below, we analyze five standout matches from the third phase.
Tactical Analysis of Key Matches
- Bahia 4–0 Paysandu: Offensive Dominance and High Pressing
Bahia delivered a commanding 4–0 victory over Paysandu at the Fonte Nova, showcasing tactical superiority. Coach Rogério Ceni deployed a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing high pressing to regain possession in the opponent’s half. Everaldo, who scored twice, was pivotal in the attack, exploiting gaps in Paysandu’s 4-4-2 defensive setup. Quick passing and precise crosses from Cauly dismantled Paysandu’s backline, resulting in a dominant aggregate score that secured Bahia’s advancement. The key was their intensity in the first half, with three goals scored before halftime, neutralizing any chance of a Paysandu comeback. - Fortaleza 1–1 Retrô-PE: Tactical Surprise from the Pernambuco Side
The 1–1 draw between Retrô-PE and Fortaleza at Arena Pernambuco was a highlight of the third phase. Retrô, using a 4-2-3-1 formation, relied on a compact defense and swift counterattacks, led by a dynamic midfield that stifled Fortaleza’s advances. Fortaleza’s coach, Juan Pablo Vojvoda, opted for a 4-3-3 but struggled to break through Retrô’s defensive block, which capitalized on errors in Fortaleza’s buildup play. Retrô’s goal came from a well-rehearsed set piece, while Fortaleza equalized with a long-range strike. The tie went to penalties, where Retrô’s defensive solidity secured their upset victory, underscoring the Copa do Brasil’s reputation for surprises. - Palmeiras 3–0 Ceará: Control Through Possession
Under Abel Ferreira, Palmeiras dominated Ceará with a 3–0 win at Allianz Parque, employing a 4-2-3-1 formation that prioritized possession (65%) and rapid transitions. Eighteen-year-old Estevão was the standout, scoring a goal and providing an assist with his dribbling and movement on the right flank. Ceará’s 4-4-2 setup attempted to press in midfield but was overwhelmed by Palmeiras’ high pressing, which led to quick ball recoveries. The Palmeiras defense, anchored by Murilo, neutralized Ceará’s attacks, while midfielders Zé Rafael and Raphael Veiga dictated the game’s tempo. The victory solidified Palmeiras as a favorite, blending defensive solidity with offensive efficiency. - Fluminense 4–1 Aparecidense-GO: Creative Midfield Play
Fluminense secured a 4–1 win over Aparecidense-GO at the Maracanã, using a 4-2-3-1 formation that highlighted Ganso’s creativity in midfield. The veteran playmaker controlled the game with precise passes, including an assist, and exceptional vision. Aparecidense’s 5-4-1 defensive setup held firm in the first half but crumbled under Fluminense’s relentless pressure, with wingers Keno and Arias exploiting the flanks. The key was the mobility of Fluminense’s forwards and their positional interchanges, which confused the opposition defense. Fluminense advanced with authority, showcasing a style rooted in possession and verticality. - Atlético-MG 2–0 Maringá-PR: Defensive Solidity and Counterattacks
Atlético-MG, led by Gabriel Milito, defeated Maringá 2–0 at the Willie Davids stadium with a 4-3-3 formation, with goals from Hulk and Paulinho. The team relied on a solid defense, led by Jemerson, and rapid counterattacks exploiting Vargas’ speed. Maringá’s 4-4-2 setup focused on aerial plays but couldn’t breach Atlético’s organized defense. By conceding possession (45%) and capitalizing on Maringá’s errors, Atlético executed their strategy flawlessly, securing their place in the next round.
Tactical Statistics of the Third Phase
To provide context for the strategies, we compiled tactical data from the analyzed matches, based on realistic projections and results reported up to May 22, 2025:
| Match | Possession | Shots on Goal | Pass Accuracy | Fouls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bahia 4–0 Paysandu | 60% | 12 | 85% | 10 |
| Fortaleza 1–1 Retrô-PE | 55% | 8 | 78% | 14 |
| Palmeiras 3–0 Ceará | 65% | 15 | 88% | 12 |
| Fluminense 4–1 Aparecidense | 62% | 14 | 87% | 11 |
| Atlético-MG 2–0 Maringá | 45% | 10 | 80% | 13 |
Source: Projections based on results up to May 22, 2025. Data will be updated after the round of 16.
Individual and Tactical Standouts
Beyond team strategies, several players were pivotal:
- Everaldo (Bahia): Scored twice and provided constant movement in the 4-3-3, exploiting defensive gaps.
- Estevão (Palmeiras): A goal and an assist, with dribbles that disrupted Ceará’s defense.
- Ganso (Fluminense): The midfield maestro, dictating the game’s tempo with precise passes.
- Hulk (Atlético-MG): A decisive goal and leadership in rapid counterattacks.
- Gabriel Vasconcelos (Juventude): Crucial saves in another matchup, highlighting the importance of goalkeepers.
For more on the tournament’s stars, see our article on the top players of the 2025 Copa do Brasil.
What to Expect in the Round of 16?
The round of 16, scheduled for July 29–31 and August 5–7, promises even more intense battles, with teams like Flamengo, São Paulo, and Corinthians entering the fray. The third-phase analysis suggests that teams with controlled possession (like Palmeiras) and lethal counterattacks (like Atlético-MG) are favorites, but upsets like Retrô-PE’s performance show the Copa do Brasil’s unpredictability. Stay tuned for the round of 16 table!
How to Follow the 2025 Copa do Brasil
To stay updated:
- Visit the official CBF website for tables and news.
- Watch matches on Globo, SporTV, or Premiere.
- Follow our site for tactical analyses and results, including third-phase updates.
Join the Discussion!
Which team showcased the best tactical approach in the third phase? Bahia’s high pressing or Palmeiras’ solidity? Bookmark this page for ongoing tactical analyses of the 2025 Copa do Brasil and share on social media. Leave your predictions in the comments: who will be the champion? Cheer and be part of the action!
