Esporte Clube Vitória entered the 2025 Campeonato Baiano final confident in their five-year unbeaten home record against Esporte Clube Bahia. However, despite the favorable track record, the rubro-negro team couldn’t overturn the advantage gained by their rival in the first leg, and Bahia emerged as the state champion.
History and Expectations for the Final
The Ba-Vi derby always garners attention, and the 2025 Campeonato Baiano edition was no different. Vitória had remained unbeaten at home against Bahia since 2020, fueling their fans’ hopes for a back-to-back championship. However, the tricolor team had shown consistency and an impressive offensive performance throughout the tournament.
The First Leg: Bahia Gains the Advantage
The first leg took place at Arena Fonte Nova, where Bahia dictated the pace and won 2-0. This result placed the tricolor side in a comfortable position for the decisive match. Vitória, on the other hand, knew they needed a flawless performance at Barradão to overturn the score.
The Second Leg: A Draw and a Tricolor Title
In the return match at Estádio Barradão, Vitória pressed from the start in an attempt to cut the deficit. The rubro-negro team opened the scoring in the first half, raising hopes for a historic comeback. However, Bahia managed to regain control and scored an equalizer in the second half, securing the title with an aggregate score of 3-1.
Performance Analysis
Vitória: Fighting Spirit but No Success
Vitória showed determination but struggled against Bahia’s solid defense and finishing difficulties. Despite strong support from their home crowd at Barradão, they failed to create enough clear chances to complete a historic turnaround.
Bahia: Efficiency and Control
Bahia efficiently managed the advantage gained in the first leg. With a well-organized defense and a midfield that transitioned smoothly, the tricolor side avoided major scares and secured yet another state championship for their history.
What to Expect for the Future?
With the Campeonato Baiano over, both clubs now shift their focus to national competitions. Vitória needs to address its weaknesses to perform well in Série A, while Bahia aims to solidify itself as a major force in Brazilian football.
Watch the Best Moments
Check out the best moments of the Vitória vs. Bahia final in the video below:
Vitória x Bahia | Best Moments | FINAL-Baianão 23/03/25
Conclusion
Despite their confidence in their home unbeaten streak, Vitória couldn’t overcome Bahia, who proved to be the more balanced team over the 180 minutes of the final. The result serves as a lesson for Vitória and as confirmation of Bahia’s strength in state football.
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