Sport Loses to Operário, Complicating Playoff Hopes in Série B
Sport faced a crucial match against Operário in Ponta Grossa on Friday, knowing that only a victory would keep their playoff aspirations alive in the final round of Série B. The team initially took the lead twice during the match but ultimately suffered a disappointing 3–2 defeat, leaving their chances for playoff progression in jeopardy.
The match started positively for Sport, with De Pena scoring just six minutes in. However, the tide turned for the red-and-blacks in the 14th minute when Perotti’s attempt to clear a ball inadvertently struck his teammate, Claudinho, resulting in an own goal that gave Operário an unexpected opportunity to recover.
Perotti managed to reclaim some glory by scoring for Sport in the 38th minute, regaining the lead. Yet, Operário responded swiftly, equalizing shortly after halftime. In the waning moments of the first half, pressure on goalkeeper Habraão led to an opportunistic goal from Moraes, who lobbed the ball over keeper Thiago Couto.
The second half saw Operário complete their comeback with a stunning goal from Léo Erig, a promising young talent who showcased his skills in only his second first-team appearance.
The loss could have propelled Sport to sixth place with 58 points, applying pressure on their rivals for the final playoff spot. Instead, the defeat left them in ninth place with 55 points, trailing CRB, who also have 55 points but boast two more wins. Goiás and Atlético Goianiense also stand ahead of Sport in the standings.
Operário’s victory moved them to 54 points, as they too strive to qualify for the playoffs, pending the results of upcoming matches. On Saturday, CRB will play against Náutico, while Goiás hosts the struggling Ponte on Sunday, the same day Atlético is set to visit Athletic.
