Fortaleza Edges Out CRB in Penalties to Win Copa do Nordeste

In a nail-biting penalty shootout, Fortaleza defeated CRB to win their third Copa do Nordeste title.

Regular time saw CRB scoring twice in the second half through João Neto. The home crowd at Rei Pelé stadium on Sunday (9th) fervently supported their team, but it wasn’t enough.

Fortaleza had a 2-0 advantage from the first leg and remained flawless in penalties, while Anselmo Ramon’s miss proved costly for CRB.

Anselmo Ramon missed his shot, sending it over the crossbar. Fortaleza’s Lucero, Pedro Rocha, José Welison, Hércules, and Pikachu all scored.

CRB’s Gegê, João Neto, Hereda, and Matheus Ribeiro scored, but Pikachu’s decisive goal sealed Fortaleza’s victory.

Fortaleza’s journey was tumultuous. Their team bus was attacked in Recife during the group stage.

Despite this, they finished second in Group B with two wins, two draws, and four losses.

The team gained momentum, thrashing Altos (5-0) in the quarter-finals, defeating Sport (4-1) in the semi-finals, and finally overcoming CRB in the final.

First Half Struggles

Early on, Fortaleza lost Moisés to a thigh injury, and Machuca replaced him. Assistant coach Gastón Liendo was expelled, and defender Saimon left injured.

Hércules’s shot at 19 minutes was saved, as was Pikachu’s free kick. Lucero’s close-range shot nearly scored.

CRB’s Fábio Alemão forced a great save from João Ricardo. Despite late pressure, CRB couldn’t score in the first half.

CRB’s Matheus Ribeiro and Gegê had early chances but failed to score. João Neto’s 20th-minute goal thrilled the crowd.

Bruno Pacheco’s two attempts were dangerous, and Mike’s shot hit the crossbar. João Neto scored his second at 41 minutes, sparking more excitement.

Hereda hit the side netting before Fortaleza’s Rossetto was sent off late in the game.

Match Attendance and Revenue

– Paying audience: 14,475
– Total attendance: 17,762
– Gross revenue: R$ 1,054,670.00 ($200,000)

This victory highlights Fortaleza’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, solidifying their position as a dominant force in Northeast Brazilian football.