Goiás enter the final two rounds of Brazil’s Série B focused on claiming the sixth and last place in the promotion playoffs. They are tied with sixth-placed CRB on 55 points, but trail the Alagoas club on goal difference, with a -3 record compared with CRB’s +3. Goiás need to win their remaining games and hope their rival drops points.
Goalkeeper Tadeu has rejected talk of a possible playoff derby against Vila Nova, currently third in the standings. If Goiás finish sixth, they would face the third-placed team, but Tadeu says the immediate priority is Sunday’s home match against Ponte Preta.
“We’re not focused on that; we’re focused on qualifying. We need to beat Ponte Preta and do our part,” Tadeu said. “Goiás have two games and need to win both. After that, we have to believe the results will go our way. I’m not talking about six points now, because we need to get the next three. That’s how we’re looking at it.”
Tadeu said the prospect of earning promotion and making history with the club is driving the squad. Goiás are seeking a return to Brazil’s top flight after three seasons away, he said, while stressing that the team must concentrate on the present.
Goiás host already-relegated Ponte Preta on Sunday at 19:15. A win would keep them in contention for the top six before their final match, away to Sport.
Sources: Globo Esporte.