Fluminense Face Must-Win Copa do Brasil Battle Against In-Form Bahia at Maracanã

High Stakes at the Maracanã

Bahia are on the verge of making club history as they aim to reach the Copa do Brasil semi-finals for the first time. They enter the match with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, maintaining their perfect home record in the competition this year.

For Fluminense, the situation is critical as they need a victory to have any chance of progressing to their first Copa do Brasil semi-finals since 2015. Their recent form has been concerning, with no wins in their previous three competitive fixtures and no goals scored in their last two matches.

Team Form and Standings

Bahia enter this crucial match in excellent form, having recently secured their fifth Copa de Nordeste title. Their 2025 campaign has been impressive overall, currently holding fourth place in the Brasileiro Serie A with 36 points, and they’ve won six of their last seven matches across all competitions.

Under Rogério Ceni’s guidance, Bahia have been performing confidently in both cup and league competitions. In contrast, Fluminense are currently ninth in the league and enter this match in less than ideal form.

Team News and Injuries

Fluminense will be without Samuel Xavier, who was forced off after just 12 minutes in the first leg due to a thigh problem. Bahia have their own injury concerns, with Gilberto, Michel Araujo, Caio Alexandre, and Ademir all sidelined.

Historical Context

The head-to-head record between these teams is closely balanced, with Fluminense winning 11 matches, Bahia 8, and 8 draws from their previous 27 encounters. Their matches at the Maracanã typically produce low-scoring affairs, with eight of their last nine meetings at this venue seeing fewer than 2.5 goals.

Given Fluminense’s current cautious approach and the crucial nature of the result for Bahia, another tense and closely fought match is anticipated at the Maracanã.