EC Passo Fundo claimed a 2-1 win over Guarani RS in the Brazilian Campeonato Gaúcho 2 on 24 September 2026, using home advantage and a strong first-half display to secure three important points. The victory strengthens Passo Fundo's position in the promotion race, while Guarani RS are left to reflect on a spirited second-half comeback that fell just short.

Match Overview

At Estádio Vermelhão da Serra, Passo Fundo began with intent, pressing high and forcing Guarani into early mistakes. The home side's midfield trio controlled the tempo, switching play from side to side and creating overloads in wide areas. Guarani sat deeper in a 4-4-2, looking to spring counter-attacks through their quick forwards, but they struggled to keep possession long enough to relieve pressure.

Key Moments

• 18th minute: Passo Fundo took the lead when Anderson received the ball on the edge of the box, shifted onto his right foot and fired low into the corner.
• 39th minute: The lead doubled as Rafael met a deep cross at the back post and powered a header past the Guarani goalkeeper.
• 63rd minute: Guarani pulled one back through Léo, who latched onto a through ball and finished calmly one-on-one.
• Late pressure: Guarani pushed for an equaliser, but Passo Fundo's defence cleared several dangerous crosses to protect the win.

Tactical Story

Passo Fundo's 4-2-3-1 gave them numerical superiority in central areas, and their wide players stayed high to pin Guarani's full-backs. After taking a two-goal lead, the home side dropped slightly deeper, inviting Guarani onto them. That made for a nervous final half-hour, especially after Léo's goal, but Passo Fundo's centre-backs dealt well with the direct service that followed. Guarani's manager changed shape to a 4-3-3, and the extra forward gave them more presence in the box, yet the equaliser never arrived.

Standout Players

Anderson was the game's most influential attacker, scoring the opener and linking play intelligently. Rafael's header proved decisive, while goalkeeper Marcelo Pires made two important second-half saves. For Guarani, Léo was a constant threat on the break, and midfielder Bruno Santos grew into the game after a quiet start.

Season Impact

Three points lift EC Passo Fundo's confidence and keep them in the thick of the Campeonato Gaúcho 2 promotion conversation. The league is known for its demanding travel and physical style, so home victories are especially valuable. Guarani RS, despite the defeat, showed enough in the second half to suggest they can recover quickly. Both clubs now turn their attention to the next round, where squad depth and consistency will be tested.