Anápolis FC Dominates Rio Branco-ES in Copa Verde First Round

The Copa Verde kicked off its 2026 edition with a commanding performance from Anápolis FC, who swept aside Rio Branco-ES 3-0 at the Estádio Jonas Duarte on May 22. The home side’s clinical finishing and solid defensive display ensured a comfortable victory in the regional knockout competition, which brings together clubs from the North, Northeast, and Center-West of Brazil.

Match Overview

Played under clear skies at 7:00 AM local time – an early start to accommodate broadcast schedules – the match saw Anápolis take control from the opening whistle. Rio Branco-ES, representing the state of Espírito Santo, struggled to cope with the intense pressing and quick passing of the Galo da Comarca. The final scoreline of 3-0 reflected a dominant performance that gave Anápolis a strong advantage in the two-legged tie.

Key Moments

• 14th minute – Anápolis opened the scoring when a corner kick was headed home by center-back Luis Fernando, giving the home faithful an early reason to cheer.
• 33rd minute – A swift counterattack doubled the lead. Forward João Pedro latched onto a through ball and slotted past the Rio Branco goalkeeper with composure.
• 62nd minute – The result was sealed when winger Marcos Vinícius curled a free kick over the wall and into the top corner, leaving the away keeper with no chance.

Standout Performers

Anápolis’s midfield duo of Felipe Alves and Diego Souza controlled the tempo throughout, winning aerial duels and distributing passes with accuracy. At the back, goalkeeper Rafael Martins made two comfortable saves to preserve his clean sheet. For Rio Branco-ES, striker Lucas Oliveira worked hard but lacked service, while defender Thiago Santos made several last-ditch interventions to prevent an even heavier defeat.

Tournament Context

The Copa Verde offers a path to the Copa do Brasil for its champion, making this tie highly significant for both clubs. Anápolis, a traditional side from Goiás, has a proud history in regional competitions and will hope to advance deep into the tournament. Rio Branco-ES, meanwhile, faces an uphill battle in the second leg, needing to overturn a three-goal deficit at their home ground in Vitória.

With this result, Anápolis takes a giant step toward the next round, while Rio Branco must regroup quickly. The return leg is scheduled for early June, and the Capixabas will need a near-perfect performance to keep their dream alive.