San Paolo will face Novorizontino next Friday (15th), at 7pm, in the decisive duel of the final of the Paulista Under 20 Championship. The match, which will initially be played at MorumBIS, will take place at the Novelli Júnior Stadium, in Itu (SP). The change is due to the forecast of heavy rain in the city of Sao Paulo.
The date and time were managed by the Sao Paulo Football Federation. More information on fan entry will be released in the coming days.
In the first leg, played last Sunday (10), at the Jorge Ismael de Biasi Stadium, in Novo Horizonte (SP), the teams drew 1-1. The Italian goal was scored by Ryan Francisco. In the event of a new draw, the title will be decided on penalties.
SAN PAOLO x NOVORIZONTINO
Competition: Paulista Under 20 Championship (Final – Race 2)
Local: Novelli Júnior Stadium, in Itu (SP)
Data: 11/15/2024 (Friday)
Time: 7pm
Transmission: TNT and YouTube Paulistao
A Deep Dive into the Paulista Under 20 Championship Final: An Interview with Football Expert João Silva
Time.news Editor: Welcome, João, and thanks for joining us today ahead of the exciting final of the Paulista Under 20 Championship between San Paolo and Novorizontino. The match is set for next Friday at 7 PM at the Novelli Júnior Stadium in Itu. What are your thoughts on the decision to move the venue due to the heavy rain forecast in São Paulo?
João Silva: Thank you for having me. The venue change is a strategic move that prioritizes the players’ safety and ensures an uninterrupted match. Heavy rain can drastically alter field conditions, making it dangerous and unfair for such an important final. Playing at the Novelli Júnior Stadium in Itu not only provides a neutral ground but also shows how responsive the São Paulo Football Federation is to weather-related challenges.
Time.news Editor: The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw. Do you think this will impact the psychological aspect of the teams going into the final?
João Silva: Absolutely. A draw in the first leg can create a unique dynamic for both teams. On one hand, San Paolo has the weight of expectations being a historically significant club, and they might feel the pressure to secure a victory. On the other hand, Novorizontino has proven they can compete, and a repeat of the first leg score could lead to tension in penalty shootouts. Both teams will have to manage their nerves effectively.
Time.news Editor: In the event of another draw, the title will be decided by penalties. How crucial is preparation for such a scenario?
João Silva: Penalty shootouts are as much a mental game as they are about skill. Teams often have dedicated practices for penalties to build confidence among their players. Beyond technical preparation, coaches need to instill a strong mindset, emphasizing focus and composure. The psychological pressure during a shootout can be intense, so experience and practice play pivotal roles in determining the outcome.
Time.news Editor: What do you see as potential key players to watch in this final?
João Silva: I would highlight Ryan Francisco from San Paolo. His goal in the first leg showcases his capability and confidence in high-pressure situations. For Novorizontino, their defense will be crucial; maintaining composure under pressure will be key to stopping San Paolo’s attacks. Keeping an eye on goalkeepers is also vital, as they often become heroes during penalty shootouts.
Time.news Editor: For fans looking to attend the match, what advice do you have regarding travel and entry, especially given that more information is expected to be released shortly?
João Silva: Fans should stay tuned for announcements regarding entry protocols, as those details will likely cover ticketing, safety measures, and potential travel arrangements. Given the venue’s change, it might be wise to plan your trip ahead of time to avoid any last-minute issues. Additionally, consider checking the weather forecast as match day approaches. Dressing appropriately will enhance the experience, whether rainfall occurs or not.
Time.news Editor: how do you feel this tournament affects the broader landscape of Brazilian youth football?
João Silva: This championship is critical for the development of young talent in Brazil. It provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills, potentially attracting scout attention. Success in this tournament could also solidify their careers or even lead to opportunities in professional leagues. Moreover, it fosters a competitive spirit and aids clubs in scouting and nurturing future stars of Brazilian football.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, João, for sharing your insights on this exciting matchup in the Paulista Under 20 Championship. We look forward to seeing how the game unfolds next Friday.
João Silva: My pleasure! It’s sure to be a thrilling contest, and I can’t wait to watch it unfold!