Igor’s brace helps Sampaio Correa into Sunday’s showpiece match-up.
Sampaio Correa will contest the Campeonato Braseileiro de Clubes final on Sunday after picking up their second group-stage victory of the competition against Sport Recife on matchday two.
In the battle of the North Eastern clubs, Sampaio ran out 7-3 winners to ensure their place in the final thanks to a brace from Igor as well as further efforts from Andrezinho, Franklin, Datinha, André Bigode and Eudim.
Sampaio were 4-2 victors against Rio Branco on the opening day in Santos to claim an early advantage in Group B and followed that up with a dominant display on Friday, with either Fluminense or Vasco da Gama their opponents in the final.
Sampaio goalkeeper Leandro Fanta said afterwards: “We should all be congratulated, as we played a great game and we won against a very good team, who, although young, have quality and also produced a great performance.
“I’m happy to see north-eastern beach soccer at this level and especially for the kids who are gaining experience. Our first goal has now been achieved, by reaching the final, now what remains is to be focused on our fight for the title.”
While Vasco made it two wins from two with an 8-7 success against Avai, Fluminense were beaten 3-2 by Botafogo and will require a win to stand any chance of leapfrogging their Group A rivals and keeping alive their title hopes.
Friday’s other contest saw Rio Branco go up against Gremio, with the former running out 6-2 winners on Gonzaga Beach – Pampero scoring twice along with Leo Brasserosse, Sonaldo, Tandley and Diogo.
Image via Marcello Zambrana
Friday results
Rio Branco 6-2 Gremio
Avai 7-8 Vasco da Gama
Sampaio Correa 7-3 Sport Recife
Botafogo 3-2 Fluminense
Saturday fixtures (local time)
Sport Recife v Rio Branco 9.15
Sampaio Correa v Gremio 10.30
Botafogo v Avai 11.45
Vasco da Gama v Fluminense 13.00
