Ponte Preta 1-2 Criciúma: Visitors Snatch Three Points in Brazilian Serie B Thriller

Criciúma came from behind to defeat Ponte Preta 2-1 at Estádio Moisés Lucarelli on July 9, 2026, in a Brazilian Serie B clash that had everything: early drama, a stunning equalizer, and a late winner. The result keeps Criciúma's promotion hopes alive while putting pressure on Ponte Preta's inconsistent campaign.

First-Half Action

Ponte Preta started brightly, taking the lead in the 15th minute. A neat passing move ended with midfielder Rafael Oliveira slotting home from close range after a cross from the left. The home crowd roared, but Criciúma responded well, dictating possession for the remainder of the half without creating clear chances.

Second Half Comeback

Criciúma came out with renewed energy after the break. Their equalizer came in the 58th minute through forward Lucas Mendes, who controlled a long ball on his chest before volleying past Ponte goalkeeper Alessandro. The goal stunned the home side, and Criciúma continued to push forward.

Winning Goal

The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute. A corner kick was only partially cleared, and Criciúma's defensive midfielder Felipe Santos arrived late to smash a half-volley into the bottom corner. Ponte Preta's appeals for a foul in the build-up were waved away by the referee.

Key Statistics

• Possession: Ponte Preta 45% - 55% Criciúma
• Shots on target: Ponte Preta 4 - 6 Criciúma
• Yellow cards: Ponte Preta 3 - 2 Criciúma

Manager Reaction

Criciúma head coach Marcio Santos praised his team's resilience: "We knew Ponte would be tough at home, but we showed character. The second half was our best of the season." Ponte Preta's manager, Eduardo Silva, lamented missed chances: "We had control after the goal, but we dropped too deep and paid the price."

Table Impact

The win lifts Criciúma into fifth place, firmly in the promotion playoff spots. Ponte Preta stay 12th, five points adrift of the top four, and their inconsistent form is a growing concern.

Lineups:
Ponte Preta: Alessandro (GK); David, Luan, Bruno, Carlos; João, Rafael Oliveira (c), Matheus; Gabriel, Pedro, Lucas.
Criciúma: Gustavo (GK); Mateus, Luan, Wanderson, Guilherme; Felipe Santos, Diego, Lucas Mendes; Alex, Ruan, Vitor (c).