Criciúma stun Ponte Preta with late away victory

Ponte Preta hosted Criciúma on Tuesday evening in what proved to be a tightly contested Brasileirão Serie B clash. The home side started with clear intent to control proceedings, but it was the visitors who struck first with clinical efficiency. The atmosphere at the stadium reflected the intensity of the competition, with both sets of supporters creating a vibrant backdrop for the encounter.

Matheus Hermes opened the scoring for Criciúma in the 12th minute, giving the away side an early advantage that caught Ponte Preta slightly off guard. Ponte Preta's L. Cunha picked up a yellow card just six minutes later as frustrations began to mount. The home side gradually worked their way back into the match and finally found their equaliser through Baianinho in the 62nd minute, levelling the score at 1-1 and bringing renewed energy to the stadium.

The closing stages proved decisive in Criciúma's favour. As the match entered the final stretch, both teams became increasingly stretched. D. Barcelos was cautioned for Ponte Preta in the 71st minute as the hosts attempted to build momentum, and W. Lepo received a yellow for Criciúma in the 88th minute as tensions rose. Matheus Hermes then struck again in the 90th minute to restore Criciúma's advantage, securing a 1-2 victory with the match heading into six minutes of added time.

This was a significant away win for Criciúma, who showed composure and clinical finishing when it mattered most. Ponte Preta will rue their inability to convert their home advantage into points, especially after fighting back to level the score. The result leaves Criciúma in a strong position as the season progresses, while Ponte Preta must regroup and look to bounce back in their next fixture.