Bizarre own goal seals Goiatuba’s promotion to Serie C in chaotic match
An unusual play and a troubled conclusion marked Goiatuba‘s promotion to the Brazilian Serie C. In a tense match against São José-RS that ended in a 1-1 draw at the Divino Garcia Rosa stadium, an own goal by defender Diney, following a penalty save, sealed the fate of the club from Goiás.
Promotion decided by a stroke of luck (and misfortune)
The matchup determined a spot in the third division after both teams had been eliminated in the quarterfinals of Serie D. The first leg in Porto Alegre ended in a 0-0 draw, and Goiatuba only needed a draw to secure promotion due to their superior overall record.
São José-RS took the lead with a goal by Grafite in the first half. In front of over a thousand fans, the hope for the team from Rio Grande do Sul seemed to be heading in the right direction.
Penalty, save, and own goal
In the second half, the scenario changed drastically. Daniel de Pauli stepped up to take a penalty for Goiatuba. Goalkeeper Fábio Rampi made the initial save and then stopped the rebound.
However, in an attempt to clear the ball, São José-RS defender Diney ended up putting the ball into his own net in a sequence that left everyone in disbelief.
Celebration and chaos
The goal, although an own goal, was celebrated effusively by Daniel de Pauli, who ran toward the opposing bench. His actions inflamed tempers, resulting in a general scuffle on the pitch that had to be brought under control by the players and the officiating crew.
New heights in Serie C
With the draw secured, Goiatuba celebrates its return to Serie C. The club joins other teams that have already been promoted, such as ASA, Uberlândia, ABC, and Gama.
The expansion of Serie C to 28 teams, mandated by the CBF, opened up more promotion spots, directly impacting the structure of the lower divisions of Brazilian football starting next season. The other remaining spot will be decided between CSA and Nacional-AM.
