Nova Iguaçu and Boavista take leads in Copa Rio semifinals

In the first leg of the Copa Rio semifinals, Nova Iguaçu secured a 2-0 victory over Sampaio Corrêa at the Jânio Moraes stadium. Goals from Bill and Leo Muchacho gave Nova Iguaçu a significant advantage heading into the second leg, scheduled for September 2 at the Lourival Gomes stadium. To advance, Sampaio Corrêa must win by three goals, while a two-goal victory for Nova Iguaçu would result in a penalty shootout.

In the other semifinal matchup, Boavista defeated Madureira 2-0 at the Elcyr Resende stadium. Goals by Fialho and Felipinho put Boavista in a strong position for the return leg on September 2. Madureira requires a three-goal margin to progress, while a two-goal win for Boavista will lead to a penalty shootout.