Paysandu defeats Maranhão with late Ítalo goal, climbs to Serie C vice‑leadership

On June 20, 2026, Paysandu hosted Maranhão at the Castelão stadium in São Luís. The match ended 1–0 after striker Ítalo scored in added time of the second half (48‑49 minutes), securing three points for the visitors.

The victory raised Paysandu to 20 points, moving them into second place in Brazil's Serie C, just behind leader Guarani. Maranhão remained on 13 points in 16th place, extending their winless run to five games.

Ítalo later explained his exuberant celebration as a spontaneous “desabafo” of relief, insisting it was not directed at the fans. Coach Júnior Rocha praised the team's renewed intensity and the supporters’ role in the win. The result also shifted the dynamics of the promotion race, with Paysandu now positioned as a serious contender for advancement to Serie B.