Paysandu Ends Nine-Game Goal Drought with 1-0 Victory Over Maranhão

Paysandu Sport Club defeated Maranhão 1‑0 at the Castelão stadium in São Luís, with the decisive goal coming in the 49th minute of the second half. The win broke a run of nine consecutive matches in which the Papão had conceded goals, marking their first clean sheet since the season opener.

The victory lifted Paysandu to 20 points and second place in Brazil's Série C. Defensive statistics had shown the team conceding 13 goals in 10 games, the most among the league’s top eight, prompting criticism of the back line. Goalkeeper Gabriel Mesquita made key saves, and forward Ítalo scored the winner after a rebound.

Players highlighted the importance of collective effort and fan support, with midfielder Pedro Henrique noting that “the group worked, we keep improving, and the fans are behind us.” The result is seen as a potential turning point for the club’s push for promotion.