Rio Branco wins first Copa Espírito Santo, secures Série D berth

Rio Branco Futebol Clube (Venda Nova) captured its inaugural Copa Espírito Santo title after a 1‑0 victory over Vitória‑ES in the single‑match final at Kleber Andrade stadium. The decisive goal came in the 33rd minute of second‑half stoppage time when Patrick Carvalho converted a bicycle‑kick from a Jorge Mendes cross.

The triumph awards Rio Branco R$ 100 000 and a place in the 2027 Série D of the national league, while the runners‑up receive R$ 50 000 and a slot in the Copa Verde or a South‑Southeast competition, depending on CBF allocation. The win coincides with the club’s 81st anniversary and follows earlier honours, including the 1993 Série B Capixaba and the 2020 Campeonato Capixaba. The victory also secures Rio Branco’s participation in the national tournament despite its recent relegation in the state league, with a return to the state championship slated for early 2027.