The Copa do Brasil 2026, a tournament marked by a record number of participants, has significantly intensified, with only 44 teams now remaining in contention for the prestigious title. Out of the initial 126 clubs that qualified for the competition, a staggering 82 have already faced elimination, underscoring the fierce competitive nature of this year’s edition.
This past Thursday, March 12, 2025, saw the conclusion of the third phase, leaving 24 resilient clubs to advance. These teams are now preparing for the critical fourth phase, which promises high-stakes action and pivotal moments for clubs across various divisions.
Scheduled for next week, between March 18 and 19, 2025, these 24 clubs will engage in 12 intense, single-game matchups. The exact dates and kickoff times for each specific fixture are still awaiting official announcement, building anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling round of football.
This upcoming stage is particularly significant as it represents the final hurdle before the top-tier Série A teams make their grand entrance. For the remaining clubs, securing a victory in this single-elimination round is paramount for their aspirations in the tournament.
The path to glory: a record-setting tournament
The 2026 edition of the Copa do Brasil began with an unprecedented number of clubs, reflecting the tournament’s growing stature and allure across the nation. This expansive initial pool has gradually been whittled down through a series of demanding knockout rounds, each phase raising the stakes and separating the contenders from the aspiring.
With 82 teams already eliminated, the pressure mounts on the remaining 44. Every match becomes a final, where strategy, resilience, and a touch of luck will determine who progresses. The dream of lifting the coveted trophy, and the financial rewards that accompany it, fuels every squad still in the running.
Fourth phase matchups set for crucial week
The football calendar will highlight the critical matches of the Copa do Brasil’s fourth phase, taking place between March 18 and 19, 2025. Fans are eagerly awaiting the specific fixture details, which promise to deliver electrifying contests across various stadiums.
Each of the 12 confrontations in this round will be played as a single-game knockout, meaning there is no room for error. Teams must perform at their absolute best, as a draw will likely lead to a penalty shootout, adding another layer of drama to the proceedings.
The intensity of these single-elimination battles amplifies the importance of every tackle, pass, and shot on goal. For many of these clubs, advancing means not only a step closer to the title but also significant exposure and financial gain.
Ultimately, only 12 victorious teams will emerge from this demanding phase, earning their right to continue their journey in one of Brazil’s most prestigious football competitions.
Série A teams await in the fifth round
Under a revised format, Brazil’s elite Série A clubs are set to make their debut in the Copa do Brasil during the fifth phase, which marks the last stage before the round of 16. This structure ensures that the teams from lower divisions have a clearer path to prove their mettle and compete for a spot among the football giants.
The 12 clubs that successfully navigate the current fourth phase will join the 20 teams from the Brasileirão Série A. This integration sets the stage for high-profile encounters where David might challenge Goliath, offering thrilling narratives for football enthusiasts. For the non-Série A teams, reaching this stage is not just about advancing; it’s a golden opportunity to measure themselves against the best and potentially create upsets that capture national attention.
Diverse club landscape in the contention
The 24 clubs currently vying for a spot in the fifth phase represent a diverse cross-section of Brazilian football. Fourteen of these teams hail from Série B, bringing a strong level of professional experience and competitive edge to the matchups.
The remaining ten clubs are divided among Série C and Série D, showcasing the depth and widespread talent within Brazil’s lower divisions. This mix ensures that the fourth phase will feature a compelling blend of seasoned contenders and ambitious underdogs, each fighting to make their mark on the national stage.
Key clashes to watch in the single-elimination battles
The upcoming single-game matchups promise to be filled with tension and excitement, as every team knows that a single mistake could spell the end of their Copa do Brasil campaign. Fans can expect highly tactical battles and moments of individual brilliance, characteristic of knockout football.
Several games pit teams from different divisions against each other, creating classic underdog scenarios where lower-ranked teams can challenge more established opponents. These encounters are often where the magic of the Copa do Brasil truly shines, producing memorable moments and unexpected results.
The pressure will be immense, with clubs battling not just for victory but also for the prestige and financial rewards that come with advancing further in such a celebrated tournament.
Full schedule of 4th round contests
The following matchups are confirmed for the highly anticipated fourth phase of the Copa do Brasil 2026, setting the stage for an enthralling week of football:
- Portuguesa x Paysandu
- São Bernardo x Ceará
- Atlético-GO x Ponte Preta
- Maringá x Goiás
- Nova Iguaçu x Fortaleza
- Sport x Athletic-MG
- Volta Redonda x Barra-SC
- Vila Nova x Confiança-SE
- Jacuipense x Novorizontino
- Londrina x Operário-PR
- Juventude x Águia de Marabá
- CRB x Figueirense
Tournament’s progression and ultimate prize
Beyond the immediate challenge of the fourth phase, the Copa do Brasil offers a clear pathway to significant achievements, including a spot in the prestigious Copa Libertadores for its champion. The tournament’s structure is designed to reward consistent performance, leading teams through the round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and eventually, the grand final. Each step not only brings clubs closer to national glory but also provides substantial financial incentives, making every victory a monumental step for the participating clubs and their respective communities.
