Criciúma secured a comfortable 2-0 home victory over Grêmio Novorizontino in the Brazilian Serie B on August 23, 2025. The win at Heriberto Hülse Stadium was a crucial one for Criciúma's promotion hopes, earned through a dominant second-half display. The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams probing but creating few clear chances. The match turned after the interval when Criciúma broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal following a sustained period of pressure. The home side doubled their lead shortly afterwards, capitalizing on a defensive error to take full control of the contest. Novorizontino struggled to mount a meaningful response, with Criciúma's midfield controlling the tempo and their defense snuffing out any potential threats. The three points lifted Criciúma into a strong position in the upper reaches of the Serie B table, marking them as a serious contender for a return to the top flight.