Brazilian Série C: Itabaiana and Ituano Share Six-Goal Thriller in 2-2 Draw

The Brazilian Série C served up a dramatic encounter on June 15, 2026, as Itabaiana (SE) and Ituano SP battled to an entertaining 2-2 draw at the Estádio Etelvino Mendonça. Both teams displayed attacking ambition throughout, resulting in a match full of twists, turns, and late drama.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, it was clear that neither side was content to settle for a cautious approach. Itabaiana, backed by a vocal home crowd, started on the front foot, pressing high and looking to exploit space behind the Ituano defense. Ituano, however, responded with quick counterattacks, making for an open and end-to-end affair. The match saw four goals, several yellow cards, and a late equalizer that left the fans on the edge of their seats.

Key Moments and Goals

The scoring began in the 21st minute when Itabaiana’s forward latched onto a through ball and calmly slotted past the Ituano goalkeeper to make it 1-0. The lead lasted only eight minutes, as Ituano equalized with a well-worked team move finished by their attacking midfielder from the edge of the box. The second half started with a bang: Itabaiana regained the lead in the 51st minute via a powerful header from a corner kick, putting the home side ahead 2-1. Ituano pushed forward relentlessly and were rewarded in the 79th minute. A defensive lapse allowed Ituano’s striker to poke home from close range after a goalmouth scramble, making it 2-2. Despite late pressure from both sides, the score remained level until the final whistle.

Tactical Story

Itabaiana’s game plan revolved around direct play and set pieces, which yielded one goal from a corner. Their midfielders worked hard to win second balls and supply the front line. Ituano, more possession-based, showed patience in build-up and exploited gaps when Itabaiana committed players forward. The match featured notable tactical shifts: Itabaiana dropped deeper after taking the lead, inviting pressure, while Ituano introduced fresh legs to stretch the defense. The equalizer came after sustained pressure, demonstrating Ituano’s resilience.

Standout Players

For Itabaiana, the goalscorer in the first half was a constant threat with his pace and movement, while the center-back who scored from the corner was dominant in aerial duels. Ituano’s midfield creator provided the assist for the first goal and was involved in many attacking moves. The visitors’ goalscorer in the second half was clinical when it mattered most, earning his team a valuable point on the road.

Table Impact

The 2-2 result keeps Itabaiana in the lower half of the Brazilian Série C standings, but the point is a boost after recent defeats. Ituano remain in the upper mid-table, continuing their push for a playoff spot. Both teams will see this as points dropped, given the number of chances created, but the match highlights the competitive nature of the league where every fixture offers unpredictable outcomes. With many games remaining, the draw keeps both in contention for their respective season goals.

Fans of Brazilian football will remember this match for its relentless action and late drama—a true reflection of the Série C’s reputation for exciting, open football.