Athletic Club suffered a 0-2 defeat at home to a confident Grêmio Novorizontino side in the Brazilian Serie B on Sunday, May 18, 2025. Novorizontino's comfortable away victory showcased their effectiveness on the counter-attack and dealt a blow to Athletic's home form. The visitors took control early, scoring a first-half goal to put Athletic on the back foot. Any hopes of a home comeback were extinguished in the second period when Novorizontino doubled their lead with a clinical finish, sealing the match. Athletic struggled to break down a well-organized defense, with their attacks often fizzling out before testing the away goalkeeper. The result solidified Novorizontino's position in the upper reaches of the league table, while Athletic was left to analyze a disappointing performance in front of their own fans. The Novorizontino manager praised his team's tactical execution, and the Athletic coach acknowledged the need for greater creativity. Both teams fielded attacking lineups, but it was the visitors who proved more efficient.