Botafogo and Bangu Set to Clash in Carioca Série A Final

Rio de Janeiro will host the final match of the Taça Rio between Botafogo and Bangu on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Nilton Santos Stadium. The game will be broadcast exclusively on the Premiere channel Sofascore.

Competition Format and Stakes

The final will be decided in a single match. In the event of a tie after 90 minutes, the championship will be determined by a penalty shootout Sofascore.

The Taça Rio title carries significant weight, granting the winner a coveted spot in the 2027 South-Southeast Cup – a competition excluding teams from Brazil’s Série A with existing qualifications for international tournaments. The champion will secure a place in the 2017 Copa do Brasil, where all Série A clubs automatically qualify for the fifth phase.

Historical Context

Botafogo stands as one of the most successful clubs in the Rio Cup, tied with Flamengo for second place with nine titles, trailing only Vasco da Gama’s eleven championships. Bangu, meanwhile, aims to secure its second Rio Cup title, having last won in 1987 Sofascore.

Recent Form

Botafogo defeated Bangu 2-0 on January 25, 2026, in a Carioca Série A – Taça Guanabara match at Estádio Nilton Santos. Santiago Rodríguez scored in the 55th minute and Alex Telles added a penalty in the 75th minute to secure the victory Sofascore, ESPN.

As of January 25, 2026, Botafogo held the 1st position in the Carioca Série A standings, while Bangu was in 4th place Sofascore.