Campeonato Sul-Mato-Grossense 2026 Kicks Off with Government Backing and Operário Victory
The 2026 Campeonato Sul-Mato-Grossense launched with government support, opening with Operário's 3-0 win over Pantanal, highlighting a revitalized state football scene.
- • The FFMS launched the 2026 Campeonato Sul-Mato-Grossense with backing from the Mato Grosso do Sul government.
- • Operário defeated Pantanal 3-0 in the tournament's opening match at Estádio Jacques da Luz.
- • The tournament features ten teams and offers prize money of R$70,000 for the champion and R$30,000 for the runner-up.
- • The competition is part of a broader effort to revitalize football and attract fans in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Key details
The 48th edition of the Campeonato Sul-Mato-Grossense Série A officially launched on January 18, 2026, marking a revitalized phase for football in Mato Grosso do Sul with strong support from the state government. The Mato Grosso do Sul Football Federation (FFMS), backed by the Secretariat of State for Tourism, Sports and Culture, aims to enhance the sport's spectacle and reach in the region through this tournament featuring ten teams, including heavyweight clubs Operário and Pantanal.
The opening match took place on Sunday at Estádio Jacques da Luz in Campo Grande, where Operário secured a commanding 3-0 win over Pantanal. Jonas opened the scoring with a long-range shot in the 27th minute, followed by Luizinho’s penalty in the 37th minute after Pantanal was reduced to ten men due to João Lucas’ early red card. Pantanal missed a penalty chance at the 33rd minute, with goalkeeper Lucas Covolan making a crucial save. Léo Fenga sealed the victory with a third goal in stoppage time. The match attracted 1,579 spectators and generated nearly R$29,000 in revenue.
FFMS President Estevão Petrallas emphasized 2026 as a year for consolidating the ongoing transformation in state football which began in 2025, organizing 600 games and engaging thousands of athletes. Secretary Marcelo Miranda praised the federation and clubs for reorganizing football and assured continued governmental support, including upgrades at the Morenão stadium.
The championship follows a single round-robin format leading to final rounds concluding in late March. Besides crowning the state champion—who will receive R$70,000 (the runner-up gets R$30,000)—the tournament serves as a vital pathway for clubs to national competitions, increasing its strategic importance.
Additionally, campaign activities promoting animal protection and responsible pet adoption will be integrated during matches, reflecting a broader social commitment spearheaded by local organizations.
The official first round continues on Saturday, with Operário facing Corumbaense and Pantanal hosting Águia Negra, as the championship looks to build momentum in this promising season.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
