Get ready for fireworks as the Copa Sul-Sudeste heats up! The third round of the 2026 tournament kicks off this Wednesday, and the schedule is packed with pure, unadulterated state rivalry. Every single match is a local derby, promising intense battles and bragging rights across Brazil's football heartland.

The action starts at 6 p.m. Brasília time with a classic from Rio Grande do Sul, as Caxias hosts Juventude at the Estádio Centenário. Just an hour later, the drama doubles: in Rio de Janeiro, Sampaio Corrêa faces Volta Redonda, while down south in Santa Catarina, the historic rivalry between Chapecoense and Avaí reignites at the Arena Condá.

As the night goes on, the derby fever continues. Minas Gerais takes center stage at 9:15 p.m. when América-MG travels to face Tombense. Simultaneously, the focus shifts to Paraná, where Cianorte and Operário will battle it out in Maringá. The round concludes on Thursday night with a São Paulo showdown, as Novorizontino welcomes São Bernardo.

For players and fans alike, these matches are more than just points; they're about local pride and passion. It's the perfect showcase of the fierce competitive spirit that defines Brazilian football, where every tackle means a little more and every goal is celebrated with extra fervor.