Alex Meschini Co-Commentates Portuguesa v Paysandu on Premiere: Where to Watch Copa do Brasil Clash at 00:30 UK Time

Match date: 18 March 2026

Alex Meschini Co-Commentates Portuguesa v Paysandu on Premiere: Where to Watch Copa do Brasil Clash at 00:30 UK Time

Football fans in the UK tuning in late on Thursday, 18 March 2026, can catch the thrilling fourth-round Copa do Brasil showdown between Portuguesa and Paysandu kicking off at 00:30 UK time. While British channels like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports or TNT Sports aren't broadcasting this South American gem, Brazilian viewers and international audiences with access will enjoy the action live on Premiere and SporTV Brazil HD, with experienced co-commentator Alex Meschini providing expert insights from the Estádio do Canindé in São Paulo[3][4].

This single-leg knockout tie promises high stakes, with the winners pocketing a lucrative prize pot and advancing deeper into Brazil's prestigious cup competition. Portuguesa, the storied São Paulo club known as Lusa, host the match after a gritty penalty shootout victory over Avaí in the previous round, marking their best run in the Copa do Brasil since 2012 when they reached the last 16 before falling to Bahia[2][3]. The team has already banked around R$2.85 million in prizemoney from earlier phases, fuelling ambitions for more. New signings like midfielder Felipe Tontini and volante Thiaguinho could make their debuts, adding fresh dynamism despite absences such as Zé Vitor and possibly Caio Roque[2][4]. Expected line-up: Bertinato; João Vitor, Gustavo Henrique, Biazus, Salomão; Hudson, Portuga, Denis; Maceió, Renê, Igor Torres[4].

Visitors Paysandu, affectionately called Papão, arrive in confident mood after a 3-1 demolition of Portuguesa-RJ in the third round at Estádio Banpará Curuzu, where 8,154 fans witnessed goals that showcased their attacking flair[1]. Under coach Júnior Rocha, who's been at the helm for three months, they've won the Campeonato Paraense against rivals Remo and boast six straight unbeaten games, with seven wins in 11 matches overall[2]. Key players like Gabriel Mesquita in goal, forwards Kleiton Pego and Ítalo, plus returns for Bonifazi and Quintana, bolster their squad. Likely XI: Gabriel Mesquita; Edilson, Castro, Quintana (or Iarley), Bonifazi; Pedro Henrique, Caio Mello, Marcinho; Kauã Hinkel, Kleiton Pego, Ítalo Carvalho[1][4].

Adding colour to the Premiere coverage is co-commentator Alex Meschini, a former professional footballer whose career highlights make him a compelling voice for this clash. Meschini, who played as a midfielder, had a distinguished stint with Corinthians, winning multiple titles including the Brasileirão and Copa do Brasil, before moves to clubs like Avaí and stints abroad. His post-playing career has seen him transition seamlessly into punditry and co-commentary, offering tactical breakdowns drawn from years of top-level experience. UK fans seeking Brazilian football fixes often turn to streaming services or VPNs to access channels like Premiere, though official broadcasters remain the best bet for quality feeds[3][5].

The Estádio do Canindé, Portuguesa's historic home since 1963, will pulse with energy as Lusa leverage home advantage against Paysandu's counter-attacking threat. Recent form suggests a tight contest: Portuguesa thrashed Altos-PI 5-1 before their penalty heroics, while Paysandu's organised play under Rocha exploits spaces effectively[5]. With millionaire prizemoney on the line, expect intensity from the first whistle at 21:30 Brasília time (00:30 UK).

For British supporters passionate about global football, this Copa do Brasil encounter exemplifies the tournament's magic—underdogs challenging giants in knockout drama. Paysandu's Pará state pride clashes with Paulistas' resilience, echoing Brazil's diverse football culture. Learn more about Portuguesa's rich history via their official Wikipedia page, detailing century-old rivalries and iconic moments.

Don't miss Meschini's expert analysis on SporTV Brazil HD or Premiere as these sides battle for glory. Whether streaming from the UK or catching highlights later, this midnight kick-off delivers pure Brazilian passion straight to your screen.

Article generated: 18 March 2026, 00:31 GMT