Brazil. Amazonasense. Serie B
The Campeonato Amazonense Serie B is the second tier of Amazonas state's football championship in Brazil, featuring teams from Manaus and surrounding areas battling for promotion to the top regional division. It showcases passionate Amazonian football with a focus on emerging local talents on a semi-professional stage.
History and foundation
Launched in the early 2000s amid rising football fervor in Amazonas, the Serie B debuted in 2003 with Fast Clube claiming the inaugural title and ascending to Serie A. Memorable moments include intense Manaus derbies and the 2015 scandal when two clubs were expelled over financial woes. The 2020 pandemic shortened the season, but 2022 saw a revival highlighted by São Raimundo's return from Serie A.
Tournament format
The format pits 8-10 teams in a single round-robin with home-and-away fixtures. The winner earns direct promotion to Serie A, while 2nd-4th places contest playoffs for the second spot. The regular season spans 3-4 months, with weekend games at venues like Ismael Benigno or Vivaldão stadiums.
Interesting facts
Matches average 2.8 goals, driven by attacking flair and defensive frailties. Top scorers include Marcinho (Fast Clube, 18 goals in 2018) and Gilberto (Holanda, 15 in 2021). Standout players: midfielder Rafael Ribeiro from Manauara, now in Serie C, and forward Diogo Cruz, a Nacional-AM icon. The league nurtures speedsters like winger Leandro from Rio Negro.