Santa Cruz faces Floresta in decisive promotion clash for promotion

Santa Cruz welcomed Thairo Arruda, the future CEO of its Football Anonymous Society (SAF), at the final training session before the match against Floresta, amidst a period marked by investor transition and the search for funds to settle debts.

Investor Transition and Expected Investment

The Deliberative Council ratified the change of investors, approving the transfer of shares from Cobra Coral Participações S.A. to Matix Capital, which includes Thairo Arruda and Indian Paraj Tyle as shareholders. The board awaits the release of a R$6 million investment, which is expected to be used to pay overdue salaries and negotiate with creditors from the judicial recovery process.

Meeting with the Squad Before the Match

In the presence of president Bruno Rodrigues, Arruda was introduced to the squad during training at Arruda. Bruno emphasized the tireless work of the board to provide the best conditions for the team in their pursuit of promotion.

Financial Situation and Recent Payments

Last Friday, the club settled one month of overdue salaries, but still owes another month of salaries, image rights, vacation pay, and the 13th salary to players who remained from last year.

Performance in the Promotion Playoff Quadrangular

With two victories – 1-0 over Botafogo-PB and 1-0 over Maringá – Santa Cruz leads Group B with six points, level with Maringá, but trails on tie-breakers. Floresta, with three points, aims to turn the situation around after losing their opening match against Santa Cruz.

Expectations for Sunday's Clash

The derby will be played at 4 PM (Brasília time) at Arena de Pernambuco, with tickets sold out and a record attendance expected. Midfielder Ronald, Santa Cruz's key player, remains sidelined, with his return anticipated for the fourth round. Floresta, led by Leston Júnior, may stick with a 4-3-4 formation or adopt a more cautious setup with Thalison.

With information from ge, Terra, O POVO.