Santa Cruz Prepares for Campeonato Pernambucano Debut Against Decisão Amid Key Absences
Santa Cruz aims for a strong start in the Campeonato Pernambucano on January 14 against Decisão, despite injuries to key players.
- • Santa Cruz's Campeonato Pernambucano 2026 debut is on January 14 against Decisão at Arena Pernambuco.
- • Coach Marcelo Cabo focuses on leveraging preseason-established team cohesion and consistency.
- • Key players Ianson, Alex Ruan, and Ariel are sidelined due to injuries.
- • The probable Santa Cruz lineup includes Rokenedy, William Alves, Renato, and Robinho.
Key details
Santa Cruz is set to kick off its 2026 Campeonato Pernambucano campaign on Sunday, January 14, facing Decisão at 18:00 in the Arena Pernambuco, São Lourenço da Mata. Under coach Marcelo Cabo, the team is emphasizing a solid foundation built during preseason to ensure cohesion and consistency from the start. However, notable absences due to injuries could challenge the squad's lineup. Defender Ianson, sidelined with a right thigh injury sustained in a recent friendly against Defensa y Justicia, will miss the match. Additionally, lateral Alex Ruan and forward Ariel will not participate as they recover from their injuries. In response, William Alves is expected to replace Ianson in defense. The probable starting lineup for Santa Cruz comprises goalkeeper Rokenedy; defenders Pedro Costa, William Alves, Eurico, and Rodrigues; midfielders Wagner Balotelli, Andrey, and Patrick Allan; and forwards Renato, Robinho, and Quirino. Coach Marcelo Cabo’s strategy revolves around maintaining a consistent core from preseason training to navigate these absences. The match promises to be a significant opening test for Santa Cruz as they aim to build momentum in the championship.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
