Fortaleza and Santos Clash in Crucial Brasileiro Showdown

Fortaleza, Brazil – On Thursday, June 12, 2025, Fortaleza will host Santos in a critical Brasileiro match at Estadio Governador Placido Aderaldo Castelo. Both teams are struggling to avoid relegation, making this a must-win for each.

Fortaleza, currently sitting 17th in the table with 10 points, has faced a challenging start to the season. The team comes into this match after suffering five consecutive losses, including a recent 5-0 defeat to Flamengo. Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda‘s squad hopes to turn their fortunes around at home, where they have performed slightly better than on the road.

“We need to seize this opportunity,” Vojvoda said. “Every match is crucial for us, especially at home.” However, the hosts will be without key midfielder Matheus Jussa, who is suspended.

Santos, struggling even more at 18th place with just eight points, is hoping to build on their lone road victory earlier in the season. Coach Cleber Xavier is aware that another loss might push them closer to the bottom of the table.

“We need to play aggressively and take our chances,” Xavier stated. The absence of star forward Neymar, who is sidelined with a COVID-19 diagnosis and a previous red card suspension, adds to the pressure on Santos.

Both teams will field their best available players, with Fortaleza aiming to secure a vital three points that could lift them out of the relegation zone, while Santos seeks to avoid their eighth defeat of the season. The matchup is shaping up to be a defining moment for the season for both clubs.