Fortaleza leaders break silence ahead of derby decider | OneFootball

Fortaleza’s preparations for Sunday’s Clássico Rei against Ceará have taken on a more urgent tone, as several senior players issued rallying messages to supporters following a difficult run of results, according to NE45. The derby, crucial for both bragging rights and league survival, comes with the club still reeling from recent setbacks and sitting five points behind their city rivals in the Brasileirão standings.

The squad’s leaders took to social media on Thursday to address fans, seeking unity and signalling determination to reverse their fortunes on the pitch. Captain Tinga addressed the “Tricolor Nation” with a promise that the side would give everything in pursuit of a result, stating, "We’ll be giving our all on the pitch while you support us from the stands. Let’s go together!"

Goalkeeper João Ricardo—whose mistake proved costly in their recent Copa do Nordeste quarter-final exit to Bahia—publicly acknowledged the error but maintained optimism about the team’s ability to recover. His sentiment was echoed by striker Lucero, who insisted that Fortaleza’s fortunes would soon turn.

In addition to the trio, figures such as Lucas Sasha, Breno Lopes, and Benjamín Kuscevic also voiced support for the team and fans, highlighting the collective resolve within the dressing room. The messages appeared almost simultaneously, reflecting a coordinated effort to rally the club and its supporters ahead of a pivotal fixture.

The timing is significant. A win not only narrows the gap to Ceará, but could also lift Fortaleza out of the relegation zone, restoring confidence in a group that has recently struggled for consistency. Complicating matters, the team will be without Marinho, suspended for the derby after his red card against Vasco da Gama. The club has appealed to overturn the ban, but as it stands, manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda will be forced to adjust his attacking line-up—a task made weightier by recent stumbles in both league and cup competitions.

Despite these challenges, there is a sense of urgency and togetherness in the camp, evident in the coordinated messages and ongoing efforts to boost morale. With the stakes of the derby extending well beyond local rivalry, the match represents a key opportunity for players and coaching staff to galvanise the season and reconnect with a fanbase eager for a change in fortunes.

All eyes now turn to the Arena Castelão for Sunday’s late kick-off, as Fortaleza seek to convert their words into action and begin the climb up the league table.