Fortaleza handed derby boost as key star cleared to play | OneFootball

Fortaleza forward Marinho will be available for Sunday night’s Clássico Rei against Ceará after the club obtained a suspension waiver, according to Globo and Diário do Nordeste. The decision, granted by auditor Rodrigo Aiache, means Marinho is cleared to play until a new ruling is issued by the Superior Tribunal de Justiça Desportiva (STJD), with a date for that hearing still to be set.

Marinho had been handed a two-match ban after being sent off against Vasco da Gama in the ninth round of the Série A. The successful appeal offers significant relief for head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, whose side had been staring at an attacking selection crisis ahead of a derby critical to both local prestige and their league campaign.

The timing could hardly be more vital for Fortaleza, who remain winless in their past eight outings across all competitions and are looking to end a similarly long barren run in meetings with Ceará. The return of Marinho strengthens the right flank, where new signing José Herrera—from Argentinos Juniors—has also just been registered and is expected to be in the squad after his transfer was finalised for a reported $2.4 million, making him the club’s second most expensive acquisition.

With recent additions such as Herrera and forward Adam Bareiro, Vojvoda suddenly finds himself with an expanded attacking arsenal. Alongside Marinho and regular wingers Pikachu, Allanzinho, and Moisés, Fortaleza now possess increased tactical options as they desperately seek fresh impetus up front.

The sense of urgency is palpable within the squad and the fanbase. Team leaders including captain Tinga and striker Lucero have publicly called for unity this week, promising supporters total commitment on the pitch and urging them to provide vocal backing from the stands, as reported by NE45. The push for positivity comes off the back of an exit in the Copa do Nordeste and a current position in the relegation zone, with Ceará sitting five points clear ahead of Sunday’s match.

For Vojvoda, Marinho’s immediate eligibility eases at least one selection headache as he prepares his attack for the derby’s 20:30 kick-off at Castelão. The situation remains uncertain pending the outcome of the looming STJD review, but for now, Fortaleza will have one of their primary forwards available as they bid to arrest their slide and reignite their league campaign in one of Brazilian football’s fiercest rivalries.