Pernambuco court orders single-fan attendance for Santa Cruz vs. Botafogo-PB

The Judiciary of Pernambuco has ordered that the upcoming Série C match between Santa Cruz and Botafogo-PB, scheduled for Sunday, September 6, at the Arena de Pernambuco, be played with only home fans present.

The decision, issued by Judge Flávio Augusto Fontes de Lima following a request by the Public Ministry of Pernambuco (MPPE), prohibits the sale of tickets to and the access of visiting supporters to the stadium and its surroundings. The ruling aims to prevent the use of any symbols or flags identifying the visiting team.

Authorities cited a history of intense rivalry and intelligence reports classifying the match as high-risk. Additionally, the MPPE noted that the available military police force would be insufficient to ensure public safety for both fanbases simultaneously, particularly given the upcoming long holiday weekend.