Santa Cruz targets higher divisions after sub‑20 blowout and veteran striker Tiago Marques leads Serie C push

The Santa Cruz under‑20 side closed the first phase of the Acre State Championship unbeaten, defeating Vasco 18‑0 in the final group match. Coach Pedro Balu praised the team’s performance and said the focus now shifts to the semifinals.

In the senior team’s Serie C campaign, 38‑year‑old striker Tiago Marques joined Santa Cruz as a key goal‑scoring hope. Marques, who has played for several Brazilian clubs, said he wants to help the club return to higher divisions. Santa Cruz sits ninth in the 20‑team table with 15 points after 11 rounds, chasing a top‑eight spot that secures access to the promotion playoffs.