Figueirense defeats Santa Cruz 1-0 in Serie C clash

On 25 July 2026, Figueirense visited Santa Cruz's home ground, the Arena Pernambuco in São Lourenço da Mata, and won 1‑0 thanks to a penalty scored by Emerson Galego in the first half. The match was attended by more than 27,000 spectators.

The victory lifted Figueirense five places to 11th in the Serie C table with 20 points, placing the club just two points away from the G‑8 qualification zone. Santa Cruz remained third with 24 points, still in contention for a place in the final quadrangular.

Santa Cruz head coach Cristian de Souza said the team is still searching for the ideal eleven and highlighted the need to improve attacking efficiency while maintaining the defensive identity that has been built this season. Figueirense coach Raul Cabral praised his side’s organisation, noting the impact of tactical changes such as the introduction of forward Mailson, which helped the team secure the win.