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In reaction to the violence, the local government imposed sanctions on both clubs, ordering five matches in closed stadiums. The penalty particularly impacts Santa Cruz, which faces the additional challenge of playing in front of no fans, even during critical games. The Sport club announced intentions to appeal the decision and seeks judicial intervention, given the unprecedented nature of the penalties imposed on clubs not directly involved in the violence.
Amid the fallout, the next fixture for Sport against Fortaleza is approaching rapidly. Last year’s match saw fans involved in violent acts against players from Fortaleza as they returned from a game, raising concerns about how current circumstances might unfold similarly.