Marcel de Mendoça Marques is on the brink of becoming the top scorer in the First Division, defying all expectations. The Brazilian left winger from ElPozo has shattered his personal records since arriving in Spain. With 31 goals in 34 games and the final against Jimbee Cartagena pending, he is virtually assured of the First Division Pichichi title. His closest competitor, Gabriel Motta from Jimbee Cartagena, has 20 goals, but anything is possible, especially if the league title is decided in a five-game series.
Marcel joined Spain’s Movistar Inter in January 2019 after excelling at Corinthians and winning the Intercontinental with Magnus Futsal. However, after just one year, Movistar Inter released him. ElPozo Murcia seized the opportunity, and four years later, Marcel has become a key offensive player. In April, ElPozo announced they were renewing his contract until 2025. Marcel, a left-footed point guard, showcased his talent with two goals against Jaén Paraíso Interior. He told Relief, “I didn’t expect this at all, but I’m very happy. It wasn’t something I aimed for, but as I started scoring, the dream of being the top scorer grew.” He credited his teammates and coaching staff for their support and emphasized, “I prefer to win the League and I think it’s our turn.”
Reach the Final
ElPozo last reached a League final in 2019 and last won it in 2010. Despite their Spanish Cup loss in Cartagena, Marcel is focused on returning ElPozo to consistent finals. “We wanted to bring ElPozo back into all competitions with a chance to win,” he said. “Since I arrived, I haven’t played in two finals in the same season. Hopefully, we can lift the title now.”
The final will renew a 16-year-old regional rivalry between ElPozo Murcia and a team from Cartagena. Marcel predicts a tough series, as both teams know each other well. He hopes for strong support in the first games of the final, scheduled for Saturday the 15th and Monday the 17th.
ElPozo Murcia has reached the final after a five-year absence, under the guidance of Catalan coach Dani Martínez. Martínez, who renewed his contract until 2025 in May, took over in February after Javi Rodríguez was dismissed. He led the team to two finals, losing the Spanish Cup but now aiming for the League title. Martínez expressed pride in his team’s achievements and praised their effort in reaching the final. Jimbee Cartagena, who won all their quarterfinal and semifinal matches, awaits ElPozo in a regional final not seen since 2006. Martínez emphasized the importance of the first two games in Murcia, where home court advantage will be crucial.