Match: Brazilian Cup
Fixture: Cruzeiro VS Atlético Mineiro
Local Kick-off Time: September 11, 19:30
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Handicap Prediction:
Atlético Mineiro +0.25 (Asian Handicap)
Draw + Away Win (European Odds)
Predicted Scores: 0-0, 0-1, 1-1
Predicted Total Goals: 0, 1, 2
Comprehensive Prediction Analysis:
This season, under the guidance of Portuguese head coach Jorge Jesus, Cruzeiro has made steady progress in the Brasileirão (Brazilian Serie A) and currently ranks 2nd. However, the team is facing injury concerns ahead of this match. Key midfielder Matheus Pereira and starting winger Wanderson were injured in the previous league match where Cruzeiro defeated São Paulo 1-0. Although their injuries are not serious, further confirmation is required before the game, and it remains uncertain whether they will be available. Kaio Jorge, who scored for Cruzeiro in the last Copa do Brasil match, was injured after coming on as a substitute in Brazil’s 3-0 win over Chile and had to miss the national team’s away match against Bolivia—this undoubtedly adds to the woes of Cruzeiro’s attack. Additionally, starting center-back Bruno played the full 90 minutes in Brazil’s away match at high altitude. Given the immense physical exertion of high-altitude matches, he is unlikely to start again in this game. The loss of key players in the attack may significantly weaken Cruzeiro’s offensive firepower. Moreover, with a 2-0 lead from the first leg, the team may adopt more conservative tactics, prioritizing stability over securing a second consecutive win against Atlético Mineiro.
Atlético Mineiro’s defeat in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil led to head coach Cuca’s dismissal. However, amid the team’s predicament, there was an encouraging development: Argentine coach Jorge Sampaoli, who left the club in 2021, returned to Atlético Mineiro to take charge again. He officially took office on September 2 and, after a week of leading training sessions, will face this crucial Copa do Brasil match. Sampaoli’s return has undoubtedly injected a shot of confidence into the team; his rich coaching experience and unique tactical philosophy are expected to help the team turn the tide and stage an upset. Especially during the international break, Atlético Mineiro received more positive news: starting center-back Alonso was called up to the Paraguay national team but missed the away match (a 1-0 win over Peru) due to suspension, allowing him to return to the club early and fully focus on preparing for this Copa do Brasil match. Ecuadorian midfielder Franco and Chilean midfielder Román also returned from international duty, while center-back Lianko recovered from injury and is likely to be included in the matchday squad. The return of these players has greatly enhanced the team’s squad depth, providing Sampaoli with more options for tactical arrangements.
