Cruzeiro Prepares to Face Vitória Amid Injury Setbacks

Belo Horizonte, Brazil (AP) — Cruzeiro will face Vitória at 4 p.m. on Saturday in the 31st round of the Campeonato Brasileiro. The match, held at the Mineirão stadium, comes as Cruzeiro seeks to maintain its title contention despite significant player injuries.

Coach Leonardo Jardim announced the inclusion of young striker Rayan Lelis in the main squad for the first time. Rayan, recently off holiday with the U-20 team, was called up due to injuries to key players Marquinhos, Wanderson, and Bolasie.

Even with Rayan’s addition, the main attacking role is likely to go to Arroyo. Luis Sinisterra is another option, but he has struggled to find his form after battling injuries.

Wanderson will be out for the season due to injury, while Lucas Villalba and Fabrício Bruno are suspended for this match. Their absence poses a challenge for Jardim, who has relied on them heavily since joining the club.

In defense, Jonathan Jesus is expected to start, with João Marcelo and Mateo Gamarra competing for the remaining spot. João Marcelo has only recently returned after a significant knee surgery.

Also missing are Fagner and Matheus Henrique, who are recovering from fractures. Marquinhos’ recent knee surgery will prevent him from playing until mid-2026.

The projected lineup for the match includes Cássio; William, Jonathan Jesus, João Marcelo (Gamarra), and Kaiki; Lucas Romero, Lucas Silva, and Matheus Pereira; Christian, Keny Arroyo, and Kaio Jorge.

On the other hand, Vitória faces a tough scenario with ten absent players as they travel to Belo Horizonte. Coach Jair Ventura must navigate this challenge to avoid relegation.

Among the absentees for Vitória are suspended players Lucas Halter and Ronald. However, the return of 18-year-old Kauan Coutinho from an ankle surgery provides some hope. The team, having completed its training on Friday, will incorporate him in the lineup.

Their expected lineup includes Thiago Couto; Raúl Cáceres, Neris, Camutanga, Zé Marcos, and Ramon; Willian Oliveira and Dudu; Erick, Aitor Cantalapiedra, and Renato Kayzer.

This critical match between Cruzeiro and Vitória is not just essential for standings, but also for garnering fan support as Cruzeiro aims to surpass one million spectators this season at the Mineirão.