Mushuc Runa Faces Cruzeiro in High-Stakes Copa Sul-Americana Clash

Riobamba, Ecuador — On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Mushuc Runa will clash with Cruzeiro at 21:30 Brasília time in a crucial matchup of the Copa Sul-Americana group stage. The match, held at the Estadio Olímpico de Riobamba, promises high stakes for both teams, albeit for different reasons.

Mushuc Runa enters the match with a perfect record, having won all three of its group-stage games to lead Group E with nine points. The team has demonstrated an impressive offense, scoring eight goals while conceding only three. “We are focused on securing our position and looking forward to the knockout stages,” said Mushuc Runa coach Éver Almeida.

Conversely, Cruzeiro is in a precarious position, yet to earn a point in the tournament, with three losses, including a 2-1 defeat against Mushuc Runa in their previous encounter. A win is essential for Cruzeiro to stay in the competition. Coach Leonardo Jardim expressed the urgency, stating, “We must win to have any chance of advancing.”

In their last meeting, Mushuc Runa took an early lead through Carlos Orejuela, only for Cruzeiro to equalize with a penalty from Gabigol. However, Mushuc Runa regained the lead, sealing a memorable victory. As they prepare for this match, Mushuc Runa will miss key defender Bryan Bentaberry due to suspension but will field a solid lineup, including Rodrigo Formento in goal and an attacking duo of Penilla and Reny Simisterra.

On the other hand, Cruzeiro will have to adapt, as several key players, including Gabigol and Christian, are sidelined with injuries. Young 16-year-old Kauã Prates is set to start at left-back. Although they have been struggling in the Copa Sul-Americana, Cruzeiro comes off a much-needed 2-1 victory over Flamengo in the Brasileirão, which may provide a confidence boost.

The stakes are high for Cruzeiro, who must not only win against Mushuc Runa but also rely on favorable results from other matches to remain in contention for advancement in the tournament. Mushuc Runa, meanwhile, looks to continue its winning streak and solidify its place in the next round.

As both teams prepare for the clash, the atmosphere at the Estadio Olímpico is set to be electric. Fans can look forward to an exciting match that may define the futures of both teams in the tournament. The game will be broadcast live on Paramount+ and Bet365, making it accessible for supporters to follow the action.