Sports
Vitória Faces Cruzeiro with Relegation Threat Looming
Salvador, Brazil — Vitória and Cruzeiro are set to clash on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 7 p.m. local time in the Barradão stadium. This match is part of the 12th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, and it will be broadcast live on Premiere and Sportv.
Currently, Vitória is struggling to escape the relegation zone after a 0-0 draw with Corinthians left them in 16th place with 10 points. The team has not won in four consecutive games and needs a victory to avoid falling into the danger zone, which could happen if they face a combination of unfavorable results.
On the other hand, Cruzeiro is vying for the top of the league. After a win against Palmeiras, the team secured 24 points and is just one point behind the leaders, Flamengo. If they win against Vitória, Cruzeiro could potentially overtake Flamengo since the latter will not be playing in this round due to the FIFA Club World Cup.
For this game, Vitória’s coach Thiago Carpini will have to adjust his lineup. The team will miss captain Lucas Halter, who is suspended, alongside several injuries in the squad. However, Matheuzinho returns from suspension, potentially providing a boost to the midfield.
Victória’s expected lineup includes: Lucas Arcanjo; Claudinho, Edu, Zé Marcos, and Jamerson; Ronald, Baralhas, and Matheuzinho; Lucas Braga, Gustavo Mosquito, and Renato Kyazer.
Cruzeiro’s coach Leonardo Jardim is also making strategic decisions for this match. The team will be without midfielder Christian due to suspension but welcomes back Lucas Villalba from his own suspension. Key players Fagner, Kaio Jorge, and Lautaro Díaz have been preparing during the FIFA break.
Cruzeiro’s probable starting eleven may feature: Cássio; William, Fabrício Bruno, Lucas Villalba, and Kaiki; Lucas Romero, Lucas Silva, Eduardo; Matheus Pereira, Wanderson, and Kaio Jorge.
As the teams prepare, tensions are high. Vitória aims to leverage home field advantage to snap their winless streak, while Cruzeiro looks to capitalize on their current form to leap to the top of the table.
