The highly anticipated clash between Cruzeiro and Atlético-MG is set for this Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the iconic Mineirão Stadium in Belo Horizonte. This match, part of the seventh round of the Campeonato Mineiro, kicks off at 4 PM (Brasília time) and is sure to captivate soccer fans across the region and country.
With significant stakes involved, this matchup holds importance for both teams. Cruzeiro heads to the encounter as the leader of Group C, currently boasting 11 points. A victory would guarantee their place in the semifinals of the tournament, allowing them to advance with one round to spare. Even if they do not win, they can still qualify as long as Aymorés and Pouso Alegre stumble in their upcoming matches. On the other side, Atlético-MG occupies the third position in Group A with 10 points. They desperately need to secure points to maintain their playoff hopes, as any other outcome would force them to rely on other results to determine their fate.
The rivalry, known as the Superclássico Mineiro, has historically seen exciting displays from both teams. The last time these two clubs met was on August 10, 2024, when they ended the game without scoring in the Brasileirão. The match before featured Atlético-MG defeating Cruzeiro 3-0 on April 20, 2024. Overall, Atlético-MG leads the historical series with 212 wins to Cruzeiro's 173, alongside 141 draws.
Anticipation for the clash is palpable, with projections estimating the attendance will reach about 61,584 fans. This would set the record for the highest turnout at the Mineirão since its renovation. Cruzeiro will be under the guidance of interim coach Wesley Carvalho, as he prepares the team for what will be his last match in charge before Leonardo Jardim takes the reins.
Under Carvalho's management since January 27, 2025, after the dismissal of Fernando Diniz, the club has shown significant improvement, securing two wins and one draw. Crucial injuries, including key players João Marcelo, Japa, and Juan Dinenno, who are sidelined due to medical reasons, pose challenges. Meanwhile, the presence of Kaio Jorge remains uncertain as he recovers from fitness issues.
Following the recent match against América-MG, which ended 1-1, where star player Yannick Bolasie contributed the equalizer, the team will look to recapture the momentum against their fiercest rivals. The expected lineup features goalkeeper Cássio, with defenders William, Fabrício Bruno, Jonathan Jesus, and Marlon. The midfield will likely consist of Lucas Romero, Matheus Henrique, and Matheus Pereira, supporting forwards Dudu, Marquinhos, and Gabigol.
For Atlético-MG, coach Cuca is faced with his own set of challenges, including four confirmed absences due to various reasons: Alisson is away due to national duty, Cadu and Caio Maia are out nursing knee injuries, and Júnior Santos is suspended following his expulsion in the last match. An injury concern also clouds the inclusion of Tomás Cuello, who performed well previously but is recovering from an ankle sprain. Depending on Cuello's fitness, Deyverson is expected to partner with Hulk at the front.
Recent performances have seen Atlético-MG securing two victories from their last matches, including their narrow 1-0 win against Athletic just before this clash. They will enter the field hoping to punch their ticket back to the top as they want to solidify their playoff quest. Their probable lineup casts Everson as the goalkeeper, defended by Natanael, Lyanco, Junior Alonso, and Guilherme Arana, with Alan Franco, Otávio (or Gabriel Menino) stabilizing midfield, and Gustavo Scarpa playing behind attackers Rubens and Hulk alongside either Cuello or Bernard.
Overall, the match promises excitement and intensity reflective of the rivalry. Predictions indicate strong support for Cruzeiro, who appear more consistent this season, performing well at home, alongside the home advantage they enjoy at the Mineirão.
For fans wanting to watch the action live, the game will be broadcasted on both Sportv and the pay-per-view service Premiere. With such significance riding on the outcome of this game for both squads, fans are eager to see how this fixture will once again etch its place in the annals of football history.