As the sun sets over Porto Alegre, anticipation builds for the highly anticipated clash between Internacional and Cruzeiro, set to kick off today, April 6, 2025, at 18h30 (Brasília time) at the iconic Estádio Beira-Rio. This match marks the second round of the Campeonato Brasileiro, and fans are eager to see how both teams will fare after their respective starts to the season.
Internacional, known as the Colorado, enters this match with a mix of determination and pressure. After a promising campaign in the Campeonato Gaúcho, where they recently ended a seven-year title drought, the team is looking to carry that momentum into the national league. However, their opening match in the Brasileirão ended in a frustrating 1-1 draw against Flamengo, where they initially took the lead with a goal from Bruno Henrique, only to concede an equalizer from Léo Pereira. Currently sitting in 10th place, the pressure is on the team to secure a win on their home turf today.
On the other hand, Cruzeiro, affectionately known as the Raposa, comes into this game riding high after a solid start in the Brasileirão, having defeated Mirassol 2-1 in their opener. Goals from Dudu and Gabigol provided the necessary spark for a confident performance. However, the team faced a setback midweek, losing 1-0 to Unión Santa Fe in the Copa Sul-Americana, which may have dampened their spirits heading into this crucial match.
In terms of squad news, Internacional will be without goalkeeper Sergio Rochet, who is recovering from a recent surgery after sustaining an injury during the Libertadores match against Bahia. His absence adds to the pressure on the remaining squad members, particularly the defense. Coach Roger Machado is expected to field a lineup that includes Anthoni in goal, backed by defenders Braian Aguirre, Vitão, Rogel, and Bernabei. The midfield will feature Fernando, Bruno Henrique, and the ever-influential Alan Patrick, while the attacking trio will likely consist of Vitinho, Wesley, and Enner Valencia.
Meanwhile, Cruzeiro’s coach Leonardo Jardim welcomes back defender Jonathan Jesus, who missed the previous matches due to illness. However, the team faces potential challenges with Gabigol, who has been dealing with off-field issues related to a doping case, and Matheus Pereira, who is absent due to the birth of his child. The expected lineup for Cruzeiro includes Cássio in goal, with a defensive line of William, Fabrício Bruno, Jonathan Jesus, and Kaiki. The midfield will be anchored by Lucas Romero and Matheus Henrique, while the attack will feature Wanderson, Dudu, and Kaio Jorge.
Historically, the rivalry between Internacional and Cruzeiro has been fiercely competitive. In their last 87 encounters, Internacional has claimed 32 victories, while Cruzeiro has won 29 times, with 26 matches ending in draws. The last meeting in the league ended in a goalless stalemate, but today’s match promises to be an exciting affair, especially with both teams eager to assert their dominance early in the season.
As the match approaches, betting odds favor Internacional slightly, with many analysts predicting a close contest. The odds for an Internacional win hover around 1.80, while a Cruzeiro victory is listed at approximately 4.90. The expectation of both teams scoring is also high, given their offensive capabilities and recent performances.
With the Beira-Rio stadium expected to be packed with passionate fans, the atmosphere will undoubtedly play a role in energizing the Colorado players. The home advantage has historically favored Internacional, who have not lost to Cruzeiro at home in over a decade. This statistic adds another layer of pressure on the visiting team as they seek to break that streak.
As kickoff draws near, both sets of players are keenly aware of the stakes involved. For Internacional, a win is crucial to build confidence and momentum after a shaky start. For Cruzeiro, maintaining their winning form in the league is essential to establish themselves as serious contenders this season. With both teams having much to prove, fans can expect an intense and thrilling encounter.
The match will be broadcast live exclusively on Premiere, ensuring that fans across the country can tune in to witness what promises to be a captivating showdown between two of Brazil's storied clubs.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the excitement in the air is palpable. Will Internacional leverage their home advantage to secure their first win of the Brasileirão, or will Cruzeiro rise to the occasion and extend their winning streak? One thing is for sure: today's match will be one for the history books.
