Mushuc Runa and Cruzeiro are set to clash this Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 21:30 (Brasília time) in the fourth round of the Copa Sul-Americana group stage. The match will take place at the Estadio Olímpico de Riobamba in Ecuador, and it promises to be a critical encounter for both teams, albeit for very different reasons.
On one side, Mushuc Runa is riding high on a wave of success, boasting a perfect record in the tournament with three wins out of three matches. They lead Group E with nine points, having scored eight goals while conceding only three. The team is looking to solidify its position and potentially secure early qualification for the knockout stages.
Conversely, Cruzeiro finds itself in a dire situation. The Brazilian side has yet to earn a single point in the competition, suffering three consecutive defeats, including a disappointing 2-1 loss to Mushuc Runa in their previous encounter at Mineirão. With their hopes of advancing hanging by a thread, they must win this match to remain in contention.
In the previous encounter, Mushuc Runa stunned Cruzeiro by taking the lead through Carlos Orejuela in the 30th minute. Although Cruzeiro managed to equalize with a penalty from Gabigol in the second half, Mushuc Runa regained the advantage just ten minutes later, sealing a memorable victory.
As they prepare for this crucial match, Mushuc Runa's coach, Éver Almeida, is facing some challenges. Key defender Bryan Bentaberry is suspended, but the team remains strong, with a lineup that includes Rodrigo Formento in goal, supported by Haquín, Quintero, Quiñones, and Mina in defense. The midfield will feature Orejuela, Luis Arce, Stiven Tapiero, and Dávila, while the attacking duo consists of Penilla and Reny Simisterra.
On the other hand, Cruzeiro's coach, Leonardo Jardim, is making significant changes to his squad. With injuries sidelining several key players, including Gabigol, Christian, and Lucas Villalba, Jardim has opted for a mixed team approach. Young talent Kauã Prates, only 16 years old, will start at left-back. The full lineup for Cruzeiro includes Cássio in goal; William, Fabrício Bruno, Jonathan Jesus, and Kauã Prates in defense; Walace, Murilo Rhikman, Eduardo, and Rodriguinho in midfield; and Lautaro and Bolasie up front.
Despite the recent struggles, Cruzeiro is coming off a dramatic 2-1 victory against Flamengo in the Brasileirão, which could provide a much-needed boost in confidence. They are currently fourth in the Brazilian league, having won three consecutive matches domestically. However, their away form has been abysmal, with nine matches without a win, including four draws and five losses.
The stakes are incredibly high for Cruzeiro. They need to win all their remaining matches and rely on favorable outcomes from other games to have any chance of advancing in the Copa Sul-Americana. This includes victories against Mushuc Runa, Palestino, and Unión, along with some luck in the results of other teams.
Mushuc Runa's recent form has been impressive, with five wins, two draws, and only two losses in their last nine matches across all competitions. They also remain undefeated at home in their last five games, which includes four victories and one draw. Their attacking prowess has been evident, with a high-scoring offense that has netted over 2.5 goals in three of their last four matches.
The match is set against a backdrop of high expectations and pressure, particularly for Cruzeiro, who must find a way to overcome their recent struggles and secure a vital win. The tactical battle between the two coaches, Almeida and Jardim, will be one to watch, as both teams look to impose their style on the game.
Fans can look forward to an exciting match, with both teams eager to achieve their respective goals. The game will be broadcast live on Paramount+ and Bet365, allowing supporters to follow the action as it unfolds.
As the teams take to the field, the atmosphere is sure to be electric, with Mushuc Runa aiming to maintain their perfect record while Cruzeiro fights for survival in the tournament. Will Mushuc Runa continue their winning streak, or can Cruzeiro pull off a much-needed victory to keep their hopes alive? The answers will unfold this evening in Riobamba.
