The 35th round of the Brazilian Serie A brings a high-stakes clash this Sunday, November 23, as Cruzeiro host Corinthians at the iconic Mineirão Stadium in Belo Horizonte. The match kicks off at 20:30 local time and promises an electric atmosphere, with both teams entering the final stretch of the season chasing very different objectives. Cruzeiro aim to secure a direct spot in the Copa Libertadores, while Corinthians fight to stay clear of the relegation zone and end the campaign on a positive note.

Cruzeiro’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Cruzeiro approach this fixture in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their last five league matches with two wins and three draws. Their most recent outing ended in a 3-3 draw against Juventude, a result that extended their unbeaten streak but slightly dented their title hopes. Even so, the team’s consistency has been remarkable throughout the season, with a record of 18 wins, 11 draws, and only 5 defeats. They have averaged 1.4 goals scored and 0.7 conceded per match, underlining their defensive strength.

At home, Cruzeiro have been particularly dominant. The Raposa have collected 12 victories at the Mineirão, suffering just two defeats and drawing three times. They have not lost at half time in 18 of their last 20 home matches, showing their ability to control games early. Coach Leonardo Jardim has built a side that combines solid defensive organization with quick attacking transitions, making them one of the toughest teams to beat on home soil.

For this match, Cruzeiro welcome back several key players. Matheus Pereira, Cristian, Arroyo, and Walace all return from suspension, providing a major boost to Jardim’s tactical options. The only notable absence is Matheus Henrique, who is suspended. The team’s backbone is expected to feature Kaio Jorge, Fabrício Bruno, and Lucas Romero, all crucial in maintaining balance between defense and attack.

Probable lineup – Cruzeiro (4-2-3-1): Cássio; William, Fabrício Bruno, Villalba, Kaiki; Lucas Romero, Lucas Silva; Cristian, Matheus Pereira, Arroyo; Kaio Jorge.

Corinthians’ Recent Form and Key Stats

Corinthians arrive in Belo Horizonte after a morale-boosting 3-1 victory over São Paulo in the previous round, a result that helped them move further away from the relegation zone. Under Dorival Júnior, the team has shown flashes of improvement, winning three of their last five matches. However, their away form remains inconsistent, with only four wins in 17 away games this season, alongside five draws and eight defeats.

Statistically, Corinthians have recorded 12 wins, 9 draws, and 13 losses in Serie A, averaging 1.1 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per match. Their defense has been prone to lapses, while the attack, despite featuring experienced names, often struggles to create clear chances. Interestingly, there have been over 0.5 goals in the second half of each of their last 11 away matches, suggesting that their games tend to open up after the break.

For this encounter, Corinthians will be without goalkeeper Hugo Souza due to injury, with Felipe Longo expected to start again. Raniele and Maycon remain sidelined, but Rodrigo Garro returns from suspension to strengthen the midfield. The likely starting XI should include Memphis Depay and Yuri Alberto leading the attack, supported by Garro and André Carrillo.

Probable lineup – Corinthians (4-4-2): Felipe Longo; Matheuzinho, João Pedro Tchoca, Gustavo Henrique, Matheus Bidu; Maycon, Breno Bidon, André Carrillo, Rodrigo Garro; Memphis Depay, Yuri Alberto.

Cruzeiro vs Corinthians: Match Analysis and Tactical Overview

This fixture brings together two sides with contrasting dynamics. Cruzeiro have been one of the most consistent teams in the league, particularly at home, where their defensive solidity and attacking efficiency have made them formidable. Their ability to start strongly is notable, as they have often taken the lead early — in fact, they have won the first half in four of their last five meetings against Corinthians. With the return of key creative players like Matheus Pereira and Arroyo, the Raposa are expected to dominate possession and create numerous chances.

Corinthians, on the other hand, face the challenge of maintaining their recent momentum away from home. While the win over São Paulo provided a much-needed confidence boost, their struggles on the road remain a concern. The team’s defensive structure has been inconsistent, and their attack, though featuring experienced forwards, has lacked fluidity. To get a result at the Mineirão, Dorival Júnior’s men will need to stay compact and capitalize on counterattacks.

Historically, this matchup has been balanced, with Cruzeiro winning once, drawing twice, and losing twice in the last five meetings. The most recent encounter ended in a goalless draw in July 2025. However, given Cruzeiro’s current form and home advantage, they appear better positioned to claim all three points this time.

Cruzeiro vs Corinthians prediction by BetMines:
The most likely outcome is a Cruzeiro win (1) with a 54% probability. The Draw (X) follows at 25%, while a Corinthians win (2) stands at 21%.