Cruzeiro vs Chapecoense-sc - Copa Do Brasil

The Copa Do Brasil returns to the home ground on August 5, 2026, where Cruzeiro and Chapecoense-sc will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Ferencvaros v Real Madrid: Confirmed line-ups for Mourinho’s latest pre-season clash.

The standings paint a clear picture: Cruzeiro in 12th, Chapecoense-sc in 41st, and both keen to climb. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. It remains to be seen if Leeds will target a No 10 or a winger capable of playing inside now that Brandt is off the table.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Cruzeiro will look to impose their style on home soil, while Chapecoense-sc are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

When Carlos Vinícius is on the pitch — 3 goals to his name this term — moments of magic are never far away, and the Copa Do Brasil's top scorer will be central to how this one unfolds. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. The former midfielder went on to choose that defensive combination a further five times - and they did not lose any of those games (W5, D1).

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. The weight of evidence points to Cruzeiro, and a 2-1 win for the hosts feels like the most probable outcome. With positions in the Copa Do Brasil table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or.