Cruzeiro step into this fixture with a clear opportunity to climb the table against a Chapecoense side deep in relegation trouble. The visitors sit dead last with just nine points and have consistently struggled to match the intensity of top-flight opposition.

Chapecoense’s away form is particularly concerning, having managed only three goals in six road matches. This severe lack of attacking punch means opposing defenses rarely face sustained pressure, allowing them to control the game state comfortably and push higher up the pitch.

On the other side of the ball, the visitors have leaked 30 goals in 15 matches, exposing massive structural flaws. Cruzeiro average plenty of touches inside the opposition penalty area and will heavily test a backline that routinely gives up high-quality chances.

Both sides had mid-week cup commitments, but Cruzeiro’s deeper rotation and higher baseline quality make them far better equipped to handle the quick turnaround. The hosts recently proved their resilience by taking points off title contenders like Palmeiras and Bahia.

The betting markets are showing heavy resistance to both teams scoring, which perfectly reflects Chapecoense’s offensive limitations. Everything points to Cruzeiro dominating possession and eventually breaking through a fragile defensive block to secure the points.