Chapecoense SC VS Cruzeiro

Shaping the outcome of this encounter are several key factors. Sandwiched at the bottom of the Brazilian league standings, Chapecoense is grappling with immense relegation pressure. As a result, the Copa do Brasil has emerged as a crucial avenue for the team to turn the tide. In the previous round, they secured a home victory over Botafogo, advancing in the cup. However, Chapecoense is facing a significant setback with a wave of injuries. Six key players in both attack and defense are sidelined, severely limiting the team's ability to rotate the squad. Despite showing tenacity at home, their defense has glaring weaknesses. They concede a high number of goals per game in the league, and as the game progresses, the defenders often make mistakes in coordinated defense. Their offense mainly relies on sporadic counter - attacks and set - pieces. On the other hand, Cruzeiro has been on an upward trajectory recently. A win in the last league game has boosted the team's morale. Kaio Jorge in the front line has been in good scoring form. But they too are not immune to the injury bug, with several wingers out of action. In the first meeting of this season, Cruzeiro defeated Chapecoense 2 - 1 at home, giving them an edge in head - to - head encounters. Considering all these aspects, the upcoming match is bound to be a battle of contrasting fortunes.