Cruzeiro's 3-0 Win Over Corinthians Secures Direct Copa Libertadores Spot
Cruzeiro's 3-0 victory over Corinthians secures their direct spot in the Copa Libertadores group stage and boosts their title hopes in the Brasileirao.
- • Cruzeiro defeated Corinthians 3-0, securing direct Copa Libertadores qualification.
- • Kaio Jorge scored two goals and provided one assist, becoming the league's top scorer with 21 goals.
- • Cruzeiro now sits third in the league with 68 points, close behind Palmeiras.
- • Corinthians dropped to 10th place, reducing their chances for pre-Libertadores qualification.
Key details
Cruzeiro clinched a commanding 3-0 victory against Corinthians at Mineirão, ensuring their direct qualification for the group stage of the 2025 Copa Libertadores. The victory, fueled by two goals and one assist from Kaio Jorge alongside a goal from Arroyo, pushed Cruzeiro to 68 points in the Campeonato Brasileiro, placing them third in the league standings just behind Palmeiras.
Kaio Jorge, who is currently the league's top scorer with 21 goals in 32 matches, showcased his pivotal role in the team's success. Reflecting on the championship race, Jorge acknowledged Flamengo's strong lead with a 91.6% chance of winning the Brasileirão but maintained hope for Cruzeiro's title ambitions. "We know Flamengo has a good advantage, but it's football. No one knows. If they stumble and we keep winning, who knows?" he stated.
On the other hand, Corinthians face challenges after falling to 10th place with 45 points, considerably diminishing their chances for a pre-Libertadores spot. This defeat adds pressure ahead of their upcoming Copa do Brasil semifinal matches against Cruzeiro scheduled for December 10 and 14.
Meanwhile, São Paulo’s 2-1 win over Juventude, with goals from Damián Bobadilla and Emiliano Rigoni, elevated them to eighth place with 53 points, renewing their contention for a pre-Libertadores position.
This significant win solidifies Cruzeiro's presence on the continental stage and keeps their domestic title hopes alive despite slim statistical odds. Kaio Jorge emphasized the team's determination, "If I'm to be the top scorer, I will be. But what I really want is to try to be champion," underscoring the squad's ambition moving forward.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
