Corinthians and Cruzeiro will play this Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 6pm (Brasília time), the return game of the semi-final of the Copa of the Brasil at Neo Química Arena, at São Paulo. Timão defends the 1-0 advantage achieved in the first leg, with a goal from Memphis Depay, and advances with a draw. Cruzeiro needs to win by two goals to qualify directly or by one to decide on penalties.
The main doubt in the Cruzeiro attack involvesGabigol, who is listed and appears in the likely lineup after starting the first game. The striker trained normally during the week, but the official confirmation of his starting position only came out close to the opening whistle.
- Stream available at:
- Globo (open TV)
- SporTV (closed TV)
- Premiere (pay-per-view)
- Amazon Prime Video (streaming)
The winner guarantees a place in the final against Vasco or Fluminense, on December 17th and 21st.
Condition of Gabigol
Gabigolentered the second half of the first leg and created opportunities, showing good movement. The attacker participated in all preparatory sessions with no reported physical limitations.
His possible ownership reinforces the offensive potential for a comeback. Leonardo Jardim evaluates options in attack, with Gabigol competing for a direct spot.
Probable lineup of Cruzeiro
Leonardo Jardim must adjust the attack, withGabigolas a strong option alongside Kaio Jorge. The defense deals with confirmed absences.
Probable team: Cássio; William, Fabrício Bruno, Jonathan Jesus and Kaiki; Lucas Silva, Matheus Henrique (Walace), Christian and Matheus Pereira; Arroyo (Gabigol) and Kaio Jorge.
- Hanging: Fabrício Bruno, Kaio Jorge, Matheus Pereira and William.
- Absences: Lucas Villalba (injury), Lucas Romero (suspended).
The scheme seeks greater volume to overcome the disadvantage. Matheus Pereira continues as the main articulator.
Probable lineup of Corinthians
Dorival Júnior maintains a solid base, with an unbeaten defense in the competition. Memphis Depay leads the attack.
Probable team: Hugo Souza; Matheuzinho, André Ramalho, Gustavo Henrique and Matheus Bidu; José Martínez, Maycon, André Carrillo and Breno Bidon; Memphis Depay and Yuri Alberto.
The team prioritizes quick transitions and defensive organization.
Broadcast platforms
The match receives wide coverage on open and paid channels. Globo transmits to different regions with a specialized team.
SporTV and Premiere offer complementary analyses. The Amazon Prime Video allows monitoring via the internet.
Disadvantage on the way
Cruzeiro lost 1-0 at Mineirão, with a goal from Memphis Depay. The team created chances, but ran into the Corinthians defense.
Gabigolcame in and almost tied at the end. Neo Química Arena expects a large audience for the decisive duel.
Arbitration team
Rodrigo José Pereira from Lima (PE) referees the match. Auxiliares and VAR complete the picture.
Arbitration details:
- Referee: Rodrigo José Pereira of Lima (PE)
- Assistant 1: Nailton Junior of Sousa Oliveira (CE)
- Assistant 2: Victor Hugo Imazu dos Santos (PR)
- Fourth referee: Paulo Roberto Alves Junior (PR)
- VAR: Rafael Traci (SC)
The focus remains on precision throughout the 90 minutes.
Final preparations
Cruzeiro finished training with an emphasis on submissions and aerial balls.Gabigolparticipated fully, signaling readiness to contribute.
Corinthians adjusted marking to neutralize the Minas Gerais attack. The match represents a chance at the title for both teams.
