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 Mineirão and advances to the final with a draw. Cruzeiro needs to win by two goals to qualify directly or by one goal to take the decision to penalties.
The main doubt in the Cruzeiro midfield involvesMatheus Pereira, who is related and appears in the likely lineup as a starter. The midfielder trained normally during the week, with no confirmed physical restrictions, although the official formation came out just minutes before kickoff.
- 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, scheduled for December 17th and 21st.
Condition of Matheus Pereira
Matheus Pereirahe played in the first game and continues as the main coordinator of plays for Cruzeiro. The midfielder participated in all preparatory sessions, demonstrating full capacity for the decisive clash.
His presence reinforces creativity in the offensive sector, essential for creating scoring opportunities. Leonardo Jardim counts on the player to distribute passes and command actions in midfield.
Probable lineup of Cruzeiro
Leonardo Jardim must confirmMatheus Pereiraas a starter in the tactical scheme. The defense has Jonathan Jesus instead of Villalba.
Probable team: Cássio; William, Fabrício Bruno, Jonathan Jesus and Kaiki; Lucas Silva, Matheus Henrique (Walace), Christian andMatheus Pereira; Arroyo and Kaio Jorge.
- Hanging: Fabrício Bruno, Kaio Jorge,Matheus Pereiraand William.
- Absences: Lucas Villalba (injury), Lucas Romero (suspended).
The team seeks greater possession of the ball and infiltrations through the middle.
Probable lineup of Corinthians
Dorival Júnior maintains the base of not conceding goals in the competition. The defense continues to be the highlight of the undefeated campaign.
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 tactical organization and quick counterattacks.
Streaming Options
The match receives full coverage on multiple platforms. Globo broadcasts to a large part of the national territory with specialized narration.
SporTV and Premiere offer in-depth pre- and post-game analysis. The Amazon Prime Video facilitates streaming access on connected devices.
Need for a Cruzeiro turnaround
Cruzeiro lost 1-0 in the first match, with a goal from Memphis Depay. The team needs to overcome its disadvantage away from home to maintain its chances of winning the title.
Matheus Pereirarepresents a key piece in the frame for exploring spaces. Neo Química Arena expects a large audience in favor of Corinthians.
Escalated arbitration
Rodrigo José Pereira from Lima (PE) directs the main game. Auxiliares and VAR are part of the team.
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 video system assists in controversial decisions. The match requires attention to moves in midfield.
Last adjustments
Cruzeiro concluded preparations focusing on triangulations and offensive set pieces.Matheus Pereiraintegrated tactical work, indicating readiness to act.
Corinthians adjusted marking to neutralize the Cruzeiro midfielder. The duel promises balance and high intensity.
