Matheus Bidu scores an added-time goal and maintains tension in Corinthians x Cruzeiro in the Copa do Brasil By Luís Henrique Costa
4 min read
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Corinthians hosts Cruzeiro this Sunday, December 14th, in the return match of the semi-final of Copa of Brasil 2025. The game takes place at 6pm at Brasília time, at São Paulo. Após 1-0 victory in the first leg, the São Paulo team plays for a draw to advance to the final.
The current score is 1-2 until 11 minutes into the second half, with the duel still ongoing. Matheus Bidu scored the Corinthians goal in the 9th minute of the final stage, from a free kick. Cruzeiro had taken the lead with two goals from Arroyo, one in the first half and another at the beginning of the second.
The match remains high intensity, with both teams seeking control of the aggregate. The winner faces the team classified between Vasco and Fluminense in the decision.
Match timeline
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Top bids to date include:
- 39′ 1Q: Gol from Arroyo to Cruzeiro, header, after a precise cross.
- 4′ 2Q: Gol from Arroyo extends to Cruzeiro, confirmed by VAR after offside checking.
- 9′ 2Q: Gol from Matheus Bidu to Corinthians, in a rebound inside the area after a free kick.
- 8′ 2T: Choque between Cruzeiro players in an aerial move, with assistance on the pitch.
- 7′ 2Q: Escanteio for Corinthians in an immediate reaction attempt.
- 3′ 2Q: Impedimento scored in an attempt by Memphis Depay in the area.
- 2′ 2T: Falta committed by Arroyo, giving Corinthians an opportunity.
The match continues with Corinthians pressing in search of a draw on aggregate. Cruzeiro maintains an offensive posture to maintain the partial advantage.
Performance of the teams in the confrontation
Corinthians enters the field with an advantage from the first game, played at Mineirão. The São Paulo team won 1-0, with a goal from Memphis Depay, and only needs a draw in normal time to advance.
Cruzeiro adopts an aggressive strategy from the beginning in Neo Química Arena. The Minas Gerais team dominates actions in the first half and builds an advantage with qualified possession of the ball. Jogadores like Matheus Pereira and Kaio Jorge create constant opportunities.
In the second half, Corinthians adjusts its marking and responds quickly to the opponent’s second goal. Matheus Bidu takes advantage of the rebound to discount and reignite the chances of qualifying.
Substitutions and tactical adjustments
Teams make changes at halftime to change the outlook of the game. No Corinthians, Garro and Raniele come in to reinforce the midfield and provide more creativity in transitions.
Cruzeiro maintains the basis that worked in the first half, with Arroyo decisive after coming on the bench. The attacker scores twice and temporarily changes the aggregate.
Both coaches seek balance between defense and attack in the opening minutes of the second half. Corinthians wins corners and free kicks close to the area to exploit set pieces.
The substitutions directly impact the pace, with the home team gaining more offensive volume after 10 minutes.
Context of the semi-final
The Copa semi-final of Brasil 2025 brings together two traditional clubs in search of the national title. Corinthians is looking for the fourth cup of the competition, while Cruzeiro is aiming for the seventh trophy.
The first leg highlights Corinthians’s defensive solidity away from home. The minimum victory in Belo Horizonte gives a strategic advantage for the game in São Paulo.
Cruzeiro demonstrates strength as a visitor by partially reversing the aggregate. The Minas Gerais team needs to maintain concentration to avoid another opposing reaction.
Neo Química Arena records a large presence of fans, influencing the atmosphere of the match.
Main players on the field
Memphis Depay acts as a reference in the Corinthians attack and participates in dangerous moves. The Dutchman takes free kicks and looks for associations with Yuri Alberto.
Matheus Bidu stands out with his added-time goal and defensive contributions. The left-back anticipates plays and supports the attack from the flank.
In Cruzeiro, Arroyo appears as a decisive player by scoring twice. Kaio Jorge and Matheus Pereira organize the main arrivals at the opponent’s goal.
Hugo Souza makes important saves in the Corinthians goal. Cássio, on the Minas Gerais side, faces pressure from aerial balls.
Current situation of the household
The aggregate score is tied with the second half goals until the 11th minute. Corinthians had taken a 1-0 advantage in the first game.
Any draw in normal time classifies the São Paulo team directly. Vitória Cruzeirense by one goal takes the decision to penalties.
The game remains open, with both teams creating chances. The match is still in progress at Neo Química Arena.
Arbitration and technical details
Rodrigo José Pereira of Lima referees the match, assisted by Nailton Junior of Sousa Oliveira and Victor Hugo Imazu of Rafael Traci commands the VAR.
The duel is broadcast on open and paid channels, with broad real-time coverage. The semi-final attracts national attention due to the balance presented.
The teams respect the knockout rules, focusing on efficiency in finishing.
