The Classico Mineiro is back, and Atletico Mineiro will aim to build momentum when they host fierce rivals Cruzeiro on Wednesday night in Serie A.
It’s been an up-and-down season for Galo, who sit 14th in the table after a turbulent run of form. Under Jorge Sampaoli, the team has started to show signs of improvement, winning three of their last five matches across all competitions, including an impressive Copa Sudamericana triumph over Bolivar.
However, goals have been hard to come by lately, and Atletico’s last four home league games have all seen under 2.5 goals. The hosts have also struggled with injuries — Cuello and Junior Santos remain sidelined — which could limit their attacking options once again. Expect a cautious approach as Sampaoli looks to avoid defensive lapses that have plagued the side this season.
Cruzeiro aiming to stay in the title race
For Cruzeiro, this fixture represents a chance to get their title ambitions back on track after a three-game winless streak. Despite sitting third, Leonardo Jardim’s men have lost momentum following draws with Flamengo and Sport Recife.
Raposa’s recent record in the derby, however, gives them confidence — they’ve beaten Atletico in the last two meetings, both by 2-0 scorelines. Still, with injuries to key players like Fagner and doubts over Wanderson, they may once again prioritize structure and discipline over attacking flair.
Given both teams’ tendency to tighten up in big games and the added tension of a derby atmosphere, this clash could be another low-scoring affair.
Prediction: Atletico Mineiro 1–1 Cruzeiro
Tip: Under 2.5 Goals
