Cruzeiro vs Cuiabá Prediction: Is Cuiabá's nightmare over?

After six winless matches without scoring a goal, finally, Cuiabá won. The resounding 5-2 win at Criciúma allowed the Mato-Grossenses to see the light at the end of the tunnel and leave the bottom of the table. Cuiabá showed signs of life and quality to escape relegation. Cruzeiro plays at home and is the favorite, but it can't underestimate its determined opponent.

The Fox couldn't stop São Paulo's good momentum and, naturally, lost 2-0 at the MorumBIS. Despite the defeat, the Belo Horizonte side is well-placed in the standings, occupying ninth place with ten points and a game in hand. Flamengo and Bahia lead the Brasileirão with 14 points, so in theory, Cruzeiro could be just one point off the top if it wins the postponed game with Internacional. For that to happen, the Miners first need to beat Cuiabá, something they've never managed to do in the four previous meetings.

The Golden Dorado put in an excellent display in Criciúma, leaving the home team's fans stunned. The Tiger had only lost once in the league before facing Cuiabá, so no one expected the visiting team to be 3-0 up at half-time. Criciúma reacted in the second half and scored two goals, but at the end of the match, the Mato-Grossenses scored the fifth goal and decided the game. Cuiabá did well in the Copa Sudamericana group stage, qualifying for the next round, but in its six league matches, the team was nowhere near its level. Petit's team finally gained confidence and will now try to repeat the victory at the Mineirão.

In theory, Cruzeiro has a better chance of winning. The Miners have better players, play at home, and occupy a quiet position in the table. However, other factors must be analyzed, namely the mental aspect, which is so decisive in the outcome of matches. Cuiabá's 5-2 victory at Cricúma after six games without scoring a goal could change the Mato-Grossenses' season. It could be a turning point if the Golden Dorado capitalizes on that result. Drawing in Belo Horizonte could start a run of good results. Another element that could influence this game is that the Fox has never beaten Cuiabá in the four times they've met. Anything can happen in this match, so I'll bet both teams will score.