Cruzeiro with alternative squad defeats Mirassol and focuses on decisive Libertadores clash against Flamengo.
Cruzeiro showed resilience and defeated Mirassol 3-1 this Sunday in a match for the 22nd round of the Brazilian Serie A. However, the result took a backseat to the strategy adopted by coach Artur Jorge: resting key players for the crucial duel against Flamengo in the Libertadores, scheduled for next Wednesday (12th). The decision to preserve players like Fabrício Bruno, Rojas, Gerson, and Kaio Jorge reflects the priority given to the continental tournament.
Match with reserves
Even with a lineup filled with reserves and newcomer Zé Lucas, a midfielder formerly of Sport, making his debut, Cruzeiro took the lead. João Marcelo opened the scoring in the 12th minute from a set play. Mirassol equalized with Reinaldo from a penalty in the 27th minute.
In the second half, the introduction of Kaio Jorge proved decisive. The forward scored the second goal, turning the score around, and new signing Wesley sealed the victory in the 39th minute.
Full focus on Libertadores
The match against Flamengo will decide a spot in the quarterfinals of the Libertadores. The first and second legs will take place on the next two Wednesdays, the 12th and 19th, both at 9:30 PM (Brasília time). The first game will be at Mineirão, and the return leg at Maracanã. The winner will face the advancing team between Tolima (COL) and Independiente del Valle (EQU).
Journalist Pedro Paulo Catonho, from Coluna do Fla, assessed Cruzeiro‘s strategy as appropriate given the packed schedule. He also stressed that Flamengo has an obligation to field its strongest team in its next Brazilian Serie A commitment against Vitória to regain confidence.
Staff
