Cruzeiro's impressive form

Cruzeiro has been in scintillating form of late, with four games without losing, including three wins and one draw. This impressive run has seen the team secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the Copa do Brasil and rise to fifth place in the Campeonato Brasileiro. In the Libertadores, Cruzeiro has advanced to the knockout stages in second place in their group, behind Universidad Católica.

Flamengo's recovery

Flamengo, on the other hand, had been struggling after the Copa do Mundo, but have since recovered with a win against Vitória. This victory has seen the team close the gap to the league leaders, Palmeiras, in the Brasileirão. In the Libertadores, Flamengo has been the top-performing team in the group stage, leading their group and securing a spot in the knockout stages.

Key absences for both teams

However, both teams will be without key players due to injury. Cruzeiro will be without Fagner and Lucas Romero, who are suspended, while Flamengo will be without Alex Sandro, who is out with a tendinite in his right panturrilha. Luiz Araújo is also out for Flamengo, due to a lesion in his left joelho.

Doubts in Flamengo's lineup

The main doubt for Flamengo is in the right ponta, where they have the option of keeping Carrascal, returning with Plata, or using Paquetá. This uncertainty will make it difficult for Flamengo to choose the right lineup, which could impact their performance in the match.

TV broadcast and kick-off time

The match will be broadcast live on TV Globo and ge tv, with kick-off set for 21h30 (de Brasília) in the Mineirão. Fans can also follow the match in real-time on the ge website.

Cruzeiro's probable lineup

Cruzeiro's probable lineup includes Otávio in goal, with William, Fabrício Bruno, Jonathan Jesus, and Gabriel Rojas in defense. Matheus Henrique, Gerson, and Matheus Pereira will likely start in midfield, while Arroyo, Kaique Kenji, and Kaio Jorge will lead the attack.

Flamengo's probable lineup

Flamengo's probable lineup includes Rossi in goal, with Varela, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, and Ayrton Lucas in defense. Pulgar, Jorginho, and Arrascaeta will likely start in midfield, while Carrascal, Samuel Lino, and Pedro will lead the attack.

The match is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams boasting impressive form and talented squads. However, the key absences and doubts in Flamengo's lineup could impact their performance, making it difficult for them to progress to the next stage of the Libertadores.