Preview: Cruzeiro vs Flamengo - prediction, team news, lineups

Cruzeiro host Flamengo on Sunday at Mineirao in round 24 of the 2026 Brasileiro, marking the sides' reunion just three days after their Copa Libertadores decider.

The clash brings together two contenders for the top spots, each arriving in very different emotional states; the hosts are seeking an immediate response after continental elimination, while Flamengo remain in pursuit of league leaders Palmeiras.

Match preview

Cruzeiro take the field this weekend focused on protecting their place among the Brasileiro's heavy hitters. The Belo Horizonte side sit fifth with 36 points from 23 matches, having consolidated a strong recovery after hovering near the relegation zone four months ago.

Their recent domestic run highlights the competitive strength of Artur Jorge's squad, with four wins in the last five league games, including crucial away victories at Internacional and Corinthians.

However, Cruzeiro's defence remains a concern. They have conceded 32 goals in 23 matches, leaving their goal difference level and exposing struggles against quick attacks.

Tactically, expect an intense midfield battle. Cruzeiro will look to Matheus Pereira's movement to create chances, while Flamengo's wingers will aim to exploit the space left by Cruzeiro's defence.

Flamengo's consistency is reflected in a five-match unbeaten run, during which Leonardo Jardim's side have scored 13 times and built the league's best attack, now with 44 goals.

Flamengo complement their attacking threat with a strong defence, conceding just 19 goals and boasting the best goal difference in Serie A at +25, to go along with the best defensive record in the league.

Emotions will be decisive after Wednesday's Maracana knockout clash. While Cruzeiro must shake off continental disappointment, Flamengo enter with morale high and will look to exploit their opponents' nerves.

Schedule management also differs for each side. Both teams played midweek, but Cruzeiro still face the Copa do Brasil quarter-final first leg against rivals Atletico-MG.

Cruzeiro Brasileiro form:

Cruzeiro form (all competitions):

Flamengo Brasileiro form:

Flamengo form (all competitions):

Team News

Coach Artur Jorge is still without Cassio, who has been recovering from left knee surgery since March. Backup goalkeeper Leo Aragao also remains in the medical department.

Up front, Luis Sinisterra, Gabriel Pec, and Neiser Villarreal remain sidelined through injury. To cover the gaps, forwards Wesley, Luciano Rodriguez, and Joao Costa are available, while Matheus Henrique returns to midfield after suspension.

Leonardo Jardim still has three confirmed absentees: Alex Sandro, Vitao, and Nicolas de la Cruz. Everton Cebolinha is being assessed after showing flu-like symptoms in recent training.

Luiz Araujo is in the final stage of recovery from a knee issue and remains a doubt. With a break coming after this round, Jardim plans to field his strongest available lineup, with Gonzalo Plata and Samuel Lino on the flanks.

Cruzeiro possible starting lineup:

Otavio; William, Bruno, Jesus, Villalba; Romero, Henrique; Arroyo, Pereira, Wanderson; Jorge

Flamengo possible starting lineup:

Rossi; Varela, Ortiz, Pereira, Lucas; Pulgar, Jorginho; Plata, Arrascaeta, Lino; Pedro

We say: Cruzeiro 1-2 Flamengo

Cruzeiro's physical and emotional fatigue, combined with Flamengo's attacking strength, makes the visitors favourites. The home side should score with the backing of their crowd, but Flamengo average two goals per game, while Cruzeiro have conceded just over one per match.

For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.