Cruzeiro vs. São Paulo Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 31 August 2025

This Serie A clash between Cruzeiro and São Paulo looks to be an exciting matchup with plenty at stake. Cruzeiro, currently 3rd in the standings with 41 points, aim to close the gap to league leaders Flamengo. São Paulo, sitting 7th with 32 points, are keen to maintain their unbeaten streak under Hernán Crespo and push further up the table.

Recent form suggests a hotly contested battle, with Cruzeiro winning three of their last five games and São Paulo remaining unbeaten in their last five (WDDWW). The home side, led by top scorer Kaio Jorge, will look to leverage their solid attacking form. São Paulo, despite numerous injuries, have shown strong resistance and the ability to score consistently, marked by the fact they have found the net in 71% of their games this season.

Given the attacking prowess of both sides, the recommended bet is on over 2.5 goals in this fixture. This high-scoring encounter could serve up plenty of action, with Cruzeiro favoured by the bookmakers.

Enjoy the match, and may the best team win!

Cruzeiro vs São Paulo Prediction & Betting Tip

Cruzeiro vs São Paulo Prediction
Betting tip	Odds
Over 2.5 goals	1.80

• Cruzeiro has an effective attack, scoring an average of 1.60 goals in their last five games.
• São Paulo has shown strong resistance, being unbeaten in their last five matches and scoring goals consistently.
• Both teams have a history of scoring in their encounters, increasing the likelihood of a high-scoring game.

Given the attacking prowess of both sides, betting on over 2.5 goals looks like a solid choice. Expect plenty of action on the pitch with both teams finding the back of the net. Enjoy the match and may the best team win!

Cruzeiro vs São Paulo Odds

This match between Cruzeiro and São Paulo carries interesting dynamics with betting odds that highlight Cruzeiro as the favourites. However, São Paulo’s formidable form under Hernán Crespo and their strong attacking record ensure this will be a gripping contest. Here’s a look at how the odds stack up:

Cruzeiro vs São Paulo Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
Cruzeiro	1.80
Draw	3.32
São Paulo	4.62

• Cruzeiro’s odds reflect their strong standing in the league and their solid home form.
• A draw has respectable odds, considering São Paulo’s unbeaten streak.
• São Paulo’s longer odds offer value, given their resilience and capability to score consistently.

These odds make for an intriguing betting landscape, promising a thrilling match filled with attacking intent and competitive spirit. Enjoy the game!

Cruzeiro Team Analysis

Cruzeiro Recent Performance

Cruzeiro have shown strong form recently, winning three of their last five matches. Their recent results highlight their capability to secure crucial victories, including a commanding 2-0 win against Atletico MG in the Cup and a tight 2-1 win over Internacional in the league.

• Recent form: WLDWW

The team has averaged 1.60 goals per game in their last five outings, displaying effective attacking prowess. Defensively, they’ve managed two clean sheets in these fixtures, reflecting their ability to hold off the opposition and maintain a solid backline.

As they prepare to face São Paulo, Leonardo Jardim’s squad will aim to continue their positive momentum, especially leveraging their home advantage to secure vital points in their chase for the league title.

Given their current form and attacking efficiency, Cruzeiro look poised to put up a strong performance in this important fixture.

Cruzeiro Key Players

Cruzeiro’s attacking line-up is spearheaded by their top scorer, Kaio Jorge, who has netted 15 goals this season. His ability to find the back of the net makes him a constant threat to any defence.

Midfield dynamo Matheus Pereira is another key player, contributing significantly with six assists, making him second in the league’s assist rankings. Pereira’s vision and creativity will be crucial in breaking down São Paulo’s defence.

In goal, Cassio provides a reliable last line of defence, whilst defenders like Fabricio Bruno and Lucas Villalba will be tasked with keeping São Paulo’s attackers at bay.

Expected lineup for Cruzeiro:

• Goalkeeper: Cassio
• Defenders: William, Fabricio Bruno, Lucas Villalba, Kaiki
• Midfielders: Lucas Romero, Lucas Silva, Christian Cardoso, Matheus Pereira, Wanderson
• Forward: Kaio Jorge

This blend of seasoned players and youthful talent promises an engaging battle against São Paulo.

Cruzeiro Suspensions & Injuries

Cruzeiro has a few injury concerns that could impact their performance against São Paulo. Defender João Marcelo is out with a knee injury and is expected to return in early October, while right back Fagner is sidelined with an ankle injury and likely to return late September. Winger Luis Sinisterra is dealing with a hamstring injury and remains doubtful for this match.

These absences could affect Cruzeiro’s defensive structure and bring a reshuffle in their backline. The remaining squad members must step up, particularly the defenders, to maintain stability. With key players missing, Cruzeiro’s depth will be tested, especially against São Paulo’s resilient attack.

Despite these setbacks, Cruzeiro’s attacking prowess remains intact, spearheaded by Kaio Jorge. This will be vital in their quest to claim crucial points from this encounter.

Cruzeiro Tactics and Formation

Cruzeiro Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Kaio Jorge
• Attacking Midfielder: Matheus Pereira
• Defensive Duo: Lucas Romero and Lucas Silva
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games

Cruzeiro’s expected formation of 4-2-3-1 allows them to control the midfield with two defensive lines providing stability. Kaio Jorge, with 15 goals this season, will be the focal point of their attack, supported by the dynamic Matheus Pereira who excels in creating scoring opportunities, evidenced by his six assists.

Defensively, the duo of Lucas Romero and Lucas Silva will play a crucial role in breaking down São Paulo’s attacks and transitioning swiftly to counter-attacks. Cruzeiro’s strategy often involves utilizing the width provided by wingers Christian Cardoso and Wanderson, aiming for strong offensive pushes, especially during the middle intervals of the game. This tactical approach has brought success, with a solid defensive setup that complements their attacking prowess.

São Paulo Team Analysis

São Paulo Recent Performance

São Paulo has demonstrated resilience and consistency, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches. Their recent performances include:

• São Paulo 2-0 Atletico MG (Serie A)
• São Paulo 1-1 Atletico Nacional (Copa Libertadores) – Won on penalties
• Sport Recife 2-2 São Paulo (Serie A)
• Atletico Nacional 0-0 São Paulo (Copa Libertadores)
• São Paulo 2-0 Vitoria (Serie A)

Recent form: WDDWW

São Paulo has averaged 2.20 goals per game in their last five matches, showcasing their attacking potency despite numerous injuries. They have also managed three clean sheets during this period, underscoring their defensive solidity.

As they face Cruzeiro, São Paulo will look to extend their unbeaten streak and build on their current momentum, leveraging their solid attack and sturdy defence to overcome the challenge.

São Paulo Key Players

São Paulo’s offensive efforts will be led by their top scorer, Andre, who has netted five goals this season. He’ll be essential in breaking down Cruzeiro’s defence.

Midfielders Marcos Antonio and Pablo Maia are pivotal in São Paulo’s strategy; despite injuries, they contribute significantly to both defensive and offensive plays. Antonio’s playmaking ability complements Maia’s defensive skills.

In goal, Rafael will be crucial in preventing Cruzeiro’s sharp attack led by Kaio Jorge. The absence of key players like Jonathan Calleri and Ryan Francisco due to injuries will test São Paulo’s depth, but they have shown resilience in such situations.

Expected lineup for São Paulo:

• Goalkeeper: Rafael
• Defenders: Nahuel Ferraresi, Alan Franco, Sabino
• Midfielders: Cedric Soares, Damián Bobadilla, Alisson, Pablo Maia, Wendell
• Forwards: Luciano, Aldemir Ferreira

Individual battles such as Andre against Fabricio Bruno will be key in determining the outcome.

São Paulo Suspensions & Injuries

São Paulo faces significant challenges due to a lengthy injury list and suspensions. Key players like André Silva and Ryan Francisco are out for the season with cruciate ligament injuries. Jonathan Calleri is also absent, recovering from a knee injury that keeps him sidelined until early December.

Other players like Marcos Antonio and Lucas Moura are expected to return by mid-September, but they will miss this crucial fixture. Additionally, Enzo Díaz is suspended for accumulating yellow cards, which further depletes their defensive options.

These absences may force Hernán Crespo to rely heavily on his remaining squad members to deliver a robust performance. São Paulo’s depth will be tested, particularly in their defensive setup, making this encounter a challenging one against a formidable Cruzeiro side. Despite these setbacks, São Paulo’s recent unbeaten run shows their resilience and fight.

São Paulo Tactics and Formation

São Paulo Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Andre
• Midfield Strength: Pablo Maia and Damián Bobadilla
• Defensive Strategy: Three clean sheets in the last five games

Under Hernán Crespo, São Paulo will likely line up in a 3-5-2 formation, maximizing midfield control and defensive rigidity. Andre spearheads the attack, utilising his sharp finishing abilities to challenge Cruzeiro’s defence.

The midfield, anchored by Pablo Maia and Damián Bobadilla, plays a crucial role in both defensive stability and initiating offensive plays. The width provided by Cedric Soares and Wendell on the flanks supports both attacking and defensive duties.

Defensively, São Paulo’s back three, comprising Nahuel Ferraresi, Alan Franco, and Sabino, focus on keeping a tight structure, allowing minimal space for opponents to exploit. Recent form reflects their solid backline, having secured three clean sheets in their last five matches.

This tactical setup aims to build on their solid unbeaten run, leveraging their midfield dominance and defensive solidity to frustrate Cruzeiro’s attacking advances.

Cruzeiro vs São Paulo Head-to-Head Statistics

The head-to-head statistics between Cruzeiro and São Paulo add an intriguing layer to this week’s matchup. In their last five encounters:

• 2025-04-13: São Paulo 1-1 Cruzeiro (Serie A)
• 2025-01-16: Cruzeiro 1-1 São Paulo (Club Friendlies)
• 2024-09-15: Cruzeiro 0-1 São Paulo (Serie A)
• 2024-06-02: São Paulo 2-0 Cruzeiro (Serie A)
• 2023-11-02: São Paulo 1-0 Cruzeiro (Serie A)

Recently, São Paulo has had the edge, winning two and drawing three out of their last five matches against Cruzeiro. However, the most recent clashes suggest that the teams are quite evenly matched, often resulting in tightly contested fixtures.

Both teams have demonstrated they can find the back of the net, making this head-to-head history even more compelling. Cruzeiro will be keen to overturn their recent record against São Paulo, while São Paulo will aim to continue their unbeaten run.

Odds accurate as of 29/08/2025 01:01, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.