Bruno Rodrigues scores on return, targets Cruzeiro comeback in Brasileiro

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·22. Februar 2026

Bruno Rodrigues scores on return, targets Cruzeiro comeback in Brasileiro

Cruzeiro took an important step towards the final of the Campeonato Mineiro by defeating Pouso Alegre 2-1 away from home. The advantage of a draw in the return match at Mineirão puts the team in a comfortable position in the semifinals.

One of the highlights of the night was forward Bruno Rodrigues, who scored the second goal for the team and celebrated his return to the club after a stint at Palmeiras marked by many injuries and few games.

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In the mixed zone, the player appreciated the reception he received at the club and the importance of scoring in his re-debut, noting how the goal makes things easier for the continuation of the game.

“Really happy. I want to thank the team, staff, and fans who welcomed me so well. This makes a player feel more at ease to perform on the field. Debuting with a goal is very good, it felt like my first game with this jersey,” he told Samuca TV.

Bruno came on in the second half, replacing the young Néiser Villarreal, and played more centrally for part of the period, a role he had previously performed. He revealed that this was pre-arranged with the coach and emphasized the need to be well-positioned to seize opportunities.

“I had already played there (false nine), the ball came to me. A forward needs to have good positioning, and I was very fortunate. I hope it's the first of many. It was expected (to come on in the second half), Tite had already talked to me to be prepared, and I was able to come in and help my team.”

The forward also spoke about seeking consistency after a period marked by injuries at Palmeiras and admitted he has not yet reached his physical peak.

“I know about the injuries I had, I didn't have much consistency at Palmeiras. A player needs to play, I'm not yet in my best physical shape, but I will work to be ready as soon as possible and help Cruzeiro in the best way possible.”

Besides focusing on the State Championship, Bruno Rodrigues commented on the delicate moment in the Brazilian Championship. Without a win and at the bottom of the standings, Cruzeiro returns to the field on Wednesday against Corinthians at Mineirão.

“In a league format, you can't stay at the bottom of the table because we know the greatness of Cruzeiro. We expect the fans on Wednesday to fill Mineirão and help us achieve a positive result.”

After securing their path to the final of the Mineiro, Cruzeiro turns its attention to the Brazilian Championship, where they are at the bottom after three games, with two losses and one draw. The next opponent will be Corinthians on Wednesday (25th) at 8 PM at Mineirão.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.