Decisive figure sets the tone early for Athletico Paranaense against Cruzeiro | OneFootball

Stiven Mendoza smashed a left-footed strike from outside the box in the first minute, setting Athletico Paranaense on course to beat Cruzeiro 2-1.

The Colombia forward took early aim from range and picked out the bottom-right corner, giving Furacão immediate control and stretching Raposa's back line.

He stayed busy between the lines, slipping a pass that teed up a blocked attempt on the left for Kevin Viveros (41.). The threat forced Cruzeiro to drop off and defend deeper zones.

Mendoza finished with one attempt, one on target, and 11 successful final third passes, plus three recoveries and a won tackle, a mix that kept CAP advancing play cleanly through midfield.

His direct dribbling and sharp combinations repeatedly unsettled Raposa, helping Furacão manage key phases before he made way late on (78.).

Furacão rise to seventh in the table and Cruzeiro sit 20th. Furacão host Coritiba next, while Cruzeiro welcome Santos.