Matheus Pereira hails Cruzeiro’s spirit after Mineiro semi-final spot | OneFootball

Attacking midfielder Matheus Pereira praised Cruzeiro's qualification for the semifinals of the Campeonato Mineiro, especially after criticizing the condition of the pitch at Estádio Zama Maciel. The Fox advanced to the knockout stage by defeating URT 2-1 this Saturday, in a match with two red cards, during the last round of the first phase of the State Championship.

“We knew it would be a tough game, a pitch that makes ball circulation a bit difficult. But I think we did well, we had plenty of opportunities, we were happy with the chances we created in the first half. I want to highlight that we are very happy with this qualification for the semifinals,” he said in an interview with Premiere.

Cruzeiro built the score in the first half. Kaio Jorge found the net after a pass from Gerson in the 26th minute of the first half, while Arroyo increased the lead in stoppage time. Matheus Henrique was sent off after receiving a second yellow card also at the end of the first half, while URT had Pedro Henrique sent off in the second half, but managed to pull one back at the very end.

“We knew how important the win was here, regardless of the pitch and conditions. The team deserves congratulations, we played very well together. I’m very happy with this progress and we’ll keep chasing our goals,” concluded the Cruzeiro player.

With this result, Cruzeiro secured a spot in the semifinals of the Campeonato Mineiro, having the best overall campaign in the group stage. Coach Tite’s team finished the first phase at the top of Group C, with 15 points, and will face Pouso Alegre in home-and-away matches, with dates and times to be set by the Federação Mineira de Futebol (FMF).

Cruzeiro’s next match

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