Corinthians idol shows respect before Copa do Brasil semi-final reunion

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Central do Timão

·14 de septiembre de 2025

Corinthians idol shows respect before Copa do Brasil semi-final reunion

By Fabio Luigi / Central do Timão Editorial Team

Last Wednesday, September 10, Corinthians secured a spot in the semifinals of the Copa do Brasil for the fourth consecutive year by defeating Athletico-PR 3-0 on aggregate. Their opponent in the next phase will be Cruzeiro, which features one of the greatest idols in the history of the Alvinegro in its team: goalkeeper Cássio. The team from Minas eliminated their biggest rival (Atlético-MG) in the previous round with a 4-0 aggregate score.

In an exclusive interview with ESPN Brasil, the former Corinthians number 12 commented on his reunion with the club from Parque São Jorge and, at the same time, emphasized the affection he has for the club: “(Corinthians) Will always have my affection, what I experienced there will always be eternal. Those were wonderful years that I lived there, but my cycle at Corinthians is over.”

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Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Agência Corinthians

“The club will always have my respect, and playing against Corinthians will always be special, different, but today, I defend the colors of Cruzeiro. It is a club that I am very happy to be at, I like being here, it is a club I am getting to know more and more, its history, its greatness,” he began.

At the same time, Cássio stated that despite having built a legacy at Corinthians and having many friendships in the Corinthians squad, he will spare no effort to take Cruzeiro to the final of the Copa do Brasil. The Giant also commented on the importance of winning the national knockout tournament, which he has not yet won in his very successful career.

“Cruzeiro is a club of tradition, titles, and many achievements. I have a lot of respect and friends there at Corinthians, but when the game starts, I will do everything to help Cruzeiro reach the final. It is a title I don’t have, I will prepare to do my best for Cruzeiro to be champion. My respect (for Corinthians) will always be there, but whatever I can do for Cruzeiro to come out victorious, I will do,” he concluded.

In 12 years at Corinthians – having arrived in February 2012 – goalkeeper Cássio played in 712 games – 710 as a starter – (second most appearances in the club's history) – with 316 wins, 217 draws, and 179 losses – a little over 54% success rate. Additionally, he won nine titles: Campeonato Brasileiro (2015 and 2017), Conmebol Libertadores (2012), Club World Cup (2012), Paulistão (2013, 2017, 2018, and 2019), and Recopa Sudamericana (2013).

The Copa do Brasil semifinal matches between Corinthians and Cruzeiro are expected to take place in the weeks of December 10 and 14 – after the end of the Brasileirão, scheduled for the 7th of the same month. Details will still be announced by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

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