Cruzeiro learn their Libertadores 2026 opponents, face a tough group | OneFootball

Cruzeiro learned, on the night of this Thursday (19th), who their opponents will be in the group stage of the 2026 Copa Libertadores. In a draw held at CONMEBOL headquarters in Luque, Paraguay, the Raposa was placed in Group D and will face the traditional Boca Juniors, as well as Universidad Católica from Chile and Barcelona de Guayaquil from Ecuador.

Returning to South America's main club competition after a six-year absence, Cruzeiro encounters a high-level scenario right from the first stage. The clash against Boca Juniors stands out as the most anticipated of the group, while the trips to Chile and Ecuador will also demand the celeste team's full attention.

A two-time Libertadores champion, with historic victories in 1976 and 1997, the club from Minas Gerais embarks on another journey in search of its third continental title.

The first matches of the group stage are scheduled for the first week of April, marking the beginning of Cruzeiro's campaign in the tournament.

In addition to the sporting prestige, the 2026 edition will also feature a record financial incentive. The CONMEBOL president announced an increase in prize money, and the champion could earn around 33 million dollars, a figure that further reinforces the importance of the competition in the South American scene.

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