Cruzeiro stumble at the back, lose to Democrata at Mineirão | OneFootball

Cruzeiro maintained an offensive stance throughout almost the entire match, created a significant number of plays in the opponent's half, but was unable to turn opportunities into goals and ended up defeated by Democrata GV 1-0 in the 4th round of the Campeonato Mineiro.

Even with control of the game, constant presence in attack, and pressure until the final minutes, the celestial team was punished for its lack of effectiveness and by the efficiency of the opponent, who took advantage of one of the few chances they had to decide the result.

Match Summary

The match was marked by Cruzeiro's broad dominance in terms of ball possession, offensive volume, and presence in the opponent's half, but ended with a 1-0 victory for Democrata GV, who was more efficient with the opportunities they had.

From the start, Cruzeiro took control of the game, pressing mainly with crosses into the box, corners, and mid-range shots. Japa, Kaique Kenji, Chico, Gerson, Ryan Guilherme, and Keny Arroyo frequently appeared in attack, creating good chances, but were stopped by blocked shots, saves by the opposing goalkeeper, or inaccurate finishes.

Democrata GV adopted a more cautious approach in the first half, trying to respond with counterattacks, but unable to impose themselves for long periods. Even with Cruzeiro's high tempo and several chances created, the score remained goalless at the end of the first half.

In the second half, the scenario remained the same, with Cruzeiro piling up corners and pressing from the opening minutes. However, in one of their few clear chances, Democrata GV was effective: in the 16th minute, Bryan took advantage of an individual error by Fagner, who poorly passed the ball back to Otávio, and chipped it over the goalkeeper.

From then on, the celestial team increased their offensive momentum even more and made changes to make the team more aggressive, bringing on Matheus Pereira, Christian, Kaio Jorge, and Néiser Villarreal.

Cruzeiro's pressure was constant until the final whistle. Kaio Jorge had chances in the air, Matheus Pereira tried from outside the box, and Japa and Keny Arroyo also came close to equalizing, but Democrata GV's defense managed to hold firm.

In the end, the match was marked by the contrast between Cruzeiro's volume of play and Democrata GV's defensive efficiency, who knew how to seize their opportunity and held on to the lead to win 1-0.

Cruzeiro's Schedule and Standings

Even with the setback, the result does not change Cruzeiro's position in the standings. The celestial team remains at the top of Group C, with six points. Democrata-GV, meanwhile, reached seven points and continues to occupy second place in Group A.

Cruzeiro's next challenge will be a heavyweight clash in the Campeonato Mineiro. On Sunday (25th), at 6pm, the team faces Atlético-MG at the Arena in the fifth round of the State Championship. The opponent is having an inconsistent start to the competition, still without a win, and is currently in third place in Group A.

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