Cruzeiro welcome Gabigol and strengthen defence for Flamengo clash | OneFootball

Flamengo and Cruzeiro face off on Thursday (02), for the Brasileirão

Flamengo will face a strengthened rival at Maracanã in the 26th round of the Brasileirão. Cruzeiro will count on the returns of Lucas Villalba and Gabigol, who are back from suspension just in time for a direct confrontation for the title. The duo is again available for coach Leonardo Jardim.

Villalba reassumes the defense after being out against Vasco. Gabigol, currently a substitute, appears as an option for the second half. The forward, who has already played for Flamengo, may face his former club in a decisive match for the championship lead.

GABIGOL BECOMES CRUZEIRO'S WEAPON AGAINST FLAMENGO?

In the first round, Gabigol scored the winning goal for Cruzeiro in a 2-1 victory over Flamengo, at Mineirão. Now, the striker returns to Maracanã as a direct opponent in the title race. The reunion carries tension and rivalry.

Since signing with Cruzeiro, Gabigol has played 41 matches, scored 13 goals, and provided four assists. Not in the starting lineup, he usually comes on in the second half.

SIX-POINT CONFRONTATION?

With 54 points, Flamengo leads the Brasileirão. On the other hand, Cruzeiro, with 50, is in second place. In other words, a victory is of utmost importance to maintain the isolated leadership and reinforce the positive momentum of the red-black team.

Maracanã is expected to receive a large crowd this Thursday (02), at 8:30 pm (Brasília time). The game will be broadcast on Premiere, on pay-per-view. In addition, Coluna do Fla is preparing complete coverage, with live videos and updates on social media.

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