It was an action-packed game at the Mineirão as Cruzeiro triumphed over Bahia on Thursday night (5). The match saw the Fox concede a stunning goal, Fagner miss an incredible opportunity, and Kaio Jorge take the spotlight in a bizarre moment before ultimately shining again. Advertisement. Despite Bahia’s relentless efforts, Cruzeiro clinched a 3–2 win in front of their home supporters, bolstering their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Libertadores.
Wonder goal or goalkeeping error?
Cruzeiro faced immediate concern four minutes into the game when Fabrício Bruno had to be replaced due to a suspected injury. Viña came off the bench to take his place. The breakthrough came from Kike Olivera, who tested Otávio in the 10th minute and struck in the 31st with a skillful nutmeg on Zé Lucas, followed by a finish that caught Otávio off guard.
🤯 Oh no, Fagner…
Cruzeiro’s first significant opportunity came in the 37th minute, but Fagner, completely unmarked, hit the crossbar.
KJ levels before the break
Although Kaio Jorge had been quiet throughout the match until then, he made an impact by playing a one-two with Arroyo and capitalizing on Ronaldo’s mistake to score.
A slip, a Cruzeiro comeback and a WONDER GOAL
VAR awarded a penalty for a foul on Viña, granting Kaio Jorge another opportunity to celebrate, but he missed, shooting over the bar. Nonetheless, Cruzeiro had Bruno Rodrigues, who scored in the 69th minute, marking his 100th appearance for the club. Advertisement. Kaio Jorge redeemed himself in style in the 86th minute, brushing past Marcos Victor for a superb goal. Rogério Ceni’s team was stunned but managed to rally as Alejo found the net in the fifth minute of stoppage time. However, the victory ultimately belonged to Cruzeiro.
📊 The standings
With the win, third-placed Cruzeiro climbed to 60 points, creating a seven-point cushion over Bahia, now in sixth place. A spot in the Libertadores, whether direct or via qualifying rounds, is within reach for them. Neither team will see action again until Wednesday the 18th, with Cruzeiro set to host second-placed Palmeiras, while Bahia is slated to visit Grêmio (18th) in Porto Alegre.
Photo: Gustavo Aleixo/Cruzeiro
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.
