Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro Preview & Prediction
The upcoming Copa Do Brasil fixture between Vila Nova and Cruzeiro promises to be a captivating encounter as both teams seek to advance in this prestigious knockout competition. Vila Nova, currently competing in Serie B, has shown moments of resilience and tactical discipline under coach dos Santos Lacerda, while Cruzeiro, a Serie A side, arrives with a strong recent form and the advantage of experience at higher levels. This Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro preview will delve into the recent performances and tactical nuances of both sides, their head-to-head history, and offer insights into who might emerge victorious in this crucial clash.
Vila Nova’s recent form under dos Santos Lacerda reflects a team that is finding its footing after a mixed run of results. They have secured important wins such as a 2-1 victory against Atletico Paranaense and a narrow 1-0 success over Chapecoense-sc, demonstrating their ability to grind out results in Serie B. However, defeats like the 2-0 loss away to Remo and the earlier Copa Do Brasil reverse against Cruzeiro show some vulnerabilities, particularly in handling pressure from stronger oppositions. Tactically, Lacerda seems to emphasize a balanced approach, aiming for defensive solidity while capitalizing on counter-attacks, which was evident in their 1-0 win at Athletic Club. Vila Nova’s recent form suggests a side capable of challenging but still needing consistency to overcome top-tier opponents.
Cruzeiro enters this match with a confident form guide under coach Nunes Alves Sousa Jardim. Their recent performances highlight a team in good rhythm, with notable results including a commanding 4-0 away win at Sport Recife and a hard-fought 2-1 home victory against Flamengo in Serie A. Cruzeiro’s ability to maintain clean sheets and score crucial goals in competitive fixtures like the CONMEBOL Sudamericana further underlines their quality. Away from home, Cruzeiro has shown resilience, as seen in their 1-1 draw with Mushuc Runa SC and a 0-0 stalemate against Atletico-MG, suggesting a tactical flexibility that allows them to absorb pressure and capitalize on key moments. Their strengths lie in a well-organized defense paired with an effective attacking transition, though occasional lapses invite caution.
Looking at the Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro head to head record over their last five finished encounters, Cruzeiro has held the upper hand with three wins, including a recent 2-0 victory in this Copa Do Brasil tie. Vila Nova has managed a solitary win and two draws, indicating a competitive but slightly one-sided rivalry. Matches have often been closely contested, with the majority of games decided by narrow margins or ending in draws, reflecting the tactical battles between these sides. This history suggests that while Cruzeiro may have the edge, Vila Nova is no stranger to causing upsets on their home ground.
Taking all factors into account, the Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro prediction leans towards a draw or an away win for Cruzeiro. Vila Nova’s home advantage and tactical discipline may enable them to hold Cruzeiro at bay, but the visitors’ superior form and experience in high-stakes matches make them favorites to at least avoid defeat. For those exploring Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro betting tips, a cautious approach favoring Cruzeiro or a draw appears prudent given the recent dynamics and head-to-head trends.
A hot stat to note: Cruzeiro has not lost to Vila Nova in four of their last five encounters, underscoring their tendency to secure positive results in this matchup. This Copa Do Brasil match preview highlights a tactical and physical contest where both teams will look to exploit each other’s weaknesses, promising an engaging battle on matchday.
Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro Prediction
Match: Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro
Kick Off: 22 May 2025, 22:00 UTC
Prediction: Draw or Away

Vila Nova
vs

Cruzeiro
Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro – Copa Do Brasil Standings
Standings data not available for Copa Do Brasil (2025).
Vila Nova vs Cruzeiro Head-to-Head
Date | League | Match | Score |
---|---|---|---|
22 May 2025 | Copa Do Brasil |
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– – – |
02 May 2025 | Copa Do Brasil |
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2 – 0 |
14 Oct 2022 | Serie B |
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1 – 0 |
02 Jul 2022 | Serie B |
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2 – 0 |
31 Oct 2021 | Serie B |
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1 – 1 |
24 Jul 2021 | Serie B |
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0 – 0 |