Cruzeiro vs Sao Paulo 8 October 2026 Prediction

Cruzeiro returns to Mineirão after an extended spell away. It enters the round in sixth place with 45 points, one behind fifth. São Paulo is 10th with 36 points and heads to Belo Horizonte after a 2-1 home loss to Santos. Dorival Júnior’s side won the first meeting 4-1, giving Cruzeiro added motivation at home.

Cruzeiro’s Attack Remains a Strength

Arthur Jorge’s side won two of its last three Série A games before the break, scoring three goals in each victory. Pereira and Jorge are central to its attack, while Gerson helps move the ball through midfield quickly. Romero’s return gives Cruzeiro another option in the middle and more cover when players push forward.

Fabrício Bruno will miss the game with a calf issue. Arroyo returns from international duty only the day before the match, so he may not start. Cruzeiro still has enough attacking options to maintain a high tempo at home without relying on one player.

São Paulo Faces More Lineup Changes

Dorival Júnior used 18 different starting lineups in his first 18 matches back at the club. That instability continues ahead of the trip to Belo Horizonte. São Paulo has fewer starting options available following the loss to Santos, though Calleri has served his suspension and can return.

Calleri’s return should give São Paulo more presence in the box. The visitors will still have to contain a Cruzeiro side that has scored 42 league goals. Frequent lineup changes could also make São Paulo more vulnerable when transitioning from attack to defense.

Cruzeiro vs São Paulo Predicted Lineup

Cruzeiro (4-3-3): Costa; Fagner, Marcelo, Jesus, Rojas; Gerson, Romero, Pereira; Arroyo, Jorge, Wesley

Out: Bruno, Pec, Sinisterra, Henrique, Villalba, Villarreal (all injured)

Manager: Arthur Jorge

São Paulo (4-3-3): Coronel; Lima, Arboleda, Tolói, Wendell; Maia, Bobadilla, Antonio; Artur, Santana, Calleri

Out: Rafael, Yago, Danielzinho, Luciano, Buta, Duarte, Moura (all injured)

Manager: Dorival Júnior

Cruzeiro vs São Paulo Prediction: Cruzeiro to Win at 1.81

Main prediction: Cruzeiro has been in better form recently, has a more settled lineup and returns home after a 3-1 win over Vitória. Its midfield and attacking movement should help it create chances. Pick: Cruzeiro to win at 1.81. Estimated probability: 60%; odds above 1.67 offer value.

Goals prediction: Cruzeiro has conceded in each of its last three league games, while Calleri’s return improves São Paulo’s finishing options. The hosts have also scored three goals in two of their last three matches. Pick: Both teams to score: Yes at 1.80. Estimated probability: 60%; odds above 1.67 offer value.