Vasco da Gama vs. Cruzeiro Prediction, Match Preview, and Betting Tips, 27 September 2025

This upcoming fixture in Serie A pits Vasco da Gama against Cruzeiro, two teams with very different trajectories this season. The match is scheduled for 27 September 2025 at 22:30. Cruzeiro, currently sitting 2nd in the league with 50 points, has been in stellar form, winning their last five matches. Vasco da Gama, in 13th with 27 points, has also shown resilience with two wins in their last five games.

Philippe Coutinho has been a key player for Vasco, contributing significantly to their recent performances and drawing the national team’s attention. On the other hand, Cruzeiro has been propelled by the likes of Kaio Jorge and Lucas Silva, making them the bookmakers’ favourite.

Given Cruzeiro’s stronger defensive record and Vasco’s offensive creativity, the recommended bet is for both teams to score. Look out for a thrilling match where both teams are expected to find the net.

Vasco da Gama vs Cruzeiro Prediction & Betting Tip

Why this prediction is recommended:

• Vasco da Gama has demonstrated significant offensive creativity, especially with Philippe Coutinho in form, but has struggled to keep clean sheets recently.
• Cruzeiro, despite being strong defensively, has the firepower to capitalize on Vasco’s defensive lapses, evidenced by their consistent goal-scoring form.
• Historical data supports this prediction, with recent encounters between these two teams often seeing goals from both sides.

Expect an exciting clash where both teams are likely to find the net, making this an engaging bet for fans.

Vasco da Gama vs Cruzeiro Odds

This exciting Serie A fixture sees 13th-placed Vasco da Gama hosting the high-flying Cruzeiro, who sit 2nd on the table. Given the contrasting form and standings, bookmakers have identified Cruzeiro as the favourites. Despite that, Vasco da Gama’s attacking prowess could make for an unpredictable contest.

These odds reflect Cruzeiro’s strong season but also hint at the possibility of an intriguing contest given Vasco’s offensive capabilities at home. Both teams have their strengths, and with recent performances suggesting goals from both sides, this could be a closely contested match where anything can happen.

Vasco da Gama Team Analysis

Vasco da Gama Recent Performance

Vasco da Gama has been in mixed form, with a record of two wins, two draws, and a single defeat in their last five outings. Their resilience was on display in a thrilling 3-1 victory against Bahia and vital draws against Flamengo and Ceará. Despite not keeping any clean sheets, Vasco has showcased their attacking strength, averaging 3.00 goals per game in this period.

Philippe Coutinho’s resurgence, contributing to goals in four out of five matches, has been pivotal. However, their defensive vulnerabilities continue to be a concern, conceding an average of 1.3 goals per match this season. Their ability to score is unquestionable, but shoring up at the back will be essential to climb up from their current 13th position in Serie A.

With Cruzeiro as their next opponents, Vasco must be at their best to exploit any gaps in the visitors’ defense.

Vasco da Gama Key Players

Vasco da Gama’s resurgence in attacking prowess can be largely attributed to Philippe Coutinho and top scorer Pablo Vegetti. Coutinho has been instrumental, with contributions in four out of the last five matches, including a crucial goal against Bahia. Vegetti leads the squad with 12 goals this season, providing a consistent threat up front.

Another player to watch out for is Rayan Vitor, who has been linking well with Coutinho and Vegetti from the wings. Their collaboration will be crucial in breaking down Cruzeiro’s defense.

Expected lineup for Vasco da Gama:

• Goalkeeper: Leo Jardim
• Defenders: Paulo Henrique, Carlos Cuesta, Lucas Freitas, José Luis Rodríguez
• Midfielders: Hugo Moura, Cauan Barros, Philippe Coutinho
• Forwards: Rayan Vitor, Nuno Moreira, Pablo Vegetti

With these key players, Vasco da Gama will aim to exploit any defensive lapses from Cruzeiro to secure valuable points.

Vasco da Gama Suspensions & Injuries

Vasco da Gama faces a challenging situation with several key players sidelined due to injuries. The most significant absences are Adson, who has a broken leg and is expected back in late October, and Jair, who is out for the season with a cruciate ligament injury. Additionally, Thiago Mendes, Lucas Piton, and Tchê Tchê are dealing with calf and thigh injuries, with potential returns slated for the next one to two weeks. Robert Renan is doubtful due to a concussion, and GB is expected back mid-October due to a thigh injury.

These absences could significantly impact the team’s cohesion and defensive capabilities. The team will need to adapt quickly, relying on their remaining fit players to fill these crucial gaps and maintain their competitive edge against a strong Cruzeiro side.

Vasco da Gama Tactics and Formation

Vasco da Gama Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Pablo Vegetti
• Midfield Trio: Hugo Moura, Cauan Barros, Philippe Coutinho
• Defensive Weakness: Zero clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong attacking play, averaging 3.00 goals per game in recent matches

Under Fernando Diniz, Vasco favours a 4-2-3-1 setup, focusing heavily on their offensive capabilities. Philippe Coutinho, playing as the attacking midfielder, has been the linchpin, providing creativity and scoring opportunities. Pablo Vegetti, as the central forward, leads the attack and has been prolific, netting 12 goals this season.

However, their defensive frailties are evident, having conceded in every game recently and averaging 1.3 goals conceded per match. Defensive improvement, especially in the final stages, is crucial as they have allowed most goals in the 76-90 minute interval.

Vasco will aim to exploit Cruzeiro’s occasional defensive lapses using swift, attacking play while ensuring better defensive coordination to mitigate their weaknesses.

Cruzeiro Team Analysis

Cruzeiro Recent Performance

Cruzeiro has been in phenomenal form, racking up five consecutive wins across various competitions. Their recent victories include a 2-1 win over Red Bull Bragantino and a 2-0 triumph against Atletico MG in the cup. Cruzeiro’s impressive run has placed them securely in the second spot on the Serie A table with 50 points, just behind the league leaders.

The team has been solid defensively, achieving three clean sheets in their last five matches. Offensively, they are averaging 1.80 goals per game, thanks in large part to the exploits of Kaio Jorge, who leads the team with 15 goals this season.

With consistency in both attack and defense, Cruzeiro will go into their clash against Vasco da Gama brimming with confidence and looking to maintain their winning streak.

Cruzeiro Key Players

Cruzeiro’s stellar form this season can be attributed to key players like Kaio Jorge and Lucas Silva. Kaio Jorge, the team’s top scorer with 15 goals, has been instrumental in their attack, consistently finding the back of the net. Meanwhile, Lucas Silva has shown his class in midfield, contributing significantly with his assists and general playmaking abilities.

Additionally, Cassio in goal has been a rock, contributing to their three clean sheets in the last five games. Expect individual battles such as Kaio Jorge vs Vasco’s Carlos Cuesta and Lucas Silva attempting to outmaneuver Hugo Moura in midfield.

Expected lineup for Cruzeiro:

• Goalkeeper: Cassio
• Defenders: William, Fabricio Bruno, Jonathan Jesus, Kaiki
• Midfielders: Lucas Silva, Lucas Romero, Christian Cardoso, Matheus Pereira
• Forwards: Wanderson, Kaio Jorge

Navigating through Vasco’s defensive lapses, Cruzeiro will aim to continue their dominant run.

Cruzeiro Suspensions & Injuries

Cruzeiro will have to navigate this match without some key players. Joao Marcelo is doubtful with a knee injury, and both Fagner and Luis Sinisterra are expected to return in early October due to an ankle and thigh injury, respectively. More critically, they will miss Lucas Villalba and Gabriel Barbosa, who are suspended due to yellow card accumulation.

These absences may slightly impact Cruzeiro’s defensive and offensive efforts. Villalba has been solid at the back, and Gabigol’s presence on the wings will be sorely missed. However, Cruzeiro’s recent form and depth in the squad should provide ample cover as they continue their quest for the top spot in Serie A.

Cruzeiro Tactics and Formation

Cruzeiro Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Kaio Jorge
• Midfield Duo: Lucas Silva, Lucas Romero
• Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Effective in converting chances, averaging 1.80 goals per match

Under Leonardo Jardim, Cruzeiro prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation, prioritizing balance between a solid defense and effective attack. Kaio Jorge, their top scorer with 15 goals, leads the line, supported by a creative midfield that includes Matheus Pereira.

Defensively, they have been robust, with three clean sheets in recent outings. Lucas Silva and Lucas Romero form a resilient midfield partnership, bolstering both defense and attack.

With defensive discipline and offensive firepower, Cruzeiro aims to exploit Vasco da Gama’s defensive lapses and maintain their strong form. They rely on organized play and efficient finishing to stay competitive in the title race.

Vasco da Gama vs Cruzeiro Head-to-Head Statistics

In the last five meetings between Vasco da Gama and Cruzeiro, the outcomes have favoured Cruzeiro slightly, but both teams have had their moments. Here’s a closer look:

• 2025-04-27: Cruzeiro 1 – 0 Vasco da Gama
• 2024-09-29: Cruzeiro 1 – 1 Vasco da Gama
• 2024-06-16: Vasco da Gama 0 – 0 Cruzeiro
• 2023-11-22: Cruzeiro 2 – 2 Vasco da Gama
• 2023-07-08: Vasco da Gama 0 – 1 Cruzeiro

From these results, it is evident that recent encounters have been tightly contested, with Cruzeiro slightly edging out their rival in certain matches. Vasco da Gama has managed to hold its own as well, securing draws in some crucial fixtures.

With Cruzeiro’s current form and Vasco’s offensive capabilities, the upcoming match promises to be another closely fought contest. Historical data and recent form suggest that goals from both sides are likely, adding to the anticipation of an exciting clash.

Odds accurate as of 25th September 2025, 22:31, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.