Cusco FC vs Sporting Cristal Prediction, Match Preview, 15 December

Cusco FC and Sporting Cristal are set to face off in an intriguing clash in the Primera División on Monday, 15 December. This match promises to be a significant encounter as both teams vie for vital points in the league standings. While the venue details remain unspecified, the focus will be on how Cusco FC can leverage their home advantage against a formidable Sporting Cristal side.

Sporting Cristal, known for their strong performances, will be looking to assert their dominance in this fixture. Meanwhile, Cusco FC will aim to capitalise on any opportunities to upset their opponents. With both teams having much at stake, this match could have implications for their respective positions in the league, making it a must-watch for fans and bettors alike.

Cusco FC vs Sporting Cristal Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Cusco FC Double Chance (Win or Draw)	1.65

Given the current form and head-to-head history, the Double Chance market (Cusco FC to win or draw) stands out as a promising betting tip. Cusco FC’s unbeaten streak and solid home form make this a reliable option.

• Cusco FC are unbeaten in their last five matches, showing strong form and consistency.
• Sporting Cristal have had a mixed recent run with only two wins in their last five games, indicating potential vulnerabilities.
• Cusco FC won the last head-to-head encounter away from home, showcasing their capability to overcome Sporting Cristal.

This betting tip leverages Cusco FC’s consistency and home advantage, increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome for our bet.

Betting Odds

Cusco FC are stepping onto their home turf as favourites, with betting odds reflecting their strong form in the Primera División. Sporting Cristal, however, are no pushovers and offer enticing odds for those backing an upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
Cusco FC to win	1.86
Draw	3.43
Sporting Cristal to win	3.74

The draw is also a tempting option, given the competitive nature of these clashes. For those looking at goal markets, both teams have shown the capability to find the net, making the over 2.5 goals market worth a look.

Cusco FC Analysis & Past Performance

Cusco FC has demonstrated a commendable run of form, securing three wins in their last five matches, yielding a win ratio of 60%. Their recent performances have included a noteworthy 3-0 victory over Sport Boys and a resilient 2-2 draw against Alianza Universidad.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sporting Cristal	Cusco FC	1 – 0 (Loss)	Final Stage	11 Dec 2025
Sport Huancayo	Cusco FC	1 – 2 (Win)	Primera División Clausura	23 Nov 2025
Cusco FC	Sport Boys	3 – 0 (Win)	Primera División Clausura	7 Nov 2025
Alianza Universidad	Cusco FC	2 – 2 (Draw)	Primera División Clausura	2 Nov 2025
Cusco FC	Atletico Grau	1 – 0 (Win)	Primera División Clausura	25 Oct 2025

Recent Form:

• LWWDW

Cusco FC’s attack has been relatively effective, averaging 1.60 goals per game in their last five outings, accumulating a total of 8 goals. Their defence has shown robustness as well, conceding only 0.80 goals per match on average and achieving 2 clean sheets in this period. At home, they’ve been particularly strong, winning 3 out of 5 matches, which highlights their home advantage with a win ratio of 60%.

Cusco FC Suspensions & Injuries

Cusco FC enter the match against Sporting Cristal with a full squad, as there are no injuries or suspensions affecting the team. This clean bill of health allows coach Miguel Rondelli to field his strongest lineup, providing a strategic advantage over their opponents. The absence of any unavailable players means that Cusco FC can maintain their preferred tactical setup and focus on exploiting the weaknesses of Sporting Cristal.

With a robust lineup at his disposal, Rondelli can continue to deploy his usual formation, potentially focusing on a balanced approach that maximises both defensive solidity and attacking prowess. The availability of key players like Pedro Díaz in goal and Facundo Julián Callejo leading the attack ensures that Cusco FC can play to their strengths, leveraging their full potential in this crucial clash.

The full squad availability could also influence betting markets, as Cusco FC’s chances of securing a positive result are bolstered by the lack of any personnel constraints. Bettors might view this as a sign of stability and consistency, possibly giving Cusco FC an edge in the odds against Sporting Cristal, who may have their own challenges.

Overall, the absence of injuries and suspensions means Cusco FC can approach the match with confidence, knowing that they have all their resources at hand to tackle the challenges posed by Sporting Cristal. This situation might prompt a more aggressive and assertive game plan, aiming to capitalise on their complete roster and secure a vital victory.

Cusco FC Key Players

Cusco FC’s attacking prowess will likely be spearheaded by Nicolás Silva, whose dynamic movement and sharp instincts make him a potential game-changer against Sporting Cristal. Silva’s ability to exploit spaces could stretch the opposition defence, creating opportunities for his fellow forwards. Facundo Julián Callejo, another forward, brings a physical edge to the attack, complementing Silva’s agility with his aerial strength.

In midfield, Oswaldo Valenzuela’s role as the playmaker is crucial. His vision and passing range enable Cusco FC to transition quickly from defence to attack, setting the tempo of the game. Defensively, Carlos Gamarra stands out as a key figure, with his composure and tackling prowess providing stability at the back. His partnership with Alex Custodio in central defence will be vital in nullifying Sporting Cristal’s offensive threats.

• Goalkeeper: Pedro Díaz
• Defenders: José Zevallos, Carlos Gamarra, Alex Custodio, Álvaro Ampuero
• Midfielders: Carlo Diez, Oswaldo Valenzuela, Iván Colman
• Forwards: Nicolás Silva, Facundo Julián Callejo, Lucas Colitto

Cusco FC Tactics and Formation

Cusco FC Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Likely 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Facundo Julián Callejo
• Midfield Pivot: Oswaldo Valenzuela and Nicolás Silva
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on midfield control and disciplined defence.

Cusco FC’s tactical approach often revolves around a 4-2-3-1 formation, providing a balanced structure between defence and attack. The midfield duo of Oswaldo Valenzuela and Nicolás Silva is pivotal in maintaining possession and distributing the ball efficiently. Their roles are crucial in transitioning play from defence to attack, supporting creative outlets like Iván Colman and Lucas Colitto.

Defensively, Cusco FC relies on a disciplined backline, with Alex Custodio and Carlos Gamarra forming a solid central partnership. This setup has contributed to achieving two clean sheets in their last five matches, showcasing their ability to maintain defensive integrity.

Offensively, Facundo Julián Callejo leads the line, supported by the creativity of Carlo Diez and the wing play of Colitto. Cusco FC’s strategy often includes controlling the midfield to launch quick attacks, aiming to exploit any defensive lapses from their opponents, particularly against a team like Sporting Cristal.

Sporting Cristal Analysis & Past Performance

Sporting Cristal have been on an impressive run, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches, with four wins and one draw. Their recent performances have been highlighted by a crucial victory over Cusco FC, where they secured a 1-0 win at home. This run includes a thrilling 3-3 draw against Alianza Lima, which they won on penalties, showcasing their resilience under pressure.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sporting Cristal	Cusco FC	1 – 0 (Win)	Final Stage	11 Dec 2025
Alianza Lima	Sporting Cristal	N/A	Final Stage	7 Dec 2025
Sporting Cristal	Alianza Lima	1 – 1 (Draw)	Final Stage	3 Dec 2025
Atletico Grau	Sporting Cristal	1 – 2 (Win)	Primera División Clausura	19 Nov 2025
Sporting Cristal	Cienciano	2 – 1 (Win)	Primera División Clausura	7 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
Sporting Cristal’s attack has been consistently potent, averaging 2.80 goals per game in their last five encounters. Defensively, the team has shown vulnerabilities, conceding an average of 2.00 goals per match and only managing one clean sheet. Their ability to score frequently, however, is counterbalanced by the need to tighten their defensive organisation.

Away Performance:

• WWDWW

Away from home, Sporting Cristal have been formidable, winning four out of their last five away matches. Their away win ratio stands at 80%, reflecting their strong performances on the road. This away resilience is crucial as they prepare to face Cusco FC again, this time as visitors. The key to their success lies in their consistent goal-scoring ability, led by top scorer Gerald Martín Távara, who has netted four times this season.

Sporting Cristal Suspensions & Injuries

Sporting Cristal face a significant challenge with the absence of Luis Abram due to a hamstring injury, which is expected to keep him sidelined until early January 2026. This unavailability could disrupt their defensive solidity, as Abram’s experience and leadership at the back are crucial for maintaining a strong defensive line. His absence might force coach Paulo Autuori to rely on less experienced defenders, which could impact the team’s overall defensive stability.

Without Abram, Sporting Cristal will likely turn to Rafael Lutiger or Miguel Araujo to fill the void left in central defence. While both players have demonstrated capability, neither possesses Abram’s level of experience, which may necessitate a more conservative approach to ensure defensive robustness. The adjustments in the backline may also influence the team’s tactical setup, potentially leading to a more cautious style of play to compensate for the missing leadership.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Luis Abram	Hamstring Injury	Early January 2026

The lack of suspensions is a relief for Sporting Cristal, allowing them to focus solely on adjusting for the injury absence without additional disciplinary concerns. However, the tactical impact of Abram’s injury could still influence the betting markets, as Sporting Cristal’s defensive resilience will be under scrutiny. Bettors might consider this when evaluating the potential outcomes of the match against Cusco FC, with the defensive adjustments likely playing a crucial role in the final result.

Sporting Cristal Key Players

Sporting Cristal’s attacking prowess will be significantly influenced by their top scorer, Gerald Martín Távara, who has netted 4 goals this season. Távara, operating from midfield, is not only pivotal in goal creation but also in maintaining the team’s tempo. His ability to transition from defence to attack swiftly provides a tactical edge, making him a linchpin in Sporting Cristal’s setup.

In the forward line, Santiago González and Irven Ávila are expected to provide the firepower. González’s agility and Ávila’s experience are vital in breaking down the opposition’s defence. Meanwhile, in defence, Miguel Araujo brings a commanding presence, ensuring stability at the back which is crucial against Cusco FC’s attacking threats.

Expected lineup for Sporting Cristal:

• Goalkeeper: Diego Enríquez
• Defenders: Leandro Sosa, Miguel Araujo, Rafael Lutiger, Nicolás Pasquini
• Midfielders: Gustavo Cazonatti, Gerald Martín Távara, Ian Wisdom
• Forwards: Santiago González, Irven Ávila, Maxloren Castro

With Gustavo Cazonatti anchoring the midfield alongside Távara, Sporting Cristal’s tactical approach will likely emphasise quick ball movement and pressing. This dynamic midfield duo is essential for disrupting Cusco FC’s play and launching counter-attacks, potentially turning the tide in Sporting Cristal’s favour. Their synergy and tactical discipline are key strengths that could steer the team towards victory.

Sporting Cristal Tactics and Formation

Sporting Cristal Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Irven Ávila
• Midfield Pivot: Gerald Martín Távara and Gustavo Cazonatti
• Defensive Strength: One clean sheet in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on maintaining possession and building play through the midfield.

Sporting Cristal typically set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allows them to exert control over the midfield area. Gerald Martín Távara, their top scorer, often plays a dual role, contributing both defensively and offensively. He partners with Gustavo Cazonatti to form a midfield pivot that facilitates ball progression and supports defensive transitions.

Defensively, the back four is anchored by Miguel Araujo and Rafael Lutiger, with Leandro Sosa and Nicolás Pasquini providing width from the full-back positions. Despite their solid setup, Sporting Cristal have only managed one clean sheet in their last five matches, indicating potential vulnerabilities in their defensive line.

Offensively, Sporting Cristal’s strategy is heavily reliant on maintaining possession and building play through the midfield. Irven Ávila is the focal point of their attack, with Santiago González and Maxloren Castro providing additional support from the wings. This approach aims to create scoring opportunities through a well-coordinated team effort.

Cusco FC vs Sporting Cristal Head-to-Head Record

In the head-to-head record between Cusco FC and Sporting Cristal, the latter have the upper hand with 18 wins compared to Cusco’s 9, alongside 8 draws. Their most recent encounter saw Sporting Cristal edge out a 1-0 victory in the Liga 1 Placement Playoff. This match was not part of the regular league season, adding a bit of spice to their rivalry.

When Cusco FC last hosted Sporting Cristal in the Liga 1 Clausura, they managed a thrilling 3-2 victory, showing they can hold their own at home. However, Sporting Cristal’s overall dominance in the head-to-head suggests they are a tough nut to crack, especially given their strong away performances.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sporting Cristal	Cusco FC	1 – 0	Liga 1 Placement Playoff	2025-12-11
Cusco FC	Sporting Cristal	3 – 2	Liga 1 Clausura	2025-09-14
Sporting Cristal	Cusco FC	1 – 0	Liga 1 Apertura	2025-04-13
Cusco FC	Sporting Cristal	1 – 1	Liga 1 Clausura	2024-09-22
Sporting Cristal	Cusco FC	2 – 0	Liga 1 Apertura	2024-04-21