Cruzeiro vs Sao Paulo Prediction & Betting Tips (31 August)

Cruzeiro and São Paulo are set to collide in a pivotal Round 22 clash of the Brazil Serie A at Estádio Mineirão, with both sides navigating contrasting trajectories. Cruzeiro, under the stewardship of Leonardo Jardim, have emerged as genuine title contenders, sitting third in the table with 41 points. Their recent 2-1 victory over Internacional showcased the attacking flair of Kaio Jorge and Matheus Pereira, both of whom found the net. Despite a few stumbles in August, including a narrow loss to Santos, Cruzeiro have maintained a formidable home record and boast a defense that has conceded just 15 goals in 21 matches.

São Paulo, meanwhile, arrive in Belo Horizonte with a more turbulent backdrop. Hernán Crespo’s squad has been plagued by injuries and suspensions, with Enzo Díaz, André Silva, and Arboleda among the absentees. The Tricolor Paulista did manage a gritty 1-1 draw against Atlético Nacional in the Copa Libertadores, advancing via penalties thanks to goalkeeper Rafael’s heroics. However, their domestic form has been inconsistent, with only eight wins from 21 matches and a modest goal difference of +4. Crespo will likely turn to André Silva and the returning Wendell to inject some stability into a side that has struggled to find rhythm away from home.



The tactical battle promises intrigue. Jardim’s Cruzeiro are expected to deploy a fluid 4-2-3-1, with Matheus Pereira orchestrating play from midfield and Kaio Jorge leading the line. São Paulo, short on options, may opt for a more conservative setup, relying on counterattacks and set pieces. The midfield duel between Lucas Silva and Pablo Maia—recently rewarded with a contract extension—could be decisive. Cruzeiro’s ability to press high and exploit São Paulo’s defensive gaps, especially with improvised fullbacks, might tilt the balance in their favor.

Given the current form and squad dynamics, a 2-1 victory for Cruzeiro seems a plausible outcome. Their attacking efficiency at home, combined with São Paulo’s depleted backline, sets the stage for a narrow but deserved win. Expect Kaio Jorge to be on the scoresheet again, with São Paulo likely to respond through André Silva. In a fixture historically dominated by tight margins, this encounter should be no different—tense, tactical, and ultimately triumphant for the hosts.

• Summary: Cruzeiro is going head to head with São Paulo starting on 31 Aug 2025 at 00:00 UTC at Governador Magalhães Pinto stadium, Belo Horizonte city, Brazil. The match is a part of the Brasileirão Betano .
• Cruzeiro Feedinco Rating: 7.02
• Sao Paulo Feedinco Rating: 6.91