Cruzeiro secured their place in the round of 16 of the Copa do Brasil on Tuesday with a 1-0 victory over Goiás. After the match, head coach Artur Jorge emphasized the result was fully merited and highlighted the quality of his squad.
“It was an important win, achieved fairly. There was commitment, and the game had different phases between the first and second halves. But overall, based on what we produced, it was a deserved victory and a deserved qualification,” Jorge said.
The coach also spoke about the team’s development: “Fundamental for results is work, effort, and many important factors. But I want to highlight the quality of the players and the squad. We have excellent players who understand the game. They evolve and communicate. I’m pleased to see their growth, ambition, fight when needed, and maturity whether we dominate or share control with the opponent. That’s essential in a project.”
Despite a standout performance from Goiás goalkeeper Tadeu at Mineirão, Cruzeiro prevailed thanks to Kaio Jorge’s penalty goal, making the aggregate score 3-2 in favor of the Minas Gerais side.
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Cruzeiro dominated the first half, creating multiple chances through Matheus Pereira, Romero, and Fabricio Bruno, but Tadeu kept Goiás in the game. Kaio Jorge finally broke the deadlock from the spot. In the second half, Goiás pushed for an equalizer after four substitutions, but Cruzeiro’s defense held firm, with Fabricio Bruno making a crucial clearance and Otávio hitting the post late on.
