Cruzeiro's Mid-Year Review: Standout Performers and Disappointments
Cruzeiro ends the first half of 2026 on a high note, reaching the Copa Libertadores round of 16, with Matheus Pereira and Kaio Jorge leading the way.
Cruzeiro concludes the first half of 2026 on a high note, having secured a spot in the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores. Despite a period of turbulence involving coaching changes, the team has managed to find stability.
The standout performers of the semester were undoubtedly Kaio Jorge and Matheus Pereira. Despite dealing with physical issues, Kaio Jorge was central to the team's Campeonato Mineiro title, scoring the decisive goal in the final. Meanwhile, Matheus Pereira has emerged as the creative heartbeat of the team under Artur Jorge, shining brightly in continental competition.
Conversely, some areas have underperformed. Goalkeeper Matheus Cunha, signed to cover for the injured Cassio, failed to provide the expected security, losing his spot. In attack, the Colombian forward Neyser has struggled with efficiency, raising concerns about his finishing ability after missing a critical chance against Boca Juniors.
The squad is currently on vacation, with a return to training scheduled for next week. The club is also finalizing the bureaucratic steps to announce the arrival of Gabriel Rojas, their primary reinforcement target for the upcoming stage of the season.