Criciuma prepares to host Cruzeiro at the Estadio Heriberto Hulse for a crucial Serie A matchup. Both teams come into this encounter needing a positive result, albeit for contrasting reasons. The hosts find themselves in a relegation battle, having failed to secure a win in their last two matches. Currently perched in 13th place with 13 points from 11 games, they hold a narrow two-point advantage over the relegation zone.

Manager Claudio Tencati’s squad does hold a slight advantage with one or two games in hand compared to most of their relegation rivals. This presents an opportunity for them to potentially climb the table as the season progresses. However, a concerning trend for Criciuma has been their struggles at home despite their ongoing three-match unbeaten streak as hosts. Facing a Cruzeiro side they’ve never defeated in their history adds another layer of difficulty to this encounter. Despite this historical disadvantage, Criciuma will be hopeful to capitalize on Cruzeiro’s recent struggles on the road.

Cruzeiro, on the other hand, has displayed inconsistency throughout the season. Their inability to build upon their victory over Atletico Paranaense was evident in their last outing, a disappointing 2-1 defeat to league leaders Flamengo. This dropped them to seventh place in the standings, three points behind the coveted final Copa Libertadores qualification spot.

Cruzeiro’s away form is a significant cause for concern. They’ve lost four of their seven away matches this season, including the last two consecutively. If they harbor aspirations of challenging for a Copa Libertadores spot, manager Vanderlei Luxemburgo will need to find a way to improve their performances on the road. Thursday’s match against Criciuma presents a crucial opportunity for them to turn the tide and potentially reignite their push for a continental place.

This encounter shapes up to be a critical clash for both teams. Criciuma will be desperate to capitalize on their home advantage and potentially distance themselves from the relegation zone, while Cruzeiro will be determined to end their away woes and maintain their pursuit of a Copa Libertadores spot.