Analysis The numbers behind the result
Cruzeiro edge tight contest despite Internacional's shot volume
Cruzeiro's 2-1 victory was narrowly deserved on xG (1.79 vs 1.74), though Internacional will rue their inefficiency after racking up 21 total shots (11 off target) at just 3 on frame. The visitors were more clinical, converting 2 of their 6 shots on target, with Kaio Jorge's 11th-minute opener and Matheus Pereira's 64th-minute strike both assisted by Fagner proving decisive. Internacional's late consolation through Johan Carbonero (83') came too late.
Despite trailing in possession (47%), Internacional generated higher shot volume (21 vs 13) but lacked precision - only 14% of their efforts hit the target compared to Cruzeiro's 46%. The hosts' task was compounded by Victor Gabriel's 59th-minute red card, though Cruzeiro's discipline nearly cost them too (6 yellows). The key stat: Cruzeiro's superior shot conversion (15% vs Internacional's 5%) from near-identical xG decided this.