Ceará showed their strength in the match for the 17th round of the Brasileirao, pulling off a comeback victory with two goals from Antonio Galeano. After just 3 minutes into the first half, Cruzeiro seized control of the game, taking the lead following a play involving Kaio Jorge. However, Ceará responded with determination, and Galeano quickly became the star of the match, scoring two headed goals at the 38th minute of the first half and again at the 14th minute of the second half, resulting in a final score of 2-1. A standout moment was Galeano’s goal at the 14th minute of the second half, where he delivered a stunning header into the right corner of the net, assisted by Fernandinho.
Antonio Galeano’s performance earned him the title of best player of the match, as he not only scored two goals but also attempted four shots on target.
Defender Willian Machado played a crucial role in Ceará’s defensive efforts, effectively clearing 10 dangerous balls throughout the match.
Cruzeiro’s coach, José Nunes Alves Sousa Jardim, opted for a 4-5-1 formation with Cássio in goal; Fágner, Fabrício Bruno, Lucas Villalba, and Kaiki Bruno in defense; Lucas Romero, Lucas Silva, Eduardo, Matheus Pereira, and Wanderson in midfield; and Kaio Jorge as the striker.
On the other side, Ceará, coached by Leonardo Rodrigues Condé, lined up in a 4-3-3 formation with Bruno Ferreira in goal; Fabiano, Marcos Victor, Willian Machado, and Matheus Bahia in defense; Lourenço, Richardson, and Diego in midfield; and Antonio Galeano, Pedro Raúl, and Pedro Henrique up front.
The match at Mineirão Stadium was officiated by referee Raphael Claus.
Looking ahead, Cruzeiro will visit Botafogo in their next fixture, while Ceará is set to face Flamengo at home. Currently, Ceará leads the table with 34 points, while Cruzeiro sits in ninth place with 21 points.
Substitutions for Cruzeiro
45’ 2T – Wanderson off for Marquinhos
56’ 2T – Eduardo off for Gabriel Barbosa
72’ 2T – Kaiki Bruno off for Yannick Bolasie
82’ 2T – Lucas Silva off for Matheus Henrique, Diego off for Lucas Mugni, and Antonio Galeano off for Rafael Ramos
Substitutions for Ceará
55’ 2T – Pedro Henrique off for Fernandinho
75’ 2T – Lourenço off for Fernando Sobral
83’ 2T – Richardson off for Lucas Lima
Yellow Cards for Ceará:
43’ 1T – Pedro Henrique (Reiteration of fouls) and 40’ 2T – Aylon (Insulting the referee)