Copa do Brasil Semifinals Set to Open: Fluminense–Vasco and Cruzeiro–Corinthians Face First-Leg Tests

Overview

• Fluminense arrives in peak form under Luis Zubeldía with seven games unbeaten, a perfect home record, and a largely healthy squad, though Germán Cano and Manoel are still recovering and Agustín Canobbio is suspended for the first leg.
• Vasco enters with confidence low after seven defeats in its last eight matches and six scoreless outings in that span, and left-back Lucas Piton is ruled out with a left knee injury as Fernando Diniz prioritizes defensive solidity and focus.
• Cruzeiro finished the league in third, has the fewest games played among semifinalists at 60, and rides Kaio Jorge’s 21-goal season, with forward Wanderson suspended for the home opener.
• Corinthians reach a fourth straight semifinal despite ending the Brasileirão in 13th and winless in four, with fitness doubts lingering over Memphis Depay, Yuri Alberto, and Rodrigo Garro.
• The first legs are set for the Maracanã and Mineirão this week, with the return matches scheduled for the weekend.