Chapecoense have been making news headlines this week for topping the Brazilian Serie A table less than a year after the air crash tragedy that decimated their squad. And even though the new Brazilian league season is just three games in, the story has a major feel good factor. Chapecoense turn their attentions to the second leg of the Copa Do Brasil last 16 clash with Cruzeiro this week. The away side hold a 1-0 first leg lead heading into the game on Friday. Read our Chapecoense vs Cruzeiro betting tips below.

Match Preview

Coming into our Chapecoense vs Cruzeiro preview, the home side have had an excellent start to their Serie A campaign, leading the table after three games. They are on a three-game winning streak under manager Vágner Mancini, though they had won just once in their nine fixtures before that.

• Lanus 3-0 Chapecoense
• Chapecoense 1-0 Palmeiras
• Chapecoense 2-1 Zulia
• Chapecoense 2-0 Avai

Cruzeiro are sitting level on points with Chapecoense in the Serie A table and they hold a 1-0 first leg lead heading into Friday’s Copa do Brasil second leg. Ahead of our OddsDigger's Chapecoense vs Cruzeiro predictions, it’s important to recognise that the away side have had much more difficult fixtures than their opponents, making their early points haul all the more impressive.

Just like Chapecoense, Cruzeiro have only conceded one goal in their last three games. Both defences looks solid ahead of their eagerly anticipated face-off.

• Nacional Asunción 2-1 Cruzeiro
• Cruzeiro 1-0 Sao Paulo
• Sport Recife 1-1Cruzeiro
• Santos 0-1 Cruzeiro

Chapecoense vs Cruzeiro Prediction and Betting Advice

Our Chapecoense vs Cruzeiro picks are made at a time when both sets of players are producing the goods on a regular basis. The defenders from both outfits are really on form right now and Friday’s clash should be a tight game.

Cruzeiro can sit a little deeper and hit Chapecoense on the counter attack, thanks to their 1-0 first leg lead. I expect the away side to make it through to the Quarter Finals.

Our Tip

Tip: Cruzeiro to win Bet365 13/8