The conclusion of the 2025 Brasileirão last weekend has shifted the focus of Brazilian football toward the semifinals of the Copa do Brasil, where four fierce competitors—Corinthians, Cruzeiro, Fluminense, and Vasco—are vying for the prestigious trophy.
Each of the semifinalists has guaranteed themselves a substantial financial boost of R$ 9,922,500 for reaching this stage. Collectively, the teams from Rio de Janeiro have enjoyed a total payout of R$ 24 million, having participated since the tournament’s initial round. In contrast, the São Paulo and Minas Gerais teams, which entered in the third round, have received approximately R$ 21 million.
The team crowned as champion of the 2025 Copa do Brasil will walk away with a staggering R$ 77.1 million, while the runner-up will take home R$ 33 million. Notably, the implications of the title will extend beyond immediate financial gain; should either Cruzeiro or Fluminense clinch the trophy, Botafogo, who placed sixth in the Brasileirão, will secure a spot in the group stage of the 2026 Conmebol Libertadores, and São Paulo will enter the qualifying rounds for the continental tournament.
The semifinals will be contested over two legs, starting this Wednesday, October 10, and concluding on Sunday, October 14. The schedule is as follows:
- Wednesday (10th) – 9:30 PM (Brasília Time): Cruzeiro vs. Corinthians at Mineirão
- Thursday (11th) – 8:00 PM (Brasília Time): Vasco vs. Fluminense at Maracanã
- Sunday (14th) – 6:00 PM (Brasília Time): Corinthians vs. Cruzeiro at Neo Química Arena
- Sunday (14th) – 8:30 PM (Brasília Time): Fluminense vs. Vasco at Maracanã
The finals are set for December 17 and 21, with the initial match being held at either Mineirão or Neo Química Arena, leading up to the grand finale at Maracanã.
As the semifinals approach, the participating teams are entering this crucial phase from vastly different positions. Fluminense is currently on a high, remaining unbeaten in their last seven matches under coach Luis Zubeldía, with five victories and two draws. They have already secured a direct entry into the 2026 Libertadores, fueling their ambition for a title finish this year. However, the team will miss forward Canobbio due to suspension, and top scorer Cano is recovering from a knee injury.
On the other hand, Vasco da Gama finds itself in a challenging situation, having lost seven of their last eight league matches, raising concerns among the fans. The team will also be without left-back Lucas Piton, who is sidelined due to injury.
Cruzeiro, meanwhile, ended the Brasileirão in third place with a commendable season, bolstered by their standout player, Kaio Jorge, who led the league in scoring. With fewer matches under their belt compared to their opponents, they may enter the semifinals with an advantage, although their form has dipped recently, recording two draws and one loss in their last three league outings. Furthermore, forward Wanderson will be suspended for the first leg.
Corinthians are making their fourth consecutive Copa do Brasil semifinal appearance but are struggling with form, having gone winless in their last four matches and finishing the league in 13th place. Their upcoming match is further complicated by uncertainties over injuries affecting midfielder Garro and forward Yuri Alberto.
The eyes of national football are now locked onto these pivotal encounters, spotlighting the contrasting journeys of the teams involved. The Rio derby promises to be a high-stakes clash, while Cruzeiro and Corinthians are both eagerly looking to cap off the year with a hard-fought trophy.
