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**Cruzeiro Faces Vila Nova in Copa do Brasil Clash with Key Players Sidelined**

**Goiânia, Brazil** – Cruzeiro will face Vila Nova-GO this Thursday (22nd) at the Serra Dourada stadium in the second leg of the Copa do Brasil’s third round, but they will be without two key starters: right-back Fagner and forward Wanderson. The club confirmed the absences Wednesday night, citing muscle fatigue for the 35-year-old Fagner, who already experienced discomfort in the recent match against Atlético, and a knee injury for the 30-year-old Wanderson.

William is expected to replace Fagner at right-back. The replacement for Wanderson is less clear, with coach Leonardo Jardim considering Lautaro Díaz, Bolasie, Gabigol, and Kaique Kenji as possible options.

Fagner and Wanderson join a growing list of absentees, including defenders João Marcelo and Janderson, midfielder Matheus Henrique (all recovering from serious knee injuries), and Japa, who is still out with a thigh muscle problem.

The likely starting lineup for Cruzeiro is: Cássio; William, Fabrício Bruno, Villalba, Kaiki; Lucas Romero, Lucas Silva (Walace), Christian, Matheus Pereira (Eduardo); Lautaro Díaz (Bolasie), Kaio Jorge (Gabigol).

Having won the first leg 2-0 at the Mineirão, Cruzeiro can advance to the Round of 16 with a draw or even a one-goal loss. A two-goal victory for Vila Nova would force a penalty shootout, while a three-goal or more win would see the home side progress. Approximately 10,000 tickets have been sold for the match.

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