Cruzeiro, Racing Club's opponent in the Copa Sudamericana final, boasts a mix of promising young Brazilian talents, a legendary goalkeeper, and a former Real Madrid player, all under the guidance of ex-Brazilian national team coach Fernando Diniz.

Recently sold by Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima to a local businessman, the Belo Horizonte side has one of the most exciting attacks in Brazil's top flight, with Gabriel Verón and Kaio Jorge leading the charge. On the defensive end, Argentinians Lucas Villalba and Lucas Romero stand out.

• CÁSSIO
  The legendary Brazilian goalkeeper, a hero at Corinthians with titles like the Libertadores and the Club World Cup, joined Cruzeiro and immediately claimed the starting role at age 37.
• WILLIAM
  Injury setbacks in Germany (Wolfsburg and Schalke 04) stalled his career, but back in Brazil, he’s rediscovered his form. A crucial attacking piece, William has scored six goals and provided ten assists.
• JOÁO MARCELO
  A towering young center-back (nearly 1.90m) with great potential. After stints with Porto’s reserves, Grêmio, and Tombense, he’s a rising star in Cruzeiro’s defense.
• LUCAS VILLALBA
  On loan from Argentinos Juniors, this versatile defender excels at left-back and poses a threat from set pieces. Cruzeiro holds an option to purchase him permanently.
• MARLON
  A tough-tackling defender with a more conservative style compared to William. Known for his physicality, Marlon has faced multiple red cards this season. He previously played in Turkey for Trabzonspor and Ankaragücü.
• LUCAS ROMERO
  The midfield anchor, Romero is a relentless ball-winner who started his career at Vélez. This is his second spell at Cruzeiro, bookending stints at Independiente and León in Mexico.

• WALACE
  With experience in Germany (Hamburg, Hannover) and Italy (Udinese), Walace has been a solid addition this season after initial doubts.
• MATHEUS HENRIQUE
  After shining at Grêmio, he had a stint at Sassuolo, but their relegation to Italy's second division prompted his return. An Olympic gold medalist from Tokyo 2020, he brings experience and class to the midfield.
• MATHEUS PEREIRA
  The team’s No. 10 and creative engine, Pereira’s technical ability has earned him a call-up to Brazil’s senior national team after a standout season.
• GABRIEL VERON
  On loan from Porto, the winger dazzles with his dribbling skills but struggles with consistency. A U-17 World Cup champion with Brazil in 2019, he’s a player who can light up the final.
• KAIO JORGE
  After a modest stint at Juventus, the Santos academy product is finding his rhythm again. Quick and explosive, Kaio Jorge also boasts a U-17 World Cup title from 2019.
• LAUTARO DÍAZ
  The Argentine playmaker, a marquee signing this season, started strong but injuries have seen him lose his place. A 2022 Copa Sudamericana champion with Independiente del Valle, his experience could be key.
• LUCAS SILVA
  A Cruzeiro academy graduate, Silva returned in 2023 after a stint with Grêmio. Signed by Real Madrid in 2015, his European journey didn’t pan out, but he’s now back to bolster Cruzeiro’s midfield.