Mushuc Runa held Brazilian powerhouse Cruzeiro to a 1-1 draw in a Copa Sudamericana group stage match on May 8, 2025, a fantastic result for the Ecuadorian club. The home side took a shock lead in the first half, capitalizing on a defensive error to slot home and send their fans into raptures at the Estadio Bellavista. Cruzeiro, boasting far greater resources, piled on the pressure after the break and eventually found an equalizer through a close-range finish following a goalmouth scramble. The Brazilian side continued to push for a winner but found Mushuc Runa's defense and goalkeeper in inspired form, blocking everything thrown at them to secure a famous point. The draw was a major boost for Mushuc Runa's hopes of progressing from a tough group, while it was a frustrating start for Cruzeiro. The Mushuc Runa coach hailed the result as historic for the club, while the Cruzeiro manager criticized his team's lack of sharpness in the final third. Cruzeiro's lineup featured several new signings, while Mushuc Runa relied on a cohesive unit.