The race for the Copa do Brasil title is heating up, and three powerhouses have already punched their tickets to the round of 16. Cruzeiro, Fluminense, and Internacional all secured their spots on an action-packed Tuesday night, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling knockout phase. With 13 more clubs set to join them by Thursday, the competition is only getting fiercer.

At the iconic Mineirão, Cruzeiro edged past Goiás with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a decisive strike from Kaio Jorge. The win was especially sweet after the first leg ended in a 2-2 draw in Goiânia, showcasing the team's resilience under pressure.

Over at the legendary Maracanã, Fluminense delivered a gritty performance to dispatch Operário-PR 2-1. Goals from Savarino and Lucho Acosta gave the Tricolor a comfortable lead, though Felipe Augusto's late reply kept fans on edge. With the first leg ending scoreless in Ponta Grossa, Fluminense's ability to step up at home proved crucial.

Meanwhile, at Beira-Rio, Internacional treated fans to a five-goal thriller, defeating Athletic-MG 3-2. Borré, Allex, and Bernabei found the net for the Colorado, while Ian Luccas netted a brace for the visitors. After a 2-1 win in the first leg in Minas Gerais, Inter showed their attacking depth to seal the deal.

The drama continues this Wednesday with seven matches on the schedule, including Mirassol vs. Red Bull Bragantino (8:30 p.m. at Maião) and Jacuipense vs. Palmeiras (9:30 p.m. at Estádio do Café). On Thursday, six more games will wrap up this stage, featuring Atlético-GO vs. Athletico-PR (7 p.m. at Antônio Accioly) and Corinthians vs. Barra (7:30 p.m. at Neo Química Arena).

As the tournament progresses, the intensity is reaching fever pitch. Whether you're cheering from the stands or gearing up in your favorite team's gear, this is the time to show your colors and embrace the passion of Brazilian football.