Mario must prioritize spacing and anti-airing to neutralize Cloud's aggressive neutral game and fast recovery. Focus on punishing Cloud's predictable up-B and overheads with well-timed tilts or specials. Maintain a high position on the stage to force Cloud into risky recovery options where Mario's superior vertical reach can secure kills.

• Use Mario's forward tilt to punish Cloud's up-B, as it has a shorter range and leaves him vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
• Anti-air Cloud's recovery with Mario's up-smash or forward air, ensuring you are positioned slightly above him to maximize damage and knockback.
• Keep your spacing tight but safe, using Mario's short-range tilts to pressure Cloud without giving him an opening for his fast jab or overhead.
• Watch for Cloud's ledge grab and punish it immediately with a well-timed up-smash or forward tilt to prevent him from escaping.
• Utilize Mario's strong vertical recovery to stay above Cloud, forcing him to use his weaker horizontal recovery options where he is more vulnerable to interception.
• On stages with platforms, use Mario's ability to jump over Cloud's attacks and land on the platform to reset the neutral game and avoid his combo strings.

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