Vasco return to the Arena da Baixada on Wednesday to face Athletico-PR in the 34th round of the Brasileirão. The venue is also where the club’s recent run of strong performances in knockout competitions began, after a dramatic Copa do Brasil quarter-final in 2024.
Vasco had won the first leg 2-1 at São Januário, but fell 2-0 behind in the return match by the 32nd minute. Their task became harder when Rayan was sent off late in the first half. Vegetti then scored from a Lucas Piton cross to reduce the deficit, and Vasco held on through the second half to take the tie to penalties. Goalkeeper Léo Jardim helped secure their qualification.
The match was viewed within the club as an important test of Vasco’s competitiveness in pursuit of a title. Since 2024, the team has reached a Copa do Brasil final and semi-final, as well as a Copa Sudamericana semi-final.
Vasco now have a 1-0 deficit to overturn against Palmeiras in the Copa do Brasil, but the immediate priority is the league. The team remain at risk of relegation, and coach Pedro Emanuel is expected to field his strongest available side against Athletico-PR.
Sources: Globo Esporte.