Vasco and Flamengo Set for High-Stakes Derby at Nilton Santos
This Thursday, October 29, Vasco and Flamengo are set to clash in a crucial derby at the Nilton Santos Stadium, kicking off at 8 p.m. (Brasília time). The match is part of Matchday 33 of the 2026 Brasileirão, making it a vital encounter for both teams. Referee Bruno Arleu de Araújo (RJ) will oversee the match, which will be broadcast on Amazon Prime.
In the current league standings, Vasco occupies 13th place with 38 points and holds two games in hand. They are four points ahead of Grêmio, who currently sits in the first relegation spot and has yet to play this round. Vasco’s home performance features eight wins, three draws, and five losses. On the other hand, Flamengo leads the league with 70 points. A victory in this game would place them three points ahead of Palmeiras while also having two additional wins. Flamengo boasts the best away record in the league, with nine wins, four draws, and three defeats. Furthermore, they are undefeated in their last 15 encounters against Vasco in the Brasileirão, with seven wins and eight draws since their last defeat on September 29, 2015.
Vasco’s Team News
Vasco manager Pedro Emanuel faces a challenge as Andrés Gómez is ruled out due to pain in his left foot, which saw him substituted in the previous match against Corinthians. With an eye on the Copa do Brasil, Gómez will remain rested. The team announces Sosa, Salvidia, Robert Renan, and Bruno Duarte will start on the bench. Despite suffering from a viral infection, goalkeeper Léo Jardim has been included in the squad and will take the starting role. Defender Cuesta continues to battle with left hip pain linked to impingement syndrome.
Flamengo’s Squad Updates
For Flamengo, Leonardo Jardim will have to manage without Carrascal, who misses the derby due to an automatic suspension. Additionally, Alex Sandro is unavailable after experiencing swelling in his left hamstring during the match against Atlético-MG. Royal is set to fill the left-back position. Notably, De La Cruz has been left out of the squad due to concerns over the artificial turf at Nilton Santos. Valencia also faces issues as he develops conjunctivitis, while Danilo (jaw fractures) and Saúl (left thigh injury) remain unavailable for selection.
