Vasco da Gama secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Independiente Medellin at Sao Januario Stadium to book a coveted place in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana Round of 16.
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Subscribe Sekarang →With penalties looming large, midfielder Thiago Mendes broke the deadlock in the 85th minute, unleashing a powerful finish past goalkeeper Eder Chaux to ignite wild celebrations in Rio de Janeiro.
According to match reports, head coach Pedro Emanuel turned to substitutes Brenner and Adson in the second half to inject fresh momentum into the Brazilian attack alongside right-back Paulo Henrique.
The tactical shift paid immediate dividends when Brenner and Adson stretched the visiting defense, allowing Paulo Henrique to deliver the decisive assist for Mendes.
Despite threatening through Kevin Mantilla and Jeison Medina, the Colombian side failed to capitalize on their opportunities and ultimately bowed out of the tournament.
Medina came closest to breaking the deadlock with a close-range header that drifted narrowly wide, while a late Vasco penalty appeal for handball was overturned following a VAR review.
The crucial win marks Vasco's first victory in six matches across all competitions, lifting the mood around the club as they prepare to face Paraguay's Olimpia in the next round.