Vasco da Gama Advances to Next Round of 2026 Copa do Brasil After Draw with Paysandu
Vasco da Gama progressed to the next round of the 2026 Copa do Brasil after a 2-2 draw with Paysandu, building on a first-leg victory.
- • Vasco drew 2-2 with Paysandu but advanced due to a 2-0 first-leg win.
- • Goals for Vasco were scored by Rojas (penalty) and Thiago Mendes.
- • Paysandu's goals included one from Thayllon and an own goal by Saldivia.
- • Thiago Mendes was sent off late in the match, leaving Vasco with ten players.
Key details
In a compelling Copa do Brasil matchup on May 13 at São Januário, Vasco da Gama secured progression to the next phase despite a 2-2 draw against Paysandu. Vasco had established a strong advantage in the first leg with a 2-0 victory, allowing the team to advance with an aggregate score of 4-2.
During the match, Vasco’s goals came from Rojas, who converted a penalty awarded after Luccão fouled him in the 33rd minute, and Thiago Mendes, who scored just before halftime. Paysandu responded with a goal from Thayllon and later benefited from an own goal by Vasco’s Saldivia in the second half to level the match.
The encounter was marked by rising tensions in the final minutes as Thiago Mendes received a direct red card for elbowing Caio Mello, leaving Vasco with ten players. Despite this, Vasco managed to maintain the draw, reinforcing their place in the tournament.
Looking ahead, the next phase draw has yet to determine Vasco’s opponent, but their next scheduled match is against Internacional on May 16. Paysandu will face Caxias on May 17 in their upcoming fixtures.
This performance highlights Vasco da Gama's resilience and tactical strength, maintaining their Copa do Brasil campaign as they prepare for tougher challenges ahead.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
