Thiago Mendes strikes before the break to sink Athletico Paranaense | OneFootball

Vasco da Gama beat Athletico Paranaense 1-0 at São Januário on Sunday, sealed by Thiago Mendes, keeping the hosts eighth in the Brasileirão.

Mendes finished from the centre of the box in the 37th minute after a precise cross from José Luis Rodríguez.

After the restart, Luiz Gustavo rattled the right post (55.). Léo Jardim stayed assured as Athletico-PR forced late corners, and Juan Aguirre headed wide in the sixth minute of stoppage time.

Odair Hellmann turned to Felipinho after the hour, then introduced Bruno Zapelli and Isaac (73.), which sharpened Athletico-PR's threat without the final touch.

Six minutes were added, and the visitors' best late opening came from a Zapelli corner that found Aguirre's near-post run.

Vasco registered 16 attempts with six on target, delivering crosses at 54.5% accuracy. Athletico-PR produced nine attempts and hit the woodwork once.

Next, Vasco host Paysandu in the Copa do Brasil. Athletico-PR visit Atlético Goianiense in the same competition.