Vasco aim to fix errors, recover stars before Fluminense semi | OneFootball

Vasco will have a decisive week of work ahead before the first match of the Campeonato Carioca semifinals. Fernando Diniz’s coaching staff intends to use the free period to correct tactical flaws, raise the team’s technical level, and, above all, restore the confidence of some key starters.

In the hard-fought victory over Volta Redonda, players like Philippe Coutinho, Nuno Moreira, Cuesta, and Lucas Piton performed below expectations. The number 10 was booed at São Januário, left the field at halftime, and did not return to the bench in the second half or for the penalty shootout.

Coutinho was coming off a stretch of three matches in six days and showed signs of physical fatigue. Interestingly, his best performances in 2026 came after full weeks of training — such as in the games against Botafogo and Chapecoense, when he had been rested against Madureira. The expectation is that the break without matches will help the midfielder return to his best form.

Another point of attention is Cuiabano’s situation. The full-back, signed in this transfer window, has not yet been included in the squad. He arrived below ideal fitness and reported discomfort in his thigh. If he improves physically, he could get an opportunity, especially given Lucas Piton’s recent drop in performance at left-back.

+ Johan Rojas excites Vasco and asks for a spot in the starting lineup

Coutinho takes a penalty and scores a goal in Vasco vs Botafogo — Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

Fluminense will be Vasco’s opponent in the semifinal

Vasco’s opponent in the semifinal has already been decided. Fluminense beat Bangu Atlético Clube 3-1 at Maracanã and secured a spot to face Vasco in the next stage of the State Championship.

The matchup will be played over two games, on the next two weekends. The Federation will still confirm the dates, times, and venues for the matches.

+ Philippe Coutinho’s future at Vasco is uncertain; understand

Cuiabano is presented at Vasco — Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

Campeonato Carioca Semifinals

First Leg (21 and 22/02)

Second Leg (28/02 and 01/03)

With a classic ahead, Vasco is betting on a full week to adjust the team, recover key players, and arrive more solid for the decisive clash against their tricolor rivals.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.