Coutinho starts decisive year as Botafogo become his most frequent victims for Vasco | OneFootball

Coutinho drove Vasco's 2-0 derby win over Botafogo on Sunday, converting a penalty to clinch it. The strike left Botafogo standing alone as his most frequent victims in a Vasco shirt.

Earlier, he delivered the cross that led to the opener, Brenner profiting after a defender missed his clearance. Globo.com notes that Fernando Diniz has adjusted the set-up to keep the No 10 closer to goal.

It was the 33-year-old's third goal against Botafogo. The other two came in the 6-0 Campeonato Carioca rout in 2010, when he was 17, his first two as a professional. He now has 17 in 122 for Vasco.

After a career-high 56 appearances in 2025, he has started 2026 quickly, with three goals and one assist in five matches.

The shift has shown in the numbers. In the previous Brasileirão outing, a 1-1 draw with Chapecoense, he attempted 10 shots at Léo Vieira's goal.

Post-match, Diniz said he wants Coutinho, whenever possible, operating where he is most dangerous, close to goal.

The victory booked a Campeonato Carioca quarter-final against Volta Redonda, with Vasco holding home advantage.

Source: Globo.com