Decisive figure conducts Vasco da Gama's play against Flu despite defeat | OneFootball

Thiago Mendes set the tone in the 17th minute with a driven effort that was blocked, his control shining even as Fluminense beat Vasco da Gama 1-0 at the Maracanã.

He then slipped Lucas Piton into space for a low shot that Fábio saved (19.). The pass threaded through the inside left channel, signalling how Mendes would keep prising gaps in Flu's shape.

After the restart he continued to dictate, teeing up Piton again for a long range hit (47.). Mendes later met a cross with a glancing header that drifted wide (68.), and he drew a foul to relieve pressure as Vasco pushed late (83.).

The midfielder's numbers backed up the eye test: 62 of 66 passes completed, including 33 in the final third, plus two key passes and six possession regains. That blend of security and incision kept the Gigante da Colina moving forward even when the Tricolor Carioca compressed the middle.

Because he consistently received between the lines and released runners early, Vasco stayed on the front foot for long spells, with Mendes' positioning ensuring the visitors controlled key phases despite the result.

Vasco visit Santa Fe in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana next. Flu host Platense in the CONMEBOL Libertadores.

How high would you rate Mendes' display tonight?