Decisive figure sparks Vasco da Gama comeback at Grêmio | OneFootball

Thiago Mendes struck in the 76th minute with a right-footed finish, setting Vasco da Gama up for a 2-1 win at Grêmio.

He found the bottom right corner from the centre of the box (76.), turning a tight game in Cruz-Maltino's favour with a midfielder's late run into the area and a calm, low finish.

Moments later, his tempo-setting on the ball kept Vasco playing forward, sustaining pressure that led to the turnaround (80.). His willingness to receive under pressure and play forward early kept the hosts retreating.

He finished with 62 passes, 58 accurate, plus 25 successful final third passes that underlined his control. He also added three tackles, winning two, and six recoveries, anchoring the visitors without the ball.

Because he continually received between the lines and stepped on when the space opened, his driving runs and crisp distribution kept Tricolor Gaúcho unstable in the key moments that decided the contest.

Cruz-Maltino host Santa Fe in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana next. Imortal visit Botafogo next.