Thiago Mendes says Vitória’s lack of respect spurred Vasco’s Copa do Brasil progress | OneFootball

Vasco have released behind-the-scenes footage of their Copa do Brasil quarter-final triumph over Vitória, with captain Thiago Mendes saying perceived disrespect from the opposition helped drive the team on.

According to Globo.com, Mendes said the opponents’ behaviour after the 1-0 first leg in Rio became extra motivation for the return match at Barradão.

The first leg at São Januário finished 1-0 to Vasco. A video of Vitória’s bus departure went viral, with midfielder Matheuzinho responding to home fans and making a provocative gesture implying trouble awaited in Salvador.

The club’s footage shows goalkeeper Léo Jardim delivering the pre-match address in Salvador, stressing unity and that the game would be a war.

Vasco then won 2-0 in Salvador to complete the tie, and Mendes repeated Matheuzinho’s gesture towards the travelling support during the celebrations.

The result put Vasco into a third consecutive Copa do Brasil semi-final. They went out to Atlético-MG in 2024, and last year beat Fluminense before finishing runners-up to Corinthians.

In 2026 they will face Palmeiras, who defeated Santos on aggregate. Fixture dates and the draw remain to be confirmed by the CBF.

Source: Globo.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”