Vasco 2025 review, stand-out performers and those ending the year in decline | OneFootball

Vasco ended 2025 with the sting of Copa do Brasil runners-up and no Libertadores spot, finishing 14th in the league. A Copa Sudamericana berth softens the blow.

According to Globo.com, Fernando Diniz’s side face a short break, back on 14 January in the Carioca, with the league beginning on 28 January.

Andrés Gómez shone in the run-in, finishing with seven assists and one goal. On loan until mid-2026, he has an option near €4 million for 60 percent. Thiago Mendes nailed down a place from the 5-1 over Internacional, while Rayan scored 20 in 57, netted in the Fluminense semi first leg and was centimetres from a key goal at Neo Química Arena.

Despite Brazil call-ups, Paulo Henrique’s form tailed off, with fewer attacking returns, defensive lapses and an own goal in the Fluminense semi that took it to penalties. Coutinho struggled in those semi-finals and was subdued in the Corinthians decider. Vasco lost nine of their last 12, and he has not contributed to a goal for over two months.

Matheus França drew heavy criticism after a poor outing at Bahia saw him replaced at half-time, then he only started again in the 5-0 loss at Atlético-MG when regulars were rested. He came on late in the final and blazed over, frustrating fans. Vasco will again contest Carioca, Copa do Brasil, Copa Sudamericana and Brasileirão in 2026, returning in early January.

Source: Globo.com