Vasco centre-forwards have fewer 2026 goals combined than John Kennedy | OneFootball

The centre-forward role remains Vasco's biggest selection dilemma in 2026, with Brenner, David and Spinelli yet to convince. Together they have 11 goals this season, fewer than Fluminense striker John Kennedy's 14.

According to Globo.com, Kennedy started the first leg at the Maracanã and troubled Vasco's defence. He fashioned two clear chances for Canobbio, but Léo Jardim denied the Uruguayan on both occasions.

Spinelli is Vasco's top scorer with six, yet his work on the ball and outside the box has not contributed to Pedro Emanuel's style.

The Portuguese coach chose David, who has two goals in 2026, for Saturday's derby. The number seven helped with flick-ons and in the air, but did not provide the passing the manager wants.

Brenner has three this year and is the most natural at linking play outside the area, though an inconsistent season has cost him minutes.

Vasco are negotiating for Facundo Colidio of River Plate to strengthen the attack. The board do not fully see him as a centre-forward, although he plays there for the Argentine club. There is already an agreement with the player, with payment terms still to be settled.

The tie will be decided on Wednesday at 21:30 Brasília time, with a Copa do Brasil quarter-final place at stake.

Source: Globo.com

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