Vasco still pushing for São Januário for Boca tie despite Maracanã battle | OneFootball

Vasco still want São Januário to host Boca Juniors on 20 October in the Copa Sudamericana semi-final, while battling the Consórcio Fla-Flu over use of the Maracanã. The board still prioritises the Colina Histórica.

The ground does not meet Conmebol’s semi-final minimum of 30,000, holding just over 21,000. On Friday, the Fire Department approved a lift to 24,000, first reported by Colina em Foco.

It does not guarantee the tie will be there, but is seen internally as a significant step. Rules require 4,000 away tickets, and the approval would largely expand the visiting section.

City departments have already cleared São Januário. To file a court request, Vasco still need the Polícia Militar’s approval, and privately the force has signalled a preference for the Maracanã. Talks continue.

If Rio’s authorities give a final yes, the club are confident of seeking a Conmebol exemption and having it accepted. A decision on the semi-final venue is due by Monday.

In parallel, the push for the Maracanã continues. A club lawsuit to play there was paused because a separate action by a Vasco fan was already running. The legal team has asked the TJRJ for urgency, arguing the cases are independent.

If neither route succeeds, Estádio Nilton Santos is an option. Botafogo have not been formally approached, but know the venue could host if there is no resolution. It is the last choice because of the synthetic pitch.

Source: Globo.com

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