Vasco under pressure as they take to the pitch after a turbulent week | OneFootball

Vasco da Gama returns to the field this Thursday at 7 PM (Brasília time) to face Santos at Vila Belmiro for the fourth round of the Brazilian Championship. Amidst a turbulent week, the Cruz-Maltino tries to react to get out of the relegation zone.

The team will be temporarily led by Bruno Lazaroni, following the dismissal of Fernando Diniz right in the locker room at Nilton Santos, after the defeat to Fluminense in the semifinals of the Carioca Championship.

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Vasco team gathered during the classic against Fluminense — Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

Turbulent week increases pressure on Vasco

The last few days have been intense in São Januário. Besides the defeat in the classic and the change in technical command, the club was surprised by Philippe Coutinho's request for termination.

On the field, the performance is also worrying: Vasco has only one point in the first three rounds of the Brasileirão and occupies the 17th position. Santos is right behind, in 18th, also with one point, which turns the match into a direct duel against the Z-4.

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Vasco da Gama vs. Fluminense for the Carioca Championship held at Nilton Santos Stadium on February 22, 2026. Photos: Matheus Lima/Vasco.

Board accelerates search for new coach

In light of the alert scenario, the board is working to quickly define the new coach. President Pedrinho, football director Admar Lopes, and technical director Felipe Maestro are leading the process.

The club dreams of Artur Jorge from Al-Rayyan and is also monitoring the situation of Marcelo Gallardo, who is leaving River Plate. Meanwhile, there are initial talks with Renato Gaúcho.

While the decision is pending, Vasco needs to give an immediate response on the field. After the match against Santos, the team will face Fluminense again on Sunday at Maracanã, needing to win by two goals to advance to the final of the Carioca Championship in regular time.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.