Vasco XI: see the starters v Santa Fe in the Copa Sul-Americana | OneFootball

Vasco have officially announced their lineup for the decisive clash against Santa Fe in the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals. Pedro Emanuel’s coaching staff confirmed the starting XI that will take the field at 7 p.m. at São Januário, banking on an attacking approach from the opening whistle to secure a place in the continental semifinals after the goalless draw in Bogotá.

The main news among the starting eleven involves Vasco’s defense. Center-back Carlos Cuesta felt slight physical discomfort in recent training sessions and was ultimately rested by the Portuguese manager, opening the door for Saldívia to start alongside Robert Renan in central defense, while Pumita Rodríguez and Lucas Piton take up the flanks.

+ Where to watch Vasco vs Santa Fe live: showdown at São Januário and probable lineups

Reshuffle in midfield and attack with Marino Hinestroza

In the middle of the pitch, Vasco made strategic changes to control possession and neutralize Santa Fe’s buildup. Youngster Barros earned the spot as the holding midfielder alongside the experienced Tchê Tchê, while playmaking duties fall to Ramon Rique, who won the direct competition for the role to supply the front three.

Leading the attack, Bruno Duarte will be the main presence in the box, filling in for the squad’s injured absences. Out wide, the pace of Adson on the right is complemented by Marino Hinestroza on the left wing, forming an incisive trio tasked with pressing the opposition’s buildup and seeking the goals needed for victory in regulation time.

See Vasco’s lineup:

Vasco confirmed their starting lineup against Santa Fe with the following official formation for the knockout clash: Léo Jardim; Pumita Rodríguez, Saldívia, Robert Renan and Lucas Piton; Barros, Tchê Tchê and Ramon Rique; Adson, Bruno Duarte and Marino Hinestroza.

With massive backing from the fans, who sold out the tickets at the Historic Hill, the Giant need a win by any scoreline to advance directly to the continent’s final four. If the aggregate score is level again, the place will be decided by a penalty shootout.

Photo: X/Twitter Vasco da Gama

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