Vasco’s reserves in Carioca pose new risk of loss | OneFootball

The strategy of Vasco da Gama to start the Campeonato Carioca with an alternative team, filled with youth academy players and reserves, is a common practice to preserve the starters who are returning from vacation. However, in 2026, this choice carries a hidden danger that could seriously affect the finances of São Januário. Journalist Gilmar Ferreira, from the newspaper Extra, published a detailed analysis warning about the risks that the new competition regulations impose on the four major clubs of Rio de Janeiro.

+ Changes in the Carioca affect Vasco's planning

The trap of the new formula for Vasco

Unlike previous years, when TV and sponsorship quotas were fixed and the “smaller” clubs were left with only the “crumbs,” this year’s edition rewards sporting merit in the distribution of money. The format features two groups of six teams that play against each other. The eight teams that qualify for the quarterfinals (four from each group) immediately receive R$ 1 million each.

The problem—and the risk—lies in the next phase. The winner of the quarterfinals, who advances to the semifinals, pockets a hefty prize of R$ 5.5 million. If Vasco’s alternative team stumbles in the group stage and faces a tough matchup too early (or is eliminated early in the quarterfinals), the club misses out on this windfall.

Can smaller clubs earn more than the giants?

The scenario outlined by the columnist points to an unprecedented possibility in recent history: a lower-budget club surpassing the earnings of a giant. All it takes is for one of the big clubs to be eliminated in the quarterfinals for a “smaller” club to take its place in the semis and take home the R$ 5.5 million.

In this “financial disaster” scenario, Vasco could stagnate at around R$ 7.6 million (fixed quota + qualification bonus), while watching a smaller rival cash in. With Nova Iguaçu and other teams reaching the finals recently, the mission of Vasco’s youngsters in the opening rounds takes on enormous financial responsibility.

The Cariocão carries considerable weight this season – Photo: FERJ Publicity

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