Decisive midfield figure steers Vasco da Gama | OneFootball

Thiago Mendes dictated midfield and, in the 52nd minute, curved in a cross that drew a sharp save, as Vasco da Gama drew 1-1 with Chapecoense.

From the right, he picked out José Luis Rodríguez at the back post (52.), then recycled the ball to keep Vasco on top of Chape's back line.

Moments later, he found Lucas Piton inside the box (54.). He then slipped Philippe Coutinho into shooting range for another low stop (61.).

He finished with 88 of 90 passes completed, three key passes and two big chances created. He also won five fouls and recovered the ball seven times, keeping the Cruz-Maltino on the front foot.

His diagonal deliveries repeatedly forced the Verdão do Oeste to retreat, and his tempo after the restart ensured Vasco controlled the key phases.

Vasco rise from 16th to 13th. Chape climb from fifth to third.