Vasco women set for 2026 São Januário debut as Rubens Franco hails club’s history | OneFootball

Vasco’s women remain perfect in Brasileiro A2 and will play at São Januário for the first time in 2026 on Saturday against JC Futebol Clube, with coach Rubens Franco stressing the occasion’s significance.

According to Globo.com, they have six wins in six, sharing top spot with Atlético Piauiense. Franco said the plan built since his January arrival used the Copa Rio to accelerate development.

He noted that facing A1 opposition in that tournament gave minutes across the squad, clarified the game model and helped forge cohesion feeding into the current run.

Looking to Saturday, he called playing at São Januário fundamental, both to honour the women who shaped Vasco’s history and to draw fans to back a team in form.

Franco also praised a complete backroom staff, saying integrated day-to-day work has simplified processes and sped up implementation, which is now reflected in A2 results.

Defender Vilmara spoke of feeling welcomed and of a strong sense of belonging, adding she is deeply attached to the club and its Cruz de Malta identity. As a black woman, she said representing a team that stands up for social causes, not only anti-racism, underlines Vasco’s status as a giant institution beyond football.

Forward Layza Brum, 22, looked ahead to JC, emphasising objectivity in both boxes and collective focus from defence through midfield to attack. She said creating chances and taking them while staying alert at the back will be crucial.

Source: Globo.com