Vasco face depleted Flamengo, check out the likely line-up | OneFootball

A classic is a classic, and the standings often take a back seat. With this spirit, Vasco is preparing for one of its biggest challenges of the year: facing the league leader Flamengo this Sunday at 5:30 p.m. at Maracanã. For this match, valid for the 24th round of the Brasileirão, coach Fernando Diniz will have to deal with significant absences and rely on a completely new defense to try to surprise their rival.

The list of absences for the Gigante da Colina is considerable. Center-back Lucas Freitas is out due to suspension, while left-back Lucas Piton and midfielder Tchê Tchê remain in the medical department, recovering from injuries.

Given this scenario, the main novelty and Diniz's big bet for the match will be the debut of the center-back duo formed by the newly arrived reinforcements, Carlos Cuesta and Robert Renan. It will be the first time the two will play together, a baptism by fire in a classic. Moreover, Piton's absence will force an improvisation, with right-back Puma Rodríguez playing on the left side of the defense.

With these forced changes, Vasco's likely lineup for the Clássico dos Milhões is: Léo Jardim; Paulo Henrique, Carlos Cuesta, Robert Renan, and Puma Rodríguez; Hugo Moura, Barros, Philippe Coutinho; Nuno Moreira, Rayan, and Vegetti.

Vasco's Current Form

The challenge for the Cruzmaltino is enormous. The team enters the field in 15th place, with 23 points, dangerously close to the relegation zone. On the other side, they will face a Flamengo that is the isolated leader of the competition, with 50 points, boasting the best attack and the best defense in the championship so far.

The ball will roll for Flamengo and Vasco this Sunday at 5:30 p.m. in a Maracanã that promises to be packed. For Vasco, more than just the rivalry, the match represents a crucial opportunity to earn vital points in the fight to remain in the elite of Brazilian football.

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