Puma leads 2026 goal involvements for Vasco as right-back battle intensifies | OneFootball

Puma Rodríguez strengthened his case for a starting berth as Vasco beat Athletico-PR 1-0 in the 15th round. The Uruguayan leads the club for 2026 goal involvements and set up the winner for Thiago Mendes.

According to Globo.com, his form has intensified the battle for the right-back slot, with Renato preferring Paulo Henrique in league matches.

Under Renato, Puma’s first league start came in the Flamengo derby last week as a right winger, with Paulo Henrique at full-back. After a second-half change, he dropped to right-back and improved at the Maracanã.

Against Athletico-PR on Sunday, with Paulo Henrique suspended after a third booking, Puma impressed from right-back, delivering a backheel for Mendes to score. It was his fourth assist of the season and he repeatedly hit the byline.

He now has nine direct goal involvements in 2026 and is joint top scorer on five alongside Spinelli.

Speaking in the mixed zone at São Januário, he called the rivalry with Paulo Henrique healthy and said both are ready for any role. He welcomed the win without conceding, noted Renato’s structure gives him freedom to attack, and said the goal and assist help his Uruguay hopes.

The victory brought Vasco’s first clean sheet of this Brasileiro after 15 rounds, with 21 conceded so far. He also stressed the need to stay alert, admitting late nerves after Aguirre’s dangerous header in the final action.

Source: Globo.com