Football Season Guide

In 2018, Vasco just survived from relegation in the very last round, after a very shaky performance throughout the year. Vasco seemed more composed in 2019, but they always do it in Campeonato Carioca. Having reached the finals was not enough for gaffer Valentim to be safe. The squad doesn’t seem that much stronger than last season’s. An absolute star in 2018, Maxi Lopez may not be in the amazing form he showed last season. Martin Silva is no longer on goal, but Fernando Miguel seemed to be taking his place late on the season anyway. Alberto Valentim liked to have a pragmatic approach, often adapting to the opponent’s characteristics and the difficulty of the game. While a good approach for collecting points throughout the season, this also promotes frequent irregular sequence on the long run. It has to be seen what his successor's approach will be, though. Pikachu is the most solid talent; Marrony provides flair using his pace on the wings. Bruno César’s long distance shots are always a threat. Maxi Lopez and Ribamar always have a goal in them. The defensive system led by Castan is usually reliable. Lucas Santos is the youngster to pay attention on. Vasco has been known from doing horrible transitions from State Championships to Brasileirão, where they suddenly assume a small team’s role, preventing them to claim more respectable positions on the table. The very poor financial status doesn’t help much, either.