Flamengo is set to face off against Vasco da Gama today, March 1, 2025, at 17:45 (local time) at the Estádio Nilton Santos, marking the first leg of the semifinals of the Campeonato Carioca. Known as the Clássico dos Milhões, this matchup is steeped in history and rivalry, making it one of the most anticipated events on the Brazilian football calendar.
Arriving as the current leaders of the competition, Flamengo has been impressive with 23 points earned from 11 matches during the initial phase of the tournament. Under the guidance of coach Filipe Luís, Flamengo recently clinched the Taça Guanabara and displayed dominance with strong performances, including defeating Botafogo 3-1 to clinch the Supercopa do Brasil.
Despite this momentum, Flamengo faces substantial challenges as they prepare for the match against their historic rivals. They will be without eight key players due to injuries and suspensions, including Danilo, Michael, Everton Cebolinha, Pedro, Viña, Juninho, Alex Sandro, and Cleiton. This situation forces Filipe Luís to make significant adjustments to his game plan.
The likely lineup for Flamengo includes Rossi as goalkeeper, with Wesley, Léo Pereira, Léo Ortiz, and Varela forming the defensive line. The midfield will feature Pulgar and Arrascaeta, with Gerson and Bruno Henrique leading the attack alongside Gonzalo Plata and Luiz Araújo. The absences undoubtedly create pressure on the squad, as they aim to maintain their competitive edge against the Vasco team.
Vasco da Gama, on the other hand, is buoyed by recent successes, having secured important victories against Botafogo and União Rondonópolis, which have provided a boost of confidence as they head toward this pivotal match. Currently positioned fourth with 17 points, the Cruz-Maltino is determined to exploit the vulnerabilities presented by Flamengo's depleted roster and generate upset potential.
Fabio Carille, the coach of Vasco, is expected to field Léo Jardim as goalkeeper, alongside defensive players Paulo Henrique, Lucas Freitas, and Lucas Piton. The midfield will likely include Hugo Moura and Tchê Tchê, with forward options such as Rayan and Pablo Vegetti, the latter known for his scoring ability.
Providing additional incentive for Vasco is the home-field advantage, as they look to capitalize on Flamengo's misfortunes and capitalize on their own spirited performance from earlier matches. The anticipation from fans on both sides is palpable, making the atmosphere at Estádio Nilton Santos particularly electric.
For fans eager to catch the action live, the match will be widely broadcast. Globo will cover the event on open television, particularly reaching audiences across Rio de Janeiro and other regions, supplemented by the pay-TV networks SporTV and Premiere, which have secured rights to the encounter. For those who prefer to stream the game, options are also available on Globoplay.
With the second leg of the semifinal matchup also scheduled, set to take place on March 8 at Maracanã, the stakes are high. Flamengo holds the advantage of playing at home for the return leg and can afford to advance with even just a draw from today’s match. This is not only about progress; it is also about pride, as both teams seek to outdo each other both on and off the pitch.
Flamengo is coming off nine matches unbeaten, with significant victories propelling them forward. Still, the recent injuries and lack of key players presents challenges they must navigate carefully. The last meeting between these teams saw Flamengo victorious with a 2-0 scoreline, with goals credited to Bruno Henrique and Everton Cebolinha, showcasing their past strengths.
Experts predict intense competition, as both teams vie for position not just this season but for their legacies. While Flamengo's injuries are significant, many analysts believe their squad depth and experience still place them as favorites, whereas Vasco’s recent resurgence implies resilience and determination to succeed.
The kickoff for this storied clash is just around the corner, with fans eagerly awaiting to see what stories will emerge on the field today. Each team has something to prove, and every player knows the weight of this tradition-laden rivalry.