Vasco da Gama and Fluminense have secured their places in the semifinals of the 2025 Campeonato Carioca after intense matches on February 23, 2025. Vasco emerged victorious against their rivals Botafogo with a narrow 1-0 win at São Januário, thanks to Pablo Vegetti's decisive penalty kick. The victory not only secured them advancement to the playoffs but also marked the end of Botafogo's campaign, which failed to qualify even for the Taça Rio.
On the same day at the Maracanã stadium, Fluminense faced Bangu and triumphed 3-2, overcoming their own hurdles to guarantee their spot. The match involved dramatic moments, including own goals and penalties, reflecting the rollercoaster nature of the championship.
Vasco's clash with Botafogo was highly charged, as classics often are. Even though the Glorioso enjoyed more possession throughout the match, they struggled to create scoring opportunities. The decisive moment came when Cuiabano, attempting to clear Paulo Henrique's cross, handballed the ball inside the area, leading the referee to award Vasco the penalty. Vegetti, who also leads the competition as the top scorer, did not falter under pressure and converted the penalty, sending the crowd at São Januário wild.
"Estamos preparados para tudo que vier," Vegetti stated confidently post-match, highlighting the team's readiness to face even more significant challenges as they advance. His sentiment echoes the ambitions of his teammates, who see this playoff as not just another step but as part of their broader aspiration for glory this season.
Meanwhile, the situation for Botafogo was dire; their elimination from the Campeonato Carioca left fans disappointed and reflective on what could have been. The team's inability to capitalize on their advantages and convert opportunities proved costly, as they left the pitch knowing they would not participate even in the Taça Rio.
At the Maracanã, Fluminense had to work hard for their victory over Bangu, who were relegated following their loss. The match began with an own goal by Juan Sanchez, putting Fluminense ahead. Canobbio then took advantage of the momentum, scoring the second goal early in the second half, pushing Fluminense closer to confirming their semi-final spot.
Canobbio later remarked, "O primordial era classificar. Era nosso primeiro objetivo no ano," emphasizing the importance of securing their place above all. Despite the victory, he acknowledged the mixed reception from the supporters, underscoring the need for improvement as the season progresses.
The match continued to see highs and lows, with Bangu pulling one back through João Veras' penalty kick, yet it wasn't enough to alter the eventual outcome. Fluminense finished third, narrowly edging their rivals by goal difference, setting the stage for their upcoming clash with Volta Redonda.
Looking forward, both Vasco and Fluminense now face significant challenges. Vasco is pitted against Flamengo, adding layers of excitement and rivalry, as Vegetti voiced their eagerness for revenge against the defending champions. On the other hand, Fluminense must prepare for Águia de Marabá before shifting focus back to their state ambitions.
Each team has demonstrated resilience and ambition as they strive for victory, and fans are poised for what promises to be thrilling semifinal matches. The recent outcomes serve as stark reminders of the competitive nature of the Campeonato Carioca, where every match can drastically alter the season's narrative.
With their paths irrevocably intertwined, the semi-finals not only set up fierce competition but also reignite historic rivalries, as both the players and supporters dream of lifting the coveted Campeonato Carioca trophy at the season's end.