In a highly anticipated clash, Vasco and Santos are set to face off in the opening match of the Série A Campeonato Brasileiro on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 18:30 in São Januário. This match not only marks Santos' return to Brazil's top tier after their relegation in 2023 but also serves as a reunion for Fábio Carille, currently coaching Vasco, who was dismissed by Santos despite winning the Serie B title last year.
The stakes are high as both teams aim to avoid repeating the misfortunes of the previous season. In 2023, Santos triumphed over Vasco in both encounters, winning 1-0 in Rio de Janeiro and 4-1 in Vila Belmiro. However, despite these victories, Santos suffered the indignity of relegation, leading to a tumultuous season that saw Vasco secure their place in the top flight while Santos fell short.
Vasco enters this match with some fresh faces in their lineup. The team is expected to feature new signings Maurício Lemos and Benjamín Garré, who have been training with the first team and are likely to make their debuts. Philippe Coutinho, who has recovered from a muscle injury, is set to lead the charge for Vasco, bringing experience and skill to the midfield. However, the team will still be without the services of injured players Guilherme Estrella and David, who are sidelined with long-term injuries.
On the other hand, Santos will be missing their star player, Neymar, who is still recovering from a thigh injury sustained during the Campeonato Paulista. Coach Pedro Caixinha has emphasized the importance of caution regarding Neymar's return, as he was also forced to withdraw from the Brazilian national team. The absence of Neymar is a significant blow to Santos, who will also have to manage the fitness of Yeferson Soteldo, who might start on the bench due to physical fatigue after international duty.
As both teams take the field, the atmosphere in São Januário is expected to be electric. The rivalry between Vasco and Santos is intense, fueled by the controversial matches of the previous season. Vasco players celebrated their survival in the top tier by mocking Santos' relegation, which adds an extra layer of tension to this encounter.
Vasco's lineup is expected to include Léo Jardim in goal, with a defensive line comprising Paulo Henrique, João Victor, Maurício Lemos, and Lucas Piton. The midfield will feature Hugo Moura, Tchê Tchê, Coutinho, and Nuno Moreira, while Garré and Vegetti are set to lead the attack. Carille's tactical approach will be critical as he looks to secure a positive result in this opening fixture.
Santos, meanwhile, will likely field Gabriel Brazão as their goalkeeper, supported by a back four of JP Chermont, Gil, Zé Ivaldo, and Escobar. The midfield trio will consist of João Schmidt, Gabriel Bontempo, and Álvaro Barreal, with Rollheiser, Tiquinho Soares, and Guilherme leading the attack. Caixinha will need to adapt his strategies to compensate for the absence of Neymar and the potential fatigue of Soteldo.
As the match approaches, fans are buzzing with excitement, eager to see how both teams will perform under pressure. Will Vasco capitalize on their home advantage and the absence of Neymar? Or will Santos find a way to overcome their challenges and make a statement in their return to the elite? With both teams eager to start the season on a high note, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
The opening weekend of the Campeonato Brasileiro has already seen some intriguing results, with matches on Saturday, March 29, featuring São Paulo drawing 0-0 against Sport, Cruzeiro defeating Mirassol 2-1, Juventude overcoming Vitória 2-0, and Fortaleza edging out Fluminense 2-0. Grêmio also secured a 2-1 victory over Atlético-MG, while Flamengo and Internacional played to a 1-1 draw.
As the action continues on Sunday, fans will also be treated to other matches, including Palmeiras taking on Botafogo at 16:00 and Bahia squaring off against Corinthians at 20:00. The excitement of the Campeonato Brasileiro is palpable, and the clash between Vasco and Santos is set to be a highlight of the opening round.
In conclusion, as the teams gear up for this critical match, the history between them looms large. Both Vasco and Santos have much to prove as they embark on a new season, and the outcome of this encounter could set the tone for their campaigns ahead. With the rivalry rekindled and stakes high, fans can expect nothing less than a fiercely contested battle on the pitch.
