Previously scheduled for 6pm (Brasília time), the derby between Vasco and Botafogo will start late by 30 minutes, that is, to 6:30pm, due to heavy rain falling in São Januário, the stadium that will host the match. With just under an hour before the ball rolled, the condition of the pitch was poor, with many puddles on the field.
- Scare: Sampaio Corrêa player, who convulsed on the field, says that “the biggest scare is over”
- Reversed roles: In different phases of management, Vasco and Botafogo face each other in São Januário
The bad pitch is yet another reason for concern for coaches, who use the start of the season to promote greater interaction between players and, of course, to regulate the physical aspect. Botafogo, for example, will be fielding a team mostly made up of under-20 players and reserves. Team captain, defender Alexander Barboza is the only starter selected.
At Vasco, on the other hand, Fernando Diniz goes to the field with his best. The coach will also have the return of right-back Paulo Henrique, who was recovering from foot pain. Pumita, who is on the rise and is in the top scoring phase, will be the holder of the position.
