Vasco da Gama has the opportunity to reach the Copa do Brasil semi-finals for the first time in over ten years if they avoid defeat against Athletico Paranaense at Arena de Baixada.

For the second time this Copa do Brasil season, Athletico Paranaense faces a must-win scenario in the crucial second leg. Martin Varini's squad was on track for a comfortable win until late defensive errors altered the tie’s dynamics. The silver lining is their perfect home record in this competition, having not conceded in their two home games, though they have lost their last two matches at Arena de Baixada in all competitions.

Athletico has struggled in the quarter-finals recently, failing to win their opening leg in three consecutive years and being eliminated in the last eight by Flamengo in 2022 and 2023. It has been nearly three years since they won a quarter-final fixture, with their last victories in this stage dating back to 2021 when they defeated Santos twice. Furacão remains unbeaten in their last 13 home games against Vasco, including a 1-0 win at Arena de Baixada earlier this year.

Vasco da Gama, though facing a deficit, has shown resilience, notably turning the tide in their favor in the first leg. They have managed to avoid defeat in five consecutive matches across all competitions when conceding first. They often come alive in the second half, with their last eight goals scored after the break.

Currently on an eight-match unbeaten streak and having won their last three games by a single goal, Vasco has not reached the semi-finals since their 2011 Copa do Brasil victory. They have won their last two encounters against Athletico but haven’t won away from home against them since a 4-2 victory at Ligga Arena in the 2007 Copa Sudamericana.

Prediction:  Athletico Paranaense 1-1 Vasco da Gama

Athletico Paranaense vs Vasco da Gama stream and TV listing

Brazil：Amazon Prime Video

International：Score808 808ball