Vasco boss full of praise, backs new midfield setup: ‘Brilliant’

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Papo na Colina

·29 de agosto de 2025

Vasco boss full of praise, backs new midfield setup: ‘Brilliant’

The 1-1 draw against Botafogo left a very positive balance for the future of Vasco da Gama: the assertion of midfielder Cauan Barros. The young player, who recently returned from loan, was a starter in the classic match. He was not only one of the best on the field, but also formed a very balanced duo with Jair, being the solution that Fernando Diniz needed for the sector.

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Youngster's defensive performance impresses

Cauan Barros was the leader in disarming for Vasco in the match. His physical strength and positioning were crucial for the team's defensive solidity. The player himself highlighted his tactical role. He stated:

“My characteristic is to provide security for the defense, let Jair be more at ease. Make a big difference there in the middle.”

Indeed, the presence of Barros as the first midfielder had a direct impact on Jair's performance. With more freedom to advance, the number 8 had one of his best matches for the club and scored the equalizing goal. Jair himself recognized the importance of his partner. He said:

“Barros manages to stay more as a first midfielder, we alternated a lot during the game. I think that was decisive for me to get further forward.”

Barros and Jair should continue in Vasco's starting lineup – Photo: PETER ILICCIEV/AGENCIA ENQUADRAR/GazetaPRess

Coach praises and is likely to maintain the formation

The performance earned high praise from Fernando Diniz, who revealed he has been a long-time admirer of the midfielder's football. The coach declared:

“The boy did very well, has a bright future ahead. Barros, in 2021, in my first time here, was from the under-17 (...) He was on a list that would go up if I continued.”

With the injury of Tchê Tchê, the trend is that the new and successful duo will be maintained for the upcoming matches.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.