In a tightly contested match at the São Januário Stadium, Bahia secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Vasco da Gama during matchday 3 of the Brasileirao. The decisive moment came in the 22nd minute when Luciano Juba found the back of the net, ensuring his team walked away with all three points.
Despite dominating the shot count, Vasco da Gama struggled to convert their chances, registering a total of 24 attempts yet only managing to put 12 on target. The remaining efforts either missed the mark or fell into the hands of Bahia’s goalkeeper.
Luciano Juba was undoubtedly the standout player of the match, not only for scoring the only goal but also for his solid defensive contributions, clearing two balls from dangerous areas. His teammate Kanu also made significant contributions, blocking five potential scoring opportunities for Vasco.
Under the guidance of Fernando Diniz Silva, Vasco lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, featuring Léo Jardim in goal, with a defensive line comprising José Luis Rodríguez, Carlos Cuesta, Robert Renan, and Lucas Pitón. The midfield was packed with Cauan Barros, Thiago Mendes, Nuno Moreira, Philippe Coutinho, and Andres Gómez, while Brenner led the attack.
Bahia, managed by Rogério Ceni, matched their opponents with a similar 4-5-1 setup. Ronaldo took the goalkeeping duties, supported by Román Gómez, Kanu, Santiago Ramos Mingo, and Luciano Juba in defense. Nicolás Acevedo, Jean Lucas, Cristian Olivera, Éverton Ribeiro, and Ademir formed the midfield, with Willian José spearheading the forward line.
Referee Paulo Zanovelli da Silva officiated the match, which featured several cards, particularly for Vasco, who saw five players cautioned for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Following this match, Vasco will be looking to bounce back as they face Santos away from home in their next fixture, while Bahia will host Chapecoense.
As it stands, Vasco da Gama holds 7 points, sitting comfortably in second place, while Bahia climbs to 1 point but remains in 18th position on the table.
Substitutions for Vasco da Gama
62’ 2H – Lucas Pitón made way for Paulo Henrique
63’ 2H – Nuno Moreira was replaced by Marino Hinestroza, and Brenner was substituted for Claudio Paul Spinelli
76’ 2H – Thiago Mendes was taken off for GB
82’ 2H – Philippe Coutinho left the pitch for Johan Rojas, and Nicolás Acevedo was replaced by Caio Alexandre
Bookings for Vasco da Gama:
49’ 1H – Andres Gómez (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
28’ 2H – Thiago Mendes (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
41’ 2H – Johan Rojas (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
50’ 2H – Cauan Barros (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
52’ 2H – Paulo Henrique (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
Substitutions for Bahia
57’ 2H – Kanu was substituted by Gabriel Xavier, Willian José was replaced by Everaldo, and Ademir made way for Erick Pulga
72’ 2H – Jean Lucas was substituted by Erick Carvalho
Bookings for Bahia:
18’ 1H – Kanu (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
34’ 1H – Cristian Olivera (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
6’ 2H – Nicolás Acevedo (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
51’ 2H – Caio Alexandre (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
51’ 2H – Ronaldo (Time-wasting)