Vasco de Gama vs Melgar

Vasco da Gama vs. Melgar: A Crucial Copa Sudamericana Showdown

The upcoming Group G match in the Copa Sudamericana between Vasco da Gama and Melgar is set to be a thrilling contest. Both teams are in top form, battling for the second-place spot that guarantees a playoff berth. Vasco da Gama, the Brazilian side, boast an impressive home record, remaining unbeaten in seven of their last eight home games, though their goal-scoring struggles have been evident. On the other hand, Melgar, the Peruvian team, are formidable on the road, maintaining an unbeaten streak in their last four away matches. Expect a fierce battle between Melgar’s dynamic attack and Vasco’s resilient defense. Their previous meeting in Peru, a high-scoring 3-3 draw, adds extra anticipation to this pivotal clash.

Head-to-Head Recap

The two teams met once before on April 3, 2025, in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Melgar’s home stadium. Key stats from that match (with Melgar as the home side) include:

• Possession: Melgar 66%, Vasco da Gama 34%
• Corner Kicks: Melgar 16, Vasco da Gama 0
• Fouls: Melgar 8, Vasco da Gama 15
• Yellow Cards: Melgar 2, Vasco da Gama 3
• Shots on Target: Melgar 7, Vasco da Gama 3

This sole encounter highlights the evenly matched nature of these teams, with both sides finding the net three times.

Head-to-Head Summary

• Matches Played: 1
• Result: 1 Draw (100%)
• Total Goals: 6 (3 per team)
• Both Teams Scored: 100%
• Average Goals per Match: 6
• Corners: Melgar 16, Vasco da Gama 0
• Yellow Cards: Vasco da Gama 3, Melgar 2
• Fouls: Vasco da Gama 15, Melgar 8

Last Meeting (April 3, 2025 – Copa Sudamericana)

• Result: Melgar 3, Vasco da Gama 3
• Key Stats:
  • Corners: Melgar 16, Vasco da Gama 0
  • Fouls: Melgar 8, Vasco da Gama 15
  • Yellow Cards: Melgar 2, Vasco da Gama 3
  • Shots on Target: Melgar 7, Vasco da Gama 3

Vasco da Gama: Team Snapshot

Vasco da Gama’s most recent match was a 2-1 loss against Fluminense in Brazil’s Serie A Betano. Match stats include:

• Possession: Fluminense 51%, Vasco da Gama 49%
• Corners: Fluminense 6, Vasco da Gama 2
• Fouls: Vasco da Gama 16, Fluminense 11
• Yellow Cards: Vasco da Gama 3, Fluminense 4
• Shots on Target: Fluminense 5, Vasco da Gama 2

Currently third in Group G, Vasco trail Melgar by two points and must win to secure second place. The team is a fortress at home, rarely losing, but their attack has struggled, often failing to score more than one goal per game. Defensively, they’ve been leaky, conceding in nearly every match. In the Brazilian Serie A, Vasco sit 15th after 10 rounds, with a record of three wins, one draw, and six losses.

FBC Melgar: Team Snapshot

Melgar’s latest outing was a 1-1 draw against Alianza Universidad in Peru’s Primera Division. Match stats include:

• Possession: Melgar 62%, Alianza Universidad 38%
• Corners: Melgar 8, Alianza Universidad 5
• Fouls: Melgar 11, Alianza Universidad 13
• Yellow Cards: Melgar 5, Alianza Universidad 4
• Shots on Target: Melgar 5, Alianza Universidad 2

Sitting second in Group G, Melgar need only a draw to clinch a playoff spot. The Peruvian side has been consistent both at home and away, relying on a solid defense and sharp counterattacks to secure results. While their attack can be inconsistent, they remain dangerous, capable of exploiting even the toughest defenses. In Peru’s Liga 1, Melgar are third after 13 rounds, just one point behind the leaders.

Playoff Prediction

With both teams in strong form, this match is a toss-up. Vasco da Gama’s home advantage and defensive resilience make them slight favorites, but their scoring woes could be a liability. Melgar’s strong away form and ability to capitalize on counterattacks give them a good chance to at least secure the draw they need. Given their previous 3-3 thriller, another high-scoring game is possible. However, Melgar’s balanced play and current standings give them a slight edge to hold onto second place and advance to the playoffs, likely with a draw or narrow victory.