Vasco da Gama thrashes Olimpia 4-1, eyes River Plate in Copa Sudamericana

Vasco da Gama secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Olimpia, advancing to the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals. The Brazilian club will face the winner of the match between River Plate and Independiente Santa Fe in the next round.

Despite the dominant win, Vasco da Gama was hampered by registration issues for new signings Santiago Sosa and Facundo Colidio. According to Globo Esporte, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) failed to submit their paperwork on time, preventing their participation in the current series. They will be eligible for the next stage.

Olimpia, managed by Vitamina Sánchez, saw former Vélez Sarsfield striker Braian Romero and Juan Fernando Alfaro in their starting lineup. Romero had several chances, including hitting the crossbar and forcing saves from the Vasco da Gama goalkeeper. Claudio Spinelli, a second-half substitute for Vasco da Gama, scored the final goal with a header.

Vasco da Gama's goals came from Thiago Mendes, David (twice), and Spinelli. Olimpia's lone goal was a spectacular long-range strike from Esteban Mattus. The match featured several close calls and strong goalkeeping performances from both sides.