📋 CSA and Vasco line up for first Copa do Brasil last-16 clash

Copa do Brasil Clash: CSA and Vasco Seek Glory on Home Soil

Maceió Prepares for Historic Showdown

Two clubs facing turbulent seasons, CSA and Vasco da Gama, will meet tonight for the first leg of their Copa do Brasil Round of 16 clash at the iconic Rei Pelé stadium in Maceió. Kick-off is set for 7pm (Brasília time), marking the beginning of a thrilling encounter with high stakes.

The return leg takes place next Thursday (July 7th) at São Januário, with the winner claiming a prize of R$ 4.7 million.

History Beckons: This will be the third meeting between these rivals in the Copa do Brasil, and their second consecutive encounter in the Round of 16.

• In 1992, CSA pulled off a stunning upset, eliminating Vasco after a 3-3 draw in Maceió and a 1-0 victory at São Januário. They faced legendary figures like Edmundo, Valdir Bigode, and Roberto Dinamite.
• Then, in 2002, Vasco suffered another setback with a 2-1 defeat away from home, but responded with a dominant 4-0 thrashing at the Historic Hill, courtesy of goals from Romário (two), Euler, and Léo Lima.

CSA's Quest for Glory: The Azulão do Mutange, having defeated Boavista, Tuna Luso, and Grêmio to reach this stage, aims to replicate their 1992 quarter-final run. However, they are currently enduring a challenging period. Despite reaching the Copa do Nordeste semifinals, CSA has gone five games without a win in Série C, leading to coach Higo Magalhães' departure. Currently ninth in the standings with 18 points, they face stiff competition from Floresta, who lead the G-8 on 20 points.

Márcio Fernandes was appointed as the new manager last Monday (July 28th). Defender Jackson is sidelined due to injury, while Enzo is expected to return at left back after his suspension against Londrina. Islan returns to central defense.

Vasco's Fight for Revival: The Cruz-Maltino, having eliminated União Rondonópolis, Nova Iguaçu, and Operário, enter this match seeking to end a five-game winless streak, which includes their elimination from the Sudamericana Round of 16 playoffs.

Coach Fernando Diniz has Philippe Coutinho available once again, who last featured against Botafogo on July 12th. However, Coutinho will not start. Despite back pain, Léo Jardim remains in goal. João Victor is also back in contention.

Vasco's Starting XI:
[Insert photo and lineup from the provided Twitter link]