Clássico dos Milhões: Flamengo Faces Off Against Vasco This Saturday

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – In a highly anticipated clash, Flamengo and Vasco da Gama are set to meet this Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 18:30 (Brasília time) for the fifth round of the Campeonato Brasileiro. The match, referred to as the Clássico dos Milhões, will take place at the iconic Maracanã Stadium, promising an electric atmosphere as both teams vie for crucial points in the league.

Flamengo, currently leading the league with ten points, is coming off a resounding 6-0 victory over Juventude, where standout performances included two goals from Pedro, who has been pivotal for the team despite not being at full fitness. The rubro-negros have dominated their rivals, boasting a strong record against Vasco with eight wins and two draws in their last ten encounters since May 2023.

On the other hand, Vasco da Gama is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2-1 loss to Ceará, leaving them in sixth place with six points. Coach Fábio Carille is hopeful for the return of key players Philippe Coutinho and Tchê Tchê, both expected to impact the match significantly as they aim for victory against their historic rivals.

As both teams prepare for this crucial matchup, Flamengo’s head coach Filipe Luís faces challenges with injuries. Matías Viña remains sidelined due to a knee injury sustained last year, which included a torn anterior cruciate ligament and a fractured tibia. Additionally, Alex Sandro is uncertain for the match after experiencing pain in his left thigh during a recent game against Juventude, prompting the coaching staff to rest him for this encounter.

Fans attending the match should take note that CET-Rio will implement a traffic operation around the Maracanã. Starting at 15:30, several streets will be closed to ensure smooth access for the expected crowd, with around 25,000 tickets sold in advance. This operation includes the deployment of 50 traffic agents and 13 variable message panels to inform drivers of closures and alternative routes.

For those unable to attend in person, the match will be broadcast live on Prime Video, featuring narration by the renowned Galvão Bueno and commentary from Romário, offering fans an immersive viewing experience. As kickoff approaches, the anticipation mounts, with both teams understanding the significance of this rivalry for league standings and the pride of their supporters.

With the match just hours away, both teams are finalizing their tactics and strategies. Flamengo aims to maintain their momentum at the top of the table, while Vasco seeks to prove they can compete with the best. As history shows, anything can happen in the Clássico dos Milhões, and both teams are prepared to give their all on the pitch.