Since Pedro Emanuel took charge exactly one month ago, Vasco has been the team with the most games without being scored against in Série A. This impressive defensive run is a significant change from the team's previous struggles, where they had conceded 29 goals in 18 Brasileirão rounds before Pedro Emanuel's arrival. The coach has prioritized reorganizing the defense, and some players have seen an improvement in their performance under his guidance.
One of the key players who has benefited from Pedro Emanuel's coaching is Cuesta, who will be a reinforcement for Vasco in their upcoming game against Santos. Cuesta has grown in importance and has recovered his good form, which he had shown at the beginning of his time at São Januário. Another player who has seen a resurgence in his performance is Paulo Henrique, who has reassumed his starting position and has been participating more in the team's offensive play.
The team's defensive improvement is also attributed to a change in tactics, with Vasco prioritizing a system with three central midfielders in most games with Pedro Emanuel. This has given the team greater defensive solidity and has helped to fill the midfield. The team's captain, Thiago Mendes, along with Tchê Tchê and Jair, have been the main choices to form the central midfield trio and have shown improvement.
Vasco and Santos are currently tied with 22 points and are in the relegation zone before their direct confrontation. Santos is one position ahead of Vasco in the standings, in 17th place, due to the goal difference. The two teams will face each other on Sunday at 16:00 (Brasília time) in São Januário.