Looking at this Vasco vs Fortaleza matchup, we see some interesting data unfolding before us. Vasco, with their top players Pablo Vegetti and Dimitri Payet, have been trying to make waves in the field – a pity they’re in a kiddie pool. Vegetti’s sporting 2 goals with 7 shots on goal this season, a respectable performance, while Payet is playing it safe with no goals or shots taken in this season.
On the flip side, Fortaleza boasts of quality performers such as Benjamin Kuscevic, Juan Martín Lucero, and Breno Lopes. Kuscevic is showcasing his abilities with a 7.5 rating this season but we'll need to take into account Yago Pikachu's absence due to injury. A tough blow for the team, considering his 7.0 rating and 84.5% accurate pass rate.
Just to add some spice to the mix, imagine a net without a keeper. But don't stress, folks, we have data for both goalkeepers. How could we not mention Léo Jardim for Vasco? A 7.19 rating and 33 saves, slightly ahead of Fortaleza's João Ricardo who's got a 7.46 rating and 30 saves.
Our aspiring history majors would be eager to remind us that the past cannot be forgotten. And indeed, in the past matchups between these two teams, it's been a give and take with Vasco winning once and Fortaleza returning the favor on another occasion.
Now, shifting our gaze to the season records, we see Fortaleza sitting relatively pretty with a record of 5-5-2, whereas Vasco seems to have misplaced their winning charm with a 3-2-8 record. Certainly not an invitation for a celebration, especially when you consider their recent results, which follow the general pattern of 'try, but not quite getting there'.
It seems like a rough ride for Vasco, but then again, the underdog tale is a classic for a reason. As the crystal ball of this commentary box, let me give you my prediction:
Albert’s Prediction: Fortaleza by 1