Can you picture the showdown that will decide a Sudamericana finalist?
Boca now knows the date for its clash with Vasco da Gama for a spot in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana final. CONMEBOL released the semifinal schedule, confirming Boca will host the first leg at La Bombonera.
The South American federation also set the other semifinal: Atlético Mineiro will meet Montevideo City Torque in the opening match on Wednesday, 14 October in Belo Horizonte, with the return leg a week later in Uruguay.
Winners of both ties will contest the final slated for 21 November in Barranquilla, Colombia.
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When does Boca face Vasco da Gama?
Thus, the Rio side can kick off the tie at home but must secure its place in the final on the road. The official semifinal timetable reads:
First leg: Tuesday 13 October, 21:30, at La Bombonera.
Second leg: Tuesday 20 October, 21:30, in Rio de Janeiro, venue to be confirmed.
Why can’t Vasco play at São Januário?
A key issue is the venue for the return match: Vasco da Gama cannot use São Januário because it falls short of CONMEBOL’s minimum capacity for Sudamericana semifinals.
Regulations demand at least 30,000 seats, yet Vasco’s stadium holds roughly 20,000. Consequently, the Brazilian club must relocate the game to another Rio venue.
Maracanã and Botafogo stadium: the alternatives
In my view, the Maracanã offers the best chance for a spectacular showdown. One option is the iconic Maracanã, a world‑football landmark. However, Vasco would need approval, as the stadium is jointly managed by Flamengo and Fluminense.
If denied, the Rio side also eyes Botafogo’s ground, which meets the capacity rule. Still, the club prefers the Maracanã and may take legal action should negotiations fail.
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