Vasco da Gama's Copa Sudamericana opponent to play behind closed doors
Independiente Medellín will host the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana playoffs against Vasco da Gama without fans due to a CONMEBOL sanction.
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In the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana playoffs scheduled for July 22, Vasco da Gama will face a unique scenario. Their opponent, Colombian club Independiente Medellín, is required to play at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium without public attendance.
The absence of fans is the result of a disciplinary sanction imposed by CONMEBOL following incidents during the match against Flamengo in the Copa Libertadores group stage. Consequently, Medellín will be without the support of their home crowd for the opening clash of the series.
Despite the sanction, Independiente Medellín has used the transfer window to reinforce their squad, announcing four new signings including defender Joaquín Varela, forward Carlos Lucumí, midfielder Agustín Martegani, and winger Juan Córdoba. The team is looking to bolster their ranks ahead of the resumption of competitive fixtures.
The return leg is set for July 29 at São Januário. The winner of this playoff tie will advance to face Paraguayan side Olimpia in the Round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana.