With a history dating back to the 19th century, Rio de Janeiro-based Vasco Da Gama is one of the most historic names in Brazilian soccer. A four-time champion of the Brazilian championship, the club arrives at the 2017 Florida Cup having secured a return to the top flight last season with a third-place finish in Serie B, and will now look to build up to a big season ahead in the sunshine state.

NEED TO KNOW

Head Coach: Cristovao Borges
League: Serie A
Playoffs Opener: Jan.  15 – vs. Barcelona SC, Central Broward Stadium, Lauderhill, Fla.

CLUB HISTORY

Named for the Portuguese explorer after its founding by Portuguese immigrants, Vasco Da Gama is one of the popular clubs in Brazil. The winner of the State championship 24 times, including in each of the past two years, the club was home to legendary Brazilian players of the past like 1994 World Cup winner Romario, who scored 326 goals for the club during his career.

Vasco has claimed the Brazilian championship four times, the last coming in 2000, and the Copa Libertadores once, but over the past four years has bounced between the top two divisions in Brazil. With a large contingent of supporters in Rio and around the world, the hope will be the club ends that trend this season and returns near the top of the standings in the top flight.