In the first-half, much of the game was contested in the middle of the park, with both goalkeepers having rarely been forced into action.
Corinthians had the best chance of the half in the 37th minute when former Spartak Moscow midfielder, Alex, struck a powerful direct free-kick which Fernando Prass was unable to gather. Fortunately for the goalkeeper, Renato Siva got to ball first on the rebound, and the defender then won a free-kick having been fouled by Ralf.
After the interval, Vasco enjoyed slightly more possession and tried to attack the Corinthians back four. Eder Luis was getting the upper hand over Fábio Santos down the right flank, as the Timão left-back was unable to cope with the on-loan Benfica player’s speed.
Midway through the second-half, Vasco thought they took the lead when Alecsandro’s header ended up in the back of the net, but much to the dissatisfaction of the Cruz de Malta faithful, the goal was incorrectly ruled offside.
Corinthians might feel they have the slight advantage when they host Vasco at the Pacaembu in the second leg next Wednesday, but a score draw will be enough for Cristóvão Borges’ side to advance into the semi-finals.
VASCO: Fernando Prass; Fagner, Renato Silva, Rodolfo, Thiago Feltri; Rômulo, Nilton, Juninho (Felipe), Diego Souza (Carlos Alberto); Éder Luís, Alecsandro.
CORINTHIANS: Cássio; Alessandro, Chicão, Leandro Castán, Fábio Santos; Ralf, Paulinho, Alex (Douglas), Danilo (Elton); Jorge Henrique, Emerson (Willian)
