Vasco da Gama

(4.20 average - 5 votes)

Full Name: Clube de Regatas Vasco da Gama
City: Rio de Janeiro
Founded: 1898
Stadium: Vasco da Gama - São Januário (36,273)
Colors: White, Black
Nicknames: Vascão, Bacalhau (Codfish), Gigante da Colina (Giant of the Hill)
Rival: Flamengo

Description:

Vasco da Gama were founded in 1898 as a rowing club. The football section began in 1915. Vasco were founded by Portuguese immigrants of Rio, have traditionally supported by Rio's Portuguese community, and were named in honor of the Portuguese explororer (and sailor) of the same name. The red cross that is seen on the club's logo and (sometimes) shirts is a Cross of Malta, which was traditionally worn by Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama. The nickname 'Bacalhau' was given by a journalist as a reference to Vasco's Portuguese traditions, as many Portuguese in Brazil were merchants and the codfish was a very typical Portuguese import at the time. Vasco was one of the first Brazilian clubs to break down the racial barriers in Brazilian football in the early 20th century.

São Januário:

The São Januario stadium is built on a hill, giving meaning to the 'Gigante da Colina' nickname. Some big matches are played at the Maracana.

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