OTD E0060 — 30 Dec 2000: The João Havelange Cup Final — Vasco, São Caetano, and the Day São Januário Broke

30 Dec 2000: The Copa João Havelange final turns into chaos. After a 1–1 first leg, Vasco vs São Caetano at São Januário is halted around 23 minutes when a barrier collapses and scores are injured (reports vary roughly 150–160; no fatalities reported). The national title can’t end like that — so a third match is staged at the Maracanã on 18 Jan 2001, where Vasco win 3-1 to claim the championship. A story about football culture, infrastructure, and risk.Tips/corrections: [email protected]