The 2017 campaign delivered a vital return to continental competition for Vasco da Gama, as Gigante da Colina battled through managerial changes to secure a crucial 7th-place finish in the Brasileirão Série A, guaranteeing a coveted spot in the 2018 Copa Libertadores qualifying rounds. The team was anchored by the veteran star power of the charismatic striker Luís Fabiano and the experienced playmaker Nenê, who jointly topped the league scoring charts with 5 goals each. Nenê, the technical reference, led the team in all competitions scoring, finishing with 11 total goals. It was a gritty and determined season that saw the club win the Taça Rio and re-establish themselves in the top flight, providing a crucial platform for their future success.