RIO DE JANEIRO (Interstat) — Botafogo opened its Carioca Série A campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over rival Vasco da Gama on Wednesday at Estádio Nilton Santos. The result defied a pregame projection that heavily favored Vasco da Gama. Botafogo broke a scoreless deadlock with two quick second-half goals, from Artur in the 72nd minute and Léo just five minutes later. The home side’s defense held firm to secure the clean sheet. Botafogo begins the competition with a 1-0 record, while Vasco da Gama starts 0-1.