Botafogo Win First Copa Libertadores Despite Early Red Card

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Botafogo clinched their first-ever Copa Libertadores title in dramatic fashion on Saturday at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental, defeating Atletico Mineiro 3-1 despite being reduced to 10 men for the majority of the match.

The game erupted into chaos early on when Botafogo’s Gregore de Magalhães was sent off just two minutes after kickoff for a high challenge that saw his boot connect with Atletico’s Fausto Vera’s face only 30 seconds into the match. Despite Atletico’s relentless attempts to capitalize on their numerical advantage with a barrage of shots, Botafogo held firm, weathering the pressure and creating a few significant chances of their own.

Botafogo’s efforts paid off in the 35th minute when Luiz Henrique broke the deadlock. Following some impressive build-up play to crowd the penalty area, Henrique seized on a loose ball in the box and finished clinically from close range. Estrela Solitária extended their lead nine minutes later with a penalty. Atletico goalkeeper Everson rushed off his line to challenge Henrique inside the box, resulting in a foul. Former Manchester United player Alex Telles calmly stepped up and converted the spot kick.

Atletico started the second half strongly, reducing the deficit in the 47th minute through halftime substitute Eduardo Vargas. The goal came from a well-delivered corner, with Vargas making precise contact with his head to direct the ball into the net. Atletico dominated much of the second half, pressing relentlessly around Botafogo’s penalty area in search of an equalizer, amassing 22 shots and nearly 80% possession. However, it was Botafogo who delivered the decisive blow, with Junior Santos scoring in the seventh minute of stoppage time to secure the victory.

The victory represents a remarkable resurgence for Botafogo, who were competing in Brazil’s second division only three years ago. Their rapid ascent has been partly driven by American businessman John Textor, who became the club’s majority owner in February 2022. Textor also serves as the majority owner and chairman of Eagle Football Holdings, a global network of soccer clubs that includes England’s Crystal Palace and France’s Olympique Lyonnais.

With their Copa Libertadores triumph, Botafogo secured the final spot in next year’s FIFA Club World Cup. The newly expanded tournament, featuring 32 teams, is set to take place in the U.S. next summer, with the group stage draw scheduled for Thursday in Miami.

 

Mohd Faisal Hakak

Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.

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