Palmeiras outlast Botafogo. Quarterfinalist of the Club World Cup decided!

On the evening of June 28, the first Round of 16 match of the Club World Cup took place, featuring an all-Brazilian clash between Palmeiras and Botafogo.

Details: The match was as cagey as it gets. There was plenty of midfield tussle, but little attacking creativity or shots on goal. Both Brazilian sides played with maximum caution, wary of making a costly error. In the first half, neither team registered a single shot on target, both prioritizing defensive solidity above all else.

The first truly dangerous moment came near Botafogo’s goal in the 73rd minute. After a low cross from the flank, Mauricio went for a header. Victor, the Botafogo keeper, reacted well to the midfielder’s effort and tipped the ball out for a corner.

Extra time

In the extra periods, both teams finally managed to create more threats on goal. In the 97th minute, Rios of Palmeiras unleashed a shot from the edge of the penalty area. The ball was heading for the right corner, but Botafogo’s goalkeeper John Victor produced a fine save, pushing it out for a corner.

Just moments later, Victor couldn’t come to the rescue again. After a brilliant solo run, Palmeiras midfielder Paulinho struck into the left corner and broke the deadlock—1-0!

After the goal, Palmeiras dropped back, focusing on holding their lead. In the 116th minute, green-and-white defender Gustavo Gomez received a second yellow card and was sent off, making things tougher for his teammates.

Despite late pressure, Botafogo couldn’t carve out a clear chance and had to watch as Palmeiras advanced to the quarterfinals.

In the quarters, Palmeiras will face London’s Chelsea, who also advanced in extra time by defeating Benfica. That showdown is set for July 5.

See also: Chelsea into the Club World Cup quarterfinals! Benfica miss out.