Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
On Thursday at the Rose Bowl, the Club World Cup group stage will see a sizzling showdown as PSG faces off against Brazil's Botafogo. Here’s my pick for the outcome of this clash, featuring an enticing set of odds.
Match preview
PSG made a commanding start to the tournament, demolishing Atlético Madrid 4-0 and showing exactly why they’re considered the frontrunners for the trophy. Luis Enrique’s side not only displayed their attacking firepower but also a disciplined defense—three consecutive clean sheets speak volumes. The absence of Dembélé was offset by Kvaratskhelia’s high efficiency, as he tallied two assists and became the driving force behind the Parisians’ attacks.
PSG are on a sensational run—six straight wins, with at least three goals scored in each of their last five matches. The team plays cohesive football, quickly transitioning the ball into the final third and showing great versatility up front. This makes the French club a threat to any opponent, especially after such a powerful tournament start.
The Brazilian side also began their campaign with a win, edging out Seattle Sounders 2-1, proving they can not only defend but also capitalize on their chances. First-half goals from Jair Cunha and Igor Jesus allowed Botafogo to control the tempo, while smart play in midfield stifled their opponent’s pressure. That’s now four straight victories for the Lone Star, an impressive streak by any standard.
Botafogo have been pragmatic: in four of their last six matches, fewer than 2.5 goals were scored, and the defense has looked solid—three clean sheets. However, against an attacking juggernaut like PSG, that composure may not be enough. Botafogo’s main task will be to withstand PSG’s early onslaught and battle for control in midfield.
Probable lineups
- PSG: Gianluigi Donnarumma – Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Marquinhos, Achraf Hakimi – Fabián Ruiz, Vitinha, João Neves – Désiré Doué, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Gonçalo Ramos
- Botafogo: John Victor – Alex Telles, Vitinho, Jair Cunha, Alexander Barbosa – Gonzalo Mastriani, Gregore, Marlon Freitas, Leo Artur – Jefferson Savarino, Igor Jesus
Match facts and head-to-head
- This will be the first official meeting between PSG and Botafogo
- PSG have scored at least three goals in each of their last five matches
- The "Both teams to score" bet has landed in two of Seattle Sounders’ last five matches
Prediction
PSG's form and their dominant display against Atlético command serious respect—the squad is in top shape both in terms of line-up and chemistry. Botafogo have grit and solid organization, but against a machine like PSG, that may not be enough. We expect a confident win for the favorites and a ticket to the playoffs. Our pick: "PSG to win with a -1.5 handicap" at 1.70 odds.
