Palmeiras Advance to Club World Cup Quarter-Finals

Palmeiras secured their position in the Club World Cup quarter-finals after a tight 1-0 victory over fellow Brazilian team Botafogo on Saturday, thanks to a late goal from Paulinho.

The match, held in the intense heat of Philadelphia, remained scoreless after the initial 90 minutes, characterized by cautious and contentious play.

The crucial moment arrived in the 100th minute when Paulinho, who came on as a substitute, skillfully maneuvered past two defenders on the right and scored with a precise low shot into the corner, eluding Botafogo’s goalkeeper.

Despite Botafogo’s efforts to equalize, they were unable to capitalize, even after Palmeiras were left with 10 players when Gustavo Gomez received his second caution for a strategic foul.

Palmeiras defended resolutely to achieve their first triumph against Botafogo in almost two years. Their next challenge will be against either Benfica or Chelsea in Philadelphia on Friday.

“We delivered an exceptional performance,” stated Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira. “We performed admirably during both the regulation and extra time. Despite facing adversity with a player down, we earned the victory.”

The encounter was a gripping affair between familiar opponents with a history of important matches. Palmeiras had previously overturned a three-goal deficit to defeat Botafogo 4-3 in 2023, impacting the Rio club’s league ambitions.

Botafogo retaliated by eliminating Palmeiras on their path to the 2024 Copa Libertadores title and had maintained an undefeated record against them in five matches until Saturday.

The first half unfolded slowly, with Palmeiras maintaining possession but struggling to penetrate Botafogo’s solid defense.

Young winger Estevao, set to join Chelsea post-tournament in a significant transfer, was a key spark for Palmeiras on the left. However, scoring opportunities were limited, with only one shot on target in the first half: a powerful strike from Richard Rios that was well saved.

Botafogo appeared subdued compared to their recent victory over Paris St Germain, and Palmeiras dominated ball possession against the South American champions.

Palmeiras showed increased determination after halftime, with Estevao testing the keeper with a shot from outside the penalty area.

Artur responded for Botafogo with a curling shot that was saved by Palmeiras’ goalkeeper, but they continued to struggle in creating clear chances.

Estevao had a goal disallowed for offside in the 50th minute before being replaced, a substitution that proved significant when his replacement, Paulinho, scored the decisive goal for Palmeiras.