Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia felt more like a Copa Libertadores final than a Club World Cup match, with fans of Palmeiras and Botafogo generating an incredible atmosphere through their tifos and chants, creating a war of noise that mirrored the intensity on the pitch. The venue was, however, hosting a Club World Cup round of 16 tie. This tournament edition has highlighted the passion brought by Brazilian teams, both on and off the field, demonstrating their readiness to compete with Europe`s best.
Following a highly physical contest, Palmeiras emerged victorious, defeating Botafogo 1-0 thanks to Paulinho`s goal in extra time.
Flags waved and tifos were displayed as chants of `Palmeiras` and other songs echoed through the stadium. Botafogo`s goalkeeper, John Victor, made every effort to protect his net, but the constant pressure eventually became too much. PSG coach Luis Enrique had previously praised Botafogo`s defense after their upset win against his club in the group stage, and their resilience was again on display. However, Palmeiras ultimately had the edge in the extra-time period.
The other remaining Brazilian teams, Flamengo and Fluminense, still have opportunities to advance, though they face formidable opponents in Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, respectively. A Brazilian team has not won the competition since Corinthians in 2012, despite clubs from Brazil`s Serie A reaching the final in four of the last ten editions. This year, however, they are making a strong push to change that narrative.
This tournament is already notable as the first edition since 2012 where a Brazilian team has knocked out a UEFA opponent. This feat has occurred more than once this year, with both Botafogo and Flamengo achieving wins over PSG and Chelsea, respectively.
While Botafogo`s participation has concluded, their journey was memorable and one they can be extremely proud of, especially given the tough nature of the tournament.
`The work that Botafogo has done since we came to the U.S. has given us a lot to be proud of. We all wanted to win, but only one team could,` stated Botafogo manager Renato Paiva. `We have no reason to believe that we were inferior to Palmeiras during the match; there were times that they were better and times when we were better. For a team that`s been working with this staff for only a few months and with new players, competing against these other teams, we have only reasons for fans to feel pride in us. In the dressing room, I forbade them to hang their heads because they should feel pride, and today, Botafogo made themselves known to the world.`
For Botafogo, a significant tournament run ends, with changes expected as Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha are reportedly set to join Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Their success in the tournament, however, should provide increased resources for acquiring replacements. Replacing key players like Thiago Almada and others from their strong previous squad is a familiar challenge, reflecting the reality of success in Brazil when talented players attract attention from clubs abroad.
Next, Palmeiras will remain in Philadelphia to face the winner of the Chelsea and Benfica match on the Fourth of July, giving their fans additional time to prepare for the occasion. They brought numerous tifos, abundant songs, and a high level of preparation for Botafogo, and they will need the same intensity in the next round. A notable setback is the suspension of key center back Gustavo Gomes, who will be unavailable for the quarterfinals after receiving his second yellow card deep into extra time.
South American fans have been a highlight of the tournament so far. However, with the Argentine sides already eliminated in the group stage, a Brazilian club is now needed to carry the continent`s hopes through the knockout stages and potentially win the trophy. Brazilian football was once at the center of the global stage, and this Club World Cup presents an opportunity to send a reminder of that status. Palmeiras reached the final of this competition in 2021, where they were defeated by Chelsea, and depending on the outcome of the other quarterfinal, they could potentially have a chance to avenge that loss.
`If we win, great. If we lose, at least we have to give our very best, and that`s just what we did today,` commented Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira. `I have no words to describe our fans; they were passionate and supported us until the very end.`
Palmeiras`s journey in the tournament continues, and they have no plans for it to end in the near future.
Dominic Ashworth