Palmeiras continue their journey in the Club World Cup, with Estevão, soon to join Chelsea, playing a key role in the team’s 1-0 victory over Botafogo in a highly anticipated Brazilian derby. After a tightly contested first half and a second half dominated by Palmeiras, goalkeeper John Victor made several crucial saves but was unable to stop Paulinho’s decisive goal in the 99th minute of extra time. Palmeiras will face Chelsea in the quarterfinals.
The match in Philadelphia saw a cautious first half, with Palmeiras creating more chances and pressuring Botafogo’s defense. Estevão impressed throughout, causing problems for the opposition, while the game was marked by intense physical battles between the two sides. A near miss from Rios in stoppage time was among the few clear chances before halftime.
In the second half, Palmeiras started strongly again, with Estevão forcing a remarkable save from John Victor. Despite Palmeiras’ dominance and opportunities from Mauricio and others, coach Abel Ferreira’s substitutions removing both Estevão and Vitor Roque coincided with a loss of momentum. Botafogo, refreshed by Correa and Cuiabano, managed to hold on and push the match into extra time.
During extra time, Palmeiras controlled play with John Victor making more key saves before conceding the opening goal. Paulinho’s low shot proved unstoppable. Botafogo fought hard to equalize but missed opportunities through Vitinho and Igor Jesus.
Despite finishing with ten men after Gustavo Gomez’s late red card, Palmeiras secured the win and advanced to face Chelsea. The Verdão now aim to continue their pursuit of Club World Cup glory among Brazil’s top clubs.
