Botafogo dominates chaotic game and opens advantage in Sudamericana

Botafogo opened up an advantage in the dispute for a place in the next phase of the Copa Sudamericana, against Patronato of Argentina. The confrontation valid for the playoffs of the continental competition was held at Estádio Presbítero, which had a huge influence due to the poor condition of the lawn, practically soaked from the beginning, in addition to a confusing arbitration. Despite the difficulties during the game, the leader of the Brazilian Championship managed to overcome the opponent with a mixed lineup, being able to lose by a minimum score in the return match, at Nilton Santos.

First time

With the condition of the pitch directly affecting the performance of the players, it was clear that even trying to exchange passes, the teams would not be able to create many opportunities in the attacking field. Botafogo even had greater control of ball possession in the first half, but did not scare the Patronato goalkeeper once. The greatest chance of the club from Rio de Janeiro was in a move by the laods, in the intersection of Marçal, which ended in the finalization over the goal of Carlos Alberto, the visiting team even complained about a penalty in the bid during the conclusion.

Close to the last minutes, Lucas Perri saved what would be the Patronato’s goal, in an individual play by Valdez. The Botafogo goalkeeper appeared during the close range submission of the opponent and on the rebound, Novero was blocked in a good intervention by Sampaio.

Second time

After adapting to the water-filled lawn, Botafogo maintained its dominance in the actions during the final stage. Starting with three changes, the team led by Cláudio Caçapa found it easier to attack, creating opportunities. The substitutions took effect in a short time, and at six minutes, Carlos Alberto opened the scoring for Glorioso. The attacker dug into the bottom of the goal, after Janderson’s header.

With the favorable result, it didn’t take long for Botafogo’s second to come out, starting everything in a shot by Lucas Perri. The move continued to evolve and passed through the feet of newcomer Diego Hernández, who put Di Plácido on the bottom line, the cross was just right and found Janderson unmarked to finish.

With John Textor present in the stands alongside the fans, Botafogo achieved a great result to guarantee their place in the round of 16 of the Sudamericana. The Rio team also announced Bruno Lage in recent days as a new coach, but continues to play good football even though he is temporarily commanded. The victory against Patronato leaves Glorioso’s situation on track, being able to draw or even lose by a goal next Wednesday (19), at 19h, at Nilton Santos. If it advances, the cariocas will face Guarani from Paraguay in the next phase.

Featured Photo: Botafogo players celebrating during the match. Playback/Twitter