The atmosphere at Lincoln Financial Field was reminiscent of a Copa Libertadores final, as fervent fans of Palmeiras and Botafogo unfurled impressive tifos and engaged in a vocal contest matching the intensity of the players on the pitch. However, this was the FIFA Club World Cup round of 16, following a group stage where Brazilian teams have prominently displayed both on-field performance and passionate support, proving their readiness to compete with Europe`s elite.
After a highly physical battle, only Palmeiras advanced in the competition, securing a 1-0 victory over Botafogo thanks to Paulinho`s goal scored during extra time.
Flags waved, tifos were displayed, and chants of `Palmeiras` along with other songs echoed through the stadium. Botafogo`s goalkeeper, John Victor, made every effort to protect his net, but ultimately, the sustained pressure proved too much. PSG coach Luis Enrique had previously praised Botafogo`s defense after their surprising group stage win against his team, and their resilience was evident again on Saturday. Yet, Palmeiras had the edge in the extra-time period.
The other remaining Brazilian sides, Flamengo and Fluminense, still have their chance to progress, but they face significant challenges against Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, respectively. No Brazilian team has won the Club World Cup since Corinthians in 2012, despite representatives from the Brazilian Serie A reaching the final in four of the last ten editions. This year, however, they are mounting a strong campaign to potentially end that drought.
Notably, this edition has already seen Brazilian teams eliminate UEFA opponents, a feat not accomplished since 2012. Both Botafogo and Flamengo achieved this, defeating PSG and Chelsea in their respective group stage matches.
While Botafogo`s tournament journey has concluded, it was a memorable run they can be exceptionally proud of in a demanding competition.
The work that Botafogo has done since we came to the U.S. has a lot of pride to offer us. We all want to win, but only one team could. We have no reason to believe that we were behind Palmieras during the match, there were times that they were better and there times that we were better.
For a team that`s been working with this staff for only a few months and with new players, to play against these other teams, we have only reasons for fans to feel pride in us. In the dressing room, I forbade them to keep their heads down because they should feel pride, and today, Botafogo made themselves known to the world.
For Botafogo, the conclusion of their memorable tournament brings impending change, as players like Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha are reportedly set to join Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. However, their earnings from advancing in the tournament will provide additional resources for acquiring replacements. This is a familiar situation for the club, which had to replace talents like Thiago Almada and other strong players from their previous campaign. It`s a reality of success in Brazilian football, where standout players often attract interest from clubs abroad.
Next, Palmeiras will remain in Philadelphia to face the winner of the match between Chelsea and Benfica on the Fourth of July, giving their supporters ample time to prepare for the significant occasion. They demonstrated their readiness with numerous tifos and passionate songs against Botafogo, and they will need a similar level of preparation for the next round, especially given that center back Gustavo Gomes is suspended for the quarterfinal after receiving his second yellow card deep into extra time.
South American fans have been a highlight of the tournament so far. With the Argentine teams already eliminated in the group stage, the remaining Brazilian clubs must carry the banner for the continent, not only through the knockout rounds but also in the pursuit of winning the trophy. Brazilian soccer historically held a central position in the global game, and the Club World Cup presents an opportunity to reaffirm that standing. Palmeiras reached the final in 2021, losing to Chelsea, and depending on the outcome of the upcoming match, they could potentially have a chance for revenge.
If we win, great. If we lose, at least we have to give our very best and that`s just what we did today.
I have no words to describe our fans, they were passionate and supported us until the very end.
Palmeiras` journey in the tournament has not ended, and they show no signs of planning for it to conclude anytime soon.