Botafogo Advances to Round of 16 in the Club World Cup
Botafogo has silenced its detractors by securing its place in the round of 16 of the Club World Cup. Player Alex Telles expressed his satisfaction, pointing out that the Brazilian club proved wrong those who insinuated that their participation would be limited to a tourist visit. Despite the 1-0 defeat against Atlético de Madrid in their last group stage match, Telles and his teammates managed to advance as runners-up in Group B.“It’s difficult to talk about it at the moment,” commented Telles, former Manchester United player. “PSG and Atlético showed us more respect than most fans and experts. The team did what was necessary to advance to the next phase.”
Alex Telles
The Botafogo will now face the winner of Group A, which could be Inter Miami CF or Palmeiras, on Saturday. PSG, for its part, will play against the runner-up on Sunday. A late goal by Antoine Griezmann secured the victory for Atlético de Madrid, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the goal difference of the Brazilian team. Captain Marlon Freitas highlighted the importance of advancing to the knockout phase from a group that included two European powerhouses.“Here we are, those who some said were coming to see Mickey at Disneyland, qualified for the round of 16 in the group of death. Qualification demonstrates the work done by this incredible group of men,” he added.
Alex Telles
“Of course, we wanted to win and I think we had our opportunities. We knew how to defend and I think we deserved at least a draw. Conceding that late goal was heartbreaking because we wanted to finish first in the group,” Freitas told TV Globo.
Marlon Freitas
Botafogo was crowned champion of the Brazilian Serie A in 2024 and also won the Copa Libertadores, thus securing its participation in the Club World Cup this summer.“However, we must celebrate because, before the tournament began, everyone thought we had no chance against two top-tier opponents from the major European leagues. We have demonstrated the value of Brazilian football. We are South American champions and deserve respect,” he added.
Marlon Freitas
