Brazilian giants Botafogo kicked off their FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a determined Seattle Sounders side at Lumen Field. Two first-half goals proved just enough for the Copa Libertadores 2024 champions to fend off a combative challenge from the MLS outfit.
Despite entering the match as clear underdogs, the Seattle Sounders settled quickly, showing early promise. However, Botafogo soon found their stride, with veteran goalkeeper Stefan Frei called upon to deny Igor Jesus’ header and Alex Telles’ volley within the first 15 minutes. Seattle responded with a wide shot from Jesus Ferreira, but struggled to truly threaten Botafogo’s well-organized defense.
As the half progressed, the Sounders adopted a deeper defensive line, allowing Botafogo to push higher and capitalize on a crucial defensive error. A foul by Nouhou Tolo on Artur resulted in a free-kick, from which Alex Telles delivered a precise ball for Jair Cunha to head home from close range, marking the first goal of his career. Just before halftime, Botafogo doubled their lead when Vitinho’s cross found Igor Jesus, whose nodded effort secured a commanding two-goal advantage at the interval.
The second half saw a revitalized Seattle Sounders emerge with a more aggressive mindset. They pressed Botafogo deep into their half and came close to pulling one back through Jackson Ragen. Despite creating several opportunities, Seattle’s final third execution lacked the necessary clarity until the 75th minute, when Cristian Roldan’s header, deflecting off Igor Jesus, finally beat John to reduce the deficit.
The final 15 minutes became a relentless monologue from the Sounders, who threw everything at the Brazilian defense. The introductions of Pedro de la Vega and Osaze De Rosario provided fresh impetus, and Seattle even had a golden chance in the 94th minute to snatch an equalizer. However, despite their valiant efforts and a significantly improved second-half performance, the comeback ultimately fell short, and the Sounders endured a 2-1 defeat.
While Botafogo will be content with securing three points from their CWC debut, their second-half struggles against Seattle will undoubtedly be a point of concern as they prepare for upcoming clashes against formidable opponents like Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid.
