Palmeiras scores in extra time and eliminates Botafogo in the Club World Cup
In a dramatic all-Brazilian showdown, Paulinho emerged as Palmeiras’ hero, scoring in extra time to eliminate Botafogo and book a place in the quarterfinals of the FIFA Club World Cup.
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 continues to deliver high drama, and Saturday’s Round of 16 clash between Palmeiras and Botafogo was no exception. Held at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, the match remained goalless through 90 minutes before Paulinho sealed a 1–0 victory for the São Paulo side in extra time.
With the result, Palmeiras advances to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of Benfica vs Chelsea. Meanwhile, Botafogo exits the tournament after a valiant effort.
Match Recap: Palmeiras 1–0 Botafogo
The opening half was evenly matched. Palmeiras started stronger, with a promising chance in the 9th minute from Vitor Roque, who failed to connect inside the box. After the hydration break, Botafogo improved, creating pressure but unable to break down the solid Palmeiras defense.
A key detail: both Gustavo Gómez (Palmeiras) and Barboza (Botafogo) received yellow cards, ruling them out of the next round a blow for both defensive lines.
The second half featured more attacking intent. Estêvão came closest for Palmeiras, while Arthur tried to respond for Botafogo, but neither side found the net. An offside call also denied Estêvão a breakthrough goal, and the heat forced a slower pace, taking the match to extra time.
Extra Time: Paulinho Delivers the Moment
Palmeiras came out aggressive in extra time. In the 10th minute of the first half, Paulinho produced a moment of brilliance, beating defenders and firing the ball into the net to put Verdão ahead 1–0.
Ver essa foto no Instagram
Botafogo pushed hard in the second extra period. Their chances multiplied after Gustavo Gómez was sent off in the 11th minute, reducing Palmeiras to 10 men. Still, Igor Jesus, Arthur Cabral, and Kaio Panteleão couldn’t convert under heavy pressure.
Despite the late storm, Palmeiras held firm and celebrated a dramatic qualification.
