Brazilian champions Botafogo kicked off their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, edging past Seattle Sounders FC, hosts and Concacaf title-holders, with a hard-fought 2–1 victory at Lumen Field on June 15.
Two towering first-half headers set Botafogo on course. Jair Cunha opened the scoring in the 27th minute from a pinpoint Alex Telles free-kick, before Igor Jesus soared above Seattle’s defence to double the lead on the stroke of half-time.
Seattle responded in the 75th minute, as Cristian Roldan’s header deflected off Igor Jesus and beat goalkeeper John, injecting hope into the home side. The Sounders pressed relentlessly in the final minutes, generating chances and forcing goalkeeper John into a spectacular stoppage-time save to deny an equaliser.
Despite Seattle’s dominance in the latter stages, Botafogo’s aerial strength and composure proved decisive. Captain Marlon Freitas acknowledged the team could improve but highlighted the significance of securing three valuable points in a challenging Group B that also includes Paris Saint‑Germain and Atlético Madrid.
With the win, Botafogo temporarily sit second in Group B on goal difference, trailing PSG after their 4–0 demolition of Atlético earlier in the day. Next up, Botafogo face off with PSG, while Seattle aim to rebound against Atlético Madrid.
This opening match sets an intense tone for Group B as the newly expanded Club World Cup takes shape on U.S. soil.
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