Botafogo Wins First Copa Libertadores Title in 123 Years

Botafogo secured their first Copa Libertadores title in 123 years with a dramatic 3-1 victory over Brazilian rivals Atletico Mineiro in the final at River Plate Stadium in Argentina. The match took a shocking turn just 30 seconds in when Botafogo’s Gregore received a red card for a high kick to the head of Fausto Vera. Despite being down to 10 men, Botafogo stunned Atletico in the 34th minute when Luiz Henrique smashed home a left-footed strike to give his team the lead.

Minutes later, Henrique drew a foul in the box from Atletico goalkeeper Everson and Alex Telles converted the penalty to double the advantage just before halftime. Atletico with an extra player for most of the match, pulled one back early in the second half when Eduardo Vargas scored with his first touch after coming off the bench. Atletico pressed for an equalizer with Hulk forcing a strong save from Botafogo goalkeeper Victor.

However, Botafogo held firm under pressure, and Vargas missed a golden opportunity to equalize when he fired over from close range. In the seventh minute of added time, substitute Junior Santos sealed the victory with a close-range goal following a scramble in the box. The final whistle saw Botafogo’s players collapse in disbelief, celebrating the club’s historic achievement.

The match filled with emotion and drama, featured a red card, two surprising goals and tense moments throughout. The dramatic opening ceremony complete with performers and Novak Djokovic set the stage for the thrilling encounter. Botafogo’s resilience and determination ultimately triumphed, earning Brazil its sixth consecutive Copa Libertadores victory.