PSG vs Botafogo

PSG and Botafogo Set for Historic Club World Cup Showdown at Rose Bowl

Fresh off their opening victories in the Club World Cup, European champions Paris Saint-Germain and South American titleholders Botafogo will face off in a thrilling Group B clash at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl on Thursday.

PSG showcased their relentless attacking prowess by dismantling Atletico Madrid 4-0 in their tournament opener, while Botafogo secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Seattle Sounders to kick off their campaign.

PSG’s Dominant Start

Continuing the momentum that saw them clinch the UEFA Champions League last month, Paris Saint-Germain launched their Club World Cup journey with a commanding performance against Atletico Madrid on Sunday. Luis Enrique’s side surged to a 2-0 lead by halftime, with midfielders Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha finding the net. Late goals from substitutes Senny Mayulu and Lee Kang-in sealed a stylish victory, solidifying PSG’s position as Group B frontrunners and potential tournament favorites.

The Ligue 1 giants are in scintillating form, having won their last three matches with a staggering 12-0 aggregate score, including triumphs in the Coupe de France and Champions League finals. Enrique’s squad, hungry for more trophies, will make history on Thursday as the first French club to compete officially against non-European opposition. With their free-flowing attack, PSG could all but secure a spot in the round of 16 with a win over Botafogo, before wrapping up group play against Seattle.

Botafogo’s Uphill Battle

Botafogo, one of four Brazilian teams in the revamped Club World Cup, earned their spot by defeating Atletico Mineiro 3-1 in the 2024 Copa Libertadores final. However, their recent 3-0 loss to Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup highlighted some inconsistencies. Now, under coach Renato Paiva, they aim to make their mark in the USA.

The Rio-based club faced a crucial opening match against Seattle, which they won 2-1 with two first-half goals, placing them second in the early Group B standings. Botafogo are regaining form, having won four consecutive games and nine of their last 12 across all competitions since late April. Yet, the departure of key players Luiz Henrique and Thiago Almada, along with coach Artur Jorge, has left them struggling in 2025, sitting eighth in Serie A and soon losing striker Igor Jesus.

Despite their recent successes, Botafogo face a daunting challenge against a seemingly unstoppable PSG side, with few expecting the Brazilian outfit to pull off an upset.

A Clash of Continents

Thursday’s encounter promises to be a historic moment for both clubs, as PSG’s attacking juggernaut meets Botafogo’s resilient underdogs in a battle that could shape the Group B race.