The Botafogo team, led by coach Renato Paiva, bounced back from their first-round loss with a win in the second round of the Libertadores 2025.
They faced Venezuela’s Carabobo, who’s new to the group stage. Carabobo played tough defense, and Botafogo struggled to break through. The crowd at Nilton Santos even booed them.
Goals didn’t come until the last 10 minutes. Patrick de Paula and Matheus Martins scored in the 88th and 90+8 minutes. This win calmed nerves after their loss to Universidad de Chile.
This win gives Botafogo three points in Group A, tying them with Argentina’s Estudiantes in third place. Universidad de Chile leads with six points, and Carabobo has no points after two losses.
Coach Renato Paiva said, “There are no easy games. We give up chances because we’re an attacking team. If you don’t put people up front, you’re not brave, you’re scared.” He added, “This club has a mission to win games.”