Botafogo thrashed Capital DF 4-0 at home in the Copa do Brasil third round first leg.
The win was a welcome boost for Renato Paiva’s side, but the Portuguese coach faced injury concerns.
Savarino lasted just 25 minutes after coming on, limping off with a right thigh injury.
Alexander Barboza also left the field hurt, needing crutches after complaining of left foot pain.
Penalty Drama
The match saw three penalties awarded.
Alex Telles converted the first from the spot in the 12th minute.
Two more followed: Igor Jesus scored in the 74th, and Artur added a third in the 76th.
Rwan sealed the win with a 90th-minute strike.
The second leg is set for May 22.
Renato Paiva said the big win gives his team a chance to plan strategically for the return leg.
“We are stronger on paper, and we showed that today,” he said.
“But we can’t get complacent. We’ll approach the second leg seriously.”
Other Copa do Brasil Action
In other Copa do Brasil action, Palmeiras edged Ceará 1-0 away from home.
Gustavo Gómez scored the only goal in the 35th minute.
The second leg is also scheduled for May 22.
Abel Ferreira praised his team’s win despite the challenging circumstances.
“The travel time to La Paz and Fortaleza is the same,” he joked, highlighting the difficulties of playing in different conditions.
Ceará hadn’t lost at home since August and had more preparation time.
Ferreira said managing player fatigue and travel schedules is crucial.
“Our players need to understand that when I make changes, it’s because I trust them,” he said.
The win was a confidence boost for Palmeiras after a tough loss to Bahia in the Brasileirão.