PSG Stunned By Brazilian Champions Botafogo

Brazilian side Botafogo pulled off the biggest surprise of the tournament so far with a 1-0 victory over European champions Paris St-Germain at the Club World Cup.

Striker Igor Jesus, 24, scored in the first half when his strike from outside the area deflected off defender Willian Pacho and past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Botafogo defended superbly to keep out Luis Enrique’s side, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Goncalo Ramos squandering good chances to equalise.

The victory leaves Botafogo, who won their first Copa Libertadores title in 2024, on the brink of qualification to the knockout stages.

What was the main talking point?
Much was made of the gap in quality between teams at the Club World Cup following Bayern Munich’s 10-0 win against Auckland in the opening game of the tournament.

Given Paris St-Germain’s riches and their status as the best team in Europe, they had been expected to beat Botafogo.

But the victory continues an encouraging trend that has seen South American teams go undefeated in the first week of the tournament.

It has helped to quieten claims that the tournament will be a procession for one of the European sides.

“A lot of people wondered, but we showed how strong Botafogo is,” Jesus said.

While Botafogo’s performance may have come as a surprise to many onlookers, PSG coach Luis Enrique was not one of them.

“We knew it was going to be a difficult match – they defended well,” he said.

“This Club World Cup is intense and difficult and all the teams are highly motivated, especially when they’re playing against us.”

Who stood out?
Brazil international Jesus has attracted attention from across Europe for his performances with Botafogo over the past 18 months.

Nottingham Forest are reportedly keen on signing the forward and are working on a deal to acquire him following the end of the Club World Cup.

He did little to dampen the excitement around him with another fine display.

Jesus, capped four times for Brazil, was largely starved of service throughout the game in California.

But he grabbed one of his rare opportunities when he was released on the break in the 36th minute. A fine piece of skill gave hime breathing space from PSG defender Pacho and enough time to line up his shot.

While the effort took a decisive deflection, it was reward for Jesus’ hold-up play and skill.

What’s next for these teams?
With two wins from two, Botafogo are virtually through to the knockout stages.

They face Atletico Madrid in their final group stage match on Monday (20:00 BST).

PSG remain favourites to also qualify and they play Seattle Sounders on Monday at the same time.

Bbc.com