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Ten-man Botafogo showed much resilience to clinch their first-ever Copa Libertadores title in 123 years after defeating fellow Brazilian side Atlético Mineiro at the iconic River Plate Stadium in Argentina.
Drama unfolded immediately the match began, as Botafogo were reduced to ten men just 30 seconds into the game. Midfielder Gregore received a red card for a high challenge on Fausto Vera, leaving his team in a precarious position.
Despite the early setback, Botafogo fans erupted with joy in the 35th minute. A rare counterattack saw Luiz Henrique fire a clinical left-footed strike into the net, giving his side an unlikely lead. The underdogs seized momentum and struck again just before halftime.
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Henrique’s penetrating run drew a reckless foul from Atletico goalkeeper Everson, resulting in a penalty. Former Manchester United defender Alex Telles stepped up and calmly converted, doubling Botafogo’s advantage with seconds left in the first half.
The second half began with a lifeline for Atletico Mineiro, as Eduardo Vargas made an immediate impact off the bench. The striker headed in Hulk’s pinpoint corner with his first touch, cutting the deficit and reigniting hope for his team.
However, Botafogo’s resilience became the story of the night. Despite intense pressure from Atletico, the ten-man defense held firm. Goalkeeper Victor produced a stunning save to deny Hulk’s powerful drive, keeping his team in the lead as the match progressed.
The Belo Horizonte side continued to press, but their wastefulness in front of goal proved costly. Vargas squandered a golden opportunity late on, skying his effort from five yards out when an equaliser seemed certain.
As Atletico pushed forward in search of a second goal, Botafogo delivered the final blow deep into stoppage time. Substitute Junior Santos pounced on a loose ball in the box, sealing a memorable 3-1 victory for his team.
At the final whistle, Botafogo players collapsed in celebration, knowing they had achieved something extraordinary. Their triumph will forever be remembered as one of the most remarkable nights in the club’s history.
Tags: Copa Libertadores, Atlético Mineiro, Botafogo, Gregore, Fausto Vera, Luiz Henrique, Everson, Alex Telles, Eduardo Vargas, Hulk, Junior Santos, Belo Horizonte, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcsports, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnigeria.
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