Paulinho's extra-time strike sends Palmeiras into FIFA Club World Cup Quarter-Finals
Palmeiras edged Botafogo 1-0 after extra time to become the first team to reach the quarter-finals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Substitute Paulinho was the hero, curling home a stunning winner in the 100th minute to settle a scrappy contest at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The former Bayer Leverkusen winger cut in from the right and fired low past Botafogo keeper John, who had otherwise been in inspired form throughout the match.
With both teams knowing a place in the quarter-finals — and a high-profile clash against either Benfica or Chelsea — was at stake, the opening 90 minutes were marked by caution, fouls, and missed opportunities.
Palmeiras had the better of the chances. Vitor Roque saw a penalty appeal turned down and narrowly missed converting Joaquin Piquerez's inviting cross early on. Richard Rios, who controlled much of the midfield battle, had the best first-half chance in stoppage time, seeing his effort glance the roof of the net.
Goalkeeper John keeps Botafogo alive
Botafogo struggled to impose themselves, with Palmeiras' high pressing limiting their build-up play. But their keeper John repeatedly came to the rescue — saving a stinging shot from Estevao Willian, tipping over a close-range header from Mauricio, and making another superb stop from Rios in extra time.
However, even John could do little when Paulinho, brought on for added energy, drove forward with purpose, skipped inside a defender, and buried the ball in the bottom corner for the breakthrough.
Late Drama: Gustavo Gomez sent off
Despite taking the lead, Palmeiras were forced to finish the match with 10 men after captain Gustavo Gomez received a second yellow card for a rash challenge in the 114th minute, adding late tension to an already nervy contest.
Botafogo pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Gregor Kobel in the Palmeiras goal remained largely untested as the Sao Paulo side closed out the result with smart game management.
Abel Ferreira:
“This tournament is about fine margins and tonight Paulinho showed exactly why he’s a big-game player,”said Palmeiras head coach Abel Ferreira. “We’re proud to represent Brazil in the next round.”
Quarter-Final awaits: Benfica or Chelsea next
With the win, Palmeiras advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of Benfica vs Chelsea, in what promises to be a major showdown between South American and European pedigree.
Match Summary:
- Match: Palmeiras 1-0 Botafogo (AET)
- Scorer: Paulinho (100’)
- Red Card: Gustavo Gomez (114’)
- Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
- Attendance: 48,200
Match Stats:
- Shots on Target: Palmeiras 7 – 2 Botafogo
- Possession: Palmeiras 59% – 41% Botafogo
- Fouls Committed: Botafogo 17 – 13 Palmeiras
- Saves: John (Botafogo) – 6 | Kobel (Palmeiras) – 2
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