The 3️⃣ key players in the Palmeiras v Botafogo clash | OneFootball

Palmeiras won the first match of the round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

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Abel Ferreira's team beat their familiar opponents Botafogo with a spectacular goal from Paulinho in extra time, which did justice to a match in which Palmeiras always had better intentions and more determination to attack the opponent's goal.

These were the 3️⃣ protagonists of the match between Palmeiras and Botafogo.

John

📸 JUAN MABROMATA - AFP or licensors

Botafogo's goalkeeper was once again the figure of his team, and if Palmeiras did not take the lead during regular time, it was thanks to John Victor's timely interventions. He saved at least three clear goals and always looked very secure and ruthless when going up to look for crosses.

Joaquín Piquerez

The Uruguayan left-back was the main protagonist of Palmeiras' attack, and where Botafogo suffered the most throughout the match. First, Piquerez partnered with Estevao to generate the most dangerous plays. The Portuguese coach decided to take out the 18-year-old in the second half, although he was playing very well, but Piquerez continued to partner in attack with his replacement, Luighi.

Paulinho

And in a match played with gritted teeth and a lot of intensity, Paulinho, who came on in the second half, had the composure in extra time to take the ball on the edge of the area, beat his marker, and define with his left foot to complete a dream goal that gives his team the qualification.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 CHARLY TRIBALLEAU - AFP or licensors