In a heated clash of Brazilian giants, Palmeiras edged past Botafogo 1-0 after extra time in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ Round of 16 on Saturday. Substitute Paulinho delivered the game’s only goal, a moment of brilliance that secured Palmeiras’ place in the quarterfinals.

Playing under the scorching summer sun at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, the match remained a tense stalemate for 90 minutes. Palmeiras controlled much of the possession but struggled to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances. Botafogo, typically a potent attacking force, seemed far removed from the side that had recently upset Paris Saint-Germain.

The breakthrough came in the 100th minute when Paulinho, who entered the fray in the second half, displayed individual brilliance. Cutting in from the right, he weaved past two defenders and unleashed a low drive into the far corner, leaving Botafogo’s keeper John helpless.

Despite being reduced to 10 men after captain Gustavo Gómez was sent off for a second yellow card, Palmeiras held firm in the closing minutes. Botafogo launched a late surge, but their efforts fizzled out, sealing Palmeiras’ victory.

This latest encounter between the Brazilian rivals added another dramatic chapter to their storied rivalry. Palmeiras and Botafogo have clashed in several pivotal matches in recent years, from Palmeiras’ legendary comeback win in 2023 to Botafogo’s triumph en route to their Copa Libertadores title in 2024.

Saturday’s result marked Palmeiras’ first win over Botafogo in nearly two years, a significant psychological boost as they prepare for a quarterfinal showdown with Chelsea or Benfica.

Teenage sensation Estevão, set to join Chelsea for €60 million after the tournament, was a bright spark for Palmeiras early on. Operating down the left flank, the 18-year-old frequently troubled Botafogo’s defense, forcing John into action with a stinging shot in the first half. However, Estevão’s influence waned, and his substitution paved the way for Paulinho’s heroics.

“Paulinho’s goal was the moment we needed,” said Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira. “We worked together as a team, even when we went down to 10 men. This result reflects our belief and perseverance.”

Paulinho, battling back from injury, described the goal as a moment of redemption. “I’m going through a difficult time with my injury, but this gives me confidence,” he said.

With this win, Palmeiras became the first team to advance to the Club World Cup quarterfinals. They return to Philadelphia on Friday to face Chelsea, aiming to extend their unbeaten run in the tournament.

For Botafogo, the defeat ends a promising campaign, but their goalkeeper John—who produced several stunning saves—was gracious in defeat. “We gave everything today,” he said. “Congratulations to Palmeiras. They deserved it.”

As Palmeiras continues its journey, their mix of resilience and flair may prove to be the formula for Club World Cup success.