Champions League winners stunned by Botafogo

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PSG 0 - 1 Botafogo

Botafogo produced the shock of the Club World Cup so far with a 1-0 win over the European champions.

Author | Ed

Stadium | Rose Bowl

Club World Cup | PSG lose against Botafogo at Rose Bowl

Post match scenes

The Brazilian side, who claimed their first Copa Libertadores crown in 2024, took the lead through Igor Jesus midway through the first half. The 24-year-old striker's effort from distance took a deflection off defender Willian Pacho and wrong-footed Gianluigi Donnarumma in the PSG goal.

Botafogo then withstood heavy pressure from Luis Enrique's side. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Goncalo Ramos both missed good opportunities as PSG pushed for an equaliser, but the Brazilian outfit held firm with a disciplined defensive display.

READ MORE | Club World Cup news and stories

The result puts Botafogo on the verge of reaching the knockout stages and underlines a growing sense of competitiveness at this expanded tournament.

Much of the early discourse around the competition had centred on fears of a European whitewash, particularly after Bayern Munich's 10-0 demolition of Auckland. But South American clubs remain unbeaten in the opening week, suggesting the gap may not be as wide as first feared.

Check out the atmosphere by the Botafogo fans

Which players stood out?

Brazilian forward Igor Jesus continues to enhance his reputation after another composed performance for Botafogo.

The 24-year-old, who has four senior caps for Brazil, has been on the radar of several European clubs, with Nottingham Forest reportedly among those interested in securing his signature once the Club World Cup concludes.

Though service was limited for long spells in California, Jesus made the most of a rare chance in the 36th minute. Released on the counter, he showed quick feet to ease away from PSG defender Willian Pacho before striking from the edge of the area. A deflection helped the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma, but the goal was a fitting reward for his intelligent movement and strong hold-up play.

It was the sort of display that will only increase interest in a player whose form has been a key factor in Botafogo’s rise.

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