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Botafogo pulled off one of the biggest upsets in FIFA Club World Cup history as they defeated European giants Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in a thrilling Group B encounter.
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The result not only ended PSG’s six-game winning streak but also put the Brazilian side in control of their group heading into the final round of matches.
From the first whistle, PSG looked dangerous. Kvaratskhelia, who has been instrumental in their recent form, was again the spark in attack. The Georgian winger caused problems down the left flank, cutting inside with precision. His early curling effort was smartly saved by Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor, and another low strike just moments later narrowly missed the post.
But Botafogo were not just sitting back. The Brazilians looked sharp on the counterattack and found joy through Artur and Jefferson Savarino, who kept the PSG defense on their toes. Donnarumma had to stay alert when Artur fired a warning shot from distance midway through the first half.
The breakthrough came just before half-time — and it came with a touch of fortune and confidence. A quick counterattack saw the ball worked to Igor Jesus on the edge of the penalty area. The young forward, fresh from scoring in their previous match against Seattle Sounders, took his chance. His shot took a deflection off a defender, completely wrong-footing Donnarumma and nestling into the bottom corner. It was the first goal PSG had conceded in four matches, and it sent shockwaves around the tournament.
ADVANTAGE SOUTH AMERICA! ⚽️
IGOR JESUS BURIES IT! @PSG_English 0 – @Botafogo 1
Watch the @FIFACWC | June 14 – July 13 | Every Game | Free | https://t.co/i0K4eUtwwb | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #PSGBOT pic.twitter.com/VVS0NNBbPM
— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) June 20, 2025
The second half started with chances for both sides. PSG’s Lucas Beraldo rose highest from a corner but saw his point-blank header superbly saved by John Victor. At the other end, Savarino nearly doubled Botafogo’s lead with a free header, only to send it straight at Donnarumma.
PSG began to pile on the pressure as the minutes ticked away. Bradley Barcola thought he had rescued a point with a stunning curling strike into the top corner. However, the assistant referee’s flag was quick to go up — he was marginally offside, and the goal was ruled out.
Despite having the lion’s share of possession and territory, PSG struggled to break down a resilient and well-organized Botafogo defense. Their only shot on target in the second half was easily dealt with, and frustration began to creep in as the clock wound down.
Botafogo remained composed and focused, closing down space and keeping the tempo high when in possession. The defensive line, led by Bastos and Adryelson, was immovable. The midfield duo of Tchê Tchê and Marlon Freitas constantly disrupted PSG’s rhythm, while the front line worked tirelessly to press and force errors.
The final whistle triggered wild celebrations from the Brazilian bench and fans. For Botafogo, this was not just a victory — it was a statement. A win over one of Europe’s biggest clubs in a global tournament is a rare feat, and it has positioned them as serious contenders in Group B.
Statistically, the match reflected a tale of missed chances and efficient execution. PSG had more possession and passes completed but lacked the sharpness in front of goal. Botafogo, on the other hand, made the most of their moments, finishing with just three shots on target — one of which proved decisive.
The result leaves Group B wide open. Botafogo now lead the group, with PSG and Atletico Madrid trailing behind. All eyes will be on the final round of group fixtures as the battle for knockout qualification intensifies.
Some BIG results on #FIFACWC Matchday 6.
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 20, 2025
Botafogo’s win is already being described as one of the most memorable results in recent Club World Cup history. Their blend of youthful energy, tactical discipline, and fearless attacking paid off. For PSG, it’s a reality check — despite all their individual talent, the team must find answers quickly if they are to avoid an early exit from a tournament they were tipped to dominate.
As fans digest this jaw-dropping result, the excitement and unpredictability of the FIFA Club World Cup continues to deliver.
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