Botafogo Thrash Penarol 5-0 in Copa Libertadores Semi-Final First Leg
Brazilian team Botafogo defeated Uruguay’s Penarol 5-0 in the first leg of their Copa Libertadores semi-final on Wednesday.
The Rio-based squad was on the verge of their first-ever Copa Libertadores final after Jefferson Savarino scored twice in an incredible second-half assault.
Botafogo has set the ground for a possible all-Brazilian final against Atletico Mineiro, who upset Argentina’s River Plate 3-0 on Tuesday, thanks to this decisive victory.
Despite having trouble at first breaking past Penarol’s defensive system, Botafogo controlled the game from the start. Washington Aguerre, the goalkeeper for Penarol, had to step in after Luiz Henrique’s strong strike came just short of creating an early opportunity.
The first goal was scored in the 51st minute when Venezuelan striker Savarino perfectly timed his move to receive a wonderful through pass from Luiz Henrique and lift it over Aguerre. Botafogo took advantage of the momentum and added two more goals in a span of eight minutes.
Argentine defender Alexander Barboza scored the second goal after a defensive blunder from a corner kick, and Savarino scored his second minutes later after Vitinho’s cross put him in. This made the score 3-0.
Luiz Henrique added a fourth goal with an exquisite left-foot chip over Aguerre, showcasing his inventiveness. In the 79th minute, Argentine player Thiago Almada’s shot was saved but bounced to Igor Jesus, who headed it in to complete the decisive victory. This was the fifth and final goal.
The likelihood of an all-Brazilian Copa Libertadores final on November 30 in Buenos Aires is increased by Botafogo’s outstanding performance. Brazil would play Atletico Mineiro in the tournament’s fourth final in five years if Botafogo maintains their lead in the return leg in Montevideo. This would continue the nation’s dominance in the competition since 2018.
More than 250 Penarol fans were arrested by Brazilian police in Rio de Janeiro in the hours before the game. The visiting fans rioted, vandalized, and looted, according to the authorities. Local media documented scenes of chaos as fans flung objects and damaged property, and firefighters were called to put out flaming cars. The result was the seizure of a firearm.
Botafogo’s performance has put them well in charge of the semi-final despite their off-field problems. Supporters now anticipate the second leg, which takes place next week, where Botafogo hopes to guarantee their place in the historic final.
