In a thrilling encounter in Valencia, Venezuela, Botafogo clinched a dramatic 2-1 victory against Carabobo FC on May 6, 2025, in the Copa Libertadores group stage. The reigning champions showcased their resilience, with Cuiabano scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time, assisted by Allan, to keep their hopes alive for advancing to the knockout stages.
The match took place at the Polideportivo Misael Delgado stadium, where the atmosphere was electric as both teams vied for crucial points in Group A. Botafogo struck first in the 22nd minute when Vitinho capitalized on a rebound from Carabobo's goalkeeper Lucas Bruera, giving the Brazilian side an early lead.
However, Carabobo refused to back down. They equalized in the 76th minute through a well-placed shot from Leonardo Aponte, who found the net following a corner kick, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The goal highlighted Carabobo's fighting spirit and determination as they aimed to turn the tide in their favor.
As the clock ticked down, it seemed the match would end in a draw, which would have been a disappointing result for Botafogo. Nevertheless, in a twist of fate, Cuiabano emerged as the hero, slotting home the winner in the 90+1 minute, ensuring that Botafogo walked away with all three points.
With this victory, Botafogo now sits in third place in Group A with six points from four matches, trailing leaders Universidad de Chile, who have seven points, and Estudiantes de La Plata, also on six points. Carabobo, on the other hand, remains at the bottom of the group with just two points, a position that puts their chances of progressing in the tournament in jeopardy.
Botafogo's head coach, Renato Paiva, expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, especially the late-game determination that secured the win. "We showed great character to come back and win the game in the dying moments. This is what we need to keep pushing forward in the tournament," he stated in the post-match press conference.
The match was not without its share of drama, as both teams exchanged several opportunities to score. Carabobo's Flabián Londoño and Joshuan Berríos were active in the attack, creating chances that tested Botafogo's defense. However, the visitors held firm, thanks in part to solid performances from their defenders.
As the competition heats up, Botafogo will look to build on this momentum in their next fixture against Estudiantes de La Plata in Rio de Janeiro next week. Meanwhile, Carabobo will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their upcoming match against Universidad de Chile on May 13, 2025, where they will seek to salvage their campaign.
The Copa Libertadores continues to deliver thrilling matches, and this encounter was no exception. Fans from both sides witnessed a display of passion, skill, and determination, reminding everyone why this tournament is one of the most prestigious in South American football.
As the group stage progresses, all eyes will be on Botafogo as they aim to defend their title and advance to the knockout rounds. With their current form and the late-game heroics of Cuiabano, they are proving to be a formidable contender in this year's competition.
