Botafogo and Racing Club are set to clash on February 27th, 2025, at 21:30 (Brasilia time) at the Este1dio Nilton Santos, Rio de Janeiro, for the second leg of the Recopa Sul-Americana 2025. The first match saw Racing secure a significant 2-0 victory, giving them the upper hand heading to Brazilian soil.
For Botafogo to snatch the title from Racing's grasp, they must win by at least three goals to clinch the trophy outright within the regular time. Otherwise, the club from Rio would have to settle for extending the match to extra time or risk elimination if they end up on the losing side again.
This final is generating considerable excitement, fueled by the prospect of seeing Botafogo bounce back after suffering consecutive defeats. The team not only seeks revenge against Racing, who beat them decisively on their home turf, but also aims to quell the criticism surrounding their poor start to the season.
Fans can catch the game live on ESPN and Disney+, or follow every pivotal moment through real-time updates provided by various sports media outlets, including local platforms.
Botafogo's recent form has been dreadful, posting only 4 victories against 8 losses across all competitions this year. The team failed to make any headway in the Campeonato Carioca, after being knocked out following a 1-0 loss to their arch-rivals Vasco da Gama. The pressure is mounting as the squad looks to shift the tide.
Botafogo's coach Cludio Cacapa confirmed the return of key player Gregore, who served his suspension during the first leg. Allan, who played the first match, remains on the bench, as Artur, still recovering from injuries, is poised to make his start.
Speaking of Racing, who will be guided by Gustavo Costas, they aim to maintain their existing advantage, showing consistency since their previous match. They come equipped with confidence, having easily handled their Brazilian opponents during their outing at home.
The potential absence of Luciano Vietto, who scored one of Racing's goals last week but left the field injured, hangs over the team. Should he fail to recover, his place may be filled by teammate Ignacio Zaracho. Racing's anticipated lineup features Gabriel Arias, Marco Di Cesare, Nazareno Colombo, Santiago Quirs, Gastn Martirena, Juan Nardoni, Bruno Zuculini, Gabriel Rojas, alongside Martínez and Salas.
Refereeing this decisive match will be Venezuelan official Jesus Valenzuela, with Jorge Urrego and Tulio Moreno assisting him. The assignment of experienced arbitration underlines the importance and scrutiny of the game.
On another note, Botafogo is conducting its "Together Against Heat" initiative amid enduring heat waves impacting Rio de Janeiro. The club is inviting fans to donate water at different entrances of the stadium, aiming to provide relief to the vulnerable populations affected by the high temperatures. It reflects Botafogo's commitment to social causes, especially within their community.
This forthcoming encounter will mark the first leg of the 2025 Recopa Sul-Americana, with the stage set for pulsatile drama and intensity. Both teams aim to secure their respective places among South America's elite, none having previously held the Recopa trophy.
The significance of this match cannot be overstated, as it includes both historical rivalry and the undeniable quest for glory. Botafogo has previously fallen short of this pinnacle, losing the trophy for the third time against S0 Paulo back in 1994. Racing aims to break their spell of near-misses after narrowly losing to Nacional back in 1989.
All eyes will be glued to the screens on Thursday as these two teams, each savouring recent triumphs, desperately battle for continental supremacy.