In a stunning upset at the 2025 Club World Cup, Botafogo delivered a shock 1-0 victory over European giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on Thursday night at the iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena. This result marks one of the most significant surprises in the tournament so far, as the Brazilian side outmaneuvered the reigning UEFA Champions League winners in a tense and hard-fought battle between continental champions.
Botafogo's solitary goal came in the 36th minute from striker Igor Jesus, who showcased remarkable skill and determination to break through PSG's defense. Receiving a perfectly weighted through ball from Jefferson Savarino, Jesus deftly controlled the ball, outpaced two defenders—Willian Pacho and Lucas Beraldo—and fired a shot that took a slight deflection off Pacho before slipping past PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. This goal was particularly notable as it was the first that PSG had conceded since May 17, ending their streak of clean sheets that had spanned multiple competitions.
The match was played before a lively crowd of 53,699 spectators, many of whom were Brazilian fans who had traveled to support Botafogo. Their enthusiasm was palpable as Jesus celebrated by leaping onto the front row of the stands, sharing the moment with ecstatic supporters. The victory propelled Botafogo to a 2-0-0 record atop Group B, placing them in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages.
PSG, for their part, entered the game as favorites after a dazzling 4-0 rout of Atlético Madrid just five days earlier. The French club had been in scintillating form, outscoring their last three opponents by a combined 12-0 and clinching both the French Cup and the Champions League title during the season. However, their dominance was challenged by Botafogo's resolute defense and tactical discipline.
Despite controlling possession for 75% of the game and recording 16 shot attempts compared to Botafogo's four, PSG struggled to convert chances. Only two of their shots were on target, highlighting Botafogo's efficiency and defensive organization. Early in the match, PSG winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia tested Botafogo goalkeeper John with a curling effort, but that was as close as the European champions came to scoring in the first half.
Botafogo's midfield trio—Marlon Freitas, Gregore, and Allan—worked tirelessly to stifle PSG playmaker Vitinha, denying him the space and time needed to orchestrate attacks. This defensive pressure was crucial in disrupting PSG's rhythm and limiting their opportunities. The Brazilian side's ability to absorb pressure and execute swift counterattacks was evident in Jesus' goal and throughout the match.
PSG coach Luis Enrique opted to rotate his starting lineup, resting key players such as Ousmane Dembele, who was sidelined with a quadriceps injury. In his absence, Gonçalo Ramos started at center-forward but struggled to make an impact, missing a notable tap-in chance after failing to make a timely run. The defensive pairing of Beraldo and Pacho, both young and less experienced, bore responsibility for the goal conceded, with the gap between them exploited by Jesus' incisive run.
As the second half unfolded, PSG intensified their efforts to find an equalizer. Multiple set-piece opportunities fell flat, and a close-range header from Ramos was spectacularly saved by Botafogo goalkeeper John. Recognizing the urgency, Luis Enrique introduced several substitutes around the 55th minute, bringing on Joao Neves, Bradley Barcola, Nuno Mendes, and Fabian Ruiz to inject fresh energy and creativity into the attack.
Despite these changes, PSG was unable to break through Botafogo's disciplined defense. The Brazilian side maintained their composure, withstanding waves of pressure and making crucial blocks and interceptions. In the 79th minute, a PSG strike was disallowed for offside, further frustrating the French champions. The match extended into six minutes of added time, during which Khvicha Kvaratskhelia had a free kick attempt sail over the crossbar, preserving Botafogo's lead.
Botafogo's victory not only disrupts the expected dominance of European teams in the tournament but also underscores the growing competitiveness of South American clubs on the world stage. This result follows other surprising outcomes, such as Inter Milan's 1-1 draw with Monterrey and Real Madrid's narrow draw against Al Hilal, signaling a shift in the tournament's dynamics.
Botafogo now sits three points clear at the top of Group B and needs only a win or draw in their upcoming match against Atlético Madrid on Monday, June 23, at the Rose Bowl to secure a spot in the knockout round. Meanwhile, PSG will look to bounce back as they face MLS side Seattle Sounders later that same day in Seattle.
Reflecting on the match, Botafogo coach Renato Paiva praised his team's performance, stating, "That’s why I say the graveyard in football is full of favorites. It was really about believing in ourselves. ... We played a match that was almost perfect, technically speaking. There were really no opportunities for PSG. We had a lot of team spirit, and I was saying backstage that we won this match making PSG taste their own poison, because we were what PSG has been for some time, which is a real team."
Luis Enrique acknowledged the challenge posed by Botafogo's defense, commenting, "I think it’s normal. This competition is very intense and difficult. Every team is motivated, especially against our team. I think sometimes our team struggled against their defense. I think Botafogo is one of the toughest defensive teams in the tournament."
Igor Jesus, who has had a challenging season and is reportedly set to join Nottingham Forest in the Premier League next season, seized the moment to remind the football world of his potential. His goal not only secured a historic win for Botafogo but also provided a memorable highlight in his career.
As the Club World Cup progresses, Botafogo's triumph serves as a reminder that football is never predictable, and that underdogs can rise to challenge the established order. The atmosphere at the Rose Bowl, fueled by passionate Brazilian fans, added to the drama and significance of this remarkable victory.
With the group stage now wide open, all eyes will be on the upcoming matches as teams battle for advancement. Botafogo's win has injected fresh excitement into the tournament and demonstrated that the battle for global club supremacy is far from decided.
