Botafogo-PB and Flamengo are set to clash on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 20h at the Estádio Castelão in São Luís, Maranhão, in the first leg of the third phase of the Copa do Brasil 2025. This match marks the sixth official meeting between these two teams, with Flamengo historically holding the upper hand in their encounters.
Botafogo-PB, competing in the Série C of the Campeonato Brasileiro, comes into the match after a goalless draw against ABC. Following a second-place finish in the Campeonato Paraibano Unipê 2025, the team made significant changes, hiring Antônio Carlos Zago as their new head coach. Under Zago, Botafogo-PB has played three matches, achieving one victory and two draws, showing signs of improvement as they prepare for this crucial cup tie.
On the other side, Flamengo, the current Copa do Brasil champions, is riding high on momentum after a resounding 4-0 victory over Corinthians in the Brasileirão. The team, coached by Filipe Luís, has not lost in its last five matches, with their only defeat this year occurring on April 9 against Central Córdoba in the Libertadores. With 14 points, Flamengo leads the Campeonato Brasileiro, one point ahead of their closest rivals, Palmeiras.
This match is particularly important for both sides. For Botafogo-PB, it represents a chance to make a significant statement against a top-tier opponent, while for Flamengo, it is an opportunity to defend their title and assert their dominance in the competition.
Notably, Botafogo-PB has shown resilience in the cup, having eliminated Portuguesa-SP in the first round and thrashing Concórdia 4-0 in the second round. The team will rely on key players such as Henrique Dourado, who has a history with Flamengo, and Camilo, a notable midfielder with experience in higher leagues.
As for Flamengo, the squad is expected to undergo some changes as they manage player fatigue from a packed schedule. Coach Filipe Luís is likely to mix his lineup, possibly resting some starters like Rossi, who will be replaced by Matheus Cunha in goal. Other changes may include Danilo stepping in for Léo Ortiz in defense, as the team prepares for a busy season ahead.
The match will be officiated by João Vitor Gobi from São Paulo, with assistants Nailton Júnior de Sousa Oliveira and Miguel Cataneo Ribeiro da Costa, and Emerson de Almeida Ferreira overseeing the VAR duties.
Fans can watch the match live on Prime Video, with coverage starting shortly before kickoff. The return leg is scheduled for May 21, 2025, at the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, promising an exciting conclusion to this knockout stage.
As the teams gear up for this vital encounter, expectations are high. Will Botafogo-PB be able to pull off an upset against the reigning champions, or will Flamengo continue their impressive run and take a commanding lead in the tie? The stage is set for an electrifying night of Brazilian football.
