In a thrilling encounter at the Estádio Nilton Santos on April 16, 2025, São Paulo edged out Botafogo 2-1 in the fourth round of the Brasileirão 2025. The match was anything but ordinary, as it featured a dramatic first half that extended well beyond the usual 45 minutes, largely due to the controversial interventions of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
The action kicked off with Ferreirinha scoring a stunning goal for São Paulo, putting the Tricolor ahead early in the match. However, Botafogo's Savarino quickly responded with a spectacular strike from outside the box that found the top corner, leveling the score at 1-1. The first half was marked by tension and drama, especially in the dying minutes when a penalty awarded to Botafogo was overturned after VAR review, leaving fans and players alike in disbelief.
As the clock ticked towards the 57th minute, the match took another turn. After a swift counterattack, André Silva, who had just replaced the injured Jonathan Calleri, connected with Ferreirinha’s assist to score, giving São Paulo a 2-1 lead just before the halftime whistle. The São Paulo fans erupted in celebration as the team took control of the game.
Calleri's substitution was a significant moment, as he had been struggling with knee pain after a clash with Botafogo's Marlon Freitas. His absence raised concerns for São Paulo, especially since he was returning from a suspension. The team had already been dealing with several injury woes, including Lucas, Oscar, Pablo Maia, and Luiz Gustavo, who were all sidelined.
Throughout the first half, Botafogo dominated possession, holding 58% compared to São Paulo's 42%. They also outshot their opponents with 7 attempts (2 on target) against São Paulo's 5 attempts (3 on target). Despite this, the Tricolor capitalized on key moments to turn the tide in their favor.
As the match unfolded, it became clear that both teams were eager to secure vital points in the Brasileirão. Botafogo, having started the game with high intensity, sought to maintain pressure on the São Paulo defense, led by Alan Franco and Ferraresi. The home side's early dominance was evident as they created several chances, but they struggled to convert those opportunities into goals.
The turning point came just before halftime when Cuiabano was brought down in the penalty area. The referee initially awarded the penalty, but after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was reversed, much to the dismay of the Botafogo players and fans. This moment shifted the momentum, allowing São Paulo to regroup and exploit the lapse in concentration from their opponents.
André Silva's introduction proved to be a masterstroke for São Paulo's coach Luis Zubeldía. The young forward not only added pace to the attack but also demonstrated his ability to find the back of the net when it mattered most. His goal, a precise finish after a well-timed pass from Ferreirinha, exemplified the kind of opportunism that can define matches at this level.
Despite trailing, Botafogo continued to press forward, hoping to equalize before the break. Their efforts were commendable, yet they struggled to find the finishing touch. Igor Jesus had a notable chance but slipped at a crucial moment, missing a clear opportunity to score.
The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with over 30,000 fans in attendance. The Botafogo supporters were vocal in their encouragement, hoping to spur their team to a comeback. Conversely, the São Paulo fans, although fewer in number, were equally passionate, celebrating each successful play with fervor.
As the second half approached, the stakes were high for both teams. Botafogo needed to regroup and find a way to penetrate the solid São Paulo defense, while the Tricolor aimed to maintain their advantage and control the tempo of the game. The tactical adjustments made by both coaches during the halftime break would be crucial in determining the outcome.
Looking ahead, Botafogo's coach Artur Jorge might consider making aggressive substitutions to bolster their attack, potentially bringing in fresh legs to exploit the São Paulo defense. On the other hand, Zubeldía would likely instruct his players to remain disciplined, focusing on solidifying their defense while looking for counterattacking opportunities.
As the match continued into the second half, the excitement was palpable. Would Botafogo find a way to equalize, or could São Paulo extend their lead? The unfolding drama promised more twists and turns as both teams fought for critical points in the Brasileirão.
