Botafogo vs. Red Bull Bragantino: A Copa do Brasil Clash
Botafogo, fresh off their Brazilian league and Libertadores triumph in 2024, continue their quest for a first-ever Copa do Brasil title. They face Red Bull Bragantino this Tuesday at 7 PM at the Estádio Nilton Santos in the first leg of the round of 16. This matchup brings back fond memories for Botafogo, as they defeated Bragantino en route to their South American title last year.
Aiming to build a strong advantage heading into next week's second leg, Botafogo will be looking for their first home victory under coach Davide Ancelotti. So far, they've had two frustrating draws at the Nilton Santos, against Vitória and Corinthians, both in the Campeonato Brasileiro.
The news is positive for Tuesday's game. Ancelotti welcomes back Marlon Freitas, who served a suspension, and Artur, who was rested against Corinthians due to illness. Vitinho, who started on the bench on the weekend, should also return to the starting lineup.
Botafogo's Missing Players
- Bastos (knee surgery)
Red Bull Bragantino, eliminated by Botafogo in the last Libertadores, are coming off three consecutive defeats in the Brasileirão. They're hoping to reach the Copa do Brasil round of 8 for the first time in their history. To get this far, they eliminated Sousa and São José-RS on penalties, and Criciúma.
For Tuesday's match, coach Fernando Seabra will have goalkeeper Cleiton back from suspension and defender Pedro Henrique back from concussion protocol. Defender Guzmán may also return after recovering from a thigh injury.
Tickets are available at botafogo.com.br/ingresso and at the West ticket office of the Estádio Nilton Santos.