Botafogo Wins Copa Libertadores

Brazilian club Botafogo won the Copa Libertadores for the first time in its history after defeating fellow Brazilian side Atlético Mineiro 3-1 on Saturday.

Botafogo was undeterred by an early red card for their player Gregor, just two minutes into the match for a violent tackle on Atlético Mineiro’s Fausto Ferreira. The match, which took place in front of a large crowd at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, saw Botafogo end the first half leading 2-0, with Luiz Henrique scoring in the 35th minute and Alex Telles (former Al-Nassr player who left in September) converting a penalty in the 44th minute.

Atlético Mineiro reduced the deficit with a goal from veteran Chilean forward Eduardo Vargas in the 47th minute, but despite efforts from experienced duo Hulk and Vargas, they failed to find the equalizer. Junior Santos sealed the victory for Botafogo with a third goal in the 97th minute, securing the title for his team and denying Atlético Mineiro a second-ever Libertadores win after their first in 2013.

Botafogo claimed the 65th edition of the prestigious tournament, becoming the 12th Brazilian club to win the Copa Libertadores.