Botafogo Surprises PSG in a Stunning Upset at the FIFA Club World Cup

Desire Doue of Paris Saint-Germain protects the ball from a tough challenge by Botafogo's Alex Telles. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Brazilian champions Botafogo had an unforgettable night at the FIFA Club World Cup, stunning the newly crowned European champions, Paris Saint Germain, with a 1-0 win, solidifying their status as South America's premier football club.

Held at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, the Copa Libertadores titleholders took the lead in the 36th minute when Marlon Freitas set up Igor Jesus, who outsmarted PSG center-backs Willian Pacho and Lucas Beraldo before taking a shot that deflected off Pacho and went past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

PSG midfielder Vitinha tries to penetrate Botafogo's strong defense. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Following their 4-0 win against Atletico Madrid last Sunday, PSG had maintained an unbeaten streak across all competitions since May 3. Despite this, the European champions sometimes seemed tired in front of an energetic crowd of 53,699 at the Rose Bowl. They dominated with 75% ball possession and made 16 attempts at goal yet only managed two shots on target.

In contrast, Botafogo took just four shots, but each was on target. Thousands of passionate Brazilian supporters journeyed to see one of the most momentous wins in Botafogo's storied history. The Brazilian team defended tenaciously and frequently counterattacked against the French champions. They now have an unforeseen chance to advance after their historic win.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of PSG attempts a shot from a sharp angle in the match against Botafogo. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Ballon d'Or hopeful Ousmane Dembélé missed his second consecutive match for PSG due to a quadriceps injury. Even without him, PSG outperformed statistically and could have advanced to the knockout stage of the tournament if they had defeated the Brazilian champions.

Achraf Hakimi, the captain of Paris Saint Germain, dribbles the ball within the penalty area while Jair Cunha from Botafogo defends. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Botafogo's win has created a disarray in Group B, giving all four teams an opportunity to progress to the next round. PSG remains in a strong position to advance as they travel to Lumen Field to take on the MLS' Seattle Sounders next. At the same time, Botafogo will compete against Atlético on Monday at the Rose Bowl, keeping their hopes alive to advance from this challenging Group B in the current FIFA Club World Cup.