Botafogo Embarks on Copa Sudamericana Journey Under New Leadership
Botafogo begins its Copa Sudamericana campaign tonight, April 9th, hosting Caracas at the Nilton Santos Stadium. This marks the first match under the direction of new head coach Franclim Carvalho, previously an assistant to Artur Jorge.
A Second Chance in South American Competition
The “Glorioso” finds itself in the Sudamericana after being eliminated by Barcelona-EQU in the preliminary stages of the Copa Libertadores. They are placed in Group E alongside Racing, who recently defeated Independiente Petrolero 3-1 in Bolivia, and Independiente Petrolero.
Past Performance and Current Challenges
Botafogo’s best showing in the Copa Sudamericana (under its current name) came in 2008, 2009, and 2023, reaching the quarter-finals each time. However, the club is currently navigating significant financial difficulties and administrative issues within the SAF (Sociedade Anônima de Futebol). Despite these challenges, recent consecutive victories in the Brasileirão against Mirassol and Vasco, achieved during Rodrigo Bellão’s interim management, have provided a boost in morale.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Franclim Carvalho may opt to rest some key players for the match against Caracas. Alex Telles, substituted due to a left thigh injury during the recent clash with Vasco, is expected to be one of those rested, with Caio Roque potentially making his debut in his place.
Squad Updates and Absent Players
- Kaio Pantaleão is sidelined with a multiligament knee injury.
- Marçal is unavailable due to a physical issue.
- Joaquín Correa is also out due to a physical problem.
Scouting the Opponent: Caracas FC
Caracas qualified for the Copa Sudamericana by finishing fourth in the Venezuelan Championship’s overall standings in 2025. They advanced through the preliminary round by defeating Metropolitanos on penalties. However, their form in 2026 has been inconsistent, with only two wins in 11 games, currently placing them 11th in the Apertura tournament.
Match Details and Viewing Information
Tickets are available for purchase exclusively online at botafogo.com.br/ingresso for the Leste Inferior (R$ 100/R$ 50), Leste Superior (R$ 40/R$ 20), and Oeste Inferior (R$ 120/R$ 60) sections. There will be no ticket sales at the Nilton Santos Stadium.
The match will be broadcast live on ESPN and Disney+, with commentary provided by Hamilton Rodrigues, Mariana Pereira, and Zinho, analysis from Renata Ruel, and reporting by Rodrigo Jufo.
Referee Assignments
- Referee: Kevin Ortega (PER)
- Assistant 1: Michael Orué (PER)
- Assistant 2: José Castillo (PER)
- 4th Official: Michael Espinoza (PER)
- VAR: Joel Alarcón (PER)
- AVAR: Pablo López (PER)
- Assessor: Rodrigo Pereira Jóia (BRA)
- Quality Manager: Patricio Polic (CHI)
Match Card: Botafogo vs. Caracas
Stadium: Nilton Santos
Date-Time: April 9, 2026 – 7:00 PM
Referee: Kevin Ortega (PER)
Assistants: Michael Orué (PER) and José Castillo (PER)
VAR: Joel Alarcón (PER)
Tickets: botafogo.com.br/ingresso
Where to Watch: ESPN and Disney+
BOTAFOGO: Raul; Vitinho, Ferraresi, Alexander Barboza and Caio Roque; Allan, Edenílson and Danilo; Júnior Santos, Arthur Cabral and Matheus Martins – Coach: Franclim Carvalho.
CARACAS: Benítez; Fereira, Luis Mago, La Mantía and Yéndis; Larotonda, Wilfred Correa, Ángel Figueroa and Covea; Robert Hernández and Adrián Fernández – Coach: Fernando Aristeguieta.
FAQ
- What time does the match start? The match starts at 7:00 PM.
- Where can I watch the game? You can watch the game on ESPN and Disney+.
- Are tickets still available? Tickets are available online at botafogo.com.br/ingresso.
- Who is the referee for the match? The referee is Kevin Ortega from Peru.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check the latest team news and injury updates before making any predictions!
Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis. What are your predictions for tonight’s game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!