Botafogo Faces High-Altitude Challenge in Copa Libertadores Qualifier
Botafogo embarks on a significant challenge this Wednesday (February 18th) against Nacional Potosí, playing at an altitude of nearly 4,000 meters in Potosí, Bolivia. The match, part of the second preliminary stage of the Copa Libertadores, kicks off at 9:30 PM Brasília time, with the return leg scheduled for next Wednesday at the Nilton Santos stadium.
Strategic Acclimatization for the Brazilian Squad
Recognizing the difficulties posed by the high altitude, Botafogo has implemented a special logistical plan. Nine players, including goalkeeper Léo Linck, arrived in Potosí last Friday to begin acclimatizing to the conditions and the altered speed of the ball.
The remaining squad members will arrive in Potosí on Wednesday after spending the night in Sucre. They will complete the approximately three-hour journey to Potosí in 4×4 vehicles, a strategy previously employed by other Brazilian clubs.
Injury Concerns Plague Botafogo
Adding to the challenge, Botafogo is currently grappling with a five-game losing streak and will be without several key players. Both midfielder Danilo and forward Arthur Cabral are unavailable due to medical reasons, contributing to a total of eight absences.
Confirmed Botafogo Absences
- Kaio Pantaleão (knee injury)
- Marçal (knee strain)
- Allan (treatment)
- Danilo (medical reasons)
- Santi Rodríguez (knee injury)
- Joaquín Correa (transition)
- Arthur Cabral (medical reasons)
- Chris Ramos (injury)
Nacional Potosí’s Road to the Libertadores
Nacional Potosí secured their spot in the Libertadores by winning the Copa Paceña (Bolivia’s cup competition), defeating Bolívar 4-1 in the final held in La Paz. This marks only their second appearance in the premier South American tournament; their previous attempt in 2023 ended in elimination during the first preliminary phase with losses to El Nacional (6-1 in La Paz and 3-1 in Quito).
Where to Watch the Match
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN, Disney+, and GE TV on YouTube.
Match Officials
- Referee: Augusto Aragón (EQU)
- Assistant 1: Ricardo Baren (EQU)
- Assistant 2: Dennys Guerrero (EQU)
- 4th Official: Yerson Zambrano (EQU)
- VAR: Gabriel González (EQU)
- AVAR: Byron Romero (EQU)
Match Details
Stadium: Víctor Agustín Ugarte
Date-Time: February 18, 2026 – 9:30 PM
Referee: Augusto Aragón (EQU)
VAR: Gabriel González (EQU)
Where to watch: ESPN, Disney+ and GE TV
Starting Lineups
NACIONAL POTOSÍ: Galindo; Baldomar, Ávila, Restrepo and Pavia; Orellana, Otormin and William Álvarez; Hoyos, Maxi Núñez and Tobar – Manager: Leonardo Égüez.
BOTAFOGO: Léo Linck; Mateo Ponte (Justino), Bastos and Alexander Barboza; Vitinho, Newton, Wallace Davi (Jordan Barrera) and Alex Telles; Villalba, Kadir and Álvaro Montoro – Manager: Martín Anselmi.
FAQ
Q: What time does the match start?
A: The match starts at 9:30 PM Brasília time.
Q: Where can I watch the game?
A: You can watch the game on ESPN, Disney+, and GE TV (YouTube).
Q: What is the altitude of Potosí?
A: Potosí is located at an altitude of nearly 4,000 meters.
Q: How many players are unavailable for Botafogo?
A: Eight players are unavailable for Botafogo due to injuries and medical reasons.
Did you know? Playing at high altitude significantly reduces oxygen levels, impacting player stamina and performance. Teams often employ acclimatization strategies to mitigate these effects.
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