Botafogo Prove Critics Wrong by Advancing to Club World Cup Round of 16

Alex Telles and Botafogo have silenced their critics by qualifying for the Club World Cup round of 16 — despite a narrow 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in their final Group B match.

“PSG and Atletico showed us more respect than most fans and pundits did. Those who said we came here just to see Mickey at Disneyland can now see us through to the next round from the group of death,” said Telles.

Team captain Marlon Freitas acknowledged the disappointment of losing to Antoine Griezmann’s late goal, but emphasized their achievement — advancing from a group containing two European giants.

“Before the tournament started, everyone thought we had no chance against two top teams from major European leagues. We’ve shown the value of Brazilian football,” stated Freitas.

Coach Renato Paiva also expressed his pride:

“If I had said in Brazil that we would get through this group, everyone would have criticized me. Now we’ve done what no one expected.”

Last year’s Serie A and Copa Libertadores champions will face the Group A winners — either Inter Miami CF or Palmeiras — this weekend.