PASADENA, June 20, 2025 — In a major FIFA Club World Cup 2025 upset, Brazilian side Botafogo stunned Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) with a 1-0 win at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, on Thursday. Igor Jesus’ first-half goal secured a massive result that puts the Copa Libertadores champions on the brink of the knockout stage.
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Jesus Strikes Early to Seal Famous Win
The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Jefferson Savarino played a perfectly timed through ball to Igor Jesus. The Brazilian international skillfully evaded PSG’s Willian Pacho before firing a deflected shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma, giving Botafogo the lead.
“A lot of people wondered, but we showed how strong Botafogo is,” said Igor Jesus, who had previously turned down a move to Nottingham Forest to stay with Botafogo for the Club World Cup. “I think I made the right choice to stay.”
PSG Dominates Possession but Lacks Finishing Edge
Despite controlling the game and enjoying more of the ball, PSG failed to convert their dominance into goals. An early chance from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the 2nd minute forced Botafogo keeper John into action, but it proved to be PSG’s best opportunity of the match.
The midfield trio of Marlon Freitas, Gregore, and Allan stifled PSG’s creative rhythm, particularly neutralizing playmaker Vitinha throughout the contest.
Luis Enrique: “We Can Still Turn This Around”
PSG manager Luis Enrique acknowledged the difficulty of the fixture.
“We knew it was going to be a very difficult match — they defended very well,” said Enrique. “This Club World Cup is very intense, and all the teams are highly motivated, especially when they’re playing against us.”
Despite the setback, Enrique remains optimistic about PSG’s chances.
“If there’s a team that can turn it around, it’s our team,” he said. “There are things we can improve, but I think our performance was good.”
What’s Next for Botafogo and PSG?
- Botafogo will now face Atletico Madrid on Monday in Pasadena. A draw would likely see them top Group B and advance to the round of 16.
- PSG, who opened with a dominant 4-0 win over Atletico, must now regroup and deliver a strong result in their final group game to keep their title hopes alive.
Key Match Facts
- Score: PSG 0–1 Botafogo
- Venue: Rose Bowl, Pasadena
- Attendance: 53,699
- Goal: Igor Jesus (36’)
- Man of the Match: Igor Jesus