Botafogo faces a crucial Brasileirão test against Juventude after exiting the Libertadores
Botafogo’s Libertadores run ended last Thursday, leaving the Rio club with only the Copa do Brasil and the Brasileirão to focus on for the rest of the season. This Sunday, they travel to Alfredo Jaconi to take on Juventude in the 21st round of the Brazilian league, with kickoff set for 6:30 pm Brasília time.
The Fogão are currently sixth in the standings with 29 points, 14 behind the leaders Flamengo.
Jordan Barrera will miss the trip after being left out of the squad list. The 19-year-old Colombian felt a light discomfort during the week and was kept out as a precaution. Since arriving at Botafogo, Barrera has appeared in only one match, against Corinthians, after which he suffered an ankle sprain but has since been on the mend and even sat on the bench against Palmeiras last round. Botafogo paid about US$5 million to Junior Barranquilla for his signing, and he is viewed as a promising talent alongside Montoro.
Predicted Botafogo lineup to face Juventude:
Goalkeeper: John (Neto)
Defenders: Mateo Ponte, Barboza, David Ricardo, Alex Telles
Midfield: Marlon Freitas, Newton
Attack/creativity: Montoro, Joaquín Correa, Jeffinho
Forward: Arthur Cabral
What to watch:
– Barrera’s absence may open opportunities for Montoro and Correa to supply the creative spark behind Arthur Cabral.
– Botafogo will aim to rebound quickly and close the gap toward the top of the table, while Juventude, hosting at home, will look to seize an important result.
Additional context:
This match represents an opportunity for Botafogo to set a positive tone for the remainder of the season after Libertadores elimination. If they can maintain their league position and pick up points, they could solidify a push toward the upper portion of the table.
Summary:
Botafogo travels to face Juventude in a pivotal Brasileirão clash, aiming to rebound from Libertadores departure and keep momentum in the race for a top-four finish. Barrera is sidelined with a minor issue, and the likely lineup sees Montoro and Correa stepping into more prominent roles behind Arthur Cabral.