Botafogo travels to Quito to face LDU in the second leg of the Libertadores round of 16, this Thursday (August 21, 2025), at the Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium. The kickoff is at 19:00 local time (Brasília time) and the match will be streamed on Paramount+.
News on the squad ahead of the clash brings welcome returns for the Rio de Janeiro side. Arthur Cabral, David Ricardo, and Newton were all back in the squad after missing the Brasileirão clash with Palmeiras, and Cabral is expected to reclaim a starting role up front. Earlier in the tournament, Nathan Fernandes had been used as the focal point of the attack, but Cabral’s return boosts Botafogo’s options in attack.
Defensively, Botafogo has rotated options with Marçal, Alexander Barboza, and David Ricardo sharing duties in the back line. The plan appears to be to reinstate David Ricardo as a starter for this match, reinforcing the defense with experience.
Probable Botafogo lineup
– John in goal
– Vitinho, Alexander Barboza, David Ricardo (with Marçal as an option), and Alex Telles in defense
– Danilo, Marlon Freitas, Savarino in midfield
– Álvaro Montoro, Artur, and Arthur Cabral (Joaquín Correa) in attack
– Manager: Davide Ancelotti
What to watch
– Cabral’s return could sharpen Botafogo’s attacking outlet and add a recognized goal threat to partner with Artur and Montoro.
– The defense will be looking to stabilize after rotations in recent matches, with David Ricardo potentially anchoring the backline.
– Playing away in Quito, Botafogo will need to manage the host tempo and look to capitalize on chances created by Savarino and Montoro.
Outlook
With several key players back in contention and a coach keen on a balanced approach, Botafogo aims to advance in a tightly contested tie. The match promises to be a pivotal test of squad depth and tactical flexibility as the team tries to seal progression in South America’s flagship competition.