Botafogo Crushes Penarol 5-0 in Libertadores Semi-Final First Leg

AFP/APP

Rio de Janeiro: Botafogo delivered a stunning performance in the Copa Libertadores semi-final, defeating Uruguay’s Penarol 5-0 in the first leg on Wednesday.

The Brazilian side showcased their dominance in a second-half blitz, effectively securing their place in the final ahead of the return leg in Montevideo.

Jefferson Savarino was the standout performer, scoring twice as Botafogo overwhelmed Penarol after a relatively quiet first half.

The Brazilian team struggled to break down Penarol’s defense early on, with Luiz Henrique missing a key opportunity before finally shifting the momentum.

The game changed dramatically with three goals in just eight minutes at the start of the second half. Savarino opened the scoring in the 51st minute, skillfully finishing a well-placed through ball from Luiz Henrique.

Shortly after, Alexander Barboza capitalized on a corner, scoring the second. Savarino then netted his second goal, with a shot that slipped past the Penarol keeper, Aguerre.

Luiz Henrique added to the tally with a delicate chip, while Igor Jesus completed the rout in the 79th minute, heading home a rebound from Thiago Almada’s parried shot.

“We have to keep our feet on the ground; this is just one game,” said Barboza, emphasizing the need for caution as Botafogo eyes their first Libertadores final appearance.

With Atletico Mineiro’s recent victory over River Plate, the prospect of an all-Brazilian final on November 30 in Buenos Aires looms large, marking the potential for Brazil’s continued dominance in South American club football.