The long-awaited clash between Palmeiras and Botafogo takes place on 28 June 2025 as part of the first round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Fans across Europe can tune in at 18:00 CEST (Italy, Germany, France, Spain) or 17:00 BST (UK) to catch all the action live from Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Both sides will arrive in strong form, eager to make their mark on one of club football’s biggest stages. With continental bragging rights on the line, this all-Brazilian affair promises to deliver high drama and tactical intrigue.
How are both teams coming into this?
Palmeiras arrive as one of South America’s most decorated clubs, carrying the confidence of recent domestic and continental success. Their fluid attacking play and disciplined defensive structure have been key features throughout the current season, and they’ll look to impose that balance against a familiar domestic rival.
Botafogo enter the tournament on the back of spirited head-to-head displays, having claimed six points in their last meetings with Palmeiras – including a 1-0 triumph in Rio de Janeiro that underlined their capacity to spring surprises. Their resilience and counter-attacking threat mean they cannot be underestimated in this knockout tie.
Our forecast
Expect a tight, tactical encounter where both teams will first seek to avoid mistakes. Palmeiras’ tendency to control possession suggests they may carry the greater threat, but Botafogo’s quick transitions could exploit any gaps. A low-scoring affair appears the most likely outcome.
Given the stakes, a draw at full time seems plausible, pushing the contest into extra time or penalties. Bettors looking for value might consider an “Under 2.5 Goals” market combined with a draw option, as both sides have shown defensive solidity in recent fixtures.
