Botafogo
Atletico Paranaense Edge Thrilling 3-2 Win Over Botafogo
Atletico Paranaense held their nerve to clinch a breathtaking 3-2 victory against Botafogo in Serie A Round 24, igniting their playoff hopes while dealing a crushing blow to Botafogo’s top-four aspirations. The Estadio Nilton Santos erupted as the visitors twice led by two goals, only for Botafogo to mount a late, desperate comeback that fell agonizingly short.
Botafogo Rocked by Early Double Whammy
The visitors struck with ruthless efficiency inside 13 minutes. Joao Cruz opened the scoring in the 11th minute, driving a precise finish past Gabriel Batista. Before Botafogo could regroup, Kevin Viveros doubled Atletico’s advantage two minutes later, latching onto Dantas’ clever assist to slot home.
Botafogo struggled to regain their composure. Kauan Toledo’s yellow card in the 35th minute summed up a chaotic first half for the hosts, who made three changes at the break in a bid to turn the tide.
Atletico’s Counter-Attacking Masterclass
Despite Botafogo’s 55% possession and 13 corners, Atletico Paranaense’s defensive resilience and clinical finishing proved decisive. Viveros all but sealed the points in the 78th minute, timing his run perfectly to meet Kevin Antonio Calderon Vargas’ through ball and lift a cool finish over Batista.
But the drama was far from over. Botafogo summoned one last surge. Substitute Sebastian Rodriguez gave them hope with a scrappy goal in the 85th minute, before Kevin Barria headed home Danilo Pereira’s cross in stoppage time to set up a frantic finale.
What This Means for Both Sides
For Atletico Paranaense, this win breathes new life into their playoff push. Viveros’ brace showcased his predatory instincts, while the defense stood firm against wave after wave of Botafogo attacks.
Botafogo, meanwhile, will rue missed opportunities. Despite unleashing 32 shots and boasting a superior xG of 2.73, they came out empty-handed. This loss leaves their top-four hopes hanging by a thread as the season enters its crucial phase.
Key Moments
11′ ⚽ Atletico Paranaense — Joao Cruz
13′ ⚽ Atletico Paranaense — K. Viveros (assist: Dantas)
78′ ⚽ Atletico Paranaense — K. Viveros (assist: K. A. Calderon Vargas)
85′ ⚽ Botafogo — S. Rodriguez
