Botafogo secured a 2-1 victory over Seattle Sounders in their FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ opener, thanks to first-half goals from Jair Cunha and Igor Jesus. The match, held at Lumen Field in Seattle, saw the Brazilian side take an early lead and withstand a second-half comeback attempt from the home team.

Botafogo, the reigning Brasileiro Série A and Copa Libertadores champions, demonstrated their prowess early in the game. Jair Cunha opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a powerful header from an Alex Telles free-kick. The goal was a result of a contentious yellow card issued to Seattle's Nouhou Tolo, which gave Botafogo a direct free kick just outside the penalty box.

Igor Jesus doubled Botafogo's advantage in the 44th minute, heading home from a Vitinho cross. Jesus, who has been a standout player for Botafogo since joining in the summer of 2024, showcased his aerial ability, beating Seattle goalkeeper Stefan Frei at the near post.

Seattle Sounders, playing on their home turf, struggled to find their rhythm in the first half but showed renewed energy after the break. In the 75th minute, midfielder Cristian Roldan pulled one back for the Sounders, reacting quickly to a recycled set piece and sending a deflected header past Botafogo goalkeeper John. Despite outshooting Botafogo 22-12, Seattle was left to rue missed opportunities.

Sounders had their chances in the first half. Jesús Ferreira's shot in the 16th minute went just wide, and Albert Rusnák's volley attempt in the 43rd minute also missed the target. After Botafogo's second goal, Frei made a crucial save in the 49th minute to deny Artur, and John saved Rusnák's shot in the 58th minute.

Botafogo's victory was hard-earned, as they had to withstand significant pressure from Seattle in the second half. Goalkeeper John made several important saves to preserve Botafogo's lead.

Botafogo's coach, Renato Paiva, who took charge of the team ahead of the current season, has been credited with changing the mentality of the group and implementing effective tactics. The team has also been strengthened by the arrival of new signings, including Arthur Cabral, Joaquin Correa, and Alvaro Montoro, who are expected to revitalize the attack.

Seattle Sounders will look to bounce back in their next Group B match against Spanish giants Atlético Madrid. Meanwhile, Botafogo will aim to build on this victory as they face tough competition in what is considered the tournament's "Group of Death," which also includes Paris Saint-Germain.

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ is being held in the United States and features 32 teams from across the globe. Seattle is one of the host cities, with Lumen Field hosting six matches, including all three of Seattle Sounders' group stage games. The tournament continues with matches across the United States, including Bayern Munich's dominant 10-0 victory over Auckland City and Paris Saint-Germain's 4-0 win against Atlético de Madrid.