Matchday 2 of the FIFA Club World Cup has been filled with surprising outcomes. Earlier on Thursday, Inter Miami CF triumphed over Porto, and later in the day, UEFA Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain fell 1-0 to Copa Libertadores winners Botafogo. This marks the first occasion since 2012 that a reigning Copa Libertadores champion has defeated a reigning UEFA Champions League winner — reminiscent of Corinthians’ victory over Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup final.
Club Comparison
PSG | Botafogo | |
---|---|---|
Market Value | €1.06bn | €163.20m |
League Level | First Tier | First Tier |
Expenditures 24/25 | €239.92m | €99.90m |
Manager | Luis Enrique | Renato Paiva |
Full Club Comparison available on request.
Back in 2012, Paolo Guerrero was the hero. This time, it was Botafogo’s Igor Jesus who scored the decisive goal. In the 36th minute, Jefferson Savarino delivered a pinpoint pass through PSG’s midfield, allowing Igor Jesus to outmaneuver two defenders and beat goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who could only watch as the ball slipped past him for the winning goal.
This victory is monumental for Botafogo, achieved against significant odds. PSG dominated possession throughout the match — holding 75% and completing 680 passes compared to Botafogo’s 200. However, PSG struggled to convert their possession into clear chances, finishing the game with an expected goals (xG) of only 0.78, slightly above Botafogo’s 0.28. Yet, the standout performance came from Igor Jesus.
Igor Jesus Shines with Second Goal in Two Games – A Display of European Ambition
Igor Jesus has now netted his second match-winning goal in as many games at the FIFA Club World Cup. Last week against the Sounders, he scored a stunning header that helped secure a 2-1 victory. This evening, a precise finish against one of the world’s top goalkeepers delivered another win for Botafogo.
Beyond his goals, Igor Jesus has distinguished himself with his speed, aerial prowess, and physicality — holding up play effectively and allowing his teammates to advance. The 24-year-old forward, valued at €15m, is eyeing a move to a Premier League club, specifically Nottingham Forest. This tournament is his chance to highlight his European aspirations, and he has certainly made his mark by taking down one of Europe’s elite teams.
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