Botafogo gained revenge on Independiente following last week’s last minute defeat by grounding out a 1-0 win yesterday evening thanks to Juan Carlos Ferreyra’s third minute goal.
The Copa Libertadores fourth group phase match was played at the Maracanã and the fans inside the World Cup venue didn’t have to wait long to celebrate.
Defender Lucas stole the ball on the right and crossed in accurately for Ferreyra to score what would prove to be the only goal of the game.
Despite the home side having the early impetus they struggled to fashion many more chances in a lackluster first 45 where Wallyson and even goalscorer Ferreyra were not at their best.
Botafogo started the second half nervously and goalkeeper Jefferson was called into making numerous saves whilst the Ecuardorian’s missed various opportunities.
In the end Ferreyra’s goal was enough to earn all three points and keep his side top of Group 2 and three points ahead of their nearest challengers.
The bad news is that Gabriel and Ferreyra picked up yellow cards which suspend them from Botafogo’s next Libertadores game – a home match against bottom of the table Unión Española.
Botafogo will still be confident of securing their knock-out place with victory in that fixture in two week’s time.
