Botafogo-PB Faces Flamengo in Copa do Brasil Showdown

São Luís, Maranhão — Botafogo-PB and Flamengo are set to face off on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 20:00 at the Estádio Castelão in São Luís, for the first leg of the third phase of the Copa do Brasil 2025. This match marks the sixth official encounter between the two teams, with Flamengo historically dominating their past meetings.

Botafogo-PB, currently competing in the Série C of the Campeonato Brasileiro, comes into this match following a goalless draw against ABC. After finishing second in the Campeonato Paraibano Unipê 2025, the team appointed Antônio Carlos Zago as their new head coach. Under Zago’s direction, Botafogo-PB has played three matches, securing one victory and two draws, indicating improvement as they prepare for this crucial cup tie.

Conversely, Flamengo, the reigning Copa do Brasil champions, is riding high on momentum after a commanding 4-0 victory over Corinthians in the Brasileirão. Coached by Filipe Luís, Flamengo has not lost in their last five matches, with their only defeat this year occurring on April 9 against Central Córdoba in the Libertadores. With 14 points, Flamengo leads the Campeonato Brasileiro, sitting one point ahead of their closest rivals, Palmeiras.

The significance of this match cannot be understated. For Botafogo-PB, it presents a unique opportunity to challenge a top-tier opponent and make a statement. For Flamengo, it represents a chance to defend their title and showcase their dominance in the competition. Notably, Botafogo-PB has displayed resilience in the cup, having eliminated Portuguesa-SP in the first round and defeating Concórdia 4-0 in the second.

Key players for Botafogo-PB include Henrique Dourado, known for his history with Flamengo, and midfield maestro Camilo. On the other hand, Flamengo’s coach Filipe Luís is likely to rotate his lineup to manage player fatigue from a packed schedule, possibly resting starters like Rossi. Matheus Cunha is expected to take the place of Rossi in goal, with Danilo stepping in for Léo Ortiz in defense.

The match will be officiated by João Vitor Gobi from São Paulo, alongside assistants Nailton Júnior de Sousa Oliveira and Miguel Cataneo Ribeiro da Costa, with Emerson de Almeida Ferreira overseeing VAR duties. Fans can watch the match live on Prime Video, with broadcast coverage beginning shortly before kickoff.

The return leg is scheduled for May 21, 2025, at the famous Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, promising an exciting conclusion to this knockout stage. As the teams prepare for this vital encounter, anticipation grows. Will Botafogo-PB manage to pull off an upset against the reigning champions, or will Flamengo continue their impressive form and take a commanding lead in the tie?