Botafogo vs Pachuca: Clash in the Copa Intercontinental – Here’s What You Need to Know

The highly anticipated match between Botafogo and Pachuca is set to take place on Wednesday, December 11, at 14:00 (Brasília time) at the 974 Stadium in Doha, Qatar, as part of the Copa Intercontinental. Botafogo, fresh from winning the CONMEBOL Libertadores and the Campeonato Brasileiro, is looking to continue its impressive form and secure a spot in the semifinals against Al Ahly of Egypt.

The match, often referred to as the “Derby of the Americas,” pits the champions of South America against the champions of North and Central America. Botafogo, under the guidance of coach Artur Jorge, will likely field a strong lineup, with John in goal, a defensive line including Mateo Ponte, Adryelson, Barboza, and Alex Telles, and an attacking force led by Luiz Henrique and Igor Jesus. The team will be without the injured Bastos and Vitinho.

Pachuca, the Concacaf Champions League winner, has not played an official match since November 9 and is looking to overcome its recent poor form in the Mexican league. The team, managed by Argentine coach Jorge Guillermo Almada, will be without key players Israel Luna and Andrés Micolta due to injuries. Pachuca’s probable lineup includes Carlos Moreno in goal and a forward line featuring Salomón Rondón.

The match will be broadcast live on Globo, SporTV, Globoplay, and ge, providing comprehensive coverage for fans. In case of a draw, the game will proceed to extra time, and if the score remains tied, the winner will be decided by penalties.

The Copa Intercontinental is part of FIFA‘s new calendar, leading up to the Club World Cup scheduled for June and July 2025 in the United States. This tournament brings together the top club teams from each continent, making it a prestigious event for both Botafogo and Pachuca.

Analysts and AI predictions suggest that Botafogo’s current form and recent success give them a slight advantage, although Pachuca’s experience and motivation could lead to a competitive match. The winner will face Al Ahly in the semifinals, with the final set for December 18 at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar.