Racing Club Aims to Hold Off Botafogo in Recopa Sudamericana Final

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil — Racing Club will face Botafogo in the decisive second leg of the 2025 Recopa Sudamericana on Thursday at the Estadio Olimpico Nilton Santos, kicking off at 7:30 PM ET. After a 2-0 victory in the first leg, Racing enters the match with a comfortable lead, but hopes to fend off a potential comeback from their Brazilian opponents.

In their last encounter, Racing’s Luciano Vietto and Adrián Martínez scored the goals that secured their advantage. Botafogo, struggling with form, needs a win by at least two goals to push the match to penalties or by three to secure the title outright in regulation time. They come into the match winless in their last five outings, including an elimination from the Campeonato Carioca.

“We have to show more than we did in the first leg,” said Botafogo interim coach. “Our focus is solely on this match; this is our chance to become champions.” Botafogo will be without Cuiabano due to suspension but is expected to have key players David Ricardo and Artur returning to the squad.

Meanwhile, Racing Club is facing its own challenges. Vietto and Santiago Sosa are recovering from injuries, creating uncertainty in their lineup. However, the confidence from their recent victory is palpable as they eye their first Recopa title ever.

“We have to fight and play smartly,” said Racing head coach Gustavo Costas. “Our team is committed, and we need to maintain our form.” Racing is also eager to build off recent successes, including a win in the Copa Sudamericana.

Historically, both teams have competed in the Recopa final before but have yet to lift the trophy, emphasizing the importance of Thursday’s match. Racings previous lack of finals success includes a runner-up finish in 1989, while Botafogo suffered defeat in the 1994 final.

Fans in the United States can view the match live on Fubo, Fanatiz, and beIN Sports, with streaming options also available through several platforms. International viewers are advised to utilize a VPN if accessing from outside their typical region.

As anticipation builds in Rio de Janeiro, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Can Racing Club hold onto its lead, or will Botafogo mount a historic comeback? The outcome looms as fans await the thrilling conclusion of this South American showdown.