Paris Saint-Germain and Botafogo meet in a big Club World Cup match at the famous Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Both teams desire victory in order to qualify early from Group B.
This article gives a clear look at PSG’s strong performance, Botafogo’s surprising strength, expected lineups, game plans, and why this match is an important event in club football around the world.
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[UPDATE] Ruthless PSG Aim to Stamp Authority Again
Paris Saint-Germain walked into the Club World Cup like a lion into a den — fearless and roaring. After shredding Atletico Madrid 4-0 with surgical precision, the European champions arrive in California to cement their dominance.
Luis Enrique’s side, still high on their treble-winning triumph, oozed class in their opener. Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha pulled strings from midfield, while Mayulu and Lee Kang-in added salt to Spanish wounds with late goals.
With 12 unanswered goals in their last three outings, PSG have looked more like an unstoppable machine than a football team. Thursday’s clash with Botafogo isn’t just about progression — it’s about setting records.
PSG will become the first French club to face non-European opposition in a competitive fixture. Yes, you heard that right! A piece of history will unfold under the lights of Pasadena’s Rose Bowl.
🚨🚨| GOAL: KANG-IN LEE SCORES THE FOURTH! 🎯
PSG 4-0 Atletico Madrid.pic.twitter.com/MYCfXV57XK
— Goals Side (@goalsside) June 15, 2025
[TRENDING] Botafogo: Grit, Guts & the Brazilian Dream
Botafogo may have arrived in the U.S. with less media noise, but they carry the weight of South America on their shoulders. The 2024 Copa Libertadores winners started their Club World Cup journey with a nervy 2-1 win over Seattle Sounders.
Though not convincing, the result sets up a titanic battle against the Parisians. Renato Paiva’s men have found momentum, winning four in a row and nine of their last twelve.
But let’s be honest — they’ve lost Luiz Henrique, Thiago Almada, and coach Artur Jorge. It’s a patched-up side with grit but missing sparkle.
Likewise, Igor Jesus, the soon-to-depart target man, remains their biggest threat — his recent headers have flown in like guided missiles. Yet with Joaquin Correa doubtful and Jeffinho ruled out, Botafogo’s attacking options look thin. Against PSG’s juggernaut, even their best may not be enough.
PÂNICO DE NADA
Campeões do Brasil. Campeões da América. Estamos distantes de casa, mas nunca jogamos sozinhos. Somos Botafogo e não tememos ninguém. pic.twitter.com/Li7YdOfQWZ
— Mov. Ninguém Ama Como a Gente (@MovNacag) June 18, 2025
[WHAT’S HAPPENING] Predicted Lineups & Tactical Outlook
PSG Predicted XI: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Kvaratskhelia, Ramos, Doue
Botafogo Predicted XI: John; Vitinho, Cunha, Barboza, Telles; Gregore, Freitas; Artur, Savarino, Cuiabano; Jesus
Bradley Barcola returns for PSG, adding jet-fueled pace to an already terrifying attack. Kvaratskhelia—who assisted twice last time out — is in red-hot form.
Meanwhile, Botafogo could bunker down with a more defensive setup. Cuiabano may recover in time, and Savarino will need to inspire.
Similarly, PSG’s midfield trio is almost telepathic in transition, while Botafogo must rely on moments of magic from their makeshift frontline. The report also stated Correa’s fitness remains in doubt — another headache for Paiva.
Amit Mishra Take
Good things:
- PSG are playing really well — strong, sharp, and eager.
- Botafogo being the underdog makes this story interesting and exciting.
- The Rose Bowl in the background? Football show at its best.
Bad things:
- Botafogo’s small team might take away the chance for fans to see a fair game.
- PSG is so strong that Group B might already be decided.
- Not having star players like Dembele and Almada makes the global appeal weaker.
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