Buenos Aires: The Angolan Bastos Quissanga’s Botafogo clinched the Copa Libertadores on Saturday night, securing a 3-1 victory against Atlético-MG in the final match held at the Núñez stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This triumph marks Botafogo’s most prestigious title win in their history, achieved under challenging circumstances.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Botafogo faced adversity early in the match when Gregore was given a red card just 30 seconds in for a hard foul on Fausto Vera, setting a record for the fastest sending-off in the history of the tournament’s finals. Despite being a man down and missing their key defender, Angolan Bastos Quissanga due to injury, coach Artur Jorge maintained the starting line-up and depended on the team’s resilience.
The breakthrough for Botafogo came in the 35th minute when Luiz Henrique scored with a powerful shot following a deflection off the Atlético defense. A critical error by Atlético led to a penalty for Botafogo, which Alex Telles expertly conver
ted, putting Botafogo ahead 2-0 just before the half-time whistle.
In the second half, Atlético’s coach Gabriel Milito made strategic changes that paid off immediately. Vargas scored with a header from a corner by Hulk, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Botafogo’s defense, backed by crucial saves from goalkeeper John, withstood the pressure, especially from a well-placed shot by Hulk.
Just as a draw seemed within reach for Atlético-MG, Júnior Santos capitalized on a counter-attack in the 51st minute to secure Botafogo’s victory and their place in football history.
Bastos Quissanga, who was uncertain for the final due to a thigh injury sustained in a prior match against Palmeiras, has been a pivotal figure for Botafogo this season. In the ‘2024/25’ season, he has made 60 appearances across various competitions, highlighting his importance to both his club and national team, Angola, for whom he played a significant role in qualifying for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in
Morocco.
Over his career, Quissanga has played for clubs such as FC Rostov in Russia, Lazio in Italy, and Al-Ahli Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, showcasing his international experience and skill.
