Brazil’s Botafogo triumphed over Uruguay’s Penarol with a score of 5-0 on Wednesday, bringing them closer to their first Copa Libertadores final. This result increases the chances of an all-Brazilian final in South America’s top club tournament.
Under the ownership of American businessman John Textor, Botafogo scored all five goals in the second half of the semifinal’s first leg.
Venezuelan player Jefferson Savarino started the scoring in the 51st minute by sliding the ball past goalkeeper Washington Aguerre. Just four minutes later, Alexander Barboza added the second goal from close range, followed by Savarino scoring again in the 55th minute.
Brazilian national team striker Luiz Henrique scored the fourth goal in the 71st minute with a lob over Aguerre. Igor Jesus, who also played for Brazil in recent World Cup qualifying matches, capped off the scoring in the 79th minute.
In another semifinal match on Tuesday, Atletico Mineiro defeated Argentina’s River Plate 3-0 in their first leg. The Brazilian club previously won the Copa Libertadores title in 2013.
Brazilian teams have dominated the tournament for the last five years, hosting the final for the past four editions.
The second legs of the Copa Libertadores semifinals are set to take place next week, with the final scheduled for Nov. 30 at Monumental de Nunez Stadium in Buenos Aires.
Earlier, more than 250 Penarol supporters were detained in Rio de Janeiro after clashes with police before the semifinal match. Authorities reported that fans were involved in vandalism and destruction of property. They were not allowed to attend the game, and police discovered a firearm.
On the same day, Brazil’s Cruzeiro and Argentina’s Lanus ended in a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana semifinal. Brazil’s Corinthians will face Argentina’s Racing in Sao Paulo on Thursday.
