In a monumental shock that sent ripples through the FIFA Club World Cup, Brazilian champions Botafogo delivered a stunning 1-0 defeat to European giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles. The result on Thursday, June 19, 2025, marked the tournament’s first major upset and ended several impressive unbeaten streaks for the reigning UEFA Champions League victors.
Before a crowd of 53,699, largely comprised of enthusiastic Brazilian supporters, Botafogo secured the historic win thanks to a decisive first-half goal from Brazilian international Igor Jesus.
The Decisive Moment: Jesus Strikes Against the Run of Play
Despite PSG dominating possession throughout the match, it was Botafogo who found the breakthrough in the 36th minute. Jefferson Savarino delivered a perfectly weighted through ball that sliced through the PSG defence. Igor Jesus collected the pass, skillfully navigated past two covering defenders including Willian Pacho, and fired a shot that took a slight deflection before finding the net past PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. This goal was the first PSG had conceded in 366 minutes across all competitions.
Match Analysis: Resilience vs. Dominance
While PSG held a staggering 75% possession and outshot Botafogo 16-4, they struggled to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances. Botafogo’s defence, described by coach Renato Paiva as one of the toughest in the tournament, held firm, denying space in the final third. The midfield trio of Marlon Freitas, Gregore, and Allan worked tirelessly, effectively shutting down key PSG playmakers like Vitinha.
PSG pushed hard for an equalizer, particularly in the second half, camping in Botafogo’s final third. However, failed set pieces, effective deep defending, and crucial saves from Botafogo keeper John Victor thwarted their efforts. PSG did have the ball in the net in the 79th minute through Bradley Barcola, but the goal was disallowed due to two PSG players being offside. Even in stoppage time, a dangerous free kick from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia sailed over the bar.
The Magnitude of the Upset
The defeat is particularly significant for PSG, who were widely considered tournament favourites after a dazzling season culminating in a 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the Champions League final and a dominant 4-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in their opening Club World Cup match. This loss ended their unbeaten run stretching back to May 3rd and their impressive 6-game winning streak across all competitions. It was also the first time PSG had failed to score in 19 consecutive games.
In contrast, Botafogo, the reigning Copa Libertadores champions but currently mid-table in Brazil’s Serie A, showcased immense resilience and clinical finishing, putting all four of their shots on target compared to PSG’s two.
Voices from the Pitch
Goalscorer Igor Jesus reflected on the victory, stating, “A lot of people wondered, but we showed how strong Botafogo is.” He emphasized the team’s defensive effort, acknowledging the difficulty against the Champions League winners. Jesus, who reportedly turned down a move to Nottingham Forest to play in the Club World Cup, quipped, “I think I made the right choice to stay in Botafogo.”
PSG coach Luis Enrique admitted, “We knew it was going to be a very difficult match – they defended very well.” He acknowledged the intensity of the tournament and the high motivation of opponents facing PSG. Despite the setback, Enrique remained optimistic about his team’s ability to bounce back, stating, “If there’s a team that can turn it around, it’s our team.”
Botafogo coach Renato Paiva praised his squad for “being a great team, playing together, all the guys defending, all the guys attacking.” He described the victory as beating PSG, a “fantastic team,” at their “own game” through collective effort.
Broader Tournament Context and Brazilian Success
Botafogo’s win adds to a narrative of surprising results and strong performances from non-European clubs early in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. Just one day after this monumental shock, fellow Brazilian side Flamengo defeated Chelsea 3-1, and all four Brazilian representatives remain unbeaten in the tournament, collectively recording five wins and two draws. Other upsets include Inter Miami beating Porto and Real Madrid drawing Al Hilal.
Commentators suggest factors like the oppressive heat in the U.S. summer, the tournament’s timing during the typical European offseason, and the hunger of underdog teams eager to prove themselves against global powerhouses may be contributing to this unpredictable trend. The tournament has also faced challenges with lagging attendance in some venues, despite strong turnouts for matches like the one at the Rose Bowl.
Looking Ahead
The result throws Group B wide open. Botafogo is now firmly on course for the knockout rounds, sitting atop the group with six points. PSG, tied with Atletico Madrid on three points, now faces a crucial final group match to secure their passage to the last 16, with qualification no longer a certainty.
Botafogo’s stunning upset serves as a potent reminder of the global quality in club football and ensures the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has already delivered unforgettable drama.
