In the FIFA 2024 Club World Cup, Pachuca Eliminates Botafogo
For Botafogo, the wildest season of their lives has finally concluded, and both their supporters and players can relax during the holidays, knowing they've clinched the titles of champions in both Brazil and South America.
Unfortunately, Botafogo ended their season with a 3-0 loss to Pachuca from Mexico at the FIFA 2024 Club World Cup, but that defeat doesn't diminish the remarkable achievements they've had this year.
Pachuca currently sits 16th in Mexico's Liga MX, which consists of only 18 teams. On paper, this might have appeared as an 'easier' match for a Botafogo team aiming for a Club World Cup final against Real Madrid, but in retrospect, it was always going to be a demanding task.
In no way do we wish to downplay Pachuca's impressive victory. From Botafogo's perspective, however, that match came at an unfortunate moment, leading to a few changes in their starting lineup.
On Sunday, Botafogo clinched the league and completed a sensational double. This was their first national title since 1995, but due to the urgent need to travel to Qatar for their Wednesday evening match against Pachuca, the team and fans didn't get much time to savor their victory.
After over 15 hours of travel, a fatigued squad arrived in Qatar on Monday. Furthermore, considering that they played five matches in five different cities in the 16 days following their league triumph, all of which were critical, title-deciding games, it's hardly a surprise that they eventually struggled against the Mexican team.
If Botafogo had progressed to the Club World Cup final, they would have faced two more matches in a week. However, the physical and mental strain of playing crucial games and covering such extensive distances finally caught up with them, suggesting perhaps a much-needed break. Additionally, they stand a better chance at Club World Cup success once they feel a bit more rejuvenated next June, in the United States.
John Textor and his team are working towards building a dynasty. Perhaps their best moments are still ahead of them, and more trophies might be on the horizon in 2025.
Despite the loss to Pachuca, Botafogo's business strategy of participating in international competitions has proven beneficial, providing them with exposure and potential sponsorship opportunities in the sports money market.
With a refreshed squad and some much-needed rest, Botafogo hopes to regain their form and achieve Club World Cup success in 2025, further cementing their position in the sports money scene.
