Botafogo began their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a 2-1 victory over Seattle Sounders, holding off a spirited second-half fightback at Lumen Field.
Goals from Jair Cunha and Igor Jesus in the first half gave the Brazilians control, with Cunha heading in his first senior goal after a Telles free-kick, before Jesus doubled the lead just before the break.
Seattle looked second-best in the opening 45 minutes but responded strongly after the interval. Cristian Roldan’s deflected header gave them hope in the 75th minute, and the hosts pushed hard for an equaliser, dominating the closing stages.
Despite a late flurry and a missed opportunity in stoppage time, the Sounders couldn’t find the leveller.
Botafogo claimed the win but will be wary of their dip in intensity ahead of tougher tests against PSG and Atlético de Madrid.
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