Brazilian side Botafogo produced the biggest upset of the FIFA Club World Cup so far with a 1-0 victory over reigning European champions Paris St-Germain.
The decisive moment came in the first half when striker Igor Jesus fired from outside the area, with his effort deflecting off PSG defender Willian Pacho and wrong-footing goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. It was enough to hand Botafogo a famous win and leave them on the cusp of qualification for the knockout stages.
Despite dominating possession, PSG failed to convert their chances, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Goncalo Ramos both missing clear opportunities to level the match. Botafogo, however, held firm with a disciplined defensive display, frustrating Luis Enrique’s men and keeping the South American side’s unbeaten run in the tournament alive.
The result challenges early assumptions that European clubs would dominate the expanded competition. PSG had entered the tie as clear favourites, especially after Bayern Munich’s emphatic 10-0 win over Auckland City earlier in the week. But Botafogo’s win reinforces South America’s resurgence, with teams from the continent yet to suffer a defeat in the first week of action.
Speaking after the game, Jesus highlighted the significance of the result: “A lot of people wondered, but we showed how strong Botafogo is.” PSG coach Luis Enrique also acknowledged the difficulty of the contest, saying, “This Club World Cup is intense and difficult and all the teams are highly motivated, especially when they’re playing against us.”
Igor Jesus, who has been on the radar of several European clubs including Nottingham Forest, was the standout performer. Though largely isolated in attack, the 24-year-old Brazil international made the most of his chance in the 36th minute, showing composure and skill to create space before unleashing the deflected shot that proved to be the winner. It was a reward for his persistence and intelligent forward play throughout the match.
Botafogo, fresh off their maiden Copa Libertadores title in 2024, now sit top of their group with two wins from two. They face Atletico Madrid in their final group-stage match on Monday. Paris St-Germain, still favoured to progress, will take on Seattle Sounders at the same time, needing a positive result to secure their place in the knockout rounds.