News

FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Opponent Preview: Botafogo

25_FCWC_Matchup_Botafogo_16x9

It’s time to take Seattle to the world.

The Seattle Sounders will face Botafogo in Group B of FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Taking place from June 15 – July 13 next year, the inaugural edition of this revamped tournament will bring together 32 of the most iconic teams on the planet. As a host city, all three of Sounders FC’s group stage matches will be played at Lumen Field.

Become a 2025 Sounders FC Season Ticket Member and enjoy priority access to tickets for FIFA Club World Cup 2025 matches in Seattle, including all three of our group stage games. You can learn more about Season Memberships HERE.

Here is a quick primer on our opponent.

Botafogo

Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

League: Campeonata Brasileiro Série A

Founded: 1904

Club Honors:

  • 1 Copa Libertadores title
  • 1 Copa CONMEBOL title
  • 2 Série A titles
  • 2 Série B titles
  • 21 Campeonato Carioca titles (Rio de Janeiro state league)

2023-24 League Record (W/L/D): 22-5-10 (76 points, 1st place)

How They Qualified: The last team to book a spot in FIFA World Cup 2025, Botafogo qualified via the Champions Pathway by winning the 2024 Copa Libertadores on Nov. 30.

Players to Know:

  • Thiago Almada: The former Atlanta United star has been a key player for Botafogo since joining in July. Almada racked up 23 goals and 33 assists for Atlanta while breaking into the Argentina national team. Since signing in Brazil, he has notched three goals and two assists across all competitions, including a pair of goals in their Libertadores title run.
  • Jefferson Savarino: Another player with MLS ties, Savarino has been thriving as the No. 10 for Botafogo. The former Real Salt Lake player has an impressive 10 goals and 10 assists for the Brazilian powerhouse.
  • Luiz Henrique: Operating on the wing, Luiz Enrique has been an attacking force for Botafogo. With 11 goals and five assists across league play and Copa Libertadores, the former Real Betis player is a force to be reckoned with.

Manager: Artur Jorge

2026 Season Membership Deposits

2026 Season Membership Deposits

Feel the pull of the Sound and step into something bigger. 2026 will continue to put Seattle soccer on the world stage, so there's no better time to join the Rave Green and grow with the Sounders legacy. Secure your seat alongside the best fans in MLS.

Two Tickets & Two Beers (vs. Portland Timbers)

Two Tickets & Two Beers (vs. Portland Timbers)

Come out to Lumen Field to watch your Seattle Sounders take on Portland with this special ticket offer sponsored by Michelob Ultra. For just $40 + Taxes & Fees, get two tickets & two beers for the match. For 21+ fans only and drinks must be picked up in the North Plaza 21+ beer garden prior to kickoff.

Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. PT on October 4.

Match & Merch Bundle (vs. Portland Timbers)

Match & Merch Bundle (vs. Portland Timbers)

Add a limited-edition Cascadia Rivalry t-shirt to your ticket to the Portland Timbers match. Matchday pick up info will be communicated prior to the match via email.

Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. PT on October 4.