Botafogo advanced to the third phase of the Libertadores with a 2-0 victory over Nacional Potosí on Wednesday, but players expressed some frustration with a dip in performance during the second half. The Brazilian side, champions of the Libertadores in 2024, secured their passage with goals from Alex Telles and Danilo.
Defender Alexander Barboza admitted to some disappointment with how the match concluded. “Happy for the victory. Happy with our first half – it was particularly solid, they practically couldn’t play,” Barboza said in the mixed zone after the match. “In the second half, I think fatigue also took its toll. We gave them the ball a bit and finished the game a little frustrated with how it ended.”
Barboza emphasized the importance of keeping a clean sheet. “Very important. We knew that if we didn’t concede a goal, the result would come, and the game wouldn’t go to penalties. The whole team did a very good job. Léo (Linck) also assured a lot,” he added.
Botafogo overcame a 1-0 deficit from the first leg to secure the aggregate victory. The win sets up a third-round clash with Barcelona of Ecuador, who defeated Argentinos Juniors in their own tie. The team will look to continue their strong form as they progress deeper into the competition.
