SEATTLE: Brazilian and South American champions Botafogo began their Club World Cup campaign with a 2-1 victory over MLS side Seattle Sounders in a Group B encounter at Lumen Field today.
First half headers from Jair Cunha and Igor Jesus gave the visitors a comfortable lead and only several fine saves by Seattle goalkeeper Stefan Frei prevented them from extending it.
The Sounders pulled one back in the second half through a deflected header from Cristian Roldan, setting up a nervy finish.
The goal energised the home side but Botafogo’s defence held firm in the closing stages to secure all three points.
Botafogo are second in the group on goal difference after Paris St-Germain thrashed Atletico Madrid 4-0 earlier today.