A superb extra-time winner from substitute Paulinho gave Palmeiras a 1-0 victory over Brazilian rivals Botafogo on Saturday, sending his side into the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup.
In a tense and fiercely contested all-Brazilian round-of-16 tie, Paulinho broke the deadlock in the 10th minute of extra time, cutting in from the right wing before firing a low strike past Botafogo goalkeeper John.
The match, which was goalless through 90 minutes, was a cagey affair with few clear-cut chances. Palmeiras forward Vitor Roque missed an early opportunity, and midfielder Richard Rios saw a long-range effort skim the crossbar just before halftime.
Chelsea-bound teenager Estevão Willian had a goal disallowed for offside for Palmeiras in the second half, while his teammate Mauricio was denied by a crucial save from John which ultimately forced the game into extra time.
Palmeiras were forced to play the closing stages of extra time with ten men after captain Gustavo Gomez received a second yellow card. Despite late pressure from Botafogo, Palmeiras’ defence held firm to secure their progression. The fiery encounter saw a total of 11 players booked by referee Francois Letexier.
The victory continues a recent trend of dramatic encounters between the two rivals. Last year, Botafogo eliminated Palmeiras from the Copa Libertadores en route to winning the South American title for the first time.
Paulinho, who is returning from a leg injury, has been a key player off the bench for Palmeiras in this tournament, having also scored in their final group stage match against Inter Miami.
Palmeiras will now face the winner of the last-16 match between Benfica and Chelsea for a place in the semi-finals.
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