Renato Paiva’s message ahead of the decisive clash between Botafogo and Atlético Madrid in the Club World Cup couldn’t be clearer. The Brazilians are in control of their own fate, knowing that the Rojiblancos need to win by at least three goals to stay alive in the tournament. Can they pull it off, or will they fall short?

Paiva sets the tone: “100% respect for Atlético, but 0% fear”

The Fogão coach was blunt and direct. While he acknowledged the quality of the opponent, he made it clear that his team isn’t intimidated by the high stakes.

“100% respect, but zero fear. If Atlético Madrid is, for me, one of the most intense teams in the world physically and tactically in their actions, just imagine them tomorrow when they have to chase a result of three goals,” said Paiva when asked how he plans to face an Atlético side that knows anything less than reaching the round of 16 would be a major failure for the club.

The math is simple

The scenario is favorable for the Brazilian side. Botafogo has everything in its hands to reach the round of 16: a win or a draw seals the ticket. Even a narrow loss — by one or two goals — would see Paiva’s team move on. Only a defeat by three goals or more against Atlético Madrid would knock them out of the competition.

To put it into perspective, Botafogo has only lost by three or more goals three times in their last 200 matches.

Botafogo aiming for history

With qualification within reach, Botafogo has no intention of sitting back or settling. Paiva made it clear his team will go out and compete with confidence, fully respecting their opponent but determined to make history in this tournament.

The match promises to be high-stakes and full of tension, as the Brazilians look to secure their place among the world’s elite, while Atlético chases a comeback that would feel more like a miracle. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell.