Botafogo’s squad for the Internacional clash
Botafogo released its list of players summoned to face Internacional on Saturday, at 18:30 local time, in Beira-Rio. The standout news is the return of Joaquín Correa from a muscular injury, bringing experience back to the attack-minded side. Matheus Martins, who finished his suspension against Bahia, is also back in contention.
On the downside, defender Kaio Pantaleão left Wednesday’s game with a painful left knee after a collision and is unavailable. Full-back Marçal, who had to be pulled from the midweek match due to a muscular complaint, also misses out. Cuiabano is suspended after collecting his third yellow card of the season.
In addition to the senior squad, Botafogo included five players from the under-20 team: goalkeeper Rhyan Luca, left-back Gabriel Abdias (called for the first time), defender Justino, midfielder Cauã Zappelini, and forward Kadir. The move highlights a push to blend youth with experience as the team navigates a busy schedule.
Several familiar names remain unavailable: Neto, Bastos, Alex Telles, and Danilo, plus Nathan Fernandes who is listed as injured. Additionally, Jordan Barrera and Álvaro Montoro will be absent due to their commitments at the Under-20 World Cup in Chile with Colombia and Argentina, respectively.
Impact and what to expect
The return of Correa should inject creativity and goal danger, helping to unlock defenses that have proven stubborn this season. Matheus Martins provides pace and width, potentially offering Botafogo a cleaner balance on the wings. Against Internacional, the visitors will likely lean on a compact defensive block while looking for openings behind the hosts’ back line.
The five Sub-20 promotions signal a strategic shift: a chance for youngsters to prove themselves in a high-stakes fixture and for the staff to assess capabilities up close. Rhyan Luca will be aiming to show he can handle top-level duties as a goalkeeper. Abdias’s first call-up gives him a test of nerves as a potential future option at left-back along with Justino, a young defender who can share responsibilities with senior teammates. Cauã Zappelini adds midfield depth, while Kadir brings an attacking threat that could disrupt Internacional’s defense if he earns minutes.
Beira-Rio and the road ahead
Qualified for the tough away assignment at Beira-Rio, Botafogo will need to maximize set-piece work and transition play. The team’s mix of proven veterans and aspiring youth faces a critical test as they chase points in a crowded league table. Fans will watch closely to see how the newcomers adapt and how the established stars lead the way on a challenging day in southern Brazil.
