Beira-Rio clash at a glance
Botafogo has released its list of players for Saturday’s Brasileirão showdown against Internacional, scheduled for 18:30 at Beira-Rio. The standout news is the return of Joaquín Correa, popularly known as Tucu Correa, who is back after a muscular injury. Also back in the fold is Matheus Martins, who was suspended for the win over Bahia. The game marks a test of Botafogo’s depth as they prepare to face a Portuguese-descended gauntlet in Porto Alegre.
Key returns and squad depth
Correa’s comeback is a major boost for Botafogo’s attack, bringing experience and creative spark to the front line. Matheus Martins’ return adds another attacking option after serving his suspension. The pair’s inclusion suggests the club intends to deploy a more fluid and dynamic front line to trouble Internacional’s defense.
In addition to these returns, the squad features a notable injection of youth. Five players from the under-20 setup were called up: Rhyan Luca (goalkeeper), Gabriel Abdias (left-back — called up for the first time), Justino (defender), Cauã Zappelini (midfielder), and Kadir (forward). This quintet represents Botafogo’s push to blend rising talents with experienced professionals as they chase a positive result away from home.
Absences and suspensions
Several players miss the trip due to injuries or suspensions. Kaio Pantaleão was left out after suffering knee pain following a knock in midweek, while Marçal is also unavailable due to a muscular issue. Cuiabano is suspended for a third yellow card. The club will need to cover those gaps with a combination of veteran depth and promising youth.
Beyond these names, other regulars are unavailable for different reasons: Neto, Bastos, Alex Telles, Danilo, and Nathan Fernandes are sidelined with injuries or medical concerns. Meanwhile, Jordan Barrera and Álvaro Montoro are participating in the U-20 World Cup in Chile, representing Colombia and Argentina respectively, which keeps them away from this weekend’s match.
Youth call-ups: five from the under-20 squad
The inclusion of Rhyan Luca, Gabriel Abdias, Justino, Cauã Zappelini, and Kadir stands out as Botafogo looks to test its academy pipeline at a high level. Rhyan Luca, the team’s young goalkeeper, will be an important part of the squad’s rotation. Abdias, making his first call-up for the senior list, will be tested at left-back, a position that often requires both defensive discipline and the ability to contribute to overlaps. Justino provides additional cover in central defense, while Cauã Zappelini adds a youthful touch to the midfield with potential ball distribution and transition play. Kadir brings attacking versatility, offering options in multiple forward roles.
What Botafogo fans can expect
With Correa back and several youngsters on the roster, Botafogo is sending a message about both immediate competitiveness and long-term development. The Beira-Rio venue is a stern test, and the coaching staff will likely balance experience with the energy and risk-taking that youth players bring. The tactical approach could lean on Correa’s ability to unlock defenses through through-balls and intelligent movement, while Martins provides width and pace to stretch Internacional’s back line.
Potential formation and lineup considerations
Given the roster mix, a cautious but constructive approach could see a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 setup, with Correa operating as a central creative hub and Martins offering a diagonal run threat from the wing. The five under-20 players bring competition for starting roles and could be integrated gradually, rotating in as the match progresses to maintain intensity without sacrificing structure.
