Pachuca shocks Brazil's champions Botafogo in World Cup upset
- Botafogo lost 3-0 to Pachuca in the FIFA 2024 Club World Cup.
- The match occurred shortly after Botafogo's successful season, where they won titles in Brazil and South America.
- This elimination indicates the physical toll on Botafogo after a demanding schedule, suggesting a necessary rest for the squad.
In Qatar on December 13, 2024, Botafogo faced Pachuca in the FIFA 2024 Club World Cup, where they experienced a challenging match that ended in a 3-0 loss. Despite being champions of Brazil and South America, the Brazilian team struggled to compete after a whirlwind season that had seen them playing critical matches across multiple cities in recent weeks. In addition to this physical and mental strain, the team's recent travel and match schedule left them fatigued, necessitating adjustments to their starting lineup. This game marked the conclusion of a historic season for Botafogo, making their exit from the tournament particularly disappointing after achieving a famous double, including their first national title since 1995. The immediate aftermath of the match also brought into question how the arduous schedule impacted their performance and whether a period of rest is now needed. Meanwhile, Pachuca's victory, despite their lower standing in Liga MX, highlights the unpredictability of knockout tournaments, solidifying their place in the next stage of international club competition amidst a challenging domestic season.