John Textor (foto: Getty Images)
John Textor celebrates Botafogo’s first Libertadores title, hailing the team’s mental strength and setting sights on a historic Brasileirão and Club World Cup campaign.
On the hallowed ground of the Monumental de Núñez in Buenos Aires, Botafogo etched their name into South American football history by winning their first Libertadores title. The triumph over Atlético-MG was not just a testament to skill but also to the incredible mental toughness of a team that defied the odds, a point not lost on club owner John Textor, who celebrated the achievement as the dawn of a new era for the club.
A night of resilience and redemption
The match started dramatically, with Gregore being sent off in the opening minute, leaving Botafogo with ten men for almost the entire game. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the team responded with remarkable determination, scoring in the first half and extending their lead before the final whistle.
Textor, who watched the match live, called the moment "incredible, right until Júnior Santos scored the last goal." The 3-1 victory was a vindication for the players and a rebuttal to critics who had questioned the team's mental strength.
"They said we weren't mentally strong. They were wrong. Our boys proved it tonight. I'm so proud of them," Textor said, visibly emotional during the post-match celebrations.
Dual focus: Libertadores glory and Brasileirão dream
While the Libertadores title is a monumental milestone, Textor made it clear that Botafogo’s ambitions don’t end here. The team sits atop the Brasileirão standings, with just two matches left in the season. A win against Internacional at the Beira-Rio stadium would secure a historic domestic title to complement their continental triumph.
"This is special, but we want the Brasileiro too. Winning both would be historic," Textor stated, underscoring the team’s drive to achieve a double that would cement their place among the greats of South American football.
This Libertadores triumph elevates Botafogo into the elite ranks of South American football and secures their spot in the FIFA Club World Cup, where they could face European giants like Real Madrid. When asked about the prospect of such a matchup, Textor exuded confidence: "If we get that chance, our boys will be ready."
Luiz Henrique’s future in the balance
One of the standout performers in the final, Luiz Henrique, has attracted interest from major European clubs. While his future remains uncertain, Textor expressed hope that the player might choose to stay and continue his journey with Botafogo:
"He has big European clubs interested, but he may realize that Botafogo is his special place. Here, we respect the path players choose."
A legacy in the making
Botafogo’s Libertadores triumph not only breaks a historic drought but also signals a shift in the club’s trajectory under Textor’s leadership. With the Brasileirão title in sight and a chance to showcase their talent on the global stage, the club's resurgence appears unstoppable.