Botafogo scores early, holds off Sounders 2-1

Field Level Media|published: Mon 16th June, 24:21 2025

Soccer: FIFA Club World Cup 2025-Group Stage-Seattle Sounders FC at Botafogo

Jun 15, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Obed Vargas (18) and Botafogo midfielder Freitas Marlon (17) collide during the first half during a group stage match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

First-half goals by Jair Cunha and Igor Jesus were enough for Botafogo to hold off the Seattle Sounders, 2-1, in the Group B opener for each in the Club World Cup in Seattle on Sunday night.

Cunha scored in the 28th minute and Jesus doubled the score in the 44th. Cristian Roldan made it 2-1 in the 75th minute.

The 20-year-old Cunha used his 6-foot-6 frame for a header off a free kick from the right side by Alex Telles. Jesus also scored on a header via a cross by Vitinho while Roldan's goal deflected off Jesus.

On Thursday, Seattle plays the second of its three group-stage matches at home against Atletico Madrid while Botafogo meets Paris Saint-Germain in Pasadena, Calif.

--Field Level Media