Barcelona SC Eliminates Botafogo from Copa Libertadores, Fuels Anselmi Criticism

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Barcelona SC of Ecuador secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Botafogo at the Nilton Santos Stadium on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, advancing to the group stage of the Copa Libertadores. A decisive goal from Milton Céliz in the 8th minute proved to be the difference, sending Botafogo crashing out of the competition and into the Copa Sudamericana. The aggregate score ended 2-1 in favor of Barcelona SC, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

Early Goal Sets the Tone

Barcelona SC struck early, capitalizing on their first offensive foray. Rojas provided the assist to Céliz, who beat Botafogo goalkeeper Léo Linck with a precise shot as reported by beIN SPORTS. This early breakthrough put Botafogo on the back foot, forcing them to chase the game.

Botafogo Struggles to Respond

Despite needing a win to progress, Botafogo struggled to break down Barcelona’s defense. While they enjoyed a significant share of possession (80.5% according to ESPN), they lacked creativity and struggled to create clear-cut chances. Vitinho had two early opportunities, but Barcelona remained resolute.

Anselmi’s Tactical Adjustments Fail to Spark Improvement

Botafogo coach Martín Anselmi attempted to change the game’s dynamic in the 34th minute, switching from a three-defender system to a more conventional four-man defense, bringing on Joaquín Correa for Mateo Ponte. However, this tactical change failed to yield the desired results, and Botafogo continued to struggle in the final third.

Late Pressure Yields No Reward

In the second half, Botafogo continued to press for an equalizer. Arthur Cabral, a former Benfica player, had a golden opportunity in the 80th minute, but his shot was saved by José David Contreras, Barcelona’s goalkeeper, who was a standout performer throughout the match according to beIN SPORTS.

Fan Criticism Mounts for Anselmi

The elimination has sparked criticism of coach Anselmi from Botafogo fans on social media. Comments expressing disappointment and questioning Anselmi’s future at the club have been widely shared as reported by AP News. This defeat adds to a growing sense of frustration following their elimination in the Campeonato Carioca quarter-finals and a shaky start to the Brazilian championship.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

Barcelona SC will now participate in the group stage of the Copa Libertadores, while Botafogo will continue their international campaign in the Copa Sudamericana. Botafogo, owned by John Textor, will need to regroup quickly to address their recent struggles and salvage their season. Brazil will be represented in the Libertadores by Flamengo, Palmeiras, Cruzeiro, Corinthians, Fluminense, and Mirassol according to AP News.