Botafogo Faces Barcelona-EQU in Crucial Copa Libertadores Clash
Botafogo will travel to Guayaquil to face Barcelona Sporting Club on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, in the first leg of the third preliminary phase of the Copa Libertadores. The match, set to begin at 9:30 PM local time, presents a significant challenge for Botafogo’s coach, Martín Anselmi, as he aims to secure a spot in the group stage of South America’s premier club competition.
Anselmi Returns to Ecuador with High Stakes
This match marks Anselmi’s return to Ecuador, a country where he previously managed Independiente del Valle. However, the circumstances are markedly different this time around. According to mifutbolecuador.futbol, Anselmi’s position at Botafogo is under scrutiny, and the outcome of this tie against Barcelona SC could significantly impact his future with the club.
Despite recent improvements, Anselmi acknowledges the pressure and the need for consistent performance. He noted that the team has been working to resolve issues related to player absences and has found support from younger players, as well as the return of key personnel. He believes the team is now closer to achieving the style of play he envisions.
Lineups Confirmed
Botafogo will field the following starting eleven:
- Leo Linck
- Mateo Ponte
- Bastos
- Alexander Barboza
- Vitinho
- Newton
- Danilo
- Alex Telles
- Jordan Barrera
- Matheus Martins
- Álvaro Montoro
The bench includes Raul, Kadu, Ythallo, Justino, Jhoan Hernández, Wallace Davi, Arthur Novaes, Caio Valle, Nathan Fernandes, Lucas Villalba, Joaquín Correa, and Arthur Cabral.
Barcelona-EQU’s lineup consists of:
- Cesar Faríascom Contreras
- Carabalí
- Javier Báez
- Rangel
- Vallecilla
- Jhonny Quiñónez
- Céliz
- Joao Rojas
- Tomás Martínez
- Benedetto
- Héctor Villalba
Looking Ahead
Anselmi emphasized the importance of imposing Botafogo’s style of play and securing a victory against a formidable opponent in Barcelona-EQU. The return leg will be crucial as Botafogo aims to advance to the next stage of the Copa Libertadores.