Botafogo Faces Decisive Match Against Palmeiras Amidst Managerial Uncertainty

Rio de Janeiro – Botafogo enters a critical match against Palmeiras this Wednesday (March 18, 2026), at 7:00 PM (Brasília time) at Allianz Parque, with the future of manager Martín Anselmi hanging in the balance. The game marks the opening of the seventh round of the Brazilian Championship and has taken on a decisive tone following a string of disappointing results for the Alvinegro.

Pressure Mounts on Anselmi

Recent performances have placed Anselmi under significant pressure. According to reports from ESPN Brasil , club owner John Textor would have already dismissed the Argentine coach if it were up to him. However, Anselmi’s position is currently protected by the club’s football board.

A loss against Palmeiras could swiftly change this dynamic, potentially leading to Anselmi’s dismissal within the week. Goal.com Brasil highlights the match as a “last chance” for the manager.

Recent Setbacks

Botafogo’s recent form has been concerning. The team was eliminated from the Copa Libertadores in the preliminary stages, losing 1-0 to Barcelona de Guayaquil at home. This was followed by a 3-0 defeat against Flamengo in the Brazilian Championship, further fueling dissatisfaction with Anselmi’s performance. Bolavip Brasil reports that Textor no longer wants Anselmi in charge, but the football board is currently resisting a change.

Team News & Lineups

Botafogo will be without several key players for the match against Palmeiras:

• Alexander Barboza (suspended)
• Newton (reason not given)
• Allan (suspended)
• Chris Ramos (foot trauma)
• Martín Anselmi (suspended)

However, the team will welcome back Marçal and Santi Rodríguez, who are expected to start on the bench.

Predicted Lineups:

Palmeiras: Carlos Miguel; Giay (Khellven), Gustavo Gómez, Bruno Fuchs and Piquerez; Marlon Freitas, Andreas Pereira (Lucas Evangelista), Maurício and Jhon Arias; Flaco López and Ramón Sosa (Vitor Roque) – Coach: Abel Ferreira.

Botafogo: Raul; Vitinho, Bastos, Ferraresi and Alex Telles; Cristian Medina, Danilo and Álvaro Montoro; Jordan Barrera, Arthur Cabral (Joaquín Correa) and Matheus Martins – Coach: Pablo de Muner.

Palmeiras Strengthened

Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira has received positive news with the return of defender Murilo (recovering from a knee sprain) and attacker Vítor Roque (ankle pain). While both are unlikely to start, their availability provides Ferreira with additional options.

Match Details

• Stadium: Allianz Parque
• Date-Time: March 18, 2026 – 7:00 PM (Brasília time)
• Referee: Rafael Rodrigo Klein (Fifa/RS)
• VAR: Pablo Ramon Gonçalves Pinheiro (VAR-Fifa/RN)
• Where to watch: SporTV and Premiere
• Tickets: Available at ingressospalmeiras.com.br