Atlético-MG deservedly claimed three points against Botafogo with a 2-1 victory at home. The game was valid for the 23rd round of the Brazilian Championship. Savarino scored for the hosts in the first half while Eduardo Sasha and Marcelo Benevenuto got a goal each in the second half to round the game off. The game finished 2-1.
The game was pointing in the direction of Rooster for almost 90 minutes. There were few moments when Botafogo had a go at the goal and threatened but amounted to nothing. There were 11 shot taken at goal by Atlético against 4 for the visitors with just 6 on target and 3 for the latter.
The opening goal of the game came in the 17th minute with the hosts drawing first blood through Savarino.
Then in the second half, Eduardo Sasha extended his team’s lead in the 50th minute before Marcelo Benevenuto reduced the deficit three minutes later and kept his side in the game till the very end. Keno missed a penalty but it didn’t matter as Atlético claimed the win regardless.
Botafogo are up to five league games without a win and remain in the relegation zone with 20 points, five points away from safety. Atlético-MG continue to be leaders of the Brasileirão, three points ahead of second-placed Flamengo.
On the day that marked a dark moment for the football community all over following the death of Diego Maradona, one of the greatest players and greatest Argentine player of all time, a tribute was paid the night of the match at Mineirão. Atlético presented a number 10 shirt and photo to Zaracho, the only Argentine present on the field.
