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Date: 16/06/25
Kick-off time: 03:00
Venue: Lumen Field
As Group B kicks off in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, the Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders preview sets the stage for a decisive fixture. Taking place at 03:00 BST on June 16 in the United States, this opening clash could determine both teams’ hopes of reaching the knockout stage. Botafogo arrive as reigning Copa Libertadores champions, while Seattle Sounders, one of Major League Soccer’s most stable clubs, enter the tournament as Concacaf Champions Cup winners from 2022. Renato Paiva leads the Brazilian outfit, while Brian Schmetzer takes charge of the Sounders, bringing valuable continental and domestic experience to the touchline.
Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders team news centres on key figures and absentees as both sides prepare for their most winnable match in a group that also features PSG and Atletico Madrid.
Botafogo, currently sixth in Brazil’s Serie A, have undergone significant transition in 2025. Luiz Henrique, Junior Santos and Thiago Almada have all departed, leaving gaps in the squad’s attacking depth. In their place, Brazilian forward Artur, signed from Zenit, has emerged as the focal point. He’s found form in recent weeks, scoring three goals in his last five appearances and adding four assists to his name. The team’s rhythm has suffered under new boss Renato Paiva, who has already suffered seven defeats in his opening 20 matches in charge.
Seattle Sounders, meanwhile, retain much of the core from their 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup-winning side. Goalkeeper Stefan Frei, attacker Jordan Morris, and midfield duo Cristian Roldan and Obed Vargas provide continuity and composure. The standout, however, is Slovakian international Albert Rusnak. With seven goals and three assists this MLS season, he enters the tournament in electric form, scoring five times in his last seven starts. The Sounders are fourth in the Western Conference, but back-to-back domestic defeats and a Concacaf Champions Cup exit against Cruz Azul in March have dented momentum.
Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders betting tips focus on the significance of this fixture for both sides’ progression hopes. With PSG and Atletico Madrid likely to secure the top two spots in Group B, this match is, in essence, a knockout battle for third.
Botafogo are priced at 11/8 to qualify from the group, reflecting bookmakers’ belief that they have the quality to exploit Seattle’s vulnerabilities. Their South American pedigree, highlighted by last year’s treble, suggests they’ll control possession and apply sustained pressure in the final third. Artur’s resurgence is timely, and with speculation surrounding teammates Jair Cunha, Cuiabana, and Igor Jesus, the spotlight is firmly on those committed to the club.
Seattle Sounders are 10/3 to qualify, suggesting an uphill climb. Their experience at the 2022 Club World Cup, however, provides a slight edge in familiarity with the occasion. Rusnak will be the key attacking outlet, and set-pieces may offer their best chance of breaching the Brazilian backline. If the Sounders are to claim points, a disciplined shape and moments of individual brilliance will be essential.
The Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders prediction is shaped by momentum, squad strength, and tournament pedigree.
Botafogo, despite a turbulent start to 2025, remain the more technically gifted side. Their recent domestic form has stabilised, and the presence of Artur gives them a cutting edge that Seattle may struggle to contain. Paiva’s men are under pressure to deliver, knowing that three points here are imperative.
Seattle, while tactically sound and capable of frustrating more fluent sides, have shown defensive frailty in key moments this season. Their heavy Concacaf exit in March and recent MLS struggles raise questions about their ability to handle high-stakes matches against elite opposition.
Match Prediction: Botafogo to win. Bet with bet365.
Our Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders score prediction takes into account the attacking threat posed by both Artur and Rusnak, yet also reflects the likely tactical approach of Seattle – to sit deep and play on the counter.
Botafogo are expected to dominate possession and create the majority of chances, but may take time to break down the Sounders’ compact structure. A narrow but deserved win looks most likely.
Correct Score Prediction: 2-1 to Botafogo. Bet with bet365.
In terms of Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders Over/Under goals prediction, the match projects as a cagey affair early on, but one that could open up in the second half.
Seattle’s defensive discipline will be tested by Botafogo’s direct and technical forward play. Meanwhile, Albert Rusnak’s eye for a long-range strike or incisive pass could lead to a breakthrough for the Americans if the Brazilians overcommit.
However, the expected balance of play suggests a total of around 2-3 goals, making Over 2.5 Goals a value option.
Over/Under Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.
Our Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders Bet Builder tip combines a winning result for the Brazilian side with a goal from their in-form attacker and an inspired display from the Sounders’ key man.
Bet Builder Tip:
This combination reflects the likely narrative of the match — Botafogo pressing the advantage, Artur taking centre stage, and Rusnak providing the main resistance from Seattle’s side.
Bet Builder Tip: Botafogo to win, Albert Rusnak 1+ shot on target, and Artur to score anytime. Bet with bet365.
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