Botafogo and Internacional Share Spoils in Thrilling 2-2 Draw Amid SAF Management Shakeup

In a captivating Brasileirão encounter at the Mané Garrincha stadium on April 25, 2026, Botafogo and Internacional battled to a 2-2 draw in the 13th round of the competition. The match was notable not only for its on-field drama but also for occurring under a cloud of change at Botafogo’s SAF, where Durcesio Mello has taken over management duties following the removal of John Textor by the Tribunal Arbitral da FGV.

The first half saw limited clear chances, with Botafogo’s Júnior Santos missing a notable opportunity and Internacional goalkeeper Neto saving well from Alerrandro. The second half brought intensity and goals, as Danilo opened the scoring for Botafogo in the 53rd minute with a precise shot. Internacional responded swiftly, with Carbonero leveling the match just five minutes later. Botafogo reclaimed the lead through Medina in the 64th minute after capitalizing on a rebound, but Bernabei’s deflected strike from outside the area in the 74th minute ensured Internacional shared the points.

Botafogo applied pressure late in the game, with Danilo forcing a save from Anthoni and Montoro having a shot blocked, but neither side could find a decisive goal. After the draw, Botafogo remains ninth in the league standings with 17 points, while Internacional sits in 14th place with 14 points.

Adding a unique dimension to the fixture, John Textor, despite his recent forced departure from the SAF, was present at the stadium celebrating the goals alongside supporters, receiving a warm reception. The Tribunal Arbitral will reassess Textor’s removal next Wednesday, with interim management in Botafogo’s SAF handled by Durcesio Mello, a close associate of Textor.

Looking ahead, Botafogo is scheduled to compete in the Copa Sul-Americana against Independiente Petrolero-BOL on April 28 at Nilton Santos, followed by a Campeonato Brasileiro match against Remo-PA on May 2.