São Paulo vs. Botafogo Match Overshadowed by Botafogo Financial Inquiry
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SÃO PAULO – A looming embezzlement investigation involving Botafogo’s controlling shareholder, John Textor, casts a shadow over Sunday’s Série A clash against São Paulo at Morumbi Stadium. While on the pitch, both teams vie for crucial points in the league standings, off-field scrutiny intensifies regarding allegations of financial irregularities within the Rio de Janeiro club, potentially impacting its future stability adn competitive standing. Authorities are investigating claims of misappropriated funds and manipulated financial statements, with potential ramifications extending beyond the footballing world.
The investigation, which includes allegations of a R$50 million embezzlement, centers on accusations that Textor used funds from Botafogo for personal expenses and investments unrelated to the club. Textor vehemently denies the allegations, claiming they are part of a smear campaign orchestrated by rivals. The unfolding situation adds significant pressure on Botafogo’s technical staff and players as they prepare to face São Paulo, with the club’s leadership attempting to shield the team from the external turmoil.
Match Details & Broadcast Information
The match between São Paulo and Botafogo is scheduled for September 14, 2025, at 5:30 PM BRT at the Morumbi Stadium. fans across Brazil can watch the game live on TV Globo, with Everaldo Marques providing play-by-play commentary and analysis from Caio Ribeiro and Roger Flores. Subscribers can also tune in to Premiere, featuring Odinei Ribeiro’s commentary alongside Alexandre Lozetti and Kleberson. For a free viewing option, GE TV on YouTube will broadcast the match with Jorge Iggor, Bruno formiga, and Luana Maluf calling the action. Tickets are available for purchase at spfcticket.net.
Confirmed Lineups
São Paulo: Rafael; Rafael Tolói, Alan Franco, Sabino (Ferraresi); Cédric, Alisson, Pablo Maia (Marcos Antônio), Rodriguinho, Enzo Díaz; Rigoni, Dinenno - coached by Hernán crespo.
botafogo: Grandchild; Vitinho, Kaio Pantaleão, Alexander Barboza, Alex Telles (Cuiabano); Danilo (Newton), Marlon Freitas, Savarino; Santi rodríguez, Chris Ramos, Álvaro Montoro – coached by Davide Ancelotti.
Match Officials
The match will be officiated by a team led by Wilton Pereira Sampaio (FIFA/GO). bruno Raphael Pires (FIFA/GO) and Leone Carvalho Rocha (GO) will serve as assistant referees, with Anderson Ribeiro gonçalves (GO) as the fourth official. VAR duties will be handled by MARCO AURELIO AUGUSTO FIFEKAS FERREIRA (VAR-FIFA/MG), assisted by Andre da Silva Bitencourt (RS) and Eduardo Tomaz de Aquino Valadão (GO). Raimundo Nonato Lopo de Abreu (DF) will act as the VAR observer, with Larissa Ramos Monteiro (RJ) as the quality manager and Janette Mara Arcanjo (MG) serving as the advisor.