Botafogo vs Junior Prediction: Botafogo wants to start off on the right foot

After a seven-year absence, Botafogo is back in the Copa Libertadores. In its last appearance, in 2017, the Lone Star club reached the competition quarter-finals, only to be eliminated by Grêmio, the winner of that year's edition. Botafogo has never won the Copa Libertadores, reaching two semi-finals in the five editions it has participated in. The Glorioso wants to start the competition off on the right foot but must beat Junior de Barranquilla in a group that includes Liga de Quito and Universitario.

The Black and White has just won the Copa Rio, a minor tournament played between the teams that failed to reach the Carioca semi-finals. Still, it's a title that can help the Cariocas recover from the trauma caused by losing the Brasileirão last season. To get to the Copa Libertadores group stage, Botafogo had to eliminate two opponents in the qualifying rounds, the most difficult being RB Bragantino. Players and fans are motivated to participate in the great South American competition again.

The Shark has also never won the Copa Libertadores, making it to the semi-finals once in 1994. Junior's last appearance was in 2021, and the team finished third in a group that included River Plate and Fluminense. Last season, the club won the Clausura of the Colombian League, and this season, Junior is sixth in the Apertura. The main star of the Barranquilla team is veteran Carlos Bacca, who, at the age of 37, is still a danger to opposing goalkeepers. A draw would be a good result for the Colombians, who will be looking to qualify for the next stage.

Brazilian teams have dominated the Copa Libertadores recently, winning the last five editions. This international success is a consequence of the Brasileirão being the most competitive league in South America. That's why Botafogo is the favorite in this home game with Junior, despite not having an impressive record in the competition. I'm backing the Brazilians to win with a maximum of five goals scored in the match.