By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Botafogo thrashed Atlético-PR 4-0 last night in the 35th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro at the Maracanã Stadium. Clarence Seedorf returned to form as the Glorioso put a dreadful five rounds behind them to once again climb into the G-4.
The victory lifted Botafogo into third place, but Grêmio and Goiás, immediately below them, could still overtake them this afternoon. Grêmio host Flamengo while Goiás entertain Internacional.
The week had been marred by protests and violence as the fans showed their irritations at the side’s dip in form at the most crucial part of the season. But at the final whistle last nitht there was nothing but love between the players and their supporters.
Botafogo played at a quick tempo from the kick-off. Admittedly, Atlético had one eye on Wednesday’s Copa do Brasil final first leg against Flamengo, but let that take nothing away from Fogo’s dominance.
Hyuri and Seedorf linked well in attacking midfield and provided ample opportunities for Rafael Marques and Elias. And the latter would open the scoring on 27 minutes, heading home from close range.
Nine minutes later Seedorf doubled Botafogo’s lead. Elias passed to Hyuri who knocked the ball to Seedorf to find the back of the net.
In the second half Elias asked to be substituted and Oswaldo de Oliveira sent on young forward Bruno Mendes. The youngster, with Seedorf’s help, added a brace to the scoreline.
Mendes scored the third on 77 minutes and four minutes later completed the rout, converting Lima’s center. Finally the Botafogo fans left happy.
Later today, Fluminense host São Paulo at the Maracanã as they continue to fight against relegation. Vasco and Flamengo travel to Corinthians and Grêmio respectively.
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