Fluminense – Botafogo: Surprise team of the Club World Cup defeats Ancelotti’s son’s side (2-0)

After the surprising elimination in the Copa Sudamericana against Lanús, Renato Gaúcho resigned despite a good season with Fluminense, having reached the semifinals of the Club World Cup. Argentine coach Luis Zubeldía took over and secured a debut victory against rivals Botafogo, managed by Davide, Ancelotti’s son, on Matchday 25 of the Brasileirão.

Tactical analysis and match report by Marcus Arboés.

Hosting the match at Maracanã, Zubeldía didn’t make major changes to the starting eleven that faced Lanús, only giving a start to striker Germán Cano, with whom he had previously worked. The team lined up in a 4-2-3-1 outline with the legendary Fábio, the goalkeeper with the most appearances in football history. An experienced backline with Samuel Xavier and Renê as fullbacks, Thiago Silva (that one) and Freytes, who impressed at the World Cup, as center-backs. In midfield: Martinelli, Hércules, and Lucho Acosta (former Dallas and Cincinnati). In attack, alongside Cano, Canobbio (Uruguay) and Kevin Serna (Colombia).

Davide Ancelotti’s Botafogo is still trying to stay near the top of the table but has been going through a negative run of performances. With many absences, especially in defense, the young coach set up his team in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Léo Linck was in goal, replacing starter Neto; Vitinho (Brazil National Team) on the right and Marçal (former Lyon and Wolves) on the left. In midfield, captain Marlon Freitas, youngster Newton, and Savarino further forward. Cuiabano and Santi Rodríguez played as wingers, while Portuguese striker Chris Ramos started as center-forward.

What changed in Fluminense . . .