Botafogo SP 3–1 Avaí FC: Hosts Dominate in Brazilian Serie B Showdown

In a compelling Brazilian Serie B encounter on 7 July 2026, Botafogo SP delivered a commanding performance to defeat Avaí FC 3–1 at the Estádio Santa Cruz in Ribeirão Preto. The victory lifted the home side into the promotion-chasing pack, while Avaí were left to rue a disjointed display that saw them fall further adrift of the top four.

The match began with both teams probing for an early advantage, but it was Botafogo who struck first in the 22nd minute. A well-worked move down the right flank ended with a precise cross that was met by the head of striker Lucas Cardoso, who powered the ball past the Avaí goalkeeper. The goal injected confidence into the home side, and they doubled their lead just before half-time when midfielder Rafael Silva curled a free kick into the top corner from 25 yards.

Second-half fightback and sealed victory

Avaí emerged from the interval with renewed intensity and pulled one back in the 58th minute through a clinical finish from Felipe Almeida, who latched onto a through ball and slotted calmly under the advancing keeper. However, any hopes of a comeback were short-lived. Botafogo restored their two-goal cushion in the 73rd minute when substitute Gabriel Santos tapped in from close range after a goalmouth scramble from a corner.

The statistics reflected Botafogo’s dominance: they registered 14 shots to Avaí’s 7, controlled 58% of possession, and won 12 corner kicks. The win moved Botafogo SP into 6th place in the Serie B standings, while Avaí remained in 12th, now without a win in their last four matches.

Standout performers

• Rafael Silva: The midfield engine not only scored a brilliant free kick but also completed 91% of his passes and created three chances.
• Lucas Cardoso: His opening goal set the tone, and his hold-up play was key to Botafogo’s attacking structure.
• Felipe Almeida: Avaí’s brightest spark, the forward scored their only goal and was a constant threat despite limited service.

Both teams now turn their attention to the next round, with Botafogo SP hoping to build momentum toward a promotion push and Avaí seeking to arrest their slide.