Botafogo, the current champions of the Copa Libertadores, are traveling to Guayaquil to face Barcelona SC in the first leg of their third-stage match in the tournament. After successfully advancing past Nacional Potosí of Bolivia in the previous round, Botafogo aims to secure their spot in the group phase of the prestigious competition. The team has been bolstered by their recent successes and is ready to assert their dominance on an international stage.

Head coach Martín Anselmi, who previously managed Independiente del Valle, recalls his experiences against Barcelona SC, having won one match and drawn two in previous encounters during the Ecuadorian professional league between 2022 and 2023. This familiarity could give Botafogo an edge as they prepare to maintain their unbeaten streak. The coach's strategy will likely focus on defensive solidity while leveraging their attacking talents to break down Barcelona SC's defenses.

Key players to watch from Botafogo include Danilo Oliveira, the team's top scorer in the Brazilian league with four goals, and Alex Telles, who has also contributed significantly in recent matches, including the Libertadores. The match represents not just an opportunity for Botafogo to advance in the tournament, but also a chance to establish themselves as a formidable force in South American football. With expectations high, both teams will be eager to showcase their skills on this significant stage, with the outcome likely influencing their subsequent matches in the competition.