Caxias RS 1–2 Botafogo PB | Brazilian Série C | July 27, 2026

Match Overview

Botafogo PB claimed a valuable away victory over Caxias RS in a tightly contested Brazilian Série C match on July 27, 2026. The Paraíba side overturned an early deficit to win 2–1 at Estádio Centenário, boosting their playoff hopes. Caxias, meanwhile, were left frustrated after dominating large spells but failing to make their possession count.

First Half: Caxias Take Deserved Lead

Playing on home soil, Caxias RS started with purpose and pinned Botafogo PB back in their own half. The pressure told in the 19th minute when striker Felipe de Oliveira received a pass on the edge of the box, turned his marker, and fired a low shot into the corner. Botafogo struggled to create clear chances for the remainder of the half, as Caxias’ midfield trio of Lucas Menezes, Diego Souza, and Jean Carlos dominated possession.

Second Half: Botafogo’s Resilience

Botafogo PB came out with renewed energy after the break, pressing higher and disrupting Caxias’ buildup. The equalizer arrived in the 55th minute from a set piece: João Paulo swung in a corner from the left, and center-back Victor Lima rose highest to power a header into the net. Suddenly, the momentum shifted. Caxias seemed unsettled and began to make uncharacteristic errors.

The winning goal came in the 71st minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Winger Thiago Mendes picked up the ball on the right flank, cut inside past two defenders, and unleashed a curling effort that flew into the top corner. Caxias pushed forward in the closing stages, but Botafogo’s goalkeeper Rafael Santos made two excellent saves to preserve the lead.

Standout Performers

• Thiago Mendes (Botafogo PB) – Scored a stunning winner and was a threat every time he ran at the defense.
• Victor Lima (Botafogo PB) – The set-piece equalizer changed the course of the game; also solid at the back.
• Felipe de Oliveira (Caxias RS) – Took his goal clinically but lacked service in the second half.

Table Implications

With this win, Botafogo PB moved into the playoff zone in the Brazilian Série C standings, now sitting fifth with 28 points from 18 matches. Caxias remained in ninth, outside the qualifying places by three points. Botafogo will look to build on this gritty performance when they host São José RS next week, while Caxias faces a must-win game at Remo.