Sunday, May 18, 2025 – 22:30 (GMT)

The last time these two Rio rivals met was earlier this year in round seven of the Campeonato Carioca. On that occasion, it was Leo Ortiz who ensured a 1-0 victory for the hosts.

Flamengo
Flamengo come into this all-Rio clash sitting in second place in the Brasileirão. Last week in the league, they secured a 1-0 victory over Bahia, thanks to a first-half goal from Giorgian de Arrascaeta.

Then, in midweek, Flamengo faced LDU Quito in a must-win Copa Libertadores match; a defeat would have seen them eliminated at the group stage, which would have been a major blow. But Flamengo responded with composure and quality. Leo Ortiz opened the scoring just 10 minutes in, and Luiz Araújo added a second in the second half to seal a crucial 2-0 win and keep their continental hopes alive.

Flamengo will now be looking to carry that momentum into the league, aiming to extend their winning run and make it three victories in a row.

Botafogo
After a tough start to 2025, Botafogo are slowly beginning to find their rhythm. They currently sit ninth in the league, with three wins, two draws, and three defeats from their eight matches.

Last time out in the Brasileirão, they delivered a dominant performance with a 4-0 thrashing of Internacional. Goals from Igor Jesus, Artur, Cuiabano — who has been linked with Brighton this week — and Alex Telles sealed an emphatic victory.

Then in midweek, Botafogo were involved in a five-goal thriller against Argentine side Estudiantes in the Copa Libertadores. They came out on top with a 3-2 win, thanks to goals from Rwan Cruz, Igor Jesus, and Artur, who all played key roles in another strong attacking display.

Botafogo will now be looking to make it four wins in a row across all competitions as they continue to build momentum.

Prediction – Flamengo 3-1 Botafogo