FiFA CLUB WORLD CUP;
Palmeras Pip Botafogo by Lone Goal, Step Into Semi Final
By Yadnom Awu/Asaba
Palmeras were the better side by a lone goal as they battled compatriots side, Botafogo, for a Semi- final place in Saturday night’s quarter final clash played in Philadelphia
.
By the victory, Palmeras became the first team to qualify for the round of 8 in the FIFA Club World Cup championship holding in America.
The successful strike came off the sleek left foot of Paulinho in numbers 10.
Paulinho,who has played for Brazil at all cadet levels, struck in the 99th minute after being brought in as a substitute.
The game had ended goalless in the full before going into the extra time of 30 minutes.
The victory is the 47th for Palmeras over Botafogo, the last eight of which have ended in a lone goal victory.
Palmeras dominated much of the game and had 13 corner kickd in regular time to two for Botafogo.
The victors will have to play their semi- final tie without their number 15 Gomez who was red carded after earning his second yellow card on the night.
The red card was the 10th in the competition which is featuring 32 teams for the first time.
