Botafogo come in as the clear favorite to face Mexico’s Pachuca Tuzos this Wednesday in the quarterfinals of the Intercontinental Cup, following their heroic triumph as champions of both the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian league. Meanwhile, Pachuca has not played an official match in over a month, which could be a critical factor in this encounter.

Follow Botafogo vs. Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup live on beIN SPORTS this Wednesday, December 11, at 11:50 AM ET, 10:50 AM MT, and 8:50 AM PT.

Botafogo's Edge: Recent Titles and Elite Squad

The match will take place at the 974 Stadium in Doha, with the Brazilian side riding high after their Copa Libertadores victory on November 30, when they defeated Atlético Mineiro 3-1. History also favors Botafogo, as Mexican clubs have only managed one win against Brazilian teams in FIFA club tournaments.

Key historical encounters:

• 2000: Vasco da Gama defeated Necaxa in the Club World Cup group stage.
• 2017: Pachuca fell 1-0 to Gremio in the semifinals.
• 2020: Tigres UANL earned the sole Mexican win, beating Palmeiras 1-0 to reach the final.

According to Transfermarkt, Botafogo's squad is valued at nearly $147 million—more than double Pachuca’s $48.67 million. The Brazilian team’s top players, Argentinian World Cup champion Thiago Almada and Luiz Henrique, combine for $52 million, surpassing the total valuation of the Mexican squad.

Strategic Differences: Youth Development at Pachuca

Pachuca’s model relies on one of the best youth academies in Mexico rather than expensive signings. With an average squad age of 25.8 years, they are among the youngest teams in Liga MX, featuring emerging talents alongside a few international players like Oussama Idrissi, Nelson Deossa, and veterans such as Salomón Rondón, Gustavo Cabral, and Ángel Mena.

In contrast, Botafogo boasts a more experienced, high-investment lineup, reflecting their status as reigning champions of both the Libertadores and Brasileirão.

Pachuca’s Current Challenges

Pachuca faces a competitive disadvantage, having finished near the bottom of the Liga MX Apertura 2023 standings and playing their last official match on November 9. However, the Tuzos could capitalize on their fresher legs and earlier acclimatization to the time zone, as they arrived in Qatar ahead of their rivals.

What’s at Stake

Beyond a place in the semifinals, where Egypt’s Al-Ahly awaits, the teams will vie for the prestigious Derbi de las Américas Trophy, adding regional pride to this highly anticipated clash.