BUENOS AIRES, Nov. 30 (Xinhua) -- Botafogo overcame an early red card to secure their first Copa Libertadores title on Saturday with a 3-1 victory over Atletico Mineiro in a gripping all-Brazilian final.
Botafogo was reduced to 10 men in the first minute at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires when Gregore da Silva was sent off for a dangerous challenge on Fausto Vera.
Atletico sought to capitalize on their numerical advantage by dominating possession and peppering Botafogo's goal. But they struggled to find a way past goalkeeper John Furtado, who showed sharp reflexes to twice keep out dangerous attempts from former Porto and Brazil international forward Hulk.
Botafogo broke the deadlock against the run of play when Marlon Freitas' long-range attempt was blocked and fell into the path of Luiz Henrique, who fired home from the left side of the six-yard box.
The Rio de Janeiro outfit doubled the lead on the stroke of halftime through Alex Telles. The former Manchester United full-back showed nerves of steel to convert from the penalty spot after Henrique was tripped by goalkeeper Everson.
Eduardo Vargas, who was thrown on at halftime, reduced the deficit two minutes after the restart as he headed home after Hulk's delivery from a corner.
Hulk posed a constant threat to Botafogo's defense and forced another fine save from John with a low attempt from 20 yards.
Atletico continued to attack relentlessly and Vargas shot over from point-blank range after Mariano Ferreira lifted a perfectly weighted pass over Botafogo's defense.
Vargas was again left to rue a gilt-edged opportunity when he sent a shot from 10 yards into the stands after having only Furtado to beat.
Junior Santos, an 80th-minute substitute for Thiago Almada, put the result beyond doubt in the 97th minute with a follow-up.
The triumph also sees Botafogo complete the 32 participating teams of 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. ■