Tiquinho Soares expected to start for Botafogo against Atlético-MG

Tiquinho Soares is expected to start for Botafogo in a decisive Brasileirão match against Atlético-MG on Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. at the Estádio Nilton Santos. The game is the 34th round fixture and is viewed as crucial for Botafogo to move away from the relegation fight.

A return to the starting role

Tiquinho rejoined the club late in the current mid-season transfer window. He regained a starting place in attack for the 1-0 win over Chapecoense, when he scored the winning goal. He stayed in the side against Internacional but lost his place to Arthur Cabral in a 2-1 defeat to Remo.

Since returning, Tiquinho has played seven matches, five of them coming off the bench, and has scored one goal. Arthur Cabral, his main rival for the spot, has gone 17 matches without scoring. His last goal came against Corinthians on May 17, when he scored a hat-trick.

A call for the fans

Speaking at a press conference last Saturday, Tiquinho appealed to supporters to attend the match. He recalled difficult moments the club had faced when fans turned out in large numbers and created a big atmosphere. He said the support of the crowd was vital and promised that the players would give everything to get out of the current situation.

Botafogo has run a ticket promotion for the game against Atlético-MG, with prices starting at R$10. The club expects a full stadium, hoping the home crowd will help the team secure a win that could open a comfortable gap above the relegation places. Members can complete check-in for free and bring guests without paying.