Angola national team and Botafogo center-back Bastos has become the first African player to win the Copa Libertadores.
Although he missed the final due to injury, Bastos played a crucial role in helping his team reach the decisive match. Botafogo managed to secure a 3-1 victory in the final despite going down to 10 men early in the game.
The 33-year-old defender has had a globe-trotting career before arriving in South America. He began his professional journey with Petro Luanda in Angola before moving to Russia’s Rostov. From there, he transferred to Italy’s Lazio and later played for Saudi Arabian clubs Al Ain and Al-Ahli. Eventually, he made his way to Brazil, joining Botafogo.
Bastos has also been a key player for the Angola national team, earning 54 caps. He has represented his country in major tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
African players are a rare sight in South American leagues. Before Bastos, the only African to feature in a Copa Libertadores final was Ghanaian Prince Amoako, who played for Sporting Cristal in 1997.
Overwhelmed with joy after winning the Copa Libertadores, Bastos expressed his gratitude on Instagram, saying:
“Congratulations to the whole Botafogo family… a historic result. It’s a reward for all the hard work of all Botafogo employees. The trophy is for you fans. Thank you for your support.”