Rio de Janeiro, April 1 (IANS) Botafogo’s preparations for Wednesday’s Copa Libertadores clash against Union Espanola were interrupted by a player protest against late salary payments.
Training Monday was delayed by about 30 minutes after the Brazilian outfit’s squad sat on the Engenhao stadium pitch in a silent demonstration against team officials, reports Xinhua.
Botafogo are among several Brazilian clubs struggling with spiraling debt and stagnant revenue.
Monday’s player sit-down followed a similar protest by the team’s players Saturday.
The Rio de Janeiro side lead the Copa Libertadores’ Group 2 with seven points from four matches and are already guaranteed a berth in the competition’s knockout phase.
Wednesday’s clash against the Chilean outfit will be followed by the Alvinegro’s April 9 visit to San Lorenzo in Buenos Aires for the final group match.