Salary row hits Botafogo's Libertadores campaign

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.