MEN’S FOOTBALL: Defending champions Botafogo begin the defence of their Copa Libertadores title in Santiago on Thurday morning, with a Group A game against Universidad de Chile. 

Botafogo are one of seven Brazilian teams to reach the group stages at the South American equivalent of the Champions League, but last year’s runners-up, Athletico Mineiro, have not qualified. 

Teams from Brazil have won the last six tournaments.