Fri Feb 28 00:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Underdog Martínez Leads Racing to Victory Against Botafogo in Recopa Sudamericana First Leg
**Rio de Janeiro, February 27, 2025** – Racing Club defeated Botafogo 2-0 in the first leg of the Recopa Sudamericana, thanks to a standout performance by striker Adrián “Maravilla” Martínez. Martínez, whose nickname translates to “Wonder,” won a penalty and scored a stunning goal, showcasing the skills that made him the top scorer in the 2024 Copa Sudamericana with 10 goals.
Martínez’s journey to the top has been anything but easy. The 32-year-old, who earned his nickname while playing in Argentina’s fourth division, once worked as a garbage collector and endured a seven-month wrongful imprisonment. He overcame these hardships to become a prolific goalscorer, boasting 35 goals in 54 games for Racing.
Journalists covering Racing praised Martínez’s tenacity, intelligence, and clinical finishing ability. Despite his success, Martínez, unlike his namesake Túlio Maravilha, a legendary Brazilian striker known for his flamboyant style, is a reserved figure who initially even requested not to be called “Maravilla” due to the pressure the nickname entails.
Botafogo has a challenging task ahead as they face Racing in the second leg at the Nilton Santos Stadium on Thursday. A two-goal victory would force extra time, with penalties deciding the champion if the score remains tied. The match kicks off at 9:30 PM Brasília time.
First Piper 