Keisuke Honda scores on Botafogo debut


RIO DE JANEIRO - Japanese midfielder Keisuke Honda made a scoring debut as Botafogo were held to a 1-1 home draw by Bangu in the Rio de Janeiro state championship on Sunday.
The 33-year-old converted from the penalty spot in the first half before Rhainer Ferreira equalized just before the hour mark at the Olympic Stadium.
The former Milan playmaker was substituted in the 65th minute by Botafogo manager Paulo Autuori.
Honda joined the Rio de Janeiro side last month after agreeing to an 11-month contract, with an option to leave after the Tokyo Olympics in August.
He parted ways with Vitesse in December following just four league appearances with the Dutch club.
Sunday's result left Botafogo fourth in their six-team group, five points behind leaders Flamengo, who beat Portuguesa 2-1 on Saturday.
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