Bolton battle at Brazil takeover

Exeter City kick off their 2025 home league campaign this Saturday as they host Bolton Wanderers at St James Park, with a 3pm kick-off.

To mark the occasion, the club is turning Devon into a mini Rio de Janeiro for one day only with a Brazil Takeover extravaganza, celebrating the 111th anniversary of City’s famous match against Brazil.

The Grecians will be looking to shake off the sting of a dramatic New Year’s Day defeat to Wycombe Wanderers. Despite a late gut-punch, City ended 2024 in decent form, taking seven points from three festive fixtures.

Bolton come into the match on the back of a 2-1 loss to Mansfield Town and currently sit three points ahead of Exeter in tenth place.

The reverse fixture in August saw City claim a superb 2-0 win at the Toughsheet Stadium, with Kamari Doyle smashing home a stunner and Millenic Alli proving why you should always follow up a loose ball.

Saturday’s festivities promise to add plenty of samba spice to a chilly January afternoon. From caipirinhas in the Fan Zone to live samba music and performances, the stadium will buzz with Brazilian flair.

Authentic food and drinks, plus themed merchandise, will bring a taste of Rio to St James Park, with dignitaries from Brazil also in attendance. Hopefully, the lads on the pitch can channel some of that famous Brazilian flair too!

Gary Caldwell didn’t hold back when reflecting on the Wycombe defeat, saying, “We were getting hurt by referees who, in my opinion, are not capable of reffing at this level, and it is costing us."

"They did not deserve to lose that football match, and I think it was reasons out of their control - I do think the first goal, the header from Emmy, there was nothing wrong with the corner.”

In other news, on extending Caleb Watts’ contract, he was unequivocal, saying it’s “definite.”

Caldwell was clear that his team’s focus must remain sharp despite the quick turnaround, adding, “All we have to do is focus on playing against the team, and potentially the referee...The frustration from the result is hopefully a real motivation for us."

When asked about his January plans, he joked, “My plan is trying to lose weight, I started this morning.” 

With samba beats in the stands and a crucial three points on the line, Saturday promises to be a cracker. Let’s hope the Grecians play like Brazil and start 2025 with a bang!