Introduction: Atletico Madrid’s Win Not Enough to Stay Alive
Atletico Madrid earned a 1-0 win over Botafogo on Monday, but it wasn’t enough to keep their Club World Cup 2025 hopes alive. Despite finishing with six points in Group B, Atletico crashed out of the tournament on goal difference as Botafogo advanced to the last 16 alongside Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Griezmann’s Late Winner in Vain
Former France international Antoine Griezmann scored the game’s only goal in the 87th minute, finishing off a low cross from Julian Alvarez. But with PSG securing a 2-0 win over the Seattle Sounders in the group’s other match, Atletico’s victory wasn’t enough to overturn the goal difference deficit.
Speaking after the match, Atletico coach Diego Simeone expressed his frustration:
“We’re frustrated that we didn’t qualify — we had six points. At the end of the day we were punished because it wasn’t enough. I’m proud of my guys. We played our hearts out; we won two games but unfortunately we are not going through.”
Botafogo’s Earlier Upset Over PSG Proves Decisive
Brazilian side Botafogo earned crucial points earlier in the group stage with a shock 1-0 victory over European champions PSG. That upset proved decisive, as Botafogo finished level on points with Atletico but with a superior goal difference.
Botafogo’s defensive resilience paid off as they absorbed Atletico’s pressure throughout the match at the Pasadena Rose Bowl, where 22,992 fans gathered under the California sun.
VAR Drama Denies Atletico First-Half Penalty
Atletico almost earned a crucial breakthrough just before half-time when Julian Alvarez appeared to be fouled in the penalty box. While the referee initially considered awarding a penalty, VAR intervened, spotting a foul by an Atletico player earlier in the sequence. The penalty was denied, much to Atletico’s frustration.
“None of the decisions went our way,” Simeone lamented post-match.
Botafogo Withstand Atletico’s Pressure
Botafogo started brightly, with Venezuelan international Jefferson Savarino testing Jan Oblak early on. But as the match progressed, Atletico controlled possession and territory. Argentine striker Alvarez had a shot deflected wide in the 41st minute as Atletico pushed forward.
In the second half, Botafogo had a great chance to score when Igor Jesus volleyed Cuiabano’s cross, forcing a fine save from Oblak. However, Atletico continued to camp in Botafogo’s half, desperate for goals that ultimately never came.
Griezmann’s Goal Too Little, Too Late
As the clock ticked down, Griezmann finally found the net, exploiting a defensive lapse from Botafogo to score from close range. But the late goal was not enough, as PSG’s win over Seattle Sounders sealed Atletico’s fate.
Botafogo finished second in the group behind PSG, both with six points, while Atletico Madrid were eliminated despite also securing two wins.
As reported by Agence France-Presse (AFP), this marks a rare early exit for the Spanish giants, who entered the tournament as one of Europe’s top hopes alongside PSG.
Looking Ahead in the Club World Cup
With Botafogo advancing, South American hopes remain alive alongside European powerhouse PSG. Meanwhile, fans are eagerly awaiting other highly anticipated clashes, including Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami facing PSG in the last 16.
Conclusion: Disappointment for Atletico, Triumph for Botafogo
Atletico Madrid may have secured the win, but it was Botafogo who celebrated qualification. The Club World Cup 2025 continues to deliver high drama and unexpected outcomes as fans now turn their attention to the knockout rounds.
