Atletico Madrid beat Botafogo 1-0 with Griezmann’s late goal but crash out of the FIFA Club World Cup due to goal difference and earlier group results
Atletico Madrid exit Club World Cup in frustrating fashion, despite securing a 1-0 victory over Brazilian side Botafogo RJ on Monday night.
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Antoine Griezmann netted a late winner in the 87th minute, but the goal proved too little too late for Los Rojiblancos, who failed to progress due to inferior goal difference and unfavourable group results elsewhere.
Griezmann’s low finish into the right corner came after a spell of pressure from the Spanish giants, who dominated possession and spent much of the match camped in Botafogo’s half. However, Diego Simeone’s side were continually denied by a resilient defence and a man-of-the-match display from Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor.
“It’s a tough one to accept,” said a disappointed Atletico team official post-match. “We played with heart, but the numbers didn’t favour us.”
The match was filled with tension and near misses. Samuel Lino came agonisingly close in added time, curling a shot towards the far post only to see it parried away.
Atletico forced several corners in the final minutes, but each was repelled with calm precision by the Botafogo backline.
VAR controversy also added to Atletico’s frustration. In the first half, Julian Alvarez appeared to be brought down inside the box, prompting loud appeals for a penalty.
After a VAR review, referee Cesar Arturo Ramos opted against awarding the spot-kick, a decision that sparked visible anger on the Atletico bench.
Simeone made a series of attacking changes, introducing Angel Correa, Koke, and Lino to turn the tide.
Griezmann, who had come on at the break, injected urgency and flair, almost doubling the lead with a fierce strike that was blocked deep into stoppage time.
Botafogo had their own dangerous moments. Gregore’s header was saved shortly after the restart, and Igor Jesus drew a fine save from Jan Oblak with a rising shot destined for the top corner.
Despite the win, Atletico Madrid’s journey in the tournament came to an abrupt end. Their single goal margin was not enough to edge past Botafogo and Paris Saint-Germain, who advanced to the round of 16.
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The early exit leaves Atletico with much to reflect on. Missed opportunities and marginal calls ultimately defined their campaign. For now, their attention will turn back to La Liga, where consistency will be vital in salvaging success from this season.
