Atletico Madrid bowed out of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on Monday, despite securing a 1-0 win over Brazilian side Botafogo in their final Group B match at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Antoine Griezmann scored the only goal in the 87th minute, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Diego Simeone’s side from an early exit as Botafogo advanced to the last 16 on goal difference.
The Spanish giants entered the must-win encounter with slim hopes after suffering a 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in their opening group match. With PSG also defeating Seattle Sounders 2-0 in the other Group B fixture, Atletico needed a big win to edge out Botafogo on goal difference. Their narrow victory left all three teams tied on six points, but Atletico’s goal difference fell short.
Atletico started slowly under intense heat in front of nearly 23,000 fans, with Botafogo's Jefferson Savarino testing goalkeeper Jan Oblak early on. As the match progressed, Atletico began to dominate possession. Julian Alvarez had a dangerous opportunity in the 41st minute, only to see his shot deflected wide. A penalty appeal just before halftime after Alvarez appeared to be fouled was denied following a VAR review that identified a foul by Atletico in the buildup.
The second half saw Atletico press hard, camping in Botafogo’s half while the Brazilian side focused on defense and counterattacks. Igor Jesus forced a strong save from Oblak in the 67th minute, but Botafogo otherwise created few chances. With time slipping away, Griezmann finally broke the deadlock, converting a cross from Alvarez after a lapse in Botafogo’s marking. Despite the win, Atletico were left with no path forward due to their inferior goal difference, having lost heavily to PSG. Botafogo’s shock win over PSG earlier in the tournament proved decisive, allowing them to finish second in the group behind the French club.
Coach Diego Simeone reflected on the disappointment, saying, “We’re frustrated. We had six points but were punished by goal difference. I’m proud of my players they gave everything, but it just wasn’t enough.” Botafogo now move on to the knockout rounds, continuing their impressive campaign as South American champions and surprise group-stage survivors. Atletico Madrid, despite two wins from three, exit the tournament with questions over what might have been.
