Atlético de Madrid eliminated from the Club World Cup: Griezmann is not enough

Atlético de Madrid Out of Club World Cup After Cruel Defeat

In a dramatic turn of events, Atlético de Madrid has been eliminated from the Club World Cup after an agonizing defeat. Despite the 1-0 victory against Botafogo, the Spanish team failed to advance to the round of 16 due to goal difference. The match was played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, where Atlético needed to score three goals to secure their place. Antoine Griezmann’s goal, although crucial, was not enough to overcome their rivals in the standings. Atlético de Madrid, Botafogo, and Paris Saint-Germain finished tied with six points in the group. However, PSG and Botafogo advanced to the next phase on goal difference, leaving Atlético out of the tournament.

The initial 4-0 defeat against PSG was decisive for Atlético’s fate in the tournament. In the simultaneous match, PSG defeated Seattle Sounders 0-2. Coach Diego Simeone made tactical changes, including the entry of Conor Gallagher, hoping for a faster and more offensive game. However, Botafogo came out with a solid strategy that hindered Atlético’s advance. Botafogo generated danger on several occasions, highlighting a one-on-one of Jefferson Savarino that was saved by goalkeeper Jan Oblak. Despite Atlético’s dominance in the second half, the team failed to capitalize on their goal opportunities until the final minutes. A shot by Julián Álvarez and a missed header by Sorloth were some of the wasted chances. Griezmann’s goal came too late for Atlético, who fought until the end. Botafogo’s staunch defense and Atlético’s lack of effectiveness in their opportunities sealed their fate. A bitter end for Atlético de Madrid in the Club World Cup, which concludes a season full of challenges.

Match Technical Sheet

Atlético de Madrid (1): Jan Oblak; Marcos Llorente, Robin Le Normand, Clément Lenglet, Javi Galán; Rodrigo De Paul (Koke, m.65), Conor Gallagher (Antoine Grizmann, m.46), Pablo Barrios (Nahuel Molina, m.84); Giuliano Simeone, Alexander Sorloth (Samu Lino, m.84) and Julián Álvarez. Coach: Diego Simeone.

Botafogo (0): John Victor; Alex Telles (Cuiabano, m.65), Alexander Barboza, Jair, Vitinho (Mateo Ponte, m.74); Marlon Freitas, Gregore, Allan (Newton, m.59); Jefferson Savarino (Álvaro Montoro, m.65), Artur (Santiago Rodríguez, m.74) and Igor Jesus. Coach: Renato Paiva.

Goal: 1-0, m.84: Antoine Griezmann.Referee: César Ramos (Mexico). Cautioned Gregore.Incidents: Match of the third and final day of the group stage of the FIFA Club World Cup played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena (California), before 22,992 spectators.