Club World Cup: Atlético Madrid out

Atlético Madrid exit the Club World Cup at the group stage. Despite a 1-0 victory over Botafogo, Diego Simeone’s men are eliminated, finishing behind PSG and the Brazilian club in the final standings.

Antoine Griezmann salvaged some pride by scoring in the 87th minute, ending a four-month goal drought. But his late strike was not enough to bridge the necessary gap. Atlético needed a three-goal win to qualify—a scenario they never truly came close to achieving.

Botafogo, impressive in their composure, confirmed their status as the revelation of the tournament. Unbeaten before this final match, the South American champions held firm against the Spaniards and secured their place in the Round of 16 thanks to a superior goal difference in head-to-head meetings. Atlético thus become the first European club to bow out of the competition, highlighting the current struggles of Simeone’s side, who are increasingly criticized for their lack of attacking solutions.

Aliou Toundé |

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