Atlético Madrid vs Botafogo
Photography by: Lorena Barros
In a match brimming with tension and frustration, Atlético Madrid managed a 1-0 victory over Botafogo in Group B action at the FIFA Club World Cup on Monday. However, the result fell short of the three-goal margin required to progress to the knockout stage, leaving Diego Simeone’s side to rue missed opportunities as they exited the tournament.
The game, held at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl, saw a late surge from Atlético culminate in Antoine Griezmann’s 87th-minute winner. The French forward capitalized on a deflected Ángel Correa shot, dispatching a left-footed strike past Botafogo goalkeeper John to secure the win. Despite this, the Spanish side was unable to overcome the resolute Brazilian defense or make up the goal differential required to advance.
“We didn’t achieve what we needed,” said Jan Oblak, Atlético’s goalkeeper. “We gave everything in the second and third matches, but our poor performance in the first one cost us.”
Botafogo entered the match knowing a solid defensive performance could see them through to the next round, and they delivered under coach Renato Paiva’s guidance. From the opening whistle, their backline absorbed Atlético’s relentless pressure while creating danger on the counterattack.
Jefferson Savarino nearly stunned the Spanish side in the 10th minute, breaking free on goal only to see Oblak make a crucial save to keep the game level. Atlético also came close to opening the scoring just before halftime, but Julián Álvarez dragged his shot wide from close range, summing up the night’s frustrations for the Spanish club.
“We did what no one expected,” said Paiva after the match. “This is a proud moment for Botafogo and Brazilian football.”
Simeone’s decision to bring on Griezmann at halftime sparked Atlético’s attack. The veteran forward hit the post early in the second half and repeatedly tested Botafogo’s defense. Alexander Sørloth also missed a golden chance, heading wide from close range, while Álvaro Morata’s penalty appeals were waved off by VAR.
Botafogo continued to threaten on the counter, with Igor Jesus forcing another fine save from Oblak in the 67th minute. Atlético dominated possession and racked up 23 shots compared to Botafogo’s seven but struggled to convert their chances, finishing with an xG (expected goals) of 3.05 but only one goal to show for it.
With Botafogo advancing as Group B runners-up, they will face Palmeiras in an all-Brazilian Round of 16 clash on Saturday in Philadelphia. Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid’s tournament ends in disappointment, highlighting the fine margins of international football.
Simeone praised his players’ effort despite the outcome. “We gave everything we had,” he said. “Credit to the opponent—they defended with honesty and courage. Sadly, we’re out.”
For Botafogo, the victory in the group stage and the chance to continue their Cinderella run is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the Club World Cup.
