Atletico Madrid became the first big club to exit the FIFA Club World Cup despite a 1-0 win over Brazilian side Botafogo, who sealed their spot in the Round of 16. With Atletico Madrid in search of a desperate 3-0 win at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Botafogo put up a resolute defensive show to stave off the juggernaut of the La Liga club.

Atletico Madrid dominated possession and kept pushing Botafogo to their limit, taking 23 shots and creating five massive chances. But they failed to finish until Antoine Griezmann slotted Julián Álvarez's cross past goalkeeper John Victor at the far post in the 87th minute of the game.

With coach Diego Simeone getting restless on the sidelines, he urged his players to amp up their game, but it was never enough. At Lumen Field, Paris Saint-Germain handed Seattle Sounders a 2-0 defeat, which meant PSG, Botafogo, and Atletico were all tied on six points in Group B.

Still short of two goals to achieve a place in the Round of 16, Atletico Madrid delivered an uninspiring performance in the attacking third. With Atletico going for all-out attacks, Botafogo tried to be adventurous while maintaining their defensive rigidity, forcing the Spanish club to squander chances.

When six minutes were added to regulation time, Atletico Madrid fans tried to cheer up their team. But in the end, Botafogo, the 2024 Copa Libertadores champions who upset PSG earlier in the tournament, had the last laugh and celebrated their advancement to the next round in their black-and-white shirts.

Atletico Madrid might feel unlucky to be eliminated. They won two of their three games in a tough group, the same number of wins PSG and Botafogo registered. But they finished third in the group due to goal difference.

“I want to congratulate the opponent,” Simeone said postmatch. “[Botafogo] played very well, with courage and honesty: they defended as it is necessary to defend, and when you defend and attack well, of course you have more chances of winning.”