Botafogo Advances to Club World Cup Last 16 Despite Atletico Madrid Loss

Botafogo secured their place in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup despite a narrow 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid, thanks to their superior goal difference in a tightly contested Group B. Atletico Madrid needed a three-goal victory to advance but struggled to break down Botafogo's resilient defense, with Antoine Griezmann scoring a late goal that proved insufficient for qualification. Botafogo's captain Marlon Freitas and veteran defender Alex Telles praised the team's defensive strength and the respect earned from European opponents PSG and Atletico, highlighting their unexpected progression from the so-called "group of death." The group ended with Botafogo, PSG, and Atletico Madrid level on points, but Botafogo edged through on goal difference after excluding results against Seattle Sounders. Atletico's manager Diego Simeone introduced Griezmann in the second half to boost the attack, but despite creating chances, including a shot against the post and missed opportunities by Alexander Sorloth, the team fell short. Botafogo now faces the winners of Group A in the knockout stage, while Atletico Madrid is eliminated.