Paris Saint-Germain and Botafogo Secure Top Two Positions in Group B

PASADENA: Despite a 1-0 defeat against Atletico Madrid of Spain at the Rose Bowl Stadium on Monday, Botafogo secured their spot in the FIFA Club World Cup’s knockout phase. The Group B match saw Atletico Madrid clinch the win.

Antoine Griezmann’s goal in the match’s 87th minute broke the stalemate.

The Spanish team needed to achieve a victory with a margin of at least three goals to advance to the next stage.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), having previously defeated the Seattle Sounders with a score of 2-0, along with Botafogo, who had defeated PSG earlier in the week, secured the top two positions within the group.

During the first half, Botafogo had a significant opportunity to score when Jefferson Savarino received a through ball, granting him a clear path to the goal. However, Atletico’s goalkeeper, Jan Oblak, managed a crucial save.

Just before halftime, Julian Alvarez nearly gave the lead to the Spanish side, but his attempt veered wide, keeping the score even.

Early in the second half, Griezmann of Atletico launched another attack, controlling a high ball on the left and outpacing his defender along the goal line. Griezmann then attempted a left-footed shot towards the near post, but it rebounded off the post.

Atletico created multiple opportunities before finally breaching Botafogo’s defense in the 87th minute.

Oblak concluded the game with three saves for Atletico Madrid, who outshot Botafogo 23-7, with 5-3 shots on goal. Botafogo’s John Victor made four saves during the match.

In other news, Al Ahly and Porto played to a 4-4 draw in their final match, leading to their elimination. Inter Miami and Palmeiras played to a draw, ensuring their advancement to the round of 16 from Group A.