For all the excuses — and there have been many — one line from Antoine Griezmann cut straight to the heart of the matter after Atletico Madrid’s Club World Cup elimination. “We have to look at ourselves and see that there are times when we are not at the level and we have to resolve that,” said the veteran French forward. 

Out on goal difference

Griezmann’s goal earned Atletico a 1-0 win over Botafogo on Monday, but the Brazilian side progressed ahead of the Spaniards on goal difference to reach the Club World Cup Round-of-16 while Atletico became the first European side to get knocked out of the tournament.

“There is frustration of not going through. Earning six points wasn’t bad, but the match against Paris condemned us. In today’s game we had chances to go ahead. We’re clear on what we need to improve. Credit to the opponents,” said Atletico manager Diego Simeone.