| Atletico Madrid is also among those at risk, needing a minor miracle to reach the round of 16 on their own. Only a win by at least three goals will allow the Rojiblancos to advance without help. Doubts about a good outcome against the South American champions must primarily result from the completely unfamiliar construction sites in the LaLiga club's camp. While Simeone's team is usually said to have real defensive qualities, in the first two matches of the Club World Cup they have already hit the Atletico goal a worrying five times. Given these problems, it is of course only an additional evil that Botafogo is threatening to get into a bit of a frenzy these days. Originally considered a candidate for elimination after the preliminary round, the Brazilians are unlikely to be denied a place in the round of 16 after their almost sensational victory against PSG. Assuming PSG beats Seattle elsewhere, to qualify on goal difference for the next round Atletico will need to defeat Botafogo by three goals. |
