AFCON 2025
Paris Saint-Germain sealed qualification to the knockout stages of the FIFA Club World Cup with a composed 2–0 victory over MLS outfit Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field, while Atlético Madrid’s late win over Botafogo proved insufficient as the Brazilian side joined PSG in the Round of 16.
PSG weathered the early pressure and gradually asserted control. The breakthrough came in the 35th minute after a deflected strike from Vitinha fell kindly to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who calmly slotted past the keeper to give PSG the lead.
The French champions doubled their advantage in the 66th minute when a swift counterattack, led by Bradley Barcola, ended with Achraf Hakimi rifling in a well-taken finish.
Seattle failed to respond, and their campaign ended without a point, as PSG comfortably saw out the win to finish top of Group B. The result ensured PSG’s progression with six points, thanks to superior goal difference over their group rivals.
Elsewhere in Pasadena, Atlético Madrid came into their final group match against Botafogo needing to win by at least three goals to advance.
Diego Simeone’s men dominated possession and created numerous chances but found the Brazilian defense resolute. Botafogo remained compact and disciplined, frustrating the Spaniards at every turn.
Atlético thought they had a penalty shout late in the first half, but VAR waved it off, increasing the tension. As the clock ticked down, Antoine Griezmann finally broke the deadlock in the 86th minute, tapping home after a smart cutback from Julián Álvarez.
The goal sparked late hope, but it was too little, too late. Despite winning the match, Atlético fell short on goal difference and were eliminated from the competition.
Botafogo, like PSG and Atlético, finished with six points, but their head-to-head edge over the Spanish side saw them clinch second place in the group.
PSG and Botafogo now move on to the Round of 16, while Atlético Madrid and Seattle Sounders exit the tournament at the group stage.
