Atlético eliminated in three-way tie

Atlético Madrid's run at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup ended earlier than expected. Even with six points from two wins, the Spanish club was eliminated in a three-way tie with PSG and Botafogo, where goal differential worked against them.

A lapse in the final minutes against Paris Saint-Germain, combined with a shocking win by Botafogo over the European champions, sealed Atlético’s fate. They came to the United States full of hope but without any new signings—except for the return of Carlos Martín, who didn’t see any minutes on the pitch.

The objective was at least to reach the quarterfinals, but not even making the round of 16 hurt both the sporting image and the projected income of a squad that believed in its existing depth.

Close to €23 million as financial consolation

Despite falling short on the field, Atlético Madrid is returning to Spain with significant earnings. The club secured €22.73 million: €19.27 million as a participation fee and €3.46 million for their two group stage victories (€1.73 million each).

In the tournament payout rankings, Atlético finished eighth overall and third lowest among European teams. Had they reached the round of 16, they would have earned an additional €6.5 million, and nearly €12 million more had they made the quarterfinals. But those projections are now meaningless after their early exit.

With Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Ángel Gil in charge of the operation, the team’s hopes were placed in the current roster. But now the focus must shift back to LaLiga and other remaining goals of the season.

Atlético Madrid leaves the Club World Cup with nearly €23 million… but no silverware.