Griezmann, however, admitted Atletico Madrid’s elimination was not just due to poor officiating, adding that players played a part too.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Atletico Madrid striker, Antoine Griezmann has blamed unfavourable referees’ decisions for his side’s early exit from this year’s FIFA Club World Cup.
He made his feelings known while speaking with journalists after the La Liga club narrowly defeated Brazillian outfit, Botafogo.
Atletico Madrid were knocked out of the Club World Cup despite their 1-0 victory against the South American club on Monday.
Griezmann scored the only goal of the encounter as Diego Simeone’s needed at least 2-0 against Botafogo to qualify for the Round of 16.
Atletico eventually finished in third position in Group B behind the Brazilian side and Paris Saint-Germain on the same points. They, however, exited the tournament on minus one goal difference.
While lamenting their exit, Griezmann said he and his teammates are angry over the outcome of their last group game.
The France international, however, admitted their exit was not just due to poor officiating, adding that players played a part too.
He said, “We’re angry because we wanted more. We had enough time to score and win.
“Clearly the referees went against us in this tournament, but sometimes they favor us and we don’t say anything.”
Griezmann added: “It’s more of a football issue inside our team.”
