Atletico Madrid advanced to the Champions League semi-finals after withstanding a spirited Barcelona comeback to secure an aggregate victory.
Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Barcelona made a blistering start at home as Lamine Yamal pulled one back within five minutes, capitalising on a mistake by Clement Lenglet to slot past Juan Musso. Ferran Torres then levelled the tie on aggregate 19 minutes later, firing a precise left-footed strike into the top corner after a pass from Dani Olmo.
However, Atletico responded quickly, silencing the home crowd when Marcos Llorente surged down the right and set up Ademola Lookman to restore their aggregate lead.
Barcelona had chances to take full control of the tie, with Musso producing a crucial save to deny Fermin Lopez from close range. Torres later had a goal ruled out for offside following a VAR review early in the second half.
The game turned further in Atletico’s favour when Barcelona were reduced to 10 men, as Eric Garcia brought down Alexander Sorloth while chasing a through ball.
Despite late pressure, including headed efforts from Robert Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo, Barcelona were unable to complete the comeback.
Atletico Madrid now progress to the semi-finals, where they will face either Arsenal or Sporting CP as they aim to reach their first Champions League final since 2016.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
