Atlético Madrid survive Barcelona fightback to reach semi-finals

Atlético Madrid survive Barcelona fightback to reach semi-finals

Atlético Madrid survived a furious Barcelona comeback attempt to reach the Champions League semi-finals, advancing 3-2 on aggregate despite losing the second leg 2-1 in Madrid.

Barcelona, trailing heavily from the first leg, flew out of the blocks. Lamine Yamal struck early, finishing inside five minutes after a defensive mistake, before Ferran Torres levelled the tie on aggregate with a superb driven finish into the top corner.

The visitors looked in control, but Atlético responded quickly, with Ademola Lookman finishing a rapid counter-attack to restore their aggregate advantage before half-time.

Barcelona thought they had a third when Torres scored again, but VAR ruled it out for offside, adding to their frustration.

The turning point came when Eric Garcia was sent off for a professional foul on Alexander Sørloth, leaving the visitors with ten men once more.

Despite late pressure and chances for Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona could not find another goal as Atlético dropped into a deep defensive shape to see out the tie.

Diego Simeone’s side now progress to the semi-finals, where they will face either Arsenal or Sporting CP, keeping alive their hopes of another Champions League final appearance.