Atlético Madrid secured a place in the UEFA Champions League semifinals after edging out FC Barcelona 3–2 on aggregate, despite losing the second leg 2–1 in Madrid.
Barcelona entered the second leg trailing 2–0 from the first match and started strongly, scoring twice within the first 24 minutes through Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres to level the tie on aggregate.
However, Atlético responded before halftime when Ademola Lookman scored a crucial goal that restored the Spanish side’s overall lead in the tie. The goal proved decisive as Atlético held on despite Barcelona’s dominance in possession and attacking pressure in the second half.
Barcelona’s hopes of a dramatic comeback were further damaged late in the match when defender Eric García received a red card for a last-man foul. Atlético goalkeeper Juan Musso also produced key saves to protect his team’s advantage.
The result sends Atlético into the Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2017, marking a significant achievement for coach Diego Simeone and his squad.
Atlético will now face the winner of the quarterfinal tie between Arsenal and Sporting CP in the semifinals as they continue their pursuit of a first-ever Champions League title.
