Atletico reach semis after Barcelona fightback

Atletico Madrid have secured a place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals after surviving a determined Barcelona comeback to win the tie on aggregate.
Barcelona, who trailed 2–0 from the first leg, began the return fixture at high intensity in front of their home supporters.
Lamine Yamal reduced the deficit inside five minutes, punishing a defensive lapse from Clement Lenglet to finish calmly past Juan Musso.
The hosts continued their momentum and levelled the tie on aggregate in the 24th minute when Ferran Torres struck a superb left-footed effort into the top corner, following a well-weighted assist from Dani Olmo.
Atletico, however, quickly regained control of the contest. Marcos Llorente drove forward down the right flank before delivering a decisive pass for Ademola Lookman, who restored Atletico’s aggregate advantage and silenced the home crowd.
Barcelona pushed again and came close to swinging the tie in their favour.
Atletico goalkeeper Musso produced a key save to deny Fermin Lopez from close range, while Ferran Torres later saw a goal ruled out for offside after a VAR review early in the second half.
The match shifted further in Atletico’s direction when Barcelona were reduced to 10 men. Eric Garcia was sent off after bringing down Alexander Sorloth, who was breaking through on goal.
Despite sustained late pressure, including headed attempts from Robert Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo, Barcelona were unable to find the goal needed to complete the comeback.
Atletico Madrid ultimately held firm to book their place in the last four, where they will face either Arsenal or Sporting CP as they continue their pursuit of a first Champions League final appearance since 2016.



