Atletico edge Barca on aggregate to secure Champions League semi-final spot
Atlético Madrid fought off Barcelona's charge in a pulsating clash and holders Paris Saint-Germain finished off Liverpool on Tuesday to both reach the Champions League semi-finals.
- Sports
- Reuters
- Published Date: 01:08 | 15 April 2026
- Modified Date: 01:09 | 15 April 2026
Atletico Madrid reached the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in nine years despite a 2-1 home defeat by Barcelona in a thrilling encounter on Tuesday, advancing 3-2 on aggregate after their 2-0 first-leg win at the Camp Nou.
Barca struck twice in the first half to level the tie. Lamine Yamal capitalised on a Clement Lenglet error to open the scoring in the fourth minute, finishing neatly past goalkeeper Juan Musso after Ferran Torres set him up.
Torres then made it 2-0 in the 24th minute, racing clear onto Dani Olmo's pass and driving the ball into the top corner.
Barcelona dominated possession after the break and had a third effort ruled out for offside against Torres, while Pedri and Gavi controlled midfield.
Barca finished with 10 men after a last-man challenge brought a red card for defender Eric Garcia and Atletico held on to secure a place in the last four against Arsenal or Sporting who play on Wednesday with the London side leading 1-0.