Atlético Madrid reach Champions League semi-finals after narrow defeat to Barcelona

Atlético Madrid booked their place in the 2025–2026 UEFA Champions League semi-finals despite a 2–1 defeat to FC Barcelona in the second leg of their quarter-final tie at the Cívitas Metropolitano in Madrid, progressing 3–2 on aggregate following their first-leg advantage.

Barcelona made a fast start to the encounter, taking the lead inside four minutes through Lamine Yamal before Ferran Torres doubled the advantage in the 24th minute, putting the visitors in control of the night.

However, Atlético responded before the half-hour mark as Ademola Lookman pulled one back in the 31st minute, restoring balance to the tie and keeping the hosts firmly in contention.

Barcelona thought they had added a third goal in the second half, but it was ruled out for offside. Their task became even more difficult in the 78th minute when Eric García was sent off, reducing the Catalan side to ten men.

Despite late pressure from both sides, the scoreline remained unchanged, confirming Atlético’s progression to the last four on aggregate.

The result ensures Atlético’s continued pursuit of European glory, as they advance to the semi-finals after holding firm over the two-legged contest.