Atlético Madrid are through to the Champions League quarter-finals after a tense match against Tottenham in London. Diego Simeone’s men were looking to defend a 5-2 lead from the first leg. They succeeded, despite Tottenham’s pressure, securing their place in the next round where Barcelona await.
Simeone’s Tactical Approach
Simeone acknowledged the importance of scoring to put Tottenham in an uncomfortable position. His team started with Musso, Ruggeri, Molina, Hancko, Le Normand, Cardoso, Llorente, Giuliano, Griezmann, Álvarez and Lookman. Atlético appeared content to cede possession to Tottenham, focusing on defensive solidity. They aimed to frustrate the home side and capitalise on any opportunities to extend their aggregate lead.
Tottenham’s Pressure and Atlético’s Defence
Tottenham dominated the ball, particularly in the early stages of the match. However, they struggled to break down Atlético’s organised defence. The home side’s starting XI included Vicario, Dragusin, Simons, Tel, Gray, Romero, Pedro Porro, Spence, Sarr, Van de Ven and Kolo Muani. Atlético conceded few spaces to their opponents.
Key Moments and Disallowed Goal
Ademola Lookman had the ball in the net for Atlético in the first quarter of an hour, but the linesman flagged for offside. Later, a Griezmann pass found Llorente, who set up Lookman, but his shot was cleared by the Tottenham defence. Tottenham’s Tel was a constant threat, forcing Musso into several saves. A fine save from Musso denied Tel in a one-on-one situation. Tel also saw his shot from outside the area saved comfortably by Musso, despite the number of players obscuring his view.
Tottenham Take the Lead But Atlético Hold On
Tottenham took the lead through Kolo Muani, who headed home a cross from Tel. Despite the goal, Atlético managed to hold on, denying Tottenham a second goal that would have forced extra time. Tel continued to trouble the Atlético defence, beating Le Normand to go one-on-one with Musso, but the defender did enough to put him off and Musso saved the resulting shot.
Atlético progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, where they will face Barcelona.