Atlético Madrid and Bayern Munich enjoyed dominant Champions League victories, while Barcelona needed a late goal to salvage a draw. Tottenham find themselves in a difficult position after a heavy defeat.
Atlético Madrid’s Early Onslaught
Tottenham suffered a 5-2 loss against Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. Antonín Kinský, the Spurs goalkeeper, endured a difficult first start in the competition. Atlético Madrid raced to a 3-0 lead within the first 15 minutes.
The Czech goalkeeper was then replaced by Guglielmo Vicario. Atlético’s three goals in under 15 minutes is the fastest any team has ever gone three goals ahead in a Champions League knockout stage match. The change of goalkeeper did not stem the flow, as Atleti added a fourth goal five minutes after and a fifth ten minutes into the second half.
Bayern Munich’s Rout of Atalanta
Bayern Munich also had a comfortable evening, defeating Atalanta 6-1 in Italy. Josip Stanišić, Michael Olise and Serge Gnabry all scored in the opening 25 minutes. The Bundesliga side took firm control ahead of the second leg.
Olise scored a brace, his first since January. Nicolas Jackson also scored, putting the Bundesliga side up 4-0.
Late Drama at St. James’ Park
At St. James’ Park, Newcastle drew 1-1 with Barcelona. Harvey Barnes’ goal in the 86th minute appeared to have secured the win for the Magpies. However, Malick Thiaw tripped Dani Olmo in the box in the 95th minute. Lamine Yamal converted the penalty, sending Aaron Ramsdale the wrong way.
Liverpool’s Uphill Battle
Liverpool will have to overturn a deficit at Anfield against Galatasaray. The Turkish club lead 1-0 after Mario Lemina’s goal in the seventh minute. Arne Slot’s side is now 0-12 this season in all competitions when they concede first.
- Round of 16: March 10-11 and 17-18
- Quarterfinals: April 7-8 and 14-15
- Semifinals: April 28-29 and May 5-6
- Final: May 30 (Puskás Aréna, Hungary)
Tottenham showed signs of life late in the game despite the scoreline. Solanke found the back of the net after a keeper error. Jamal Musiala also got in on the scoresheet.