Atletico Madrid knock out Barcelona to reach UCL semi-finals

Atletico Madrid booked their place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals after edging past FC Barcelona on aggregate, despite a 2-1 second-leg defeat at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

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Barcelona made a strong start, with Lamine Yamal testing Juan Musso early before opening the scoring with a composed finish. The visitors maintained control and were rewarded again when Ferran Torres capitalised on a defensive lapse to score a stunning goal, levelling the tie on aggregate.

However, missed chances proved costly for Barcelona. Atlético responded through Ademola Lookman, who tapped in from close range to restore their aggregate lead and swing momentum back in favour of the hosts.

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After the break, Atlético shifted to a more compact defensive setup, frustrating Barcelona while remaining dangerous on the counterattack. Barcelona briefly thought they had regained control when Torres found the net again, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.

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As the game entered its final stages, Barcelona increased the pressure, with Yamal driving most of their attacking play. Their hopes, however, were dented when Eric Garcia was sent off late on.

Despite a late surge, Barcelona were unable to find the decisive goal, as Atlético held firm to continue their remarkable record of progressing from knockout ties after winning the first leg away. Barcelona exit the competition at the quarter-final stage and will now shift focus to securing the LaLiga title.