Atletico, PSG reach UCL semis after dramatic wins

Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) booked their places in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday after tense quarter-final second-leg encounters.

Atletico advanced 3-2 on aggregate despite a 2-1 home defeat to FC Barcelona. Having secured a 2-0 first-leg advantage, Diego Simeone’s side survived an early scare as goals from Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres brought Barcelona level on aggregate. 

However, Ademola Lookman pulled one back before halftime to restore Atletico’s edge. Barcelona dominated possession but were reduced to 10 men after Eric Garcia was sent off, allowing Atletico to hold on and reach their first semi-final in nine years.

Meanwhile, PSG sealed a commanding 4-0 aggregate victory over Liverpool FC with a 2-0 win at Anfield. Ousmane Dembele scored twice in the second half to secure progression, capitalising on assists from Bradley Barcola. 

Despite heavy pressure from Liverpool after the break, PSG remained resilient to advance to their fifth semi-final in seven seasons.

PSG will face either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the next round, while Atletico await the winner between Arsenal FC and Sporting CP.

SH