By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Ademola Lookman starred for Atletico Madrid as they edged past FC Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate during the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg at Metropolitano Stadium, while Paris Saint-Germain defeated Liverpool FC at Anfield thanks to clinical finishing that secured both teams’ progression into the semi-finals.
Atletico Madrid Survive Barcelona Comeback
Barcelona started strongly despite their first-leg deficit.
First, Lamine Yamal scored early after a defensive mistake. Then, Ferran Torres levelled the tie on aggregate with a powerful strike.
Barcelona pushed forward quickly. However, goalkeeper Juan Musso made a key save to deny Fermin Lopez.
Lookman Restores Atletico’s Advantage
Atletico responded immediately. Marcos Llorente delivered a precise cross. Subsequently, Lookman finished calmly to restore the lead.
The goal shifted momentum instantly. Barcelona later thought they scored again, but VAR ruled it out for offside.
Red Card Ends Barcelona’s Momentum
Barcelona’s hopes dropped after a setback. Eric Garcia received a red card for a foul on Alexander Sorloth.
With ten men, Barcelona struggled to maintain pressure. Although Robert Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo pushed late, Atletico held firm.
Manager Diego Simeone stayed composed throughout the match.
PSG Outclass Liverpool at Anfield
At Anfield, PSG controlled the game from the start.
Liverpool showed urgency early. However, goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili made several saves to keep them alive.
Meanwhile, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele created dangerous chances.
Dembele Seals PSG Victory
PSG broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute. Kvaratskhelia assisted Dembele, who struck from distance.
Then, in stoppage time, Dembele scored again after a pass from Bradley Barcola.
Liverpool pushed forward but failed to score across both legs.
Tactical Decisions and VAR Drama
Liverpool manager Arne Slot made bold decisions. He started Alexander Isak and benched Mohamed Salah initially.
The team briefly won a penalty. However, VAR overturned the decision and halted their momentum.
What’s Next in the Champions League
Atletico Madrid will face either Arsenal FC or Sporting CP.
PSG will meet either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid.
Both teams now look like strong title contenders.
