Ademola Lookman scored a crucial goal as Atlético Madrid progressed to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, despite a 2-1 home defeat by Barcelona on Tuesday.
Holding a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, Atlético advanced 3-2 on aggregate after a tense quarter-final second leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
Barcelona made a fast start, with Lamine Yamal testing goalkeeper Juan Musso inside the opening minute before putting the visitors ahead shortly after.
The visitors then levelled the tie on aggregate when Ferran Torres struck a powerful effort into the top corner, capitalising on a defensive error.
However, Atlético responded almost immediately. Lookman converted from close range to restore their aggregate lead, a goal that ultimately proved decisive.
Barcelona continued to dominate possession and thought they had taken control again when Torres volleyed home in the second half, but the effort was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
The Spanish side pushed for a third goal that would have forced extra time, with Yamal central to much of their attacking play. Their task became harder late on when Eric García was sent off for a professional foul.
Despite sustained late pressure, Barcelona were unable to find the breakthrough, with Atlético holding firm to maintain their record of progressing from every Champions League knockout tie in which they have won the first leg away from home.
The result sends Atlético into the semi-finals, while Barcelona’s recent struggles at the quarter-final stage continue, with seven eliminations in their last 10 appearances at this phase.
